2022 Brandon Business Review

GIVING CREDIT WHERE IT'S DUE

BRANDON'S BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR CREDITS HEALTHY COMPETITION AND GOOD PEOPLE FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS.

FINDING THE PATH FORWARD IN A LABOUR SHORTAGE

current labour shortage has caused fierce competition for talent

BRANDON TOURISM ENJOYING A RESURGENCE AFTER PANDEMIC Business owners happy to see return of major events

Thinking of starting a business?

Looking for a location to set up or grow your business?

Want help navigating the development approval process?

Interested in employee recruitment resources?

Looking for Brandon promotional photographs? Searching for Brandon statistics?

Want to learn how the Brandon Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot can help you hire for hard to fill positions?

Economic Development Brandon can help.

DEDICATED TO BRANDON

55 YEARS AND COUNTING

Thank you to the Brandon community and all our employees, past and present, for 55 successful years of fertilizer production. Here’s to 55 more!

KochFertilizer.com

Koch and the Koch logo are trademarks of Koch Industries, Inc. © 2022 Koch Fertilizer Canada, ULC. All rights reserved.

manitobapork.com/economy

PHOTO BY SANDY BLACK

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TANYA LABUICK

Welcome to the 15th edition of the Brandon Business Review. The pages of this magazine are filled with information and advertisements about our community and our businesses. It’s an opportunity to get to know a little bit more about your neighbours, because let’s face it, we are all neighbours in some fashion.

Although the storm of the last two years has seemingly subsided, we are now faced with clean-up which includes supply chain issues, labour shortages, inflation, and a possible recession. The media reports that inflation rates (the rate of growth in prices consumers pay for goods and services) have risen to levels not seen since the 1980s. Resilience will be demanded and working together is a key to building that resilience.

In the first quarter of 2022 our Chamber Board of Directors identified seven priorities to tackle over the next three to five years. We will champion the fact that we are Manitoba’s second-largest city, we will be a little bit louder and a little bit harder to ignore.

OUR PRIORITIES ARE:

1. Work with government to provide support and funding to business, to speed up economic recovery.

We believe having a unified voice with the City of Brandon when making asks of the provincial government shows collaboration and a unified direction for our city.

2. Work to build alignment between educational outcomes and the needs of business to address labour and skill shortages and gaps.

This is a continuation of work with the Brandon School Division and the Province of Manitoba to look at key foundation skills where employers are seeing gaps, in concert with adapting to new learning methods while not sacrificing the necessary outcomes to prepare students for post-secondary, and/or the workforce.

3. Work with the major institutions and stakeholders in Brandon to build a collaborative approach to advocating for and promoting Brandon as the second City in Manitoba.

This is where we want to get louder. We are motivated to have ideas and funding proposal frameworks drafted so access to money can be capitalized on quickly.

4. Work to build a welcome package that provides a set of resources critical to success of startup businesses.

This is a bit of a throwback, but a necessary re-imagination of celebrating the new businesses that enter our market. It takes guts to start anything, and we want to champion the bravery, and the brain power.

5. Work to build a more inclusive membership and board that reflects the demographic of the community. This is part of our long game. We are aware of the needed diversity, which is our first step in building that strength on our board.

6. Work to identify the needs of the various segments of our membership and build programs, training, communication, and offerings that provide for unique value propositions.

Through various mediums we will gather information and either respond with current offerings or build new programs and initiatives to support the goals of our members while following our mandate.

7. Work with Rural Manitoba Economic Development (RMED) and the City of Brandon to actively pursue economic development opportunities for Brandon.

We asked for a rural Manitoba economic development focus, and now we have it, so we aim to use it, promote it, and continually ask for evolution of it to suit our city, and our needs. RMED is an opportunity.

Moving forward, we will need each other, we will need the support, the counsel, the championing, and the fever to get where we need to be, and I believe Brandon is up for the challenge – in my experience, we have always been resourceful and come together in hard times.

Stay hopeful, we are small, but we are mighty. ●

Helloand welcome to our 15th edition of the Brandon Business Review magazine. The Brandon Business Review gives us the opportunity to spotlight our most recent award-winning businesses and leaders in the Brandon community.

The magazine allows us to share stories of the past year in Brandon business and also gives us the opportunity to speak to some of our business community’s most pressing needs.

As I write this article, I am three months into my tenure as the General Manager for the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. For those of you who have not met me yet, I am Brandon raised and have spent the majority of my working life here in Brandon. I am fortunate to be walking into a Chamber of Commerce that is highly recognized, relevant & respected Canada wide.

Before I speak to my vision and what I have seen, I want to make sure I give credit to all the Chamber staff and board members that have come before me. The most intriguing and surprising thing I realized when I started this position is the strong rooted history of success this Chamber has been able to display.

Those who have come before me have created endless amounts of opportunity and advocacy for the Brandon business community, I am excited to value and learn from the past as I help build what the future looks like for the Brandon Chamber of Commerce.

I am inspired to hear the stories of resiliency that our business community has overcome during these difficult last two years. Brandon is a community that is much larger and stronger

than our geographical or population numbers state. It is a community that has frequently worked together, learned together and pushed forward together. As you read through the magazine you will see stories of how award winners adapted and grew through these challenges.

You will also find messaging from leaders in our community on what is next and ways we can work together to continue to grow and develop our business community. As always, we encourage you to look within your community for opportunity and solution before we look outward. Together we are stronger.

As I grow into my position of General Manager, I want to make sure I am open and inclusive to all our community. I very much value the support that our community has shown the Chamber over it’s upcoming 139 years. I am grateful to have my opportunity to be a small piece of those 139 years and want to make sure the history I am apart of is embedded with the needs, vision and support that our community puts forward.

Myself and our Chamber team are always here to help. Please reach out via phone or email with any questions you may have, or just to stop by and have coffee! The Brandon Chamber of Commerce has multiple tools that can help your business develop and strengthen. Visit us at brandonchamber.ca or call at 204-571-5340

Connor Ketchen General Manager

Brandon Chamber of Commerce

MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER OF THE BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONNOR KETCHEN

OF DIRECTORS

Chris Finley Mazergroup

Tilda Fortier Greenstone Building Products

Meredyth Leech Leech Group

Jennifer Ludwig Super Thrifty Drugs Canada Ltd.

Jaime Pugh VICE PRESIDENT MNP LLP

Lois Ruston SECRETARY-TREASURER R & M Homes Ltd.

