Aldi named Olivette City Business of the Year; Plant Haven wins commissioner’s choice

The Economic Development Commission of Olivette City selected Aldi as its 2026 Business of the Year and Great Heart Brewing as the 2026 Restaurant of the Year after reviewing nominations and comments, staff said.

Dawn Doty, senior planner, told commissioners that nominations were down this year — 62 total nominations — and commissioners discussed whether the awards had become a “popularity contest.” Still, commissioners said the recognition remains valuable: “The recognition that we're doing for the businesses will still be the same,” one commissioner said.

For the commissioner's choice award, Commissioner Nunes moved to nominate Plant Haven and the motion was seconded. The commission then conducted a roll‑call vote that passed unanimously. Doty announced the roll call: Chairman Patterchuk — yes; Vice Chairman Moons — yes; Commissioner Donaldson — yes; Commissioner Jacobs — yes; Commissioner Zelensky — yes. Doty said staff will notify winners the next day and distribute plaques in time for the chamber luncheon.

Commissioners also discussed expanding outreach and promotion for future years — including social media pushes and closer coordination with businesses to encourage patrons to nominate them — to avoid repeat low turnout in nominations. Several members suggested creating a recurring “EDC spotlight” in the Olivette newsletter to highlight businesses that may not win awards but deserve recognition.

The commission’s formal vote to name Plant Haven was recorded as a roll call and will be reflected in meeting minutes and winner notifications.