The 23rd Annual Meaford Chamber of Commerce Community Awards presentation was held virtually due to COVID restrictions. This year we had over 135 nominations from the community, recognizing people, groups, and businesses across eight award categories. The response was overwhelming, reminding us that local businesses are still very important to Meaford.
The 2021 Award Winners are:
The Farmer of the Year Award is given to someone who exhibits the following characteristics: leadership, volunteerism, youth participation, community service, and special achievements. It is with pleasure that Earth Power Tractors and Equipment and the Meaford Chamber of Commerce present the Farmer of the Year award to the Goode Family Farm.
The Most Improved Business Award is presented to an existing business that has significantly expanded and/or improved or enhanced their business premises, making the community more attractive. It is with pleasure that Broker Link and the Meaford Chamber of Commerce present the Most Improved Business Award to Bayside Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.
The Tourism Award is presented to a business with a commitment to local tourism through a welcoming attitude, awareness, and promotion of local attractions. Tourism is a vital part of life in Meaford, and this year’s winner has created a retail space that welcomes locals and tourists alike. They provide tourists with reasons to explore our community through brochure racks and by passing on their local knowledge. By participating in events such as the Scarecrow Invasion, they give tourists their first look at our municipality. Bayview Escarpment Fine Furniture and the Meaford Chamber of Commerce are pleased to present the Tourism Award to The Apple (operated by the Chamber of Commerce).
The Customer Service Award is presented to a business that consistently goes out of its way to provide superior service to its customers. It is wonderful to know that our business community is putting their customers first as this category had the most nominations! It is with pleasure that Knights’ Home Building Centre and the Meaford Chamber of Commerce present the Customer Service Award to E&R Bulk Bin.
The Agribusiness Award is presented to an agribusiness that has invested in sustainable farming practices and has successfully developed innovative products, processes, and marketing channels. It is with pleasure that Bruce Street Technologies Limited and the Meaford Chamber of Commerce present the Agribusiness Award to Windswept Orchard Cider.
The Special Merit Award is presented to a volunteer organization or service club for exceptional effort over the past year that has enhanced the quality of life within our community. It is with pleasure that the Municipality of Meaford and the Meaford Chamber of Commerce present the Special Merit Award to Friends of Meaford Library.
The Peter Francis Memorial Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary volunteer leadership over many years and who has made a significant contribution to community development in the Municipality of Meaford. This individual must exhibit strong leadership through example. This is a lifetime achievement award. It is with pleasure that the Meaford Chamber of Commerce presents the Peter Francis Memorial Award to Liz Harris.
The Business Owner of the Year award is presented to a Business Owner that has made an outstanding contribution to the Municipality of Meaford. This person, or persons, demonstrates leadership within a business, dedication to the betterment of the whole community, good citizenship, care for the environment, and sound employee relations. The Meaford BIA and the Meaford Chamber of Commerce are proud to present the Business Owner of the Year award to Chez Gilles Fine Dining & Catering.
“We would like to congratulate all our nominees. You are what make our Municipality a great place to live, work and play. Also, a big thank you to those who took the time to submit a nomination as this is how we keep our community growing,” said the Chamber.
