BioTek, Foley Companies, Small Dog Electronics named finalists for Vermont business award

This year s competition for the highly anticipated Deane C Davis Outstanding Business of the Year Award was impressive. Many Vermont businesses who applied for this prestigious award were worthy but only three could be named as finalists. This year s finalists are BioTek Instruments, Inc of Winooski, The Foley Family of Companies of Rutland, and Small Dog Electronics of Waitsfield. All three businesses exemplify the standards by which the Deane C Davis Outstanding Business Award nominees are judged. The award is presented by Vermont Business Magazine and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce.
One of these impressive finalists will be named the Deane C. Davis Outstanding Vermont Business of the Year on Wednesday, May 26. The award presentation ceremony will kick off the 26th annual Vermont Business & Industry EXPO, organized by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. Governor Jim Douglas will present the award at 10 am in the foyer of the Sheraton Burlington Conference Center. Until that time, one of the most important traditions of the award will remain intact; the winner s identity is kept secret, even from the finalists, until the moment the award is presented.
This year s finalists exemplify the resourcefulness, innovation and success that radiates from all corners of the state and captures the essence of Vermont business. All share in common their dedication to their employees, communities and Vermont s natural environment. However, each tells a unique story of vision, commitment and growth.
BioTek Instruments, Inc. is a privately held and family-run business that was founded in 1968. The organization develops instruments used to facilitate the drug recovery process and to aid in the advancement of life science research. This evolving company is committed to continued financial growth, the welfare of its employees and reducing the company s impact on the environment, making it a strong contender for this prestigious award.
The Foley Family of Companies started in 1879, when Michael Foley purchased Goodwin s Laundry in Rutland, Vermont. The business grew over generations and eventually became Foley Laundry, a business still in operation today. The Foley family used the small operation to launch new business ideas and in 1973, the Foley Family of Companies was created. Today, the thriving business owns and operates The Party Store, Pistols & Roses, Foley Services and Foley Distributing.
Small Dog Electronics has been making a name for itself in the competitive electronic retail market since 1995. Recognized by Apple as the most knowledgeable Apple retailer in the U.S., Small Dog is the only Apple specialist and authorized Apple reseller in Vermont. Founded by Don and Hapy Mayer, the company started with the modest duo and grew over the last 15 years to a crew of more than 40 people and almost as many office dogs. The growth and sustainability illustrated by Small Dog Electronics speaks to the high company standards outlined in their mission statement. This business has a strong commitment to people, planet, and profit.
In an effort to recognize and honor Vermont s best companies, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and Vermont Business Magazine created the Deane C. Davis Outstanding Business of the Year Award in 1990. Named for the former Governor of Vermont, this annual award honors a Vermont business that shows an outstanding history of sustained growth while displaying an acute awareness of what makes Vermont unique. Commitment to the environment and dedication to employee relations are key components to receiving this award as well.
Join the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and Vermont Business Magazine as we unveil this year s award recipient at the Vermont Business & Industry EXPO on Wednesday, May 26 during the opening ceremonies.
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