CIGBA/DCI announce 2026 Star Awards winners

DCI in association with the Canadian Independent Grocery Buyers Alliance (CIGBA) handed out their Star Awards at the groups' Business Summit 2026, which took place at Pearson Convention Centre in Brampton, Ont. on June 2.

Barry Lanteigne, the group's president/director of operations said the awards are an opportunity to "recognize and celebrate some of the key individuals, retailers and supplier partners who are making a difference in our industry." 

"This event provides an opportunity acknowledge the passion, hard work and dedication that our nominees have shown over the past year or for their entire lifetime," he said.

Here are the 2026 Star Award winners:

Retailer of the Year: Pino's Get Fresh

Partner of the Year: Maple Leaf Foods

Social Responsibility Award: Powell's Supermarket

Innovation Award: Denninger's

Leader of the Year: Stephen Carroll, Maple Leaf Foods

Lifetime Achievement Award: Joe Greco of Greco's Fresh Market