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Celebrating Excellence in the Natural, Organic and Wellness Industry

The CHFA Industry Achievement Awards recognize the best-of-the-best in the natural, organic, and wellness industry. Our awards range from celebrating successful teams to highlighting emerging entrepreneurs – this is your chance to have your accomplishments recognized on a national scale.

We celebrate the CHFA Industry awards at CHFA NOW Toronto.

The Awards

CHFA Willie Pelzer Memorial Hall of Fame Award
Nominated By: Industry
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.

CHFA John Holtmann Leadership Award
Nominated By: 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.

Brand Excellence Award (previously Best in Brand Award)
Nominated by: 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.

Retailer of the Year Award (previously Best in Retail Award)
Nominated By: Industry
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.

CHFA Award for Excellence in Sales
Nominated By: Industry
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.

CHFA Excellence in Retail Sales Award
Nominated By: Industry
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.

Equity & Impact Award (previously Celebrating Diversity Award)
Nominated By: Industry
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.

Trailblazer Small Business Award
Nominated By: Industry
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.

Agent of Change in Regulatory Affairs Award
Nominated By: Industry
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.

Woman of Influence Award
Nominated By: 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.

Best Small Broker Award
Nominated By: Industry
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.

Best Large Broker Award
Nominated By: Industry
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.

Distributor of Distinction
Nominated By: Industry
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.

Industry Voice Award
Nominated By: Industry
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!

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.