Celebrating Integrity: International Torch Awards for Ethics Announce 2026 Winners

Press release announces the winners of the International Torch Awards for Ethics

ARLINGTON, VA, UNITED STATES, September 10, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The International Association of Better Business Bureaus (IABBB) announces the winners of the 2026 International Torch Awards for Ethics.
Presented annually since 1996, the BBB International Torch Awards for Ethics recognize businesses in North America that maintain outstanding dedication to upholding ethical business practices and promoting trust in the marketplace. Companies were evaluated against four criteria including the Character of the organization’s leadership; if and how an authentic Culture is being fostered; the company’s transparent relationship with its Customers; and the impact the organization is making in the local Community. This year’s competition was exceptional, with more than 100 entries from outstanding businesses that have already earned the prestigious Torch Award in their respective regions.
Four businesses are receiving recognition for their outstanding commitment to leadership character and organizational ethics. Winners will be honored at a special event in Denver, CO on September 16, 2026. The 2026 winners are:

• Category 1, 1-10 employees: ONE NINE Architects
• Category 2, 11- 99 employees: Roxi & Co
• Category 3, 100- 499 employees: Core Bank
• Category 4, 500+ employees: Hy-Vee
“Ethical leadership is the foundation upon which lasting trust is built,” said Jonathan Liebert, Interim CEO of the International Association of Better Business Bureaus (IABBB). “The International Torch Awards for Ethics recognize organizations that go beyond simply doing what is required and make integrity, transparency and accountability part of who they are. This year’s honorees represent the very best of our business community, demonstrating that success and strong values can go hand in hand. We are proud to celebrate their leadership and the example they set for businesses across North America.”
About the winners
Category 1 (1-10 employees)
ONE NINE Architects
ONE NINE Architecture is a design-driven architecture and interior design firm creating thoughtful and distinctive spaces rooted in collaboration, creativity, and purpose. The firm believes in the transformative power of design to strengthen communities, demonstrating that commitment by dedicating 10 to 30 percent of its professional services pro bono to individuals, communities, and nonprofit organizations that might otherwise lack access to high-quality, thoughtful design.
Category 2 (11-99 employees)
Roxi & Co
Roxi & Co. is a locally owned pet retailer and pet services company based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The company specializes in high-quality pet food and supplies, as well as professional dog waste cleanup services. Roxi & Co. is committed to building lasting relationships with its customers, investing in its team, supporting local animal rescues and community organizations, and finding meaningful ways to give back.

Category 3 (100-499 employees)
Core Bank
Core Bank is a locally owned financial institution built around the belief that strong businesses create strong communities. Headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, with locations throughout the Omaha and Kansas City metropolitan areas, Core Bank combines relationship-driven guidance and local expertise with responsive, forward-thinking financial solutions that help businesses grow, invest confidently, and build long-term stability.

Category 4 (500 or more employees)
Hy-Vee
Hy-Vee is an employee-owned corporation operating more than 540 business units across nine Midwestern states, with annual sales exceeding $14 billion. The supermarket chain is known for its commitment to quality, variety, convenience, healthy lifestyles, culinary expertise, and superior customer service. The company's commitment to its employees, customers, and communities has earned national recognition, including being named among the top grocery stores in America by USA TODAY and to PEOPLE magazine's list of 100 Companies That Care.

The award-winning companies were selected by an independent panel of business and ethics experts all dedicated to maintaining business ethics in the marketplace.

About the International Association of Better Business Bureaus
The International Association of Better Business Bureaus (IABBB) is the unifying hub of the BBB network, bringing together over 90 local BBBs across the U.S. and Canada, the BBB Institute for Marketplace Trust, and the Interactive Blue technology platform. With more than 200 million annual visits to BBB.org, BBB curates trusted data on 5.8 million businesses, including over 360,000 Accredited Businesses, and is powered by thousands of employees embedded in the communities they serve.

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Cinthya Lavin
Better Business Bureau
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