The Awards
Winner Selection: CHFA Awards Council
CHFA’s most prestigious award is given to an individual in the Canadian natural, organic and wellness industry for outstanding contributions to the development and growth of our industry.
Winner Selection: CHFA Awards Council
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 their company or in the wider industry.
Winner Selection: CHFA Member Retailers
Celebrating the 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.
Winner Selection: CHFA Member Suppliers
Celebrating 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.
Winner Selection: CHFA Members
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.
Winner Selection: CHFA Members
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.
Winner Selection: CHFA Awards Council
Celebrating organizations that foster a culture of inclusion, diversity, and equity, creating lasting impact within their workforce and the broader community.
Winner Selection: CHFA Members
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.
Winner Selection: CHFA Awards Council
Acknowledging the presence of dedicated advocates and activists within our community. Presented to a CHFA Member company or individual that has made substantial contributions through their work on government relations and regulatory affairs, advocating the long term success of the Canadian natural, organic and wellness industry.
Winner Selection: CHFA Members
Honouring an exceptional female leader whose vision, dedication, and influence drive meaningful progress in the natural, organic, and wellness (NOW) industry—shaping a stronger, more prosperous future for businesses and the community.
Winner Selection: CHFA Members
Recognizing 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.
Winner Selection: CHFA Members
Honouring 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.
Winner Selection: CHFA Members
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.
Winner Selection: CHFA Members
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.
Meet CHFA’s Awards Council
Our Awards Council is made up of passionate industry leaders and experts who have made a lasting impact in the natural, organic and wellness industry. With years of experience and deep industry knowledge, they bring fairness, insight, and enthusiasm to the judging process—helping us recognize the very best in the business!
- Aaron Chin, Organika
- Bruce Cole, CNHR Magazine
- Joe D’Addario, Nature's Emporium
- Stacey Kravitz, UNFI
- Bob Oommen, A.Vogel/Bioforce Canada
- Nadiya Raphael, New Chapter
- Michael Sherwood, Nature's Fare
- Jenn Slattery, NOW Health Products
How We Select Our Award Winners
Step 1: Nominee Information Intake
We ask all qualified nominees to complete a short questionnaire to help us get to know them better. We also share our scoring criteria, so everything stays transparent.
Step 2: Narrowing it down
CHFA’s internal committee carefully reviews all nominees and selects up to five in each category. Depending on the award, finalists either move on to an industry-wide vote or get evaluated by our expert Awards Council.
Step 3: The Final Vote
Depending on the award, the final vote is done by either CHFA Members or our Awards Council.
- CHFA Members get to have their say by scoring nominees through a simple online survey.
- The Awards Council reviews the finalists and makes their final decision as part of their annual selection meeting.