Courtney Baxter Westman Communications Group

Matt Berg Livingstone Landscaping Ltd. & Livingstone Outdoor

Emelio Brown

Marketing

Juggernaut Computers

Laurie Brugger

21 Westman Realty Ltd.

Andrea Epp Epp Law Office

Samantha Falloon MyPhone | TELUS & KOODO Authorized Dealer

Tanya LaBuick

Construction

Design

Barry Cooper

PRESIDENT Heritage Co-op

saved

FINDING THE PATH FORWARD

IN A LABOUR SHORTAGE

BY KRISTIN MARAND

Businesses in Brandon, across the province and beyond have been cutting back their operating hours, reducing the days that they are open or working with a skeleton staff just to keep the lights on.

The factors influencing this historic labour shortage are varied, ranging from fewer younger workers entering the workforce, job seekers with increased expectations, slowed immigration owing to border closures and pandemic restrictions and older workers leaving the workforce en masse.

However, there are solutions that can be a win-win for both employers and job seekers, especially for those willing to think outside the box.

Employers may be getting in their own way if they are simply doing things the way they always have. Sandy Trudel, Director of Economic Development for the City of Brandon suggests that employers revisit their recruitment and hiring processes to ensure they are not using antiquated practices that exclude segments of the labour market or unintentionally eliminate people through the hiring process.

If employers can reduce barriers in the application process and make applying more accessible, they might find a deeper talent pool to draw from proposes Tracy Williams, Executive Director for Career Connections Inc. She says organizations like hers, that matches the skills of adults with disabilities with suitable work, could help fill labour gaps.

“There are ways for employers all over this country to fill labor shortages if they step out of that box,” says Williams. “A lot of people don't think of people with disabilities as being capable workers, when in reality, they are very capable. Everybody wants work that they're valued for. Everybody has a skill. It's just finding out what that skill is and help them build on it,” she says.

“When you have somebody who has been undervalued, a long portion of their life and then they're given the opportunity they're going to be your most dedicated employee. That's where the return on investment comes” Williams notes.

The current labour shortage has caused fierce competition for talent, which is a good thing for job seekers. Not only is competition driving up salaries, but companies have had to come up with other creative incentives and benefits to attract applicants.

The factors influencing this historic labour shortage are varied, ranging from fewer younger workers entering the workforce, job seekers with increased expectations, slowed immigration owing to border closures and pandemic restrictions and older workers leaving the workforce en masse.

“There are a number of talented internationally trained professionals in our community who are underemployed and looking for a different job more aligned with their education, skills, and experience,” adds Enver Naidoo, Executive Director of Westman Immigrant Services. Without local experience or education on a resume, hiring managers may overlook these applicants.

“This is a missed opportunity as these individuals could bring a unique skillset to local employers. That is why we offer training and workshops to help internationally trained professionals repackage their global experience for the local labour market,” Naidoo says.

“Hiring managers may not understand why immigrants and newcomers have worked in jobs unrelated to the position they are applying for. Often for immigrants and newcomers, the first few jobs in Canada can be survival jobs and this unfortunately discounts the candidate’s previous work experiences and current skills.”

One of the simplest and most immediate steps employers can take is to look within the company. It’s more expensive to hire someone new than to pay for training or upskilling. When a company invests in training for an existing employee, that person is likely to remain loyal to the company as they advance in their career and moving someone up can also open up more entry level positions.

Brad Hack is the Program Coordinator of Job Skills and Industry Certifications at Assiniboine Community College’s Centre for Continuing Studies. Hack helps people enter the workforce, upskill in their current position or learn new skills to move their career forward.

Part of his job is to meet with partners and industry to find out what their needs are and how he can leverage education to help fill those gaps. This fall ACC’s Centre for Continuing Studies will be launching micro-credentials: bite-sized learning modules that are tailored to acquiring a specific tangible skill.

“Once you complete a micro-credential you actually get a badge that you can put on your LinkedIn,” Hack says. “You can show people; It's accredited through ACC, here's all the outcomes I learned, it's all laid out in my LinkedIn profile.”

Some of the micro-credential courses launching this fall are proficiency with Microsoft Office and a number of tech-

related courses on future-facing topics like artificial intelligence, blockchain management and solar energies.

The current labour shortage has caused fierce competition for talent, which is a good thing for job seekers. Not only is competition driving up salaries, but companies have had to come up with other creative incentives and benefits to attract applicants.

These factors make it a great time to be entering or reentering the workforce. Economic growth relies on a stable and happy workforce, which can be achieved when people can work at jobs they enjoy and are suited to their unique skillsets. Figuring out where one fits, is the first step.

“Thirty to forty years is a long time if what you're doing isn't what you're passionate about. It's important to help students find their passion and pursue what it is that's going to put a smile on their face every morning when they wake up,” says Doug Popel, the Career Planning and Placement Officer at the University of Brandon, and the chair of the local chapter of the Interprovincial Association on Native Employment.

“Career planning, it's not a process or an event. It's more of a journey where you gather information. It's like buying a car; you have to drive a few to find the features you want, what you like, what you dislike.”

Popel’s office hosts half a dozen career fairs each year as well as employer information sessions and has a self-serve job board where companies can get their opportunities in front of eager eyes in a matter of hours.

Workplace Education Manitoba helps individuals who have been out of the workforce for an extended period in assessing their skills and workplace readiness. WEM serves job seekers re-entering the workforce by evaluating an applicant’s proficiency in different areas and suggesting work that aligns with their strengths. They also offer trainings for upskilling to help prospective employees meet the hiring criteria for their career goals.

“For job seekers, there's such opportunity out there for employment. If they're concerned or feel that they need upgrading in the skills for success, contact us,” says Kara Finney, Executive Director of WEM. “We can really help support with customized learning and skills growth, so that you can move quickly.” ●

TODAY'S LEADERS MUST REFLECT MODERN BUSINESS VALUES

BY KRISTIN MARAND

A good leader sees the big picture, brings out the best in the people around them, lives by example and inspires. After the turmoil of the pandemic on office and company culture, many employees know all too well what they don’t want.

They don’t want someone constantly looking over their shoulder, judging or criticizing. They want an authentic leader with vision and purpose, whose enthusiasm and passion are contagious.

The good news is, leadership is a skill that can be learned and good leaders can be the difference between an organization that is blazing a trail or stagnating.

WHAT MAKES A STRONG LEADER?

“You have to be very forward looking and then be able to assess the talents or the skills within your company to get you there. The real role of a leader is how do you inspire, encourage, and then help people fit into that vision? How do you pull out their skills and talents and utilize those in a different way?” says Cathy Snelgrove, founding partner of Siere, a business management consultant company.

