Product of the Year is the world’s largest consumer-voted award for product innovation. Established 31 years ago in France, POY currently operates in 31 countries with the same purpose: Guide consumers to the best products in their market and reward manufacturers for quality and innovation. In Australia, the Product of the Year seal is backed by the votes of 13,000+ consumers, serving as a shortcut for shoppers and saving them time and money. For manufacturers of the winning products, the award is a powerful marketing message proven to increase product trial, awareness, distribution and sales. Product of the Year accepts entries every year from products which demonstrate innovation and were launched within the previous year. Entered products are then placed into specific categories such as food, beverages, personal care, household care, etc. with a product then being chosen as a winner in its category through a nationally representative online study conducted by Nielsen research.