A Prince George business has just been presented with the prestigious Western Canadian Retailer of the Year Award.

City Furniture and Appliances Ltd. was presented this award at the 2018 Canadian Home Furnishings Alliance Awards Gala on May 24.

Photo Credit: City Furniture

Winners of this award are recognized for their exemplary models of community service, growth and overall presence in the industry.

“We are quite proud of it. We work very hard,” said Ray Kandola, City Furniture owner. “They called me in early January and asked if I would accept and I said they didn’t have to ask me twice.”

Photo Credit: City Furniture

In 1976, City Furniture started its first store in Prince George.

Through hard work, respect and strong values, Ray and his nephew Das were able to expand and develop 22 stores across B.C. and Alberta.

Ray and Das equate their success to developing strong relationships and friendships with suppliers and staff.

They also pride their stores on being owner operated by families. It’s this strong family foundation that lead the Kandola family and City Furniture into its third generation.

Even with a fast growing business, each city that houses a City Furniture takes pride in giving back to the community by supporting local charities and sports teams.

Photo Credit: City Furniture

According to Ray, City Furniture is the first B.C. business to win the award.

“It’s not something I expected. There are some pretty big stores and we are relatively small compared to the ones that have previously won. I felt very proud,” said Ray.

“I would like to thank the community that has really supported us.”