“The biggest misconceptions are that leadership only comes with seniority and that all managers are effective leaders,” Karen Burton, Community Engagement Lead, Marketing and Community Relations for Westoba Credit Union.. “Being a manager doesn’t mean you are a leader. A leader is anyone with the ability to empower others. Leadership doesn’t always come with a title and leaders can be of any age.”

EMPLOYEES’ CHOICE

After the work-from-home revolution and the great resignation, employees are in a privileged position when choosing where to work. A person can now work from virtually anywhere and hiring pools are global. Employers must consider what potential hires are looking for and establish the criteria that will set them apart from the competition.

“It's an employee's market,” explains Lyndsay Seafoot, owner of Curbridge Consulting which offers human resources services and training. “A lot of employers are looking, so employees aren't just asking questions about wage anymore, they're asking about flexibility, and a lot of people are starting to ask what's the leadership like? People are focusing on the quality of good leaders as part of a bigger package. They're looking not just for benefits, but for good work environments, low stress and healthy work life.”

In addition to work environment, many younger workers have different priorities when considering whether to take a job. Job seekers are looking at the social impact and contributions of a company before making a decision.

“I think companies need to address those values. You have to be able to look at everything that's important to your workforce and of course, social impact. Understanding diversity, not just talking the talk but walking the talk is so critically important for people today,” Cathy says.

“Being a socially conscious leader is important to be fully aware of how decisions impact the people and world around us. This leadership style cultivates an environment of trust within the organization, having an impact on morale and by extension, productivity,” Karen says. “Employees that feel respected, motivated, and engaged are more likely work harder for the success of the company.”

LEARNING TO LET GO

A challenge for many new leaders can be learning to take a backseat, as they work on developing the skills of those around them. You have to learn how to delegate, to let others run with their ideas and help them see what they are capable of.

“You actually have to unlearn taking charge and it can be tough to do, especially if you've been rewarded for having been the person that could make things happen,” Cathy explains. “It’s like you become the cheerleader, not necessarily the person in front.”

HOW TO GROW AS A LEADER

Growing as a leader means getting out of your comfort zone. Meeting and networking with others outside of your own organization can be exceptionally valuable. Consider taking on a board position or working with a cause close to your heart.

“There's sometimes a bit of an echo chamber when you're sitting inside your own company. When you get yourself outside of your business or company, it allows you to bounce ideas and learn different things,” Cathy says. “To be a leader, you have to be willing to go and get yourself into something that's uncomfortable or unfamiliar.”

LEADERSHIP

BENEFITS OF STRONG LEADERSHIP TO A COMPANY

Curbridge Consulting was born from Lyndsay’s previous experience in HR as well as experience with bad boss behaviour. She began offering leadership trainings and workshops because she believes that is where the value lies for any company. Leadership has a trickledown effect that touches all areas of a business. Lyndsay says good leadership results in a well functioning, more productive, and happier team resulting in a better overall product or service.

“With good leadership, people don't turn over quickly. You have more knowledge, more intellectual property in the people that have been there for a long time, which makes just a better company in general,” Lyndsay says. ●

Both the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and Curbridge Consulting offer leadership training, development, and coaching. For more information visit CurbridgeCo.com or brandonchamber.ca.

CANDO RAIL & TERMINALS CELEBRATES ITS journey of growth

Cando Rail & Terminals has had a can-do philosophy from day one.

It started in 1978, with a small team working to salvage and repurpose old rail track from abandoned lines in rural Manitoba.

The company has undergone two name changes to match its growth and service offerings—Cando Contracting became Cando Rail Services in 2013 and then Cando Rail & Terminals in 2021. Today, with more than 900 employees and 50 locations across North America, nine owned terminals and one short line, Cando Rail & Terminals has become the go-to for industrial shippers across North America who want to get their products from point A to point B via rail—quickly and reliably.

The company’s people, services and infrastructure connect customers to the Class I rail network, making it a vital and integrated part of today’s rail supply chain.

Through all its growth and success remains that can-do philosophy, along with a commitment to sustainability that was also borne in its early days.

Cando Rail & Terminals looks to four pillars of sustainability—environmental stewardship, Indigenous relations, workforce and people, and community relations— in its work. Wins include reducing fuel consumption by 68 per cent in one year at its Kamloops Terminal, partnering with Tree Canada to offset its carbon footprint, and the Cando Spirit High School Scholarship Program, which awards more than 45 scholarships annually.

Still headquartered in Brandon, where it all began, Cando Rail & Terminals remains true to its roots, while looking toward a bright future.

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR OF BRANDON RICK CHREST

WHAT LIES AHEAD?

Everyone, especially business leaders would love to have a crystal ball and be able to know what lies ahead. This possibility has never been so profound than the last couple of years as everyone, pretty much every human being on the planet, has navigated an unprecedented global pandemic.

While COVID-19 continues to circulate, we seem to be better equipped and accustomed to living with it. The vaccines are generally effective in at least minimizing the impacts of contracting the virus and our abilities to work remotely and utilize other safety precautions are making things more manageable.

Sadly, the impacts on society and on businesses and organizations have been significant. We have lost a number of businesses due to the pandemic and many are still reeling and working hard to get back on their feet. As Mayor of this fine City I’ve been very proud of how our community reacted to COVID and the exceptional resilience shown by citizens in every sector.

Things over the past several months have begun to resemble “normal” once again with many events, gatherings, graduations and ceremonies coming back with vigor and enthusiasm. It’s been wonderful to see my calendar loaded with special events once again and highly needed for our community, our economy and everyone’s mental health and wellbeing.

What lies ahead continues to be a question mark, however many lessons learned during the pandemic will benefit us for years to come. The resilience, innovation and flexibility that were so necessary will be traits that we can all employ moving forward. Challenges related to supply chain disruptions, labour force shortages and other unforeseen impacts have made us more adaptable and capable.

Despite ongoing challenges regarding high inflation, excessive fuel costs, social challenges related to mental health, addictions and poverty as well as ongoing labour impacts, I believe our community will be stronger as we move forward. The future is bright for Brandon and area and I anticipate ongoing growth and positive opportunities will continue for our future.

The results of the 2021 Census indicate Brandon as a City officially piercing the 50,000 population mark (51,313 City and 54,268 census agglomeration area) a milestone that most planners and business investors herald as a juncture that precipitates a new level of growth. As Manitoba’s second largest City, we take our role as the hub of the Western half of

the Province very seriously and we know we are counted on to provide services and amenities to a much larger population.

