2026 CHFA Industry Achievement Awards Nominations

2026 CHFA Industry Achievement Awards Nominations

Nominations close: June 5, 2026
For detailed criteria and eligibility for each award, click here.

Award Categories:
- Brand Excellence Award
- Retailer of the Year Award
- Equity & Impact Award
- Trailblazer Small Business Award
- Agent of Change in Regulatory Affairs
- Woman of Influence Award
- Excellence in Sales
- Excellence in Retail Sales
- Willie Pelzer Memorial Hall of Fame Award
- John Holtmann Leadership Award
- Best Boutique Broker
- Best Large Broker
- Distributor of Distinction
- Industry Voice Award
Company Name:
Your Contact:

First NameLast Name
Email:
Questions? We're here to help! Please contact us at sbiggs@chfa.ca or 1.800.661.4510 ext. 239.
CHFA Membership Type?
Who would you like to nominate? (click to expand)
- Brand Excellence Award
  
  The CHFA Brand Excellence Award celebrates brands that have left an indelible mark on both the natural, organic and wellness industry and consumers, showcasing exceptional marketing prowess, unparalleled customer service, and a steadfast commitment to integrity.
  
  Criteria:
  - Active CHFA Supplier membership
  - Dedication to sustainable practices, ingredient transparency, ethical standards, or community engagement
  - Significant influence on the industry and community, serving as a beacon for other brands
  - Commitment to innovation, staying ahead of industry trends and customer preferences
  - Strong reputation for honesty and integrity through customer reviews, testimonials, and industry recognition
  - Demonstrated above-and-beyond customer service throughout the entire customer journey
  - Based in Canada
- Company I would like to nominate for the Brand Excellence Award:
- Company Website:
- Contact at the Nominated Company:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Email of Contact at the Nominated Company:
- Phone Number of Contact at the Nominated Company:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- What has this brand done that truly sets it apart in the natural, organic, and wellness industry, and what measurable impact has this had on consumers, the market, or the community? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- Retailer of the Year Award
  
  The CHFA Retailer of the Year Award celebrates companies at the forefront of the retail industry, championing innovation, customer experience, and market growth. This honour distinguishes those who have not only achieved outstanding sales and operational metrics but have also showcased an unwavering commitment to adapting in an ever-evolving marketplace. This accolade underscores the significance of continuous improvement, visionary leadership, and an unyielding passion for retail excellence.
  
  Criteria:
  - Has made significant strides in integrating technology, enhancing in-store experiences, implementing sustainable practices, or pioneering new retail strategies
  - Demonstrates creativity, resilience, and a dedication to meeting consumer needs
  - Setting exceptional standards in retail and inspiring others to elevate the industry
  - Current CHFA Retail Member
- Company I would like to nominate for the Retailer of the Year Award:
- Company Website:
- Contact at the Nominated Company:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Email of Contact at the Nominated Company:
- Phone Number of Contact at the Nominated Company:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- How has this retailer redefined the customer experience or retail model, and what tangible results demonstrate their leadership and innovation? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- Equity & Impact Award
  
  This award celebrates organizations that foster a culture of inclusion, diversity, and equity, creating lasting impact within their workforce and the broader community.
  
  Criteria:
  - Culture of diversity and inclusion within their organization
  - Strong focus on the importance and the benefits of managing diversity, equality and promoting a culture of inclusion
  - Collaboration with individuals and other organizations that have shared goals around inclusion.
  - Implementing creative and inclusive work policies to support the needs of a diverse staff
  - Engages in diversity and inclusion efforts in a collaborative way
  - Has a trusted framework to ensure continuous assessment and reflection about the needs, strategies and goals to ensure attention to changing dynamics
  - Motivates and inspires community and other organization around them
- Company I would like to nominate for the Equity & Impact Award:
- Company Website:
- Email of Contact at the Nominated Company:
- Phone Number of Contact at the Nominated Company:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- What specific actions has this organization taken to advance equity and inclusion, and what lasting impact have these efforts had on their team, community, or industry? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- Trailblazer Small Business Award
  
  The CHFA Trailblazer Small Business Award spotlights promising newcomers in the natural, organic, and wellness industry. Recognizing businesses operational for less than five years, this award celebrates those captivating both industry insiders and consumers alike, showcasing leadership, innovation, and leading-edge strategies.
  
  Criteria:
  - Active CHFA membership
  - Operational for less than 5 years
  - Demonstrated substantial growth through revenue, partnerships, or funding
  - Commitment to sustainability, ingredient transparency, ethical standards, or community engagement
  - Innovation in addressing evolving consumer demands
  - Cultivation of a positive employee culture and inclusive workplace
  - Located in Canada
- Company I would like to nominate for the Trailblazer Small Business Award:
- Company Website:
- Email of Contact at the Nominated Company:
- Phone Number of Contact at the Nominated Company:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- What bold or innovative move has this business made in its early stages that demonstrates its potential to shape the future of the industry? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- Agent of Change in Regulatory Affairs
  
  The Agent of Change in Regulatory Affairs Award acknowledges the presence of advocates within the community. Presented to a CHFA Member company or individual that has made substantial contributions through their advocacy work and who are champions of change.
  
