Chamber Awards

Wednesday, 6 November 2013 23:21

Keith Stevens accepts the President's Award

Woodstock's Chamber of Commerce hands out the hardware at the annual Awards of Excellence

The best in business were honoured in Woodstock Wednesday night.

The 16th Annual Chamber of Commerce Awards of Excellence were voted on and handed out by an audience of close to 500 at the Oxford Auditorium.

Tim Horton's Franchise Owner Leslie Farrell kicked the night off by winning the Community Services Award for her work supporting the VON Sakura House. "The reason we can do it, is because we live in a community where you call people and they're there to help you. I'm so proud to have grown up in this community, to run a business in this community, and to give back to my community."

Oxford Movers won the Commercial Business Award. Co-Owner Ian Warnock says they've been at it for 8-years, and says customer service is the key to success. "Moving is a job that most people like to do, but we do it gladly. We do this job with a smile on your face and take pride in moving people's articles."

The final award of the night, the Presidents Hall of Fame Award honoured the lifetime achievements of Keith Stevens, who helped build Execulink into what it is today. They recently opened a new facility in Woodstock, employing over 100 people.

Execulink had to morph over time, as technology has changed rapidly. Stevens talks about the key to staying ahead in the world of communications. "I think always focusing on the customers. Our first priority is giving what the customers need, and good service. All we can do to distinguish ourselves from the competition is being the best service we can."

The award was a surprise to Stevens who says it made him "weak in the knees".

Here's a full list of Business Award Winners for 2013:

Community Service Award - Leslie Farrell

Entrepreneur - Streef Brothers, Streef Produce Ltd.

Young Professional - Ian Heikoop, Oxford Sand & Gravel

Commercial Business Award - Oxford Movers

Manufacturing Award - Cornell Welding & Fabricating Ltd.

Professional Services Award - DJ Designs & Drafting

Franchisee Award - Shoppers Drug Mart (East End)

Retailer Award - Oxford Source for Sports

Food Service Award - Sebastian's Pizza and Noodle Factory

Trades Person of the Year Award - Llyod's