The Exchange Awards Categories

The “High Five” Award will be awarded to the multi-unit concept or supplier  that took the biggest leap in improvement and growth as recongized by their peers.  What multi-unit concept  or supplier re-established itself in the industry as the most improved for the year 2024.  

The Impact/Disruptor  Award will be awarded to the multi-unit concept or supplier  that created the loudest conversation in the hospitality industry.  Who gained instant recognition for establishing themselves as a leader having an impact on the overall industry .  

The Marketing Excellence Award  will recognize BOTH, a multi-unit concept and supplier for their unique approach to branding, outreach and engagement.   Through unique marketing ideation, what concept or supplier propelled their growth with outside of the box marketing that stood out in the crowd.  

The Culture Award  will recognize BOTH  a multi-unit concept and supplier for their focus and iniative on improving the lives of others, supporting their own internal teams through iniatives that promote well-being, growth and prosperity as well as supporting the community and industry at large.    

The Ripple Award  will recognize a single individual who stands tall in giving back to the industry, to others and being an inspiration that we should all strive.     Who stands out as an industry humanitarian that sets the bar for others to follow.  

The Toast Award  will recognize a supplier partner, either an individual or an overall national account team  who excels at the word partnership.  What supplier partner provides the commitment, leadership and partnership that propels their company deserving of a toast  in the hospitality industry focusing on NAOP.  

The SIP Award  will recognize the multi-unit concept who has excelled in creating a dynamic wine program.    What overall concept has created the best wine list that includes the perfect balance for their concept.  .     

The Ultimate Award  will recognize concept who had the ultimate beverage program in the year of 2023.  This concept should have a complete, balanced program that stands alone and others aspire to achieve.  

The Icon Award  will recognize a multi-unit operator, agency affiliate or supplier  representative who has been a leader, a pioneer,  exemplifying  legendary status among colleagues.  

Peers and Colleagues may submit nominations, but the Icon Award is not placed on the Industry Ballot, as it is determined by a special committee. 

The Teddy Mac Award is given in memory of our former Chairman of the HEE Board, Teddy McAleer.  The Teddy Mac Award  will recognize a single individual who exemplifies the word “hospitality”.  Teddy Mac was known for his passion, commitment, engaging personality and dedication to his brand, his portfolio and his peers.  Who among our industry has those same qualities?  

Colleagues and Peers may nominate someone for The Teddy Mac Award, but this award is not placed on the Industry Ballot as it d