Abbotsford's business community turned out in full force to honour their own tonight (Wednesday) at the 18th annual Business Excellence Awards.
Approximately 500 guests came out for the event that saw 91 nominees vie for awards in 11 categories.
The celebration was sponsored by the Abbotsford News and the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce.
Rick Rake, chair of the Business Excellence committee, served as master of ceremonies.
The opening reception featured networking followed by a buffet dinner.
Before the awards were handed out, guests enjoyed a performance by the Business Excellence Performance Troupe, which did a re-creation of the 1947 protest in which kids rallied against an increase in the cost of chocolate bars from five cents to eight cents.
Also providing entertainment was the Drum Cafe with its interactive experience.
Recipients of the 2013 Business Excellence Awards were:
Home Based Business Excellence
Tina's Daycare
Retailer Excellence
Abbotsford Paint and Decorating Centre
Manufacturing and Production Excellence
Magnum Trailer and Equipment Inc.
Agricultural and Agri-Business Excellence
Clearbrook Grain and Milling
Consumer Services Excellence
RDM Lawyers LLP
Business Services Excellence
Ace Tank Services
Eric Vanderham Young Entrepreneur of the Year
Adi Desai, owner of Thai Dor
Non-Profit Organization of the Year
Mennonite Central Committee BC
New Business of the Year
The Book Man
Established Business of the Year (one to 19 employees)
Power Hydraulics Corp.
Established Business of the Year (20 plus employees)
Columbia Cabinets Ltd.