Clarity's chairman, Elizabeth Gould, presented the awards after giving an overview of Clarity's work to support the hi-fi industry to the assembled audience of exhibitors, retailers and members of the media. Here, Elizabeth invited those present to join in the community mission of the organisation by submitting ideas and thoughts on how Clarity can enhance its offering.

Peter Thomas of PMC

As always, Clarity's team of anonymous judges visited every room at the show to judge them within three categories: 'Best Sound of the Show', 'Best Presented Room' and in a new category, 'Most Welcoming Room of the Show'. The latter is essential, especially as the industry needs to involve the next generation of music lovers. This can only be done if show rooms (and showrooms) are welcoming and the staff encouraging.

Best Sound of the Show - PMC
Best Presented Room - REL
Most Welcoming Room - Auden Distribution

Congratulations to Reference Audio for winning Best New Retailer and Hi-Fi Lounge for Out of the Box Retailer. These two categories had been nominated by the Clarity board members to recognise the challenges of opening new retail outlets during harsh trading conditions and widening the appeal of a hi-fi business to a new audience.

Bill Leigh of Auden Distribution

Industry members voted on two other awards before the show, and the awards for Best Retailer Marketing and Best Manufacturer Marketing were given to Signals HiFi and Bowers & Wilkins, respectively.

As part of its constitution, Clarity, the UK hi-fi trade association, undertakes to recognise individuals who have significantly contributed to the industry. This year's award will be presented at the Clarity Conference on March 20th, to be held at Dolby's London screening room.

Well done to all the worthy winners from StereoNET, and it is always great to see the industry in such good hands.