Heritage Co-op’s Minnedosa store earns top grocery honours

Heritage Co-op’s Minnedosa Food Store is receiving national recognition after earning two awards at the 64th Canadian Independent Grocer of the Year Awards.

The store was named the top-scoring medium-format grocery store across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, while also taking home a Bronze National Award in the Medium Store Format category.

Presented annually by the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG), the awards recognize excellence in customer service, store operations, merchandising, presentation, community involvement and overall retail performance.

The dual recognition places the Minnedosa Food Store among Canada’s top-performing independent grocery retailers.

Reg Clarke, Heritage Co-op’s director of operations, food and energy, said receiving the national bronze award was already a significant accomplishment before the team was surprised with the regional honour.

Clarke compared the achievement to winning the Stanley Cup, saying he couldn’t be prouder of what the team had accomplished.

Lori Pollon, Heritage Co-op’s food division manager, credited the recognition to the dedication of the entire store staff.

Pollon noted that the store’s success comes from everyone working together, from the janitorial team to front-line employees, adding that every team member plays an important role in keeping the operation running smoothly.

The awards recognize not only the store’s commitment to providing an exceptional shopping experience but also its strong connection with the community it serves.

Heritage Co-op extended its appreciation to employees, members, customers and community supporters, noting that their continued trust and loyalty helped make the achievement possible.

The recognition marks a significant accomplishment for the Minnedosa Food Store and its employees, highlighting the importance of teamwork, customer service and community connections in delivering grocery retail excellence.

Source: Heritage Co-op, November 5, 2026.