Agribusiness Award (“The Roots of Industry”) WINNER: Green Bee Floral Co.
Sponsored by Libro Credit Union
Criteria: Recognizes achievement in farming and agriculture (production, processing, distribution) alongside environmental and social responsibility.
Nominees: Glengyle Farm Organics; New Moon Community Homestead; Green Bee Floral Co.
About the Winner: Founded in 2019 by Nick and Brittany Zwart to support their son with medically complex needs, Green Bee Floral Co. has expanded from a 2.5-acre flower farm into a thriving floral design business and downtown Strathroy boutique. Active in local events like Pride in the Park and the Downtown Strathroy Market, they launched an on-farm flower cart and hosted their first annual Flower Fest this year.
Manufacturing Award (“The Builders”) WINNER: Strathroy Ice House
Sponsored by Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc
Criteria: Recognizes excellence in production, processing, and distribution of manufactured goods with strong local workforce impact.
Nominees: Strathroy Ice House; Vari-Form Inc.
About the Winner: Opening in 2016, Strathroy Ice House produces premium food-grade ice while continually advancing manufacturing standards. As it approaches a decade in operation, the business actively supports local retailers, restaurants, youth sports teams, and service clubs.
Not-for-Profit Organization Award (“The Mission Driven”) WINNER: Strathroy Hospice
Sponsored by H&N Tax Services
Criteria: Honours non-profits or registered charities demonstrating exceptional service, community leadership, and sustainability.
Nominees: Second Chance Community Store; Strathroy Hospice; 37 Frank Youth Centre / YFC Strathroy
About the Winner: Guided by a volunteer board, Strathroy Hospice advances compassionate end-of-life care across Strathroy-Caradoc, Middlesex, Lambton, and surrounding communities. The organization recently presented municipal leaders with plans for an ~8,000-square-foot residential facility featuring private rooms, family spaces, and outdoor access.
Philanthropy Award (“The Community Heart”) WINNER: The Wright Place
Sponsored by SMGH Foundation
Criteria: Celebrates exemplary leadership in charitable giving, volunteerism, and hands-on community engagement.
Nominees: Colleen Wiendels; Giant Tiger; The Wright Place
About the Winner: Through the Wright Family Performing Arts & Entertainment Center Foundation, The Wright Place provides financial support and bursaries for regional arts and culture. A major 2026 accomplishment was launching the $6-million Build-It-Wright campaign to transform their downtown venue into a 220-seat regional performing arts center.
Small Business of the Year Award (“The Mighty Few”) WINNER: Always Handsome Barbershop
Sponsored by Cann Financial
Criteria: Celebrates enterprises with fewer than 15 full-time employees that deliver exceptional customer service, staff development, and business growth.
Nominees: Always Handsome Barbershop; Anytime Fitness Strathroy; Corbel Renovation Co.
About the Winner: In just 18 months, owner Christian expanded to a four-barber team offering VIP barbering and specialized mobile services for individuals with limited mobility. Building on this momentum, Christian recently launched the adjacent “Emma’s Spa” to further serve the local community.
Young Professionals Award (“The Rising Star”) WINNER: Kaity Phillips
Sponsored by Cohen Highley LLP
Criteria: Honours leaders under age 40 demonstrating professional excellence, innovation, and leadership in the local economy.
Nominees: Dan Kiekens; Mitchell Geerts; Kaity Phillips
About the Winner: Owner of Cookie Bar, Kaity created an inclusive downtown space featuring live music and Open Mic Nights. Serving as a Strathroy BIA Board Member and active SDCC contributor, she sponsors the monthly Sweet Spotlight and organizes grassroots community fundraisers.
Business Excellence Award (“The Gold Standard”) WINNER: Bossons Pharmacy Ltd.
Sponsored by Maventure Mortgage Co.
Criteria: Recognizes a business that consistently sets the benchmark for exceptional customer service, employee recognition, and community involvement.
Nominees: Bossons Pharmacy Ltd.; Cookie Bar; New & Unique Gifts; Bluewater Trailer Sales Ltd.
About the Winner: Following a major commercial renovation, Bossons Pharmacy transformed into a modern, community-anchored health hub with expanded clinical and home-health services. Bossons maintains a deep commitment to Strathroy-Caradoc through ongoing support of minor sports and local hospice initiatives.
Congratulations to all of this year’s winners and nominees for their outstanding contributions to Strathroy-Caradoc!
