Eleven Whalley-area businesses, some more than 50 years old, were honoured for their longevity at a meeting of Downtown Surrey Business Improvement Association (BIA) on Wednesday, Feb. 19.
The BIA's annual general meeting celebrated businesses "integral to the growth and success of the Downtown Surrey area for decades," and also their "dedication, resilience and contribution to the community."
Several are marking 50 years in business including Gus’ Shop (motorcycle repair, operated by Gus Berkelaar), Budget Brake and Muffler Auto Centre (Al Sharma), Mason Locksmiths (Darren Pinch), Surrey Natural Foods (Dean Camfferman) and Independent Contractors & Business Association (Chris Gardner).
Also honoured with flowers and trophies were 99 Nursery & Florists for 60 years of business on King George Boulevard (Tony Hui), North Surrey Chiropractic Clinic (40 years, Dr. Linda Gordon), Pacific Community Resources Society (40 years, Marie Lingham), Beautyland Salon (35 years, Nazia Bajwa), David Pel & Company (34 years, David Pel) and WestCoast Piercing (25 years, Julie Green).
"We are incredibly fortunate to have such a strong and diverse network of businesses in our community," Elizabeth Model, CEO of the BIA, said in a news release.
"These businesses have not only thrived in an ever-changing landscape, but their success stories serve as an inspiration to current and future entrepreneurs, and we look forward to their continued success in the years to come.”
Bios for the 11 businesses are found in the February edition of the BIA's The New View newsletter, on downtownsurreybia.com.
Launched in 2001, the BIA covers a 414-acre area of North Surrey along King George Boulevard from 96 to 112 Avenue, from around University Drive to Whalley Boulevard.
Meantime, the BIA is planning to launch an initiative to help consumers easily identify Canadian-made products in shops.
"In response to external challenges," a web post says, "it’s vital that we stand together as proud Canadians. By choosing to shop locally, we not only show our resilience and independence but also contribute to a brighter and more stable future for everyone. Together, we can ensure that Canada’s distinct identity and economic sovereignty remain strong for generations to come."