  Criteria:
  - Must be a current CHFA Member in good standing
  - Demonstrates dedication to the advancement of regulatory and/or policy frameworks in Canada through advocacy
  - Significant contributions through their time, actions, and dedication
  - Advocacy work generated support or raised new awareness among the community
  - Motivates and inspires their community and other organizations around them
- Company/Person I would like to nominate for the Agent of Change in Regulatory Affairs Award:
- Nominee's Name:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Nominee's Company:
- Nominee's Email Address:
- Nominee's Phone Number:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- Nominee's LinkedIn:
- How has this nominee influenced regulatory or policy advancements, and what real-world impact has their work had on the industry? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- Woman of Influence Award
  
  The Woman of Influence Award celebrates a female leader or founder who plays a vital role in building a better and more prosperous business and industry.
  
  Criteria:
  - Nominees must be employed by a CHFA member company or Associate in good standing
  - Demonstrate exceptional professional growth through outstanding progress in her career
  - Have made significant contributions that lead to inspiring change and/or innovation, improving outcomes for their organization
  - Demonstrate strategic vision and leadership at her current organization and throughout her career
  - Demonstrate commitment to fostering the growth and development of women by sharing guidance and professional skills
- Person I would like to nominate for the Woman of Influence Award:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Nominee's Company:
- Nominee's Email Address:
- Nominee's Phone Number:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- Nominee's LinkedIn:
- How has this individual demonstrated leadership that not only advanced her organization but also created meaningful impact or opportunities for others? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- CHFA Award for Excellence in Sales
  
  This award is presented to a sales representative who exemplifies leadership and exceptional service. Nominees must be employed by a CHFA Supplier member in good standing. The recipient is also presented with a monetary award.
  
  Criteria:
  - Demonstrates knowledge and promotion of company’s products
  - Provides accurate, reliable information
  - Meets their retailers’ expectations of courtesy and service
  - Helps natural health products retailers to maximize their potential
  - Shows commitment to our industry
- Person I would like to nominate for Excellence in Sales:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Nominee's Company:
- Nominee's Email Address:
- Nominee's Phone Number:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- Nominee's LinkedIn:
- What specific actions has this sales professional taken that directly contributed to retailer success, growth, or long-term partnerships? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- CHFA Excellence in Retail Sales Award
  
  This award recognizes an individual working in retail sales who demonstrates exceptional leadership through outstanding customer service, in-depth product knowledge, excellent merchandising skills, and support for suppliers in the health food industry. Nominees must be employed by a CHFA Retailer member in good standing. The recipient is also presented with a monetary award.
  
  Criteria:
  - Demonstrates thorough understanding of products and educates customers effectively
  - Actively promotes products, suggesting solutions that meet customer needs
  - Exceptional courtesy and service
  - Actively supports and collaborates with CHFA supplier members, helping to drive awareness and sales of their products
  - Shows commitment to our industry
- Person I would like to nominate for the CHFA Excellence in Retail Sales Award:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Nominee's Company:
- Nominee's Email Address:
- Nominee's Phone Number:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- Nominee's LinkedIn:
- How has this individual gone above and beyond to educate, serve, and support customers in a way that drives trust and sales? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- CHFA Willie Pelzer Memorial Hall of Fame Award
  
  The CHFA Willie Pelzer Memorial Hall of Fame Award is CHFA’s most prestigious award. It is given to an individual in the Canadian natural, organic and wellness industry for outstanding contributions to the development and growth of our industry.
  
  Criteria:
  - Minimum of 25 years industry service and participation
  - Significant contribution(s) that helped shape the industry
  - Demonstrated leadership and/or innovation in the industry
  - Peer recognition in promoting, marketing, educating and/or otherwise supporting the industry
  - Although not required to be a Canadian citizen or resident, this individual’s contributions should have a brand, product, or research presence in Canada
- Person I would like to nominate for the Hall of Fame Award:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Nominee's Company:
- Nominee's Email Address:
- Nominee's Phone Number:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- Nominee's LinkedIn:
- What lasting contributions has this individual made that have fundamentally shaped or advanced the natural, organic, and wellness industry? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- CHFA John Holtmann Leadership Award
  
  The CHFA John Holtmann Leadership Award is presented to a leader/mentor within the Canadian natural, organic and wellness industry who demonstrates passion and long standing commitment to industry, serves as an inspiration for others and has played a significant role within his/her company or in the wider industry.
  
