Kellie feels grateful to have been named as the awardee and thanked those who nominated and helped her in her role.

"It's great," she said. "I've been recognised for the hard work I've put in for the last two years.

"It shows that small country towns can get out there and be competitive."

Kellie has worked at Grenfell IGA for over four years. She started as the grocery manager and was later promoted to Store Manager.

According to Mawhoods IGA over the past two years, Kellie has exceeded expectations.

"Her leadership and caring nature has guided the team and lifted the store's standards and performance ahead of all targets," a spokesperson for Mawhood's said.

"She (Kellie) has recently been appointed by Mawhood's Group as the Area Manager looking after all three stores."

The win for the Grenfell local is a big coup with the national awards held annually and always fiercely contested in each category.

The Awards of Excellence recognise and celebrate the achievements of independent retailers across the entire country as well as the stores that are integral parts of their local communities.

But it is not only about the stores with the awards also focusing on the teams who work in the stores to put the heart and soul back into shopping.

"Stores in NSW always perform exceptionally well in the awards and this year has been no exception," Metcash CEO of Supermarkets Scott Marshall said.

"These awards demonstrate impeccable retail standards, team work and dedication to providing a great experience for the local community.

"These innovative stores have not only delivered amazing shopping experiences and high-quality produce to customers but also, are a true testament to the vibrancy of the independent retail grocery industry."