I congratulate and commend all who play a role in providing all of these important services; whether they be in business, professional, development and construction, retail, hospitality, transportation, industrial, and so on or of course in social services, health care, education at every level, nonprofits or advocacy.

So today’s headline has a double meaning for me. As most may be aware I will be retiring from municipal government on Oct. 26 when our elections for mayor, councillors and school board trustees occur. For an individual being lucky enough to be born and raised in Brandon, to say being your Mayor has been the biggest honour of my working life would be an understatement. While there are many challenges and difficult situations in the Mayor’s role, it has also been incredibly rewarding and I can honestly say I have enjoyed a tremendous level of support and cooperation from every corner of our community.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our community as a whole and in particular to our hard working City Council and Administrative team. As well to the many organizations and individuals who stepped forward to provide me advice and insight throughout the past eight years, your input has been invaluable.

Near the top of that list of course is the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. We’ve enjoyed an incredible relationship — your contributions towards a better Brandon are commendable and your advocacy on behalf of the business community has been exemplary. I know that our Chamber will continue its important work and I’m confident our community will elect a new crop of leaders who will continue to steward our fabulous city long into the future.

So like the rest of you, I’m left with that profound question: What lies ahead? As I approach “retirement” or whatever one calls it, I’m comfortable that I’ve left most of me on the field and did the best that I can in every endeavor I’ve tackled. I’ve hopefully left a little gas in the tank so my wife and I and our family can move on to our next chapters and continue to watch our community evolve and grow and thrive.

Thank You one and all and very best wishes to you… for all that lies ahead!

Sincerely, Rick Chrest, Mayor.

Community based since 1971.

CREATIVITY KEY TO ENDURING BUMPY ECONOMIC RIDE

t’s a good thing we are used to seatbelts as 2022 continues the bumpy ride of the past two and a half years. The past three years have been anything but boring. We embraced the pre-pandemic highs of projections of solid economic performances for Brandon and Manitoba, high optimism among many local manufacturers, declining but still healthy unemployment rates, confirmation of an expanded WestJet schedule, strong residential growth, new businesses opening and optimism for the future of downtown Brandon.

IThe imbalance between supply and demand is adding to inflationary pressure, necessitating intervention from the Central Bank. July 2022 saw the Bank of Canada implement its largest overnight interest rate hike since 1998 and the highest level since 2008 leading the Central Bank to warn that further hikes are likely to follow.

SANDY TRUDEL

Businesses, government and residents alike weathered the continually changing COVID pandemic curveballs with resiliency, determination, adaptability and creativity. Buoyed by strong stimulus from government during the bleakest moments of the past few years, the removal of public health restrictions, pent up consumer demand and clear indications that 2022 would see a return to the growth path were we were on prior to the Pandemic, economic optimism once again emerged.

Businesses began the return to normal operating hours, many employees returned to the work place, and business investment was once again being actively considered. A collective sigh of relief rippled through the local, regional, national and global economy.

However it soon became evident that it wasn’t quite time to undo the seatbelt. The Russia and Ukraine conflict has had far reaching and ongoing negative impacts on world wide food supplies and global energy prices, contributing to inflation rates that many today have not experienced. While hitting the consumers hard, high prices for Manitoba commodities such as wheat, canola and petroleum are expected to bolster provincial economic activity.

Periodic pandemic related lock downs in China continue to cause significant disruption in global supply chains, in turn hampering businesses ability to meet consumer demand. Goods once readily available at Brandon businesses are in many instances taking not several but numerous months to arrive.

Added to the inflationary pressures is a marked change within the local labour market. Employers confirm the jobs are there, but the people to fill them are not. Restaurants, hotels and entertainment venues decimated by pandemic lockdowns in particular face the uphill battle of filling positions necessary to return to pre-pandemic operational levels. Where not too long ago business operations were curtailed due to pandemic lock downs and/or ill employees, we are seeing curtailed operations due to an inability to fill positions.

In speaking with employers there does not seem to be one specific reason for the labour challenges but rather a perfect storm that has emerged from the pandemic.

The storm consists of older individuals who opted to transition out of the workforce amidst pandemic health concerns or job loss. Reduced International students arriving in the community for an extended period of time.

Individuals nearing retirement who pre-pandemic intended to continue to work recognized life is short and are opting to retire rather than continue to work. Families with dual incomes and young children whether due to job loss, job reduction or the need to stay home with the children amidst the pandemic, have discovered they can manage their finances on one income.

This realization has resulted in second income earners exiting the labour market or reducing the hours they are willing to work. Similarly, curtailed spending during the pandemic has enabled households to save money, allowing them the cushion of the family’s second income earner not returning to work or returning in a modified work week.

Unpredictability of employment in the hospitality sector over the past two and half years resulting from frequently changing health orders has created a reluctance for many to work within the sector.

Finally but certainly not the last factor contributing to the labour force perfect storm, is that fact that many youth who have traditionally entered the service sector in a part time capacity did not do so during the pandemic. This cohort appears to now be less inclined to work part time and parents seem to have become more tolerant of their children

not working during their secondary and post secondary schooling years.

So what does this mean? COVID impacts continue to be felt by local businesses. The difference though is where the pressure is coming from. Where once the bottle neck was mandated closures and a reluctance from consumers to visit businesses, the bottleneck now is finding sufficient employees to be able to operate at a level that meets consumer demand.

With two thirds of Manitoba’s farmland located within a 100 km radius of Brandon, there tends to be a strong correlation between the outlook for the local economy and the provincial farming outlook. The past three years have not been easy for Brandon area farmers. Farmers faced significant rainfall in 2020 followed by extreme drought conditions in 2021. And 2022 is being described as the most expensive seeded acres in history due to seeding delays resulting from flooding, high moisture levels and poor weather, supply chain snarls and inflationary pressures driving up prices for farm inputs, machinery and parts. The full impacts of the 2022 challenges remain to be seen.

Despite the continued bumpy ride we are seeing many positive economic indicators. The decimated tourism sector is showing clear signs of rebounding, though somewhat hampered by inflationary pressures and labour shortages. WestJet flights are once again daily out of Brandon. Local hotel occupancy rates are starting to return to 2019 levels. Job postings abound resulting in a notable uptick in

local employers interested in exploring meeting labour needs through the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot that is administered through the City of Brandon’s Economic Development Department.

Employers are finding creative ways to attract and retain their workforce. New businesses are opening. The construction industry, despite elevated construction costs and supply chain constraints is crazy busy. Immigration pathways, vital to Manitoba and Brandon’s long term population growth, are returning to pre-pandemic activity levels.