  Criteria:
  - Proven track record of industry service and participation
  - Has played a significant leadership and/or mentorship role
  - Significant contribution(s) that helped shape the industry
  - Peer recognition as a respected leader/ mentor supporting an individual or a company within the industry and/or the industry as a whole
  - Leadership experience serving on a Board/ Taskforce/ Advisory Council within the natural health industry
  - Member or employee of CHFA member in good standing
  - Canadian citizen/resident
- Person I would like to nominate for the John Holtmann Leadership Award:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Nominee's Company:
- Nominee's Email Address:
- Nominee's Phone Number:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- Nominee's LinkedIn:
- How has this leader demonstrated mentorship and influence that has meaningfully impacted individuals, organizations, or the industry as a whole? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- Best Boutique Broker Award
  
  The Best Boutique Broker award recognizes a boutique or independent broker who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, client service, and growth within the natural, organic, and wellness industry. This broker has made a significant impact by securing strategic placements, fostering strong retail relationships, and championing innovative brands.
  
  Criteria:
  - Active CHFA Membership
  - Represents fewer than 30 brands
  - Demonstrates outstanding commitment to brand advocacy and retail partnerships
  - Proven track record of successful product launches and category growth
  - Strong engagement in education and promotion efforts for natural organic wellness products
  - Displays creativity and problem-solving in navigating industry challenges
- Company I would like to nominate for the Best Boutique Broker Award:
- Company Website:
- Contact at the Nominated Company:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Email of Contact at the Nominated Company:
- Phone Number of Contact at the Nominated Company:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- How has this broker created measurable success for the brands they represent through relationships, strategy, and execution? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- Best Large Broker Award
  
  The Best Large Broker award honours a well-established broker managing a larger portfolio who has consistently delivered exceptional results in driving market expansion, increasing sales, and advocating for brands in the natural, organic, and wellness industry. This broker is a trusted partner, demonstrating leadership, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability and wellness.
  
  Criteria:
  - Active CHFA membership
  - Represents 30+ brands
  - Demonstrates strong industry influence and market leadership
  - Proven ability to scale multiple brands successfully across retail channels
  - Leads strategic partnerships and category development initiatives
  - Plays an active role in mentoring emerging brands and supporting industry education
  - Recognized for outstanding service, communication, and results-driven execution
- Company I would like to nominate for the Best Large Broker Award:
- Company Website:
- Contact at the Nominated Company:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Email of Contact at the Nominated Company:
- Phone Number of Contact at the Nominated Company:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- What evidence demonstrates this broker’s ability to scale brands and lead market growth while maintaining strong partnerships and industry leadership? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- Distributor of Distinction
  
  The Distributor of Distinction award is presented to a distributor in the natural, organic and wellness (NOW) industry who has demonstrated exceptional service, market leadership, and a commitment to brand success. The recipient plays a vital role in ensuring that NOW products reach consumers while fostering strong relationships with brands, retailers, and supply chain partners. Nominees for this award must be a Distributor member of CHFA in good standing, with a business located, licensed, or operating in Canada.
  
  Criteria:
  - In business for 5 or more years
  - Known for reliable, efficient, and high-quality distribution services
  - Demonstrates innovation in supply chain solutions and logistics
  - Recognized for leadership in expanding market access for NOW products
  - Champions sustainability and ethical business practices
  - Provides exceptional customer service and market support for retailers and brands
- Company I would like to nominate for the Distributor of Distinction Award:
- Company Website:
- Contact at the Nominated Company:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Email of Contact at the Nominated Company::
- Phone Number of Contact at the Nominated Company:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- How has this distributor gone beyond operational excellence to create real value for brands, retailers, and the industry? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- Industry Voice Award
  
  The Industry Voice Award recognizes an individual who has consistently elevated the narrative of the natural, organic, and wellness industry through innovative media and educational initiatives. This award celebrates a leader who leverages social media, media, events or content to inspire consumers and industry peers, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural, organic and wellness industry and the credibility this industry has in proactive healthcare.
  
  Criteria:
  - Active CHFA Membership
  - Known for elevating industry credibility through media, social platforms, or educational initiatives
  - Innovates in communication strategies to engage and educate consumers and peers
  - Champions industry growth through collaborations and public engagement
  - Maintains a strong, influential voice that inspires and informs the industry
- Person I would like to nominate for the Industry Voice Award:
  
  First NameLast Name
- Nominee's Company:
- Nominee's Email Address:
- Nominee's Phone Number:
  Format: (000) 000-0000.
- Nominee's LinkedIn and/or Social:
- How has this individual used their platform or voice to meaningfully shape industry perception, educate audiences, or drive engagement? Please give specific examples as it relates to the criteria. 150 words max.
  
  0/150
- Should be Empty:

2026 CHFA Industry Achievement Awards Nominations

Who would you like to nominate? (click to expand)