Business of the year winners from the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce (TCCC) excellence awards this year came from similar industries.
On Saturday (April 30), the organization hosted its first in-person gala in two years — which saw about 450 people dine and socialize at the Hard Rock Casino in Coquitlam (2080 United Blvd.) — resulting from then restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic and were able to celebrate local businesses making a difference in the region.
Three companies took home business of the year in their respective sub-categories:
- Squish Juicery (One to 10 employees)
- Strive Health and Performance (11 to 30 employees)
- Big Hearts Home Care (30 or more employees)
The TCCC says all three "have proven their success" and "have significantly impacted the Tri-Cities with their continued community support."
This is the second award in as many years for Squish Juicery, who's co-founder Jessica Morrison won Young Professional of the Year in 2020.
The Port Coquitlam business is known for creating specialty cold-pressed juices and smoothies from fresh fruits and vegetables with a goal of providing nutritious value.
Strive Health and Performance was acknowledged for its dedication to providing a safe clinic for physiotherapy to more than 2,000 patients each year.
Its services also includes chiropractic care, massage therapy, and active rehab and concussion management.
Big Hearts Home Care and its array of services provide health care to independent Coquitlam residents.
According to its website, its caregivers can do anything from housekeeping and personal care to transportation and companionship.
"This past year brought more challenges and uncertainty for many," said TCCC CEO Leslie Courchesne.
"The Chamber is dedicated to bringing together businesses, organizations, and all levels of government to ensure our economy is resilient, and our communities thrive."
Meanwhile, Kyle O’Genski was named business leader of the year for Port Coquitlam's Patina Brewing, and Paul Choi for Juris Notary took home the TCCC's Young Professional of the Year.
The remaining award winners were as follows:
- Business Resiliency Award = Safe Care Home Support
- Community Spirit Award = Kirmac Collison and Automotive Collision Systems
- Not-for-Profit of the Year = Community Ventures Society
- Environmental Steward of the Year = Tru Earth Environmental Products Inc.
- TCCC's Member of the Year = Lora Covinha (Phoenix Truck and Crane)
"At the heart of a strong community is a strong business community," added TCCC board of directors chair Ryan Whittle.
"Our members — all of you — give parents the ability to work close to home, allowing us to be more involved in our kids’ lives. […] If we didn’t have a strong community and the ability to earn a good living close to home, that just wouldn’t be possible."
In total, there were 37 businesses that were named finalists for the 2022 awards after a panel of judges sifted through 100 nominations.
The Tri-City News was a partial sponsor of the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards.
