Nominations for the Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce’s annual Business Excellence Awards are now open.
In keeping with chamber values, recipients of a Business Excellence Award are businesses or persons that display a significant and sustained commitment to positive business development, economic growth and diversity within the region.
Nomination forms are available under the 2011 Excellence Awards section on the chamber website at www.penticton.org. Completed forms can be faxed to 250-492-6119 or mailed to the Chamber at 553 Railway St. Penticton V2A 8S3. Nominations close at 5 p.m. on Jan. 5.
Categories for the 2011 awards include the following:
Community Booster Award, sponsored by Prospera Credit Union: A Penticton and area organization or individual that is enthusiastically promoting community projects, events, festivals or happenings, done so exceedingly well and received no remuneration for it.
Hospitality/Tourism Business Award, sponsored by Penticton and Wine Country Tourism: Must have strengthened the economy, hosts or promotes an event or service that encourages visitors to use Penticton as a destination point. All hospitality-tourism businesses or organizations are eligible.
Service Excellence Award, sponsored by Penticton Western News: A Penticton and area business that provides services and the recipient demonstrates a consistent adherence to the highest quality service and support for their clients. Must demonstrate a strong and consistent client base. Must be in business for at least one year.
Industrial Business Award, sponsored by Greyback Construction Ltd: A Penticton and area business that has strengthened the economic base of Penticton through development, manufacture or fabrication. Must be in business for at least one year.
Retailer Excellence Award, sponsored by Downtown Penticton Association: A Penticton and area retail business that is proactive to changing market trends, provides a variety of products, and is willing to stand behind those products. It has established strong relationships with its customers and staff and is recognized for excellence in customer service. Detail is paid to esthetics and atmosphere. Must be in business for at least one year.
New Business Award, sponsored by Valley First: A business of excellence established for at least one year to a maximum of three years. This business enhances the business base of Penticton, has demonstrated a commitment to Penticton as a place to do business and has become an outstanding corporate citizen of our community.
Young Citizen of the Year, sponsored by Pattison Sign Group: A resident of Penticton and area who is 19 years old or younger and has shown dedication and loyalty to our community through their efforts.
Young Entrepreneur, sponsored by JCI-Penticton: Honours an entrepreneur under the age of 35 who excels in business, exemplifies leadership and entrepreneurial skills and demonstrates exceptional vision that contributes to business success.
Business of the Year, sponsored by HSBC Bank Canada: Stands out among peers in the business community as a leading organization both in its approach to business and in service to the community. This business should demonstrate true business excellence in overall business operation, including customer service, employee development/relations, site esthetics, marketing, innovation, community contribution and allowance for disabilities. Must be in business for at least one year.
Business Leader of the Year, sponsored by TD Canada Trust – Small Business Banking: A Penticton and area individual who has made a notable contribution to the business environment by exemplifying excellence in their chosen field, overall business acumen, customer service, community involvement, leadership and employee relations. Must be in business for at least one year.
The awards gala will take place on Jan. 28 at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre.
Erin Hanson is the general manager of the Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce.