Thirteen winners were announced at the annual 2021 Prince Rupert and District Chamber of Commerce (PRDCC) Business Excellence Awards on Feb. 27.
With more than 49 finalists the evening awards ceremony was held in a live online broadcast format for the first time due to COVID-19 restrictions.
“The businesses in Prince Rupert, Port Edward, and neighbouring communities have demonstrated unbelievable creativity and resolve in the midst of this year’s COVID-19 obstacles,” Michelle Boomars-MacNeill president of the PRDCC, said.
Entrants to the community nominated awards garnered more than 2000 votes via text message and phone calls after video submissions were broadcast to the local populace to makes their choices.
“There is more reason than ever to recognize the organizations and individuals that go above and beyond to sustain our community,” Boomars-MacNeill said.
The event was sponsored by Prince Rupert Port Authority, CN Rail, Prince Rupert Grain, Ridley Terminal as well as award sponsors representing 10 local businesses. Winners will receive a trophy, marketing package that includes advertising in The Northern View, and on local radio stations as well as a professional photoshoot.
Ansen’s Consignment was named business of the year and was recognized for revitalizing west side commercial space, providing local artisans display space, and providing a service to upcycle clothing.
Nominated in two different categories, Rob Germyn of Uncle Robbies Food Truck started his sustainable food source business in Bella Bella a little more than a year ago and moved to Prince Rupert in April 2020. Nominations in Rookie Business of the Year and Indigenous Peoples Entrepreneurship saw him take home the award in the latter category.
“Ever since being nominated it’s done wonders for our business. It’s been really good. We’ve had to get more people in to help,” he said.
James Barker, at just 20 years old, already knows the value of good customer service from working two jobs as a cashier at Save-on-Foods and a server/bartender at Sunset Grill. Winning the award for Individual Customer Service, he received the award for top-notch services at both places of employment.
“To be honest being nominated was not at all expected,” Barker said. “It’s just the way I am. It’s me and natural. I like helping out the community and I enjoy interacting with people.”
Other winners are:
Retail Excellence – “Eddie’s News”
Industry & Manufacturing Excellence — “Entire Automotive Services Ltd”
Award for Dining Distinction – “The Pavilion Restaurant”
Indigenous Peoples Entrepreneurship Award – Uncle Robbie’s Food Truck
Tourism and Accommodation Excellence – Crest Hotel
Retail Excellence – Eddie’s News
Community Involvement – Good Time Games
Rookie Business of the year – FCC
Home-based Business Excellence – Nails by Diane Marie
Individual Customer Service Excellence – James Barker
Professional Excellence – Prince Rupert Optometry
Industry and Manufacturing Excellence – Entire Automotive Services Ltd.
Award for Dining Distinction – The Pavillion Restaurant
Not-for-Profit of the Year – Prince Rupert Gymnastics Association
Excellence in Responding to Unexpected challenges – Wheelhouse Brewing Co.
Indigenous Peoples Entrepreneurship Award – Uncle Robbie’s Food Truck
Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Ansens Clothing Consignment
Business of the Year – Ansens Clothing Consignment
K-J Millar | Journalist
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James Witzke co-owner of the Wheelhouse Brewing Company pulls a pint to celebrate the company’s win for Excellence in Responding to Unexpected Challenges in the 2021 Prince Rupert and District Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence awards held on Feb. 27. (Photo: K-J Millar/The Northern View)