With economic growth top of mind, the City of Brandon’s Economic Development department is working on an updated business incentive package and updating the City’s Economic Development Strategic Plan. Department resources will continue to be devoted to labour force initiatives, business retention and expansion initiatives, attracting new industry to the city, and advocating for increased infrastructure investments required to facilitate ongoing industrial investments in Brandon.

While the ride continues to be bumpy, business optimism remains firmly intact and there continues to be pent up consumer demand. ●

Sandy Trudel is the director of Economic Development for the City of Brandon. You can read more on Brandon’s economic development department at economicdevelopmentbrandon.com or contact Sandy directly at s.trudel@brandon.ca

Employers confirm the jobs are there, but the people to fill them are not. Restaurants, hotels and entertainment venues decimated by pandemic lockdowns in particular face the uphill battle of filling positions necessary to return to pre-pandemic operational levels.

A view of the city of Brandon skyline. (BRANDON SUN FILE PHOTO)

BRANDON

OF

Events

The Brandon Chamber

Brandon

pride in

LUNCHEON SERIES

These popular events are held monthly from September to June and feature presentations from business, industry, government, and institutional CEOs on topical information of importance to the business community. So, grab your coffee and your lunch and tune in for some great information!

FIRST FRIDAY COFFEES

Fill up your coffee mug and join in on the conversation! These hour-long networking events are held the first Friday morning of every month. No speeches, no agenda, and open to all employees of member businesses. Chamber Coffees promote the exchange of ideas and discussion while giving

you the opportunity to meet someone new and practice your networking skills in a casual setting. Our coffee hours have been popular way for members to connect with the Chamber board, staff, and other members in a relaxed, casual setting.

AWARDS GALA

The Brandon Chamber’s Annual Awards Gala is the premier business event of the year. This gala event boasts a spectacular night of great food, entertainment, and celebration as we recognize the success of our thriving business community with the presentation of our Business Excellence Awards. We love a reason to celebrate our amazing members!

BUSINESS AFTER 5

Business After 5 events provide an opportunity for members to host a Chamber networking event at their facility or an off-site location. These events are complimentary for all employees of our members to attend. These are casual, come-and-go events that allow our members a chance to hear what the hosting company has been up to! It’s a great chance to visit and enjoy refreshments and snacks after work.

CHAMBER 101

So, you became a Chamber member, now what? Chamber 101 helps you get the most out of your membership by giving you a complete look at what’s available to promote your business, save money, provide benefits to your staff, and make the connections that you need to grow your business and your career!

GOLF TOURNAMENT

Fore! Who is ready for a great day filled with golfing, networking, fun games, and great prizes to be won? The Annual Chamber Golf Tournament has successfully run for 33 years now and is always guaranteed to be a great time. Start practicing that swing of yours, and we will see you on the green!

WORKSHOPS & LEARNING LUNCHES

Join us for a hands-on learning experience that gives you new skills to bring back to your workplace. In the past these workshops have included:

• Digital marketing

Drug & alcohol policy

Leadership growth

Boost your business with Facebook

Fundamentals of closing sales

Cyber security • & more!

SUPERWOMAN CONFERENCE

Hang up your cape for a half-day conference filled with opportunities for connection, education, inspiration, and empowerment! This event aims to inspire discussion about the roadmap for success in Manitoba and beyond. We want to bring together ambitious women and men and foster an environment of connection. With keynote speakers and panelists, you will hear from those in different industries, backgrounds, and experiences. Stay tuned for a spring 2023 event.

SPECIAL EVENTS

The Brandon Chamber is constantly looking for more event opportunities to educate, inform, advocate, or offer networking opportunities for our members. From round tables with visiting electoral officials, specialty conferences, to election debates – we are always looking for ways to provide value for our members!

Visit us at brandonchamber.ca or contact us to learn more about our upcoming events.

MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP

I'VE JOINED THE CHAMBER...NOW WHAT?

❑ Stay updated, read your mail: Chamber Insider E-newsletter (weekly), Chamber at a Glance newsletter (bi-monthly), & member emails

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service

Manitoba Accessibility Fund

The new Manitoba Accessibility Fund provides grants up to $50,000, to create awareness and compliance with The Accessibility for Manitobans Act.

Projects must support Manitoba’s accessibility law by:

•raising awareness about the prevention and removal of barriers, •developing tools, resources and training to support compliance with the law, or

• removing barriers to information and communications.

Learn more about the Manitoba Accessibility Fund and how to apply at: AccessibilityMB.ca

Winnip

Ethelbe

Plains

Inglis Russell

AWARD – LARGE BUSINESS

KIM'S ASIAN RESTAURANT

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD A GENERATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT

Angie Nguyen reflects on 34 years of family history, from her parents' arrival to Canada as refugees to her growing business in the food service industry.

BY IAN HITCHEN

For Angie Nguyen and her family, their Brandon Chamber of Commerce award represents just how far they’ve come in the last three decades.

After fleeing the Vietnam War with little more than a suitcase, Nguyen’s parents settled in Brandon where they and their children built a restaurant business that grew from a tiny kiosk to two full-scale restaurants.

“What an accomplishment, honestly,” says Nguyen, who owns and operates one of two Kim’s Asian Restaurant locations in Brandon. “It just solidifies everything,”

Earlier this year, the chamber declared Kim’s the 2022 winner of its Business Excellence Award - Large Business.

This is the first time Kim’s has won a Brandon chamber award and Nguyen said her parents were delighted to hear the news and to realize how much they’ve achieved.

“I could see my parents’ faces,” Nguyen said. “They were excited.”

Nguyen said the award represents all the hard work her parents and family put into their business during

the last 34 years.

Fleeing the Vietnam War, her parents arrived in Brandon in 1978. Here, they found a home, raised a family, and shared their culture through cuisine.

But it wasn’t easy, Nguyen said. The family worked hard, and by 1988 they had saved enough money to open a fast-food kiosk in what is now the Town Centre.

It was small; barely 500 square feet. The menu back then consisted of five meal combos, Nguyen recalled.

With only a couple of employees, running the kiosk was truly a family affair. Nguyen, her brother, and her sister helped their parents any way they could, and their parents taught them everything they would come to know about the restaurant business.

“We just knew we had to help out, and that’s how we grew up,” Nguyen said.

With success came expansion. In 2000, the Nguyens relocated to a larger space at the corner of McTavish Ave. E and First Street. In 2018, they opened a second location at 2330 Victoria Avenue.

