The Frontier Duty Free Association (FDFA), representing Canada’s land border duty free shops, announced the winners of the 2023 Gold Standard Awards at the FDFA Convention in Toronto. The awards ceremony took place during the Gala Dinner on November 29 at the conclusion of the 2023 event.
As the advocate and voice for the Canadian land border duty free sector, FDFA plays a crucial role in promoting the success of its 32 member stores. The FDFA Gold Standard Awards, a tradition for over two decades, are not just accolades; they symbolize the industry’s commitment to excellence and innovation, says the Association.
These awards recognize the outstanding contributions of member stores, owners, employees, and suppliers to the duty free industry and, by extension, to Canada’s tourism economy.
“This year’s Gold Standard Awards are a celebration of the resilience, creativity, and excellence within our industry,” said Barbara Barrett, Executive Director of FDFA. “The winners exemplify the high standards and innovative spirit that FDFA continually strives to promote among its members. Their achievements are not only a win for the duty free sector but also a significant contribution to enhancing Canada’s standing in the global tourism market.”
“We are deeply thankful to our sponsors and the panel of judges for their support and dedication to our awards program,” said Barrett. “Their involvement is essential in upholding the high standards of the FDFA. As we celebrate these achievements, we also look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence and innovation in the duty free industry.”
The 2023 FDFA Gold Standard Awards:
The Outstanding Contributor of the Year Award went to Chris Foster of Queenston Lewiston
Duty Free in Niagara Falls.
Outstanding Duty Free Employee of the Year went to Yvonne Graham, of Altan Duty Free Shops.
Best New or Relaunched Brand of the Year (Jewelry, Watches, Handbags, Accessories went to Swatch Group Canada.*
Best New or Relaunched Brand of the Year Confectionery, Food, Souvenirs) went to Cleary’s Maple Crème Cookies (Dist. Fontaine).*
Best New or Relaunched Brand of the Year (Fragrance, Cosmetic) went to Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Cream (Dist. Fontaine).*
Best New or Relaunched Brand of the Year (Spirits, Beer, wine, Tobacco) went to Jameson Triple Triple (Pernod Ricard Travel Retail Americas).*
Best Marketing/ Merchandising Award went to Windsor-Detroit Tunnel Duty Free Shop.
Supplier of the Year went to Northern Souvenirs and Andrew Peller Limited.
Supplier of the Year- Distributer/Agent – Distribution Fontaine.
Platinum Award – Cat. A went to Sault Ste. Marie Duty Free Store.**
Platinum Award – Cat. B went to Queenston Lewiston Duty Free Shop.**
Airport Duty Free Operator of the Year went to Aer Rianta International North America.
Outstanding Achievement or Innovation Award went to Sault Ste. Marie Duty Free Store.
FDFA Star of Show went to Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Bream (Dist. Fontaine)
*Sponsored by Travel Markets Insider and The Moodie Davitt Report.
**Sponsored by Motor Coach Canada.
