Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce announces 2017 gala award finalists

TRURO – The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its 2017 gala award finalists.

Central Equipment Inc., owned by Anthony Waugh and Chad Bower, has been selected as the recipient of the Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award, and Jack and Andrew Roop of Roops Esso have been selected to receive the BDC Business Persons of the year Award.

“Central Equipment Ltd. and Jack and Andrew Roop join an impressive list of business leaders to be recognized by the Chamber at its annual gala dinner and awards,” said Chamber President Alex Stevenson. “They are committed to providing excellent customer service and employment opportunities in Colchester County, along with supporting community events and organizations.

The awards will be presented on April 27 during the Chamber’s 127^th annual gala dinner celebration at the Holiday Inn. The cost is $50 (+HST)  per seat for members and $55 (+HST) for non-members. To reserve seats call the Chamber office at 902-895-6328, or email [email protected].

The Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award recognizes leadership achieving a demonstrated growth in sales, workforce investment, community involvement, support of the local business community, commitment to the environment, innovation and job creation.

Central Equipment Inc. is celebrating 59 years in Lower Truro this year. The business employs more than 20 people, dedicated to providing top-of-the-line products and customer service, while supporting the community in a number of ways from volunteering with 4-H, to serving with fire departments and providing companionship to residents in special care homes, and more.

The BDC Business Person(s) of the Year Award acknowledges a founder, owner, CEO, president or manager who has achieved significant success showing strong leadership skills contributing to the growth of the business.

Jack and Andrew Roop “grew up” in the family business working alongside their parents who took over ownership in 1971. Jack joined the family enterprise in 2004, followed by Andrew 2006. The brothers have continued to expand the business offerings that began as a service station which includes a convenience store, Tim Hortons Drive-thru and NSLC agency store.

The Roop’s business employs up to 38 full-time and part-time employees during the summer tourist season in rural Colchester County.

Nominations for the Chamber awards were open to all businesses in Truro and Colchester County.

The gala awards dinner will feature guest speaker Cathy Bennett, CEO of Bennett Group of Companies, recipient of several Top CEO awards and recognized as one of the top 25 Women of Influence in Canada. Bennett is currently serving as the Minister of Finance and President of the Treasury Board for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Everyone is invited to celebrate the accomplishments of local business at the Chamber’s gala, which is open to members and future members.