DCI announces its 2021 Star Award winners
DCI, in association with the Canadian Independent Grocery Buyers Alliance (CIGBA), recognized its retail members and supplier partners at its 40th Anniversary Mix & Mingle and Star Awards virtual gala on Wednesday.
“COVID-19 has provided many challenges for our members and partners this past year,” said DCI president Barry Lanteigne in his opening remarks. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your hard work, determination and dedication through this unprecedented time.”
The annual Star Awards, said Lanteigne, were an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of members and partners that are making a difference in the industry. Six Star Awards were presented this year and a committee comprised of representatives from across the country voted to determine the winners.
Here are the 2021 Star Award winners:
PARTNER OF THE YEAR: CJR Wholesale Grocers
RETAILER OF THE YEAR: Central Fresh Market
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AWARD: Jamieson Natural Sources
INNOVATION AWARD: Geddes Street Market
LEADER OF THE YEAR: Tom Shurrie and Gary Sands of The Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: Steve Sharpe of Sharpe’s Food Market
Founded in 1981 as a buying group for a handful of independent grocers in Ontario, DCI has evolved over the past four decades to become a partner for indie grocers across the country. The group now has 74 members, representing more than 1,000 locations across Canada.
