Amidst glitz and glamour, the best in Vancouver Island business was recognized on Nov. 1 at the Union Club of B.C. during the 2024 Torch Awards gala where winners were announced and celebrated.
“Each year our Better Business Bureau (BBB) honours businesses that go above and beyond when it comes to trustworthy business practices and customer service excellence. This year we would like to congratulate 15 businesses for their outstanding commitment to our community,” said Rosalind Scott, president and CEO of BBB Vancouver Island, in a press release.
The night's theme was 24k Magic, brought to life with a sparkling gala, fun games that got participants laughing, and food.
"It was a fun-filled celebration and wonderful evening with smiles all around," Scott said in an email with Victoria News. "I also was very proud of my staff who worked so hard to make this a success!"
What made the night even more special was the fact that many of the businesses being celebrated are family-owned, making the event a 'family affair', Scott said.
The 2024 winners are (with quotes from the gala ceremony):
Carpet Cleaning & Janitorial - Luv-A-Rug Services Inc. (Victoria)
"The owner of this business started cleaning rugs at the tender age of seven and followed in his father’s footsteps in the rug cleaning industry. He is a noted industry authority and has won multiple awards but still finds time to support many events and charities."
Community Service - Prioritas Property Services (Victoria)
"This young business consistently looks for opportunities to give back, volunteering their time and working with the Ukrainian Cultural Society to employ refugees."
Customer Service & Sales - The Bride's Closet (Nanaimo)
"Located in an elegant Victorian Heritage House this business offers the most unique bridal experience anywhere. The owner, Fern has been described as a fairy godmother by her happy customers."
Environment & Safety - Victoria Tank Service Ltd. (Victoria)
"Locally owned and operated since 1958 and accredited for 32 years, this company specializes in above-ground oil tank installations and removals."
Exterior Cleaning Services - Pro Sweep Plus (Victoria)
"This company is a Victoria-based, family-owned and operated business, with a wealth of knowledge that comes from 25 years of experience. Their primary focus is on keeping their customers warm, safe, and happy while saving them time and money."
Exterior Design Services - Oasis Landscape Design (Victoria)
"This is an incredible local company led by a talented and passionate woman. Her creativity, work ethic and enthusiasm are stellar, and her designs are appropriate and thoughtful."
General Contractor - Birch Bark Builders Inc. (Victoria)
"This company is a joint venture of two locally trained Victoria carpenters. With over 25 years combined experience, they strive to provide professionalism and trust for their clients."
Heating & Air Conditioning – ServiceXCEL (Nanaimo)
"This family business is 40+ years strong with a new leader who maintains the deep-rooted values that have built a legacy of excellence."
Home Improvement & Renovation - Island Walk-In Tubs Renovations (Victoria)
"This company comes highly recommended by their customers and takes pleasure in guiding them toward the best choice for their unique requirements and financial factors. Newly accredited in 2024."
Moving & Hauling - Mikus Transport (Parksville)
"This family-based business has a unique concept – they deliver when you are ready specializing in evening and weekend deliveries."
Plumbing Contractor - Black Fern Plumbing and Gas Ltd. (Sooke)
"Their family-owned and operated mission is to bring the highest quality customer service, products, and attention to detail."
Professional Services - Tellwell Talent Inc. (Victoria)
"This company was founded in 2015 by a leader with two decades of experience in media and publishing. With the values of passion, teamwork, talent, honesty, and entrepreneurial spirit – authors are in good hands."
Roofing Contractors - High Definition Roofing Ltd. (Duncan)
"They grew from a small roofing company of three people in 2009 into a substantial family-owned business built on word-of-mouth which has defined their success."
Senior Health & Wellness - Kathleen's Yoga-in-a-Chair (Victoria)
"This exceptional instructor really goes that extra mile to ensure happiness and health for seniors."
Window & Door Installation - Green City Glass Ltd. (Victoria)
"Although style and construction practices have changed over the years – this business’s approach to seeing clients' visions come to life has not."
