Creemore Coffee Co named business of the year
Creemore Coffee Company, located in New Lowell, has been named business of the year at the Clearview Chamber of Commerce’s seventh annual business awards.
The award is presented to a company that has demonstrated exceptional accomplishments in growth, sales, innovation, and leadership: Their dedication to exemplary business practices not only fuels their success but also benefits the community, fostering greater awareness and interest in Clearview. This award celebrates a business that serves as a role model, inspiring others with its positive contributions and commitment to excellence.
When Louise Priest bought the business in 2019, it was a wholesale coffee seller. Wanting to connect more to the community, she moved the business from Melanchthon to New Lowell, and opened the roastery café.
“The café allowed us to service the community,” said Preist.
She said by creating a welcoming space with good food, that is wheelchair accessible, she has been able to create a community gathering place.
“Since Covid, you don’t realize how much you miss people,” said Priest.
Creemore Coffee Company is open seven days per week and offers more than 37 different coffee blends made from beans ethically sourced from women-owned farms associated with Café Femenino, a coffee program that provides direct compensation to women farmers, along with the opportunity and resources to enact positive change in their communities, and on their own terms. Priest is also required to donate a certain percentage of proceeds to a charity of her choice that is women-focussed.
In addition to coffee, she serves sweets, salads and sandwiches, with a focus on freshly baked Gryfe’s Bagels.
Priest said she is positioning her cafe to be a welcoming pit-stop for snowmobilers, cyclists, motorcyclists and all travellers.
She said she is proud to be part of the local business community and promotes Clearview whenever possible.
Trina Berlo photo: Clearview Chamber of Commerce administrator Katie Campbell (right) presents the Business of the Year award to Louise Priest, of Creemore Coffee Company.
Chamber of Commerce business award winners:
Best Presented – Torn Pages
The Best Presented Award is awarded to the business that features the most striking street appeal and interior decor, showcasing its unique style and brand. This honour celebrates a business that enhances the beauty and diversity of Clearview, enriching the overall experience within our community. (Sponsored by the Township of Clearview.)
Business Community Advocate – Bakery By the Bay
The Business Community Advocate Award recognizes a business or individual for their significant contributions to the Clearview business community. This award honours those who serve as a voice within the community, actively participating in local initiatives and collaborations that benefit fellow businesses. It also highlights their efforts to create a supportive and flourishing business environment. (Sponsored by J&R Cycle)
Contribution to the Arts – Kat’s Meow Beautiful Burlesque
The Contributions to the Arts Award celebrates a business for its exceptional leadership in fostering the arts within Clearview. This award recognizes the recipient’s support for artists and performers, along with their active participation in community events that enrich the local cultural fabric and enhance accessibility to the arts for all residents. This business inspires creativity and nurtures a vibrant arts community, encouraging collaboration, growth, and artistic expression. (Sponsored by The Dance Room.)
Food, Tourism, and Hospitality – Kitch’n Savvy
The Food, Tourism, and Hospitality Award is bestowed upon a restaurant, tourism, or hospitality business for its outstanding customer service and focus on quality. The recipient’s commitment to creating memorable experiences not only delights guests but also draws visitors to Clearview, enhancing the community’s appeal as a top destination. (Sponsored by barburrito.)
Grower of the Year – True Food Farm
The Grower of the Year Award recognizes a farm, nursery, or ranch for its business leadership and commitment to sustainable practices. This award also acknowledges the recipient’s efforts in promoting environmental awareness and supporting local food systems, strengthening the community’s connection to agriculture. (Sponsored by Steer Enterprises)
Industrial Excellence – A & D Bird Seed & Country Store
The Industrial Excellence Award is presented to a manufacturing, mining, brewery, or food production business that has achieved significant business growth and embraced innovation. This award recognizes a company that creates jobs and plays a vital role in enhancing Clearview’s economy, making a lasting impact on the community’s prosperity and development. (Sponsored by Alta Vista Planning Partners.)
New Business of the Year – Stayner Family Pharmacy
The New Business of the Year Award acknowledges and celebrates the accomplishments of a business within its first five years. This award highlights its achievements in growth, innovation, and the determination to overcome the challenges of starting a new venture. This newcomer has demonstrated resilience and built valuable relationships, enhancing the community’s economic landscape and inspiring others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. (Sponsored by Rough Ride Automotive.)
Retail Leadership – Creemore Home Hardware
The Retail Leadership Award is presented to a brick-and-mortar store, dealership, bank, or e-commerce business that embodies top-tier standards in retail execution and customer interaction. This award recognizes a business that excels in creating positive shopping experiences and fostering customer loyalty. By embracing best practices in merchandising and community engagement, this recipient sets a high standard in the retail sector and contributes to the local economy’s vitality. (Sponsored by Circle K.)
Service Provider of the Year – The Keep Refillery Creemore
The Service Provider of the Year Award recognizes a business in the professional or skilled trades industry that exemplifies excellence in service delivery. Their dedication to exceptional quality and customer satisfaction has made a meaningful difference inpeople’s lives, establishing them as a respected and trusted member of our community. (Sponsored by LCDC Colour & Coatings.)
Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Rough Ride Automotive
The Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes the exceptional achievements of a business owner who is 30 years old or younger. This award celebrates an individual who demonstrates outstanding innovation, leadership, and dedication in their venture. By navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship at a young age and contributing to the local economy, this young entrepreneur inspires others and exemplifies the creativity and determination that will shape the future of business. (Sponsored by RJP Bookkeeping Services.)