Front of Yonge Adds Two New Business Awards to Celebration Held on April 11th

Mallorytown – The achievements of local entrepreneurs were celebrated at the Front of Yonge Annual Business Awards Breakfast, shining a spotlight on the growth, resilience, and commitment of the area’s small and family-run businesses.

The Business of the Year Award was presented to Leading Edge Overhead Doors. Co-owner Cindy Birt credited the supportive community for embracing their vision and contributing to the company’s growth. Her husband Chris was away helping family as she announced the business is celebrating its tenth year and will soon expand with a new location in the Smiths Falls area.

New Business of the Year Arbru Solar Brewery’s Phil Audet and Jenn Gransden, centre, are congratulated by Awards Committee Members Elaine Covey and Mike Purcell.

New Business of the Year Award went to ArBru Solar Brewery, a local enterprise recognized for its environmental commitment and great-tasting beer. Owner Phil Audet and Manager Jenn Gransden thanked the community for their support, acknowledging his father Andre, who was present.

ArBru also received the new award for Environmental Action, which recognizes a business dedicated to fostering best practices in sustainability. This year, the brewery’s solar farm will triple its capacity, and with local tree-planting initiatives, will help offset the enterprise’s carbon footprint.

Another new category, Outstanding Contribution to the Front of Yonge Community, honoured Mayure Vadher of Mallorytown Pharmacy for generously lending a helping hand to Front of Yonge in various ways.

This year’s Business of the Year Award nominees included Leading Edge Overhead Doors, Mallorytown Pharmacy, Slate’s Marine Construction, T. Avery Construction Sand and Gravel, and T.J. Guild Marina. Nominees for the New Business of the Year Award included ArBru Solar Brewery, Blackwood Guitar Company, Drawbridge Family Hair Design, and TomBoy Apparel.

Held on April 11th, this marked the fourth edition of the Township’s Business Awards, hosted by the Economic Development Committee. Keynote speaker Heather Howard, owner of FoxRun by the River Retirement Residence, 1000 Islands Duty Free, and Johnstown Duty Free, shared insightful business wisdom: “Keep your eyes open for opportunities — they’re around you every single day.”