THE CIGBA/DCI STAR AWARDS

Since its inaugural year in 2017, the awards night recognizes our key Supplier Partners, Retailer Members, Innovative Products and Initiatives that are happening in our industry. Recipients are revealed live at the CIGBA/DCI Business Summit Gala Dinner.

★ 2026 STAR AWARD RECIPIENTS ★

★ RETAILER OF THE YEAR ★

Pino’s Get Fresh

This award is given to a Retailer who has been monumental within the food retail industry. Whether it be an increased image or branding presence, innovation in the marketplace, or general accountability, this award exemplifies the outstanding work that is currently being done to help further the success of our industry.

★ PARTNER OF THE YEAR ★

Maple Leaf Foods

This award is given to a DCI Supplier Partner who has been monumental within the food retail industry. Known for their outstanding business relationships including ease in which they conduct business and availability, or their experience as a leader and advisor, this award exemplifies the outstanding work as a preferred DCI business Supplier Partner within the industry.

★ SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AWARD ★

Powell’s Supermarkets

This award is given to a Retailer or Supplier Partner who has shown commitment or leadership within a community-based initiative, a green/environmental initiative or a charitable initiative.

★ INNOVATION AWARD ★

Denninger’s

This award is given to a CIGBA/DCI Member or Supplier who has established an innovative product or initiative in the past year where their results have proven success with their sales, traffic, branding/exposure, or new business deals and ventures.

★ LEADER OF THE YEAR ★

Stephen Carroll, Maple Leaf Foods

This award recognizes an individual from our industry that has shown exemplary leadership and has acted as a beacon of light and knowledge within the industry.  Whether it be guiding others towards successful partnerships, or acting as an altruistic leader and inspiration, this award recognizes the hard work and dedication it takes to be a respected person within our industry.

★ LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD ★

Joe Greco, Greco’s Fresh Markets

The Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest honour as an award that recognizes an individual who has been a leader or model within the food retail industry. Either they have pioneered a successful venture or have done the 'impossible' for most of us - this award solidifies their success and brings forth their accomplishments for all to celebrate.