They’ve come a long way since the days of the kiosk. Between the two current locations, their business covers 6,000 square feet. Their menu

has expanded to nearly 140 Chinese, Vietnamese and Japanese food items.

Each step and new location came with new lessons, Nguyen said. Moving from the kiosk to the McTavish Avenue location, for example, meant learning to do delivery service.

And Kim’s innovated with new offerings. They were the first to bring Vietnamese food to Brandon, Nguyen said, and introduced the city to sushi.

“You’ve got to be willing to learn and progress,” Nguyen said. “You have to, and especially any kind of business. You can’t be stuck in one spot because, if you’re stuck in one spot, you’re going to slowly fade away.”

Fortunately, thanks to the chamber and the close-knit Brandon business community, there’s always someone to turn to for advice, Nguyen said.

“If you need something, you know you can reach out to everybody. It’s an awesome, awesome thing to have. We’re very fortunate.”

PHOTO BY CHELSEA KEMP

Nguyen said the award represents all the hard work her parents and family put into their business during the last 34 years.

BUSINESS

AWARD – LARGE BUSINESS

It isn’t only the business itself that has grown. Running a restaurant as a way of life has taken root in the next generation.

Nguyen and her husband own and operate the Victoria Avenue restaurant, and her brother Billy is owner and operator of Kim’s on First.

As for the success of Kim's Asian Restaurant, Nguyen says it comes down to dedication to quality food.

“We always want to make everything. Everything is fresh and homemade.”

And, while it remains to be seen

whether they will eventually take over the family business, it’s already a big part of the lives of Nguyen’s two children who have spent much of their time at the restaurants.

They greet customers at the door, and regulars have watched the children grow up over the years.

“Mom and Dad taught us everything that we know, we learned, and then we’re just kind of passing it down into our kids,” Nguyen said. “So it’s a good feeling.” ●

MNP, Brandon MB | Founded

PHOTO BY CHELSEA KEMP

WESTMAN COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

SERVING THE COMMUNITY COMES FIRST

BY IAN HITCHENWestman Communications Group was the recipient of the 2022 Brandon Chamber of Commerce Community Impact Award, which recognizes the company’s outstanding effort and commitment to community through meaningful contributions to the well-being and quality of life in Westman.

Westman Communications Group Marketing Team (L-R) Jojo Fermin, Tammy Crepeele, Brandi Crowe – Marketing Team Lead, Courtney Baxter – Marketing Manager, Amanda Chambers, and Baily Naherniak

The 2022 #ConnectingWestman Tour in Minnedosa last June 30, 2022. (L-R) Jessica Brady –Marketing and Communications Manager of Heritage Co-op, Dominique Hampton – ViceChairperson of the Minnedosa and Area Food Bank, Gail Janz – Board Member of Westman Communications Group, Courtney Baxter –Marketing Manager of Westman Communications Group, Carol Brown – Chairperson for Minnedosa and Area Food Bank

Westman Communications Group’s power to reach people extends beyond its fibre-optic, cable, TV, and radio networks. It also lies in its people, specifically its staff and their desire to help and improve the communities they serve.

That’s shown in the fact that WCG is the winner of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s 2022 Community Impact Award.

Community work is one of the most important things that the company does said President and CEO Bud Keys, so receiving this award is particularly fitting.

“If we had to pick one, this was probably the one we would want,” Keys says. “We do a lot of things that maybe aren’t necessarily recognized, so it’s nice for that.”

You’re probably aware of the business aspect of Brandon-based WCG as a provider of internet, digital TV, home phone, and business services to 57 communities.

Or, perhaps you know the company as

owner-operator of the 94.7 Star FM and Q Country radio stations and non-profit WCGtv. What you may not be aware of is the extent of community work WCG and its employees perform.

The business is a community service in itself, in a sense. Keys notes that in many of the communities it serves, WCG is the only provider of high-speed internet service that supplies educational and business opportunities.

As a co-op, Keys says WCG is responsible to its members, but its work isn’t solely based on the bottom line. Providing a service to the community is top of mind when it expands into a new area.

“We don’t go in saying, ‘We’re going to make a million dollars in that community,’” Keys says. “We go and say, ‘How can we service the people within the community and improve quality of life.’”

The Community Impact Award recognizes an

individual or business for their outstanding community service to business and community endeavours.

WCG contributes more than $100,000 annually to education, technology and community initiatives.

Among those initiatives is its Award of Excellence, which WCG provides to students at each of the high schools in its coverage area. The program has run for more than 20 years, and this year more than $18,000 in scholarships were given to nearly 40 students.

The company also offers the Westman Communications Group Scholarship to outstanding students at the School of Music at Brandon University.

As a public service, WCG also provides free Wi-Fi in 30 public areas within its service zone, including the Keystone Centre in Brandon.

Then, there are the partnerships, sponsorships and donations, such as the sponsorships it provides groups like the YMCA and the Helping Hands Centre.

In addition, the company donates radio time for public service announcements and, through WCGtv, television broadcast time and production services for its regional community channels.

WCGtv works with local volunteers to provide content for the channels, which broadcast public announcements and keep citizens up-to-date on happenings in their community.

“We actually donate a fairly substantial amount of our revenue towards the community stations,” Keys said. “That’s all done as a public service to the communities we serve.”

Community-minded employees motivate WCG’s efforts by volunteering for events such as charity hotdog lunches, or by sitting on charity-related committees, Keys added.

Staff support more than 80 initiatives annually and collectively volunteer more than 4,000 hours each year. The groups they support include the United Way, YWCA, Kinsmen Club of Brandon and the Brandon Humane Society, to name just a few.

And the #ConnectingWestman Tour travels

WCG contributes more than $100,000 annually to education, technology and community initiatives.

PHOTOS BY MATT GOERZEN

Westman Communications Group, President and CEO Bud Keys.

LIFETIME BUILDER OF THE YEAR AWARD

PAUL CRANE

HONOURING A WHEAT CITY ICON

Paul Crane has spent a lifetime building up both his business, and the city he loves.

“Crane said its encouraging to be recognized by one's peers in the business community.”

BY TRINA BOYKO

Just like the structures his company has built, Paul Crane has built Crane Steel Structures from the ground up.

Crane got his start in Winnipeg, graduating from the Civil Engineering program at Red River College Polytechnic (then Red River College). He worked at a consulting engineering firm for five years before being transferred to the firm’s Brandon location.

