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These companies are innovative and make money, but they also treat employees, customers and the community well.
They are the 400 businesses on this year's list of Canada's Best Managed Companies, a prestigious inventory compiled annually by Canadian Business magazine in conjunction with accounting and consulting firm Deloittes.
Of those 400, 27 are in the Okanagan, a number that indicates the Valley is punching above its weight when it comes to entrepreneurship and community desirability.
The Okanagan companies represent businesses based here as well as many corporations that have operations and offices here because the Valley is a dynamic place to be.
Rather than rank the best managed companies, the magazine listed them alphabetically to stress that all are equal winners.
Quails' Gate Winery in West Kelowna has graced the list for the past five years.
"This award is a reflection of everyone on the team who leads our innovative practices as pioneers in the BC wine industry," said CEO Tony Stewart.
"At Quails' Gate, our staff are the driving force behind our brand values encompassing welcoming Okanagan hospitality."
Quails' Gate also makes damn fine wines.
Edmonton-based Westcorp, which developed, owns and operates the Downtown Kelowna Marina and plans to build a highrise condominium hotel on the water's edge beside it, has also appeared on the list year after year.
Another multiple winner is WhiteWater, which may be based in Richmond, but has a factory in Lake Country making components for water parks around the world.
The 24 other companies with Okanagan operators or offices are:
- Houle Electric
- Modu-Loc Fence Rentals
- Whitespot restaurants
- United Van Lines
- PCL Construction
- Paladin Security
- Odlum Brown Investments
- Mr. Lube
- Modern Beauty Supplies
- Maritime Travel
- Maple Reinders Construction
- M&M Food Markets
- King Fisher Boats
- Home Hardware
- Great Little Box Company
- GoodLife Fitness
- Golder Associates
- Fountain Tire
- Coast Capital Savings
- Canadian Tire
- Cactus Club restaurants
- Boston Pizza
- A&W restaurants
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