An introduction was given on the selection of candidates for the Business of the Year Award. Each year, on an alternating basis, Canadian or Dutch companies are nominated. Canadian companies in the Netherlands or Dutch companies trading with Canada are judged on their contribution to the Dutch-Canadian business landscape and national economies. Winners in previous years include: Fugro, Nortel, Hendrix Genetics, CN Worldwide and Mammoet Holding BV.

This year, the award was presented by Canada’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. James Lambert to Canadian company, Research In Motion (RIM). As Runner Up Kubik was announced. Representing RIM, Arnaud Bret accepted the award in recognition of outstanding performance in the Dutch market. In the past year, RIM, well known because of the BlackBerry, continued its record breaking growth supported by close business relationships with all three mobile carriers in the Netherlands. RIM also recently opened an office in Amsterdam and the company continues to introduce new and innovative products and develop alliances with local partners.

The runner up, Kubik, designs and produces exhibit stands, live events, theme parks, retail interiors and many different kinds of brand experiences. The Toronto-based company opened an office in Amsterdam more than 10 years ago and focuses on a distinctive translation of the client’s brand values into a three dimensional environment.