Five years after that, Crane acquired a stake in local company, BB Steel Builders. By 1981, Crane assumed ownership and Crane Steel Structures was officially born. With the addition of a Winnipeg branch, purchased from Argyle Steel Construction, Crane Steel Structures was on its way to becoming a major player in Western Canada’s construction industry.

Crane worked hard to bring the business to where it is today, though he’s now semi-retired and has handed the reins over to his children.

“I’m very fortunate,” Crane says. “My two sons, PJ and Jarod, have taken over the day-to-day operations and they’re doing great.”

Crane’s business ethos is still the cornerstone of the company.

“We want to be able to walk into any building we’ve built with our heads high, proud of what we’ve accomplished,” Crane says.

Crane’s accomplishments extend beyond his long career in the construction industry.

He — along with his son, PJ — is a past president of the Brandon Chamber

Crane Steel Structures founder Paul Crane, left, stands together with his two sons PJ Crane and Jarod Crane. Crane, who has taken a step back from his business, says he looks forward to see where the next generation will take it.

PHOTOS BY SANDY BLACK.

of Commerce, and he’s a proud supporter of the Brandon community. He’s served on many boards and committees within Westman, and sponsored community events, youth sports teams and charitable causes, through Crane Steel Structures and as a community member.

When Crane Steel Structures celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2021, it made a $40,000 donation to local charities and organizations—with the Crane family matching that donation, to bring the total to $80,000.

It’s just one of the ways Crane has given back to the community that welcomed him with open arms.

“Our boys were one and two when we decided to make Brandon our home,” Crane says. “We’re very fortunate to live and work here.”

In 2020, Crane received an honorary diploma in Construction Trades from Assiniboine College for his accomplishments. According to the college’s website, it “awards honorary diplomas to individuals who demonstrate high standards of excellence in their personal and professional achievements and whose involvement in the community is widely recognized.”

Being named Lifetime Business Builder at this year’s Business Achievement Awards is another significant milestone for Crane, who was also named the Chamber’s Business Person of the Year in 2008.

“It’s always encouraging to be recognized by your peers in the business community,” Crane says. “I’m very honoured to receive this award.”

Though Crane has taken a step back from his business, he’s looking forward to seeing where the next generation will take it.

The company has evolved to include real estate development and property management, alongside its work as a design-build general contractor. It’s the next step for a company—and a team— that has stood the test of time.

“I still maintain an office here,” Crane says, “but I’m just here to support them however I can and I’m enjoying seeing their success.”

Fortunately, thanks to the chamber and the close-knit Brandon business community, there’s always someone to turn to for advice, Crane said.

“If you need something, you know you can reach out to everybody. It’s an awesome, awesome thing to have. We’re very fortunate.” ●

RESURRECTION AUTO DETAILING

- TINT & PROTECTION

THE FINISHING TOUCH

BY TRINA BOYKO

Resurrection Auto Detailing - Tint & Protection named Outstanding New Business

It took Darren Darvill some time to find his niche, but now that he has, there’s

no stopping him.

“I tried mechanics, did autobody—didn’t like that,” he says. “I did like working on the finishing touches, though.”

After a few gigs in sales that didn’t pan out, Darvill decided to focus on those finishing touches he enjoyed so much.

“I had a polisher with some polishing compound and a cardboard box,” Darvill says, of his early days in business. “I mostly worked on hot rods and Harleys, until people asked me to do vehicle interiors.”

Darvill purchased interior detailing supplies. Next, he focused his attention on tint, paint and ceramic coatings.

The rest, as they say, is history.

It was the support of the Brandon community that pushed Darvill to start Resurrection Auto Detailing - Tint & Protection in 2018, and what drives him to keep growing his business.

From a two-car garage (“It got so busy, I only lasted a year in there,” Darvill says) to a nearly 2,500 sq. ft. (232 sq. m) space with two detailing bays, two tint and paint protection bays, and a showroom, Resurrection Auto Detailing has made a name for itself in Brandon and beyond.

Its success and innovation led to receiving this year’s Outstanding New Business award.

Naming past recipients like Progressive Westman and Ion Coatings, Darvill says he’s honoured to have his business recognized in the same category.

“It’s definitely a huge honour for me,” he says, “especially looking at where the company started and where it is now.”

As for what’s next forResurrection Auto Detailing - Tint & Protection, Darvill has a few ideas. He’d like to expand the Resurrection brand into Winnipeg and other parts of Canada, and train others who see a future in the detailing business. He has a particular interest in working with those who are ex-military and looking for a new career.

Darren Darvill, owner of Resurrection Paint Correction & Auto Detailing, showing some of the product line he has in stock.

PHOTO BY SANDY BLACK

“With detailing, you have your own mind of creation,” Darvill says. “You can lead yourself and work alone. You can work in a team if you want. It is what you make it.”

But what he’d really like, is to take auto detailing mainstream.

“I’d like to have the detailing world seen the same way people look at the mechanic or autobody worlds,” Darvill says.

Darvill has recently expanded his business repertoire in other ways, becoming a franchise owner of Fast Fired Pizza.

His advice for someone looking to make their own business move?

“Find a mentor,” he says. “Not necessarily a mentor in the sector of business you’re in, but someone who can help you avoid those easy mistakes. I had a lot of friends that acted like mentors but not many I could ask business questions to, so I had to learn on my own.”

Darvill has worked hard to find the success he has, though he’s quick to credit those who have helped him along the way.

“I’d really like to thank the people in Brandon who have supported us and pushed us along when we didn’t think we could be pushed any further,” Darvill says. “We couldn’t have done it without them.” ●

Darren Darvill, left, owner of Resurrection Paint Correction & Auto Detailing, seen here with company general manager Matt Ross.

PHOTO BY SANDY BLACK

YOUNG

OF THE YEAR AWARD

MARCEL KRINGE BUSHEL PLUS AG PRODUCTS

BIG PICTURE THINKING PROPELS YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR

Experiences in the field prompt business success for award winner

BY TRINA BOYKO

Marcel Kringe didn’t set out to become an entrepreneur. “I was the kid that came over from Germany and hardly spoke English,” he says. “I worked on a bunch of different farms, fixed machinery, drove tractors, and learned as I went.”

Kringe, who earned the equivalent of a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture while in Germany, later found work with ag firms like Thunder Seed and Cargill when he settled in Manitoba.

It was his experience in the field that led him to toying around with a prototype that would help farmers calibrate their combines by measuring grain loss.

The Bushel Plus System, as it’s now known, consists of a magnetic drop pan that attaches to a combine and can be remotely released. An air separator cleans the grain sample and the Bushel Plus app measures the results.

The whole process takes mere minutes, though it took Kringe quite a bit longer to perfect before it was ready for market.

“We tried to guess how much grain we were losing by throwing cookie trays under the combines,” he laughs. “There was nothing safe or easy about it.”

He credits his team for helping him with the design, which farmers latched on to as soon as they heard about it.

“They gave me cheques at a farm show in November and I told them I’d have the products ready before harvest in July,” Kringe says.

He’d only built 12 prototypes, but support from the ag community led to his design taking off.

Now, the Bushel Plus System is exported to 28 countries.

Not bad for the “German kid” who started his business as a hobby in 2016.

At the 2022 Brandon Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala, Kringe accepted the award for Young Entrepreneur of the Year while honouring the people—and experiences—that brought him to where he is today.

Those people include the team

(Top) Marcel Kringe displaying Bushel Plus drop pans, which can be used with old and new combines alike. Red is the traditional drop pan colour, while blue represents mental health awareness and pink represents breast cancer awareness. (Bottom) Sisters, entrepreneurs and grain farmers Cassandra and Stefanie Lepp, well-known as The Tulepps on Instagram, using the Bushel Plus system. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

that “makes the company tick,” as Kringe says, and the family and friends who have joined him on his journey from day one (Kringe’s mom, Edith, made the trip from Germany to watch her son accept his award). Those experiences include Kringe’s upbringing, on his family’s farm in Germany, his travels, and his unfortunate car accident in Australia that made him wonder if he’d ever walk again.

“I’d fractured my spine in 12 places,” Kringe says. “It really restores your faith in humanity to know how much people will be there for you and help you in your time of need.”

Luckily, Kringe is back on his feet and moving forward with his businesses—yes, Kringe’s talent extends beyond agriculture. Kringe founded a custom app, software and videography development company, Freebird Digital Partners, which also targets its services to the agricultural sector.

It’s another way Kringe is working to serve the community that has served him so well.

“The main thing isn’t, how can we make more money?” Kringe says. “It’s, how can we make the farmers more profitable?”

Looking at the even bigger picture, Kringe says his goal with Bushel Plus is to put more food in the supply chain.

“If it’s lost or wasted at harvest, then we grew it for no reason,” Kringe says. “Less grain loss means more food for the people in this world.”

That big-picture thinking is what’s helped Kringe find the success he has, and what will surely propel this Young Entrepreneur of the Year to even greater heights. ●

Marcel Kringe with 72-year-old customer Wanda from Saskatchewan, who still runs combine and loves her Bushel Plus system. SUBMITTED PHOTO

BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD

BERNIE WHETTER GIVING CREDIT WHERE IT'S DUE

PHOTO BY SANDY BLACK

BY TRINA BOYKO

Bernie Whetter, owner of The Green Spot, may be the Chamber’s Business Person of the Year, but he’s quick to give credit where it’s due— even to his competition.

“There’s a really healthy competition here in Brandon,” he says. “I’m grateful to have that and I’m grateful to the business community in Brandon overall.”

Whetter also credits his staff, his family and friends, along with his customers, for his success.

“My staff is amazing,” he says. “My family and friends have been extremely supportive of me. They’ve been sounding boards and they’ve always been there when I need them. The odd time they’ve had to put up some cash — I’ve always paid them back, though.”

Whetter laughs, noting his long-running joke is that he left a job that paid $90,000 a year to work at The Green Spot for $9 an hour.

“Nine was always the magic number, but the digits after it were a bit different,”

he says.

Whetter sold his first company and decided to go back to school to study for his MBA. He applied at The Green Spot to cover his bills in the meantime, taking a job in the nursery.

The original owner, Dick Vreeman, urged Whetter to take over the whole business.

“I had my mind set on doing this MBA, so I did that first,” Whetter says. “It was a two-year course, but I pushed through and got it done in one.”

It took another year or so to sort out the details, but Whetter did, eventually, step into his current role as owner of The Green Spot.

“I’m very appreciative to the Vreeman family,” Whetter says. “They built up a very good business here and set the stage for me. We’ve stayed in close contact this entire time.”

Whetter has put his own mark on the space, renovating the retail area and making way for local businesses Chez

Angela Bakery and Café Ltd. and The BloomBox Floral Studio. Both businesses set up shop at The Green Spot last year.

“The challenge is always to keep things new and fresh,” says Whetter, “and to keep on top of the other projects that need to be done.”

Maintaining the facility and the parking lot is part of that, with 30,000 to 40,000 people passing through them every year, as is Whetter’s least favourite part of the job—the roof maintenance.

“My mom always hated when I used the word hate,” he says, “but I hate changing the roofs. We have about 40 roofs that are poly and they need to be changed every five to seven years.”

It’s just part of the job Whetter has come to accept, and a very small negative in a world full of pluses.

“I love coming to work,” Whetter says. “I tell people I’m still in the honeymoon phase, even after 15 years. We’ve got good people here, the clients are great, and the atmosphere—there’s nothing better.” ●

BUSINESS

BRAD MCCONNELL GEM SERVICES

STEADY AS SHE GOES

GEM Services growing organically through word of mouth

AWARD – SMALL BUSINESS

BY WENDY KING

When commercial enterprises in the Westman area need professional help to keep their business settings healthy and free from pests, they turn to GEM Services.

“Founded in 2014 by company president Brad McConnell and his father Grant McConnell, they currently have 10 staff members. Locally owned and operated, the company states in its mission they aim “to provide the highest level of professionalism.”

“We work closely with customers to provide pest control services to commercial clients such as restaurants, hotels, farms, and commercial buildings with a focus on prevention and monthly maintenance, helping them on an ongoing basis,” Brad McConnell says.

GEM Services also provides mitigation should the need arise.

The company serves all of southwestern Manitoba, and is filling in their customer base throughout the region, taking a carefully measured approach.

“Our goal is to keep growing

organically, so we haven’t really focussed any effort on marketing,” he says. “We work from word-of-mouth for doing a good job, so our name gets passed along. Steady growth is what we’re looking for.”

McConnell and his father had a clear idea of what they wanted to do when they founded the business.

“My dad and I had some past experience and wanted to create our own business, the way we thought things should be done — focussing on customer service,” the younger McConnell says.

“This business is all about the people and meeting their needs.”

The opportunity to work together was also a big part of the decision.

“We each provide a different set of skills, it’s a good mix,” he says.

“My dad brings strong past experience dealing with customers and good logistics, and I handle the business fundamentals, having graduated from university