Cox Business Citizen of the Year
Cambium Employer of the Year at Business Excellence Awards
Brant Basics founder Morris Cox was named Business Citizen of the Year at an award ceremony Wednesday night.
Cox, 83, was honoured at the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards.
“It’s just amazing, ”Cox said of the win.
The businessman’s three kids found out before he did, letting their dad in on the secret just recently.
“I think they’re surprised at my age that I’m winning this award,” said Cox, who attended the event with his children and wife Helen.
The ceremony took place at Showplace Performance Centre with about 450 people in attendance.
The awards are designed to recognize and honour local businesses that have demonstrated a passion for excellence.
The Business Citizen of the Year — the cream of the crop — honours a top businessperson who volunteers and gives back to the community.
Cox started his business in 1964, out of his home.
About 20 years later, he purchased two buildings on George St., renovating them into the two-storey storefront and warehouse they are today.
Although he still goes into work nearly every day, Cox passed the business on to his three kids, who now manage the store.
Cox has spent decades giving back to communities, both locally and abroad.
Despite all his contributions, in the business community and through volunteerism, Cox said he didn’t ever expect to win the award, especially since he’s over 60, he said with a chuckle.
“No, I must admit, I didn’t expect this, not when you look at the list of people who have won it in the past.”
Last year’s Business Citizen of the Year was Peter Blodgett, president of Darling Insurance and Realty Ltd.
More than 50 businesses and individuals were profiled at the awards in 20 categories, including the 4-Under-40 Profiles and the Business Student Leadership Prizes.
Categories include hospitality, tourism, retail, and environmental practices, for example.
This year’s Employer of the Year went to Cambium, a business that supports career advancement and promotes worklife balance.
Meghan Murphy, filmmaker and former local radio show host, hosted the 15th annual award ceremony.
NOTE: Find out who won the other Business Excellence Awards in the special section inside today’s Examiner on Pages E1-8.
‘‘ I must admit I didn’t expect this, not when you look at the list of people who have won it in the past. MORRIS COX Business Citizen of the Year