Indianapolis, IN – July 2025
At the recent IJO Show held in Indianapolis, IN, IJO proudly recognized the outstanding contributions of its vendor partners with the annual Vendor of the Year awards. This year, the top honor was awarded to Allison Kaufman, whose excellence in service, innovation, and partnership set them apart in a highly competitive field. This is the 4th consecutive year this vendor was bestowed this distinction.
First Runner-Up honors went to Ostbye, and Third Place was awarded to Quality Gold, both of whom continue to demonstrate exceptional support and collaboration with our retail members.
"Strong vendor partnerships are the backbone of our group’s success," said Stephen Barnes, Owner and CEO of IJO. "Working with companies like Allison-Kaufman helps make our buying group the best in the industry; together, we raise the bar."
Samantha Larson, Director of Vendor Relations + Merchandise Strategy, shared deeper appreciation for the role these vendors play:
"Each year, we’re reminded of just how valuable great vendor relationships are. These awards go beyond product offerings, they celebrate vendors who show up as true partners, who listen, adapt, support, and grow with us. Allison Kaufman, Ostbye, and Quality Gold exemplify what it means to be committed, reliable, and innovative collaborators. We’re deeply grateful for the trust, dedication, and mutual success we continue to build together."
The Vendor of the Year awards are determined by a combination of member feedback, performance metrics, and overall contribution to the success of the group as voted on by retail members. The recognition highlights the vendors who not only meet expectations but consistently exceed them.
At the recent IJO Show held in Indianapolis, IN, IJO proudly recognized the outstanding contributions of its vendor partners with the annual Vendor of the Year awards. This year, the top honor was awarded to Allison Kaufman, whose excellence in service, innovation, and partnership set them apart in a highly competitive field. This is the 4th consecutive year this vendor was bestowed this distinction.
First Runner-Up honors went to Ostbye, and Third Place was awarded to Quality Gold, both of whom continue to demonstrate exceptional support and collaboration with our retail members.
"Strong vendor partnerships are the backbone of our group’s success," said Stephen Barnes, Owner and CEO of IJO. "Working with companies like Allison-Kaufman helps make our buying group the best in the industry; together, we raise the bar."
Samantha Larson, Director of Vendor Relations + Merchandise Strategy, shared deeper appreciation for the role these vendors play:
"Each year, we’re reminded of just how valuable great vendor relationships are. These awards go beyond product offerings, they celebrate vendors who show up as true partners, who listen, adapt, support, and grow with us. Allison Kaufman, Ostbye, and Quality Gold exemplify what it means to be committed, reliable, and innovative collaborators. We’re deeply grateful for the trust, dedication, and mutual success we continue to build together."
The Vendor of the Year awards are determined by a combination of member feedback, performance metrics, and overall contribution to the success of the group as voted on by retail members. The recognition highlights the vendors who not only meet expectations but consistently exceed them.