NEWS RELEASE
BARRIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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The 2024 Barrie Business Awards Gala was a night to remember as Barrie’s business community gathered at Liberty North to recognize the achievements of outstanding local businesses and individuals.
Hosted by the Barrie Chamber of Commerce, the sold-out event celebrated the exceptional talent, innovation, and dedication that drives Barrie’s vibrant economy.
The evening opened with chamber president Salim Bardai’s inspiring remarks, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. Mayor Alex Nuttall presented the first award, the Mayor’s Economic Development Award, to Barrie City Centre represented by Dino Melchior, Jamie Massie, and Mike Stollery, citing their significant contributions to Barrie’s growth.
A highlight of the evening was the finalist videos, recorded by Fedora Films, which showcased each of the finalists and provided insight into these exceptional businesses before the winners were announced. These engaging videos offered the capacity crowd a closer look at the innovation, commitment, and community impact that each finalist brings to Barrie.
Throughout the evening, the chamber emphasized the theme of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. A special highlight included Meridian’s regional vice-president, Simon Wellington, who, as presenting sponsor, engaged with the audience about Meridian’s strong support for Barrie’s businesses and community initiatives.
Award presentations featured interviews with winners, allowing them to share insights on their achievements and inspire the audience with their visions for the future. The Barrie chamber team and gala committee, led by Leah Smith-Size, delivered an extraordinary visual experience, with the MTAV team ensuring seamless audio-visual excellence.
2024 Barrie Business Award winners:
This year’s award winners represent the remarkable diversity, innovation, and impact that drive Barrie forward.
Mayor’s Economic Development Award
Sponsored by City of Barrie
Winner: Barrie City Centre — Dino Melchior, Jamie Massie, and Mike Stollery
Marketing & Promotions Award
Sponsored by RBC
Winner: Wine Journeys
Business Growth Award
Sponsored by Scotiabank
Winner: BINS4 Shredding Inc.
Hospitality and Tourism Business Excellence Award
Sponsored by Busch Systems
Winner: Barrie Baycats Baseball Club
Manufacturing, Engineering and Construction Business Excellence Award
Sponsored by BMO
Winner: Marvel Equipment Corp.
Employee of the Year Award
Sponsored by Bell
Winner: Stephanie Hayden, COMphysio
Sustainable Impact Award
Sponsored by Alectra Utilities
Winner: Pawty Animals
Leadership in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award
Sponsored by OLG
Winner: New Path Youth and Family Services
Pay It Forward Award
Sponsored by Bill Gosling Outsourcing
Winner: North Barrie Market
Service Business Excellence Award
Sponsored by BDO
Winner: Simcoe Family Dentistry
Small Business of the Year Award
Sponsored by TD Bank
Winner: Trooper Pet Veterinary Nursing
New Business Award
Sponsored by Invest Barrie
Winner: Hubris Entertainment Inc.
Young Professional of the Year Award
Sponsored by Georgian College
Winner: Jeanette Volkmann, The Creative Co-Op
Not-for-Profit or Charitable Organization Award
Sponsored by Innovative Automation
Winner: Making Change SC
Arch Brown Entrepreneur Award of Excellence
Sponsored by Meridian
Winner: Michael Lalonde, Innovative Automation Inc.
A night to remember
The gala was filled with highlights and memorable moments, capped by a meaningful toast from executive director Paul Markle. He expressed gratitude to the chamber’s board of directors, the hardworking chamber team, and the gala’s generous sponsors. Paul invited the business community to enter floats in the upcoming 75th annual Barrie Santa Claus Parade and encouraged all of Barrie to come out, cheer on local businesses, and welcome Santa to the city for the holiday season. He also urged businesses to help shape Barrie’s future by completing the Ontario Economic Report Survey, supporting growth and progress in our region.
Photos and videos, including Fedora Films’ captivating finalist videos, will soon be available on our website, capturing the excitement and joy of celebrating Barrie’s best and brightest. For more information about the 2024 Barrie Business Awards and to learn more about each award category and winner, please visit barriechamber.com.
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