VANCOUVER, British Columbia – The fourth-generation owners of Akhurst Machinery Ltd. will receive the Family Enterprise of the Year Award (FEYA) for British Columbia at an online ceremony set for Sept. 24.

The award was established by the Family Enterprise Xchange in 1986 to “recognize, celebrate and promote the achievements of Canadian family businesses and the considerable contribution they make to both their local communities and our national economy.”

Akhurst Machinery was founded in 1938 by W.A. Akhurst at the age of 60 to primarily sell industrial equipment to sawmill operations in British Columbia. Today the company is led by Graham, Ryan and Brent Akhurst. Akhurst Machinery is a leading distributor of woodworking equipment, with 80 employees and five offices across Canada.

“By bringing their family values to work and focusing on excellent service, they have earned many satisfied customers through the years,” states the announcement promoting the virtual award ceremony. “The Akhurst family has also worked hard to provide a progressive environment where its staff (members) are treated as an extension of the family. Emphasizing the importance of teamwork, they have created a culture of trust and mutual respect and are proud of the many long-term employees of the company.”

The award also recognizes the Akhursts for being “generous contributors” to the Alzheimer’s Society of B.C., participation in Movember, an annual event that raises awareness of men’s health issues and volunteering to coach community sports.

The award presentation will be held via Zoom beginning at 4 p.m. PDT. The award ceremony will be hosted by James Pelmore, FEA, partner of Foundation Wealth Partners.