Three Richmond businesses and one individual were recently celebrated for their efforts to make Richmond a great place to visit.
The annual Richmond EPIC Tourism Awards was held on Nov. 30 by Tourism Richmond at the organization's year-end celebration.
Now in its second year, the awards were created in 2022 to highlight Tourism Richmond's four core values — excellence, passion, integrity and collaboration.
Excellence Award for Innovation — Panda Pod Hotel
This year's business recognized for its innovation is Panda Pod Hotel, the first capsule hotel in Metro Vancouver. The business is based in Richmond and is currently building a franchising network in Canada and the U.S.
Runners up for the award are The Story Cafe and Flow Thai Massage and Spa.
Passion Award for Individual Achievement — Crystal Lalonde (Fairmont Vancouver Airport)
Crystal Lalonde from Fairmont Vancouver Airport won the passion award in recognition of her "outstanding dedication and commitment" to the hotel's success.
"Crystal is a true gem within the team, and her remarkable contributions make her an invaluable asset to the hotel," said Tourism Richmond.
Runners up for the award are Q Duong from Richmond Conference Centre, Emily Robertson from A Monkey Tree Emporium and Peggi Li from Versante Hotel.
Integrity Award for Community Participation — Steveston Hub
Steveston Hub, which supports and hosts events and programs for community engagement, is the winner of the award celebrating community participation.
The organization is also known for its dedication to helping families in need, which includes collecting food for the Steveston Food Cupboard and organizing Christmas food hampers for low-income families.
Runners up for the award are the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site and Little Mexico Cantina.
Collaboration Award for Successful Partnerships — The World of Kidtropolis
Kidtropolis won the collaboration award after a successful collaboration with 15 Richmond businesses through its new Family Fun Passport. Launched back in summer, the initiative aimed to provide "unique experiences and high-quality entertainment options" to young families visiting Richmond.
Runners up for the award are Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine and Steveston Merchants Association.
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