On May 7, the Brandon Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Business Achievement Awards Gala—a night filled with community pride, inspiring stories, and well-deserved recognition.  The event was hekd in the Manitoba Room at the Keystone Centre. Award Highlights: Community Impact (Individual): Tamra Rapsky Community Impact (Business): Greg Gingras, Lifetime Business Builder: Bob Mazer Outstanding New Business: Compass Coach Lines Top 4 Under 40: Chris Hun (Assiniboine College), Kyla Neufield (Alair Homes Brandon), Courtney Matienzo (Mazergroup), Lindsey Raupers (Loft Accounting) Business Excellence (Small): Reesor’s Jewellery. Business Excellence (Large): Glenn Butt (Canadian Tire) Business Person of the Year: Dale McKay CEO of Shur-Gro Farm Services

A popular Canadian shawarma chain is preparing to expand into the Wheat City, with Osmow’s expected to open its first Brandon location (825 18TH ST N) in the near future. While an official opening date has not yet been formally announced, excitement has already been building among fans of the fast-growing Mediterranean restaurant brand. Founded in Ontario in 2001, Osmow's has grown to more than 225 locations across Canada and the United States, becoming known for its shawarma wraps, “On the Rocks” rice bowls, and signature garlic sauce. The company currently operates 2 locations in Winnipeg, The addition of Osmow’s would continue a wave of new restaurant and business development in Brandon, as several national and regional brands have recently announced expansions into the city. Residents have increasingly embraced new dining options, particularly in the quick-service and international cuisine sectors.  

Hermanos South American Steakhouse is proud to announce the future opening of HERMANOS Steakhouse at the Historic Brandon Firehall in downtown Brandon, MB. Riley Bernier, Son of Hermanos co-founder, Noel Bernier, along with his  wife, Brazilian native Juliana Bernier & son, Christopher, will be relocating and settling in Brandon to own and lead the  restaurant operations.  “We are extremely proud of Riley & Juliana, they are committing to the City of Brandon, and we know Brandon will love the  Hermanos Steakhouse experience they bring to the Westman Region” said Michelle Bernier, Hermanos co owner.  “Firehall developers, the City of Brandon, the local MLA office and the Mayor’s office have been extremely helpful and pro active in creating a downtown attraction for the City of Brandon, with special thanks to Brandon Downtown BIZ Executive  Director, Emmy Sanderson, who’s efforts and tenacity for Brandon’s downtown made this possible” added Hermanos co founder Noel Bernier. “It’s important to note - No grants or public money was used to help bring this together, but the support,  information, and timely efforts of Brandon city officials were instrumental in bringing Hermanos to the Firehall.  “Juliana and Riley are amazing ambassadors of the Brazilian Canadian relationship and it’s a blessing for the warm welcome they have received” added Brazilian born Hermanos co-founder, Najara Costa Barros.  The full hospitality development will include a Hermanos Steakhouse and Lounge as well as a cigar lounge in the Firehall Hayloft and a 50-seat comedy club in the basement. Plans include the restaurant & cigar lounge opening in July and a  50-seat comedy club opening in the fall of 2026. Hermanos will be launching with a series of culinary dinners and events,  including a Firefighters Ball on June 21.  “Juliana and I look forward to introducing Brandon to the Hermanos Restaurant and experience. These dining events will include 6 course dinners, live entertainment, and stories and experiences rooted in Hermanos South American History” said owner Riley Bernier.  “We have made the Firefighters Association the charity partner of these events and have will be making a substantial donation to the Firefighters Association at the June 21 dinner” added Riley Bernier. “We look forward to starting a chapter of new memories and meals shared together at the Brandon Firehall, and encourage people to buy tickets now, as seats are very limited.”  Information and tickets can be found at Hermanos.ca

A new chapter in Brandon’s growing craft beer scene officially got underway recently as the Trans Canada Brewing Company held a groundbreaking ceremony for its highly anticipated expansion into the Wheat City. The project, located near the intersection of the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 10 (105 Middleton Ave), marks the company’s first major expansion outside of Winnipeg. The new facility is expected to include a taproom, on-site brewing capabilities, and a full food menu, offering a similar experience to its flagship location while introducing exclusive, locally brewed products. Company representatives and community leaders gathered to celebrate the milestone, highlighting the economic and social benefits the development is expected to bring. The brewery has pointed to Brandon’s growing population and emerging craft beer market as key reasons for choosing the city, calling it an “exciting” opportunity to connect with a new customer base. Construction is underway with an anticipated opening in 2026, adding another unique attraction to Brandon’s business landscape and continuing the city’s steady growth in hospitality and tourism.    

Ficek Insurance (Murray Chrysler Building) is changing locations May 4th. The new address will be 1525 18th Street Brandon, MB right beside Humpty's Diner. “The Hansel and Gretel’s Schnitzel Haus” is reopening at 363-st Street. The restaurant will offer a delightful taste of authentic German cuisine including crispy pork schnitzel and flavorful chicken schnitzel. Dustin Glaseman is now the owner of Lasting Image Picture Framing located at 708 B 10th Street in Brandon. Brandon realtor Cam Toews recently won the Brian M. Collie Award for "Individual Achievement in Provincial Advocacy recognizes a REALTOR® who has gone above and beyond to advance our profession at the provincial level. "  Click here for more info. Starting May 4th, Planet Kia will be temporarily moving to  3620 Victoria Ave (right beside the Victoria Inn) as they build a new state-of-the-art space at 415 18th Street North.