TORONTO - The Retail Council of Canada (RCC) is proud to announce Louise Wendling, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for Costco Wholesale Canada as the 2009 Distinguished Canadian Retailer of the Year. The award will be presented to Ms. Wendling at RCC's Gala dinner on June 1, as part of their national STORE conference in Toronto.

The award recognizes Ms. Wendlings role as a leader in the retail industry, with nominations received from across Canada and the final selection determined by a distinguished panel of current and former retail executives.

"Ms. Wendling is an incredible individual who continues to promote and support retail in Canada," says Diane J. Brisebois, President and CEO, Retail Council of Canada. "Costco is one of Canada's most respected retail companies and a pioneer in the membership club retail concept. Ms. Wendling's contribution to Costco Canada's growth and continued success is undeniable."

In 1983, Ms. Wendling joined Costco, a then fledgling company and retail concept, and turned it into one of Canada's most successful retail chains. She has piloted Costco from its first sale to more than $9 billion in sales by the end of 2007 and has developed a team of retail professionals who are innovative, committed and devoted to the brand."

The Distinguished Canadian Retailer of the Year award recognizes a retail leader who has led his/her company to outstanding business success and innovation, in addition to consistently demonstrating community commitment and support. Ms. Wendling joins a notable list of past recipients, including Laurence Lewin, La Senza (2008) Mario Pilozzi, Wal-Mart Canada (2007); Edward Kennedy, The North West Company (2006); Annette Verschuren, The Home Depot (2005); Wayne Sales, Canadian Tire (2004); and Wynne Powell, London Drugs (2003).