Salmon Arm may be a relatively small community, but its businesses are accomplishing big things.
Last week, a few of those accomplishments were recognized.
The Salmon Arm Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Salmon Arm presented their second round of 2011 Business Excellence Awards on Oct. 20.
Business Person of Excellence went to Terry McLeod, CEO of Dinoflex. His nomination noted he has “made marked improvements in the growth and development of product and market share for Dinoflex… He is a positive role model and leader and his commitment to excellence in business and best practices is impeccable.”
Dinoflex, which employs 34 people, turns vehicle tires into recycled rubber flooring and surfacing products.Located in the industrial park, Dinoflex ships products to 42 countries around the world.
Employer of Excellence in a For-profit Business went to a company just down the road – Valid Manufacturing.
Valid’s nomination noted, “Their employees are always in a very positive mindset and seem sincerely happy at their workplace. The number of employees that have had long-term employment with this company is impressive. As a customer, I value and appreciate an employer that keeps such a dedicated staff...”
Valid, which employs about 60 people, is probably best-known locally for its recreational vehicle slide-out systems and expandable trailers, but it also manufactures electrical systems large and small.
The 2011 Excellence in Business Improvement award went to Hilltop Toyota.
Hilltop’s nomination stated: “Hilltop has undergone and is still going through a major renovation which should be finished very soon. It changes the whole look of the area at the top of the hill… A lot of thought as well as a lot of stress and sweat have gone into this beautiful dealership and I feel Blair and Debbie Reynaud should be recognized for their efforts on this gorgeous building.”
Hilltop employs about 20 people.
The 2011 Excellence in Customer Service – Business recipient was Gondwana Gallery on Lakeshore Drive. Specializing in African gifts and artifacts, the gallery is owned by Tibout and Marlene Glazenburg.
Gondwana’s nomination noted the warm welcome the owners always provide.
“They are absolutely delightful folks who take a great deal of pride in their business. I have always been blown away by all the stories they are able to share of about the Fair-Trade items they sell and all the details they share about the artists they promote from half a world away. It is always a delightful experience to step into this shop… customer service and care at its best!”