Erin Higdon, Chair of the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG), Ron Welke, President and CEO, and the CFIG Board of Directors are pleased to announce Jim Hamilton of Hammy’s in Ponoka, Alta., as the recipient of CFIG’s Life Member Award in the Independent Grocer category. As well, Peter Bowman, Saputo, is the recipient of the Life Member Award in the Industry Builder category. Jim Hamilton is a third-generation grocer.  His grandfather bought his first stores in 1946.  Jim’s parents signed the first three IGA franchises in western Canada in 1957, the year he was born. 

After returning to Vancouver from Germany at the conclusion of his professional hockey career, Peter Bowman started his career with Kruger. He spent three years with Kruger in Vancouver, and then another seven in various locations in Ontario. Once his kids were born, Peter went back to Vancouver to start with Dairyworld. In 2001 Saputo Acquired Dairyworld, and Peter continued to rise through the company to become Senior Vice President, Retail and Food Service Sales.

Peter and Jim will be officially recognized at the Grocery & Specialty Food West Monday dinner gala, held on April 14. GSF is Canada’s premier Western Canada grocery exposition and conference that takes place at the Vancouver Convention Centre, East Bldg., www.GSFShow.com