The prices may be down, but store pride is up for Coles Port Douglas, after store manager Jason Smith was recently awarded Queensland's 2013 Store Manager of the Year.

Along with other state winners, Mr Smith's prize includes an international study tour,  a short break with flghts from Virgin Australia, and a recognition pin and certificate.

Mark Scates, Coles' General Manager for the Supermarkets division in Queensland, presented Mr Smith with his award, describing him as "an inspirational leader."

Mr Smith said the award was a testement to the hard work put in by Coles Port Douglas employees, and he was thrilled the group's efforts were paying off, and putting "Port Douglas on the map!"

"In my opinion, since Jason has been managing the store, Coles Port Douglas has just kept on improving – greater variety, different merchandise, and fresher produce," said customer and Douglas resident Sue Chapman.

"After the cyclone and floods a few years ago, when the Brisbane roads were cut off, Jason made sure that the local community wasn't without essential food or supplies - evidence of his foresight and planning," she said.