Close to 2,700 service professionals in the hospitality industry were recognized for providing quality service at the Excellent Service Awards on Monday. This year saw an additional 180 individuals receiving awards.

The top accolade for this year was presented to two individuals from Hotel Royal Limited and Costa Sands Resort (Singapore).

Minister of State for Trade and Industry, Teo Ser Luck who was guest of honour at the event said that service is a crucial for Singapore's attractiveness as a vibrant and premier tourist destination.

"While manpower is tight, it does not mean that we will be less competitive nor should our service levels decline," said Mr Teo. Launched in 1994, the Excellent Service Award aims to develop service models for staff to emulate and create service champions.