Samantha Stirling (Minor Bros. Animal Health & Nutrition – Feed Mill Office MB Country Living), Neville Kidd (sponsor Desjardins Commercial Services)
Leadership That Begins Within
The Employer of the Year award recognizes a business or organization that demonstrates exceptional leadership in fostering a positive workplace culture, supporting employee growth and well-being, and contributing to the economic and social fabric of Dunnville.
Strong employers do more than create jobs. They create opportunity. They build environments where employees feel valued, supported, and proud of the work they do. In small communities especially, workplace culture extends beyond office walls — it influences families, volunteerism, and the broader community spirit.
This year’s nominees represent organizations that understand that responsibility: Griffin Landscape Management Solutions Inc., GrandErie Home Hardware Building Centre, and Minor Bros. Animal Health & Nutrition – Feed Mill Office (MB Country Living). Each nominee demonstrates leadership through team development, operational excellence, and meaningful community engagement.
And the 2026 Winner Is…
Minor Bros. Animal Health & Nutrition – Feed Mill Office (MB Country Living)
Minor Bros. Animal Health & Nutrition has grown into a significant multi-location organization serving Southern Ontario, with its main office proudly based in Dunnville. But while the footprint has expanded, the foundation remains deeply personal.
One nomination captured the culture simply:
“One only needs to read their Google reviews at 4.6 out of 5 — they have a ‘how may I help you’ attitude.”
That attitude does not happen by accident. It reflects leadership from the top and a workplace culture that empowers employees to serve with confidence and pride.
The nomination continued:
“This comes from their employees’ love of the business and how employees are treated by management. Tim Minor is the main contact person. Over the years, Tim’s family has built this family business into a multi-store facility. It makes me proud to know the organization.”
Minor Bros. has grown substantially, building a network of stores and facilities while maintaining its headquarters in Dunnville — reinforcing the town as its operational heart. Growth at that scale requires strategic leadership, but sustaining a strong workplace culture requires something more: consistency, communication, and care.
The community impact is equally evident.
“I was in Rotary with Tim and can attest to Tim’s & Minor Bros.’ love of community and multiple contributions to it.”
When employers foster a culture of service internally, it often extends outward. Employees who feel valued are more likely to volunteer, engage, and contribute beyond their roles.
Minor Bros. Animal Health & Nutrition exemplifies that model — pairing organizational growth with community-rooted leadership.
Sponsored by Desjardins Commercial Services
This award was proudly sponsored by Desjardins Commercial Services, an organization that understands the vital role employers play in sustaining local economies. Businesses that prioritize workplace culture and long-term development strengthen not only their own operations, but the broader financial and social stability of the communities they serve.
Why This Award Matters
Employers shape the daily experience of a significant portion of our population. The tone set within a workplace influences morale, productivity, family life, and community engagement.
Recognizing Employer of the Year affirms that how we lead internally matters just as much as how we operate externally.
Minor Bros. Animal Health & Nutrition – Feed Mill Office (MB Country Living) continues to demonstrate that strong leadership, employee support, and community commitment can grow together.
Congratulations to all nominees and to this year’s deserving recipient for setting a standard that benefits Dunnville as a whole.
The Dunnville Chamber of Commerce exists to support, connect, and celebrate local business. Through leadership, collaboration, and community-driven initiatives, the Chamber brings together entrepreneurs, organizations, and volunteers who are committed to helping Dunnville thrive. From business advocacy to signature events and recognition programs, the Chamber is proud to champion the people and enterprises that shape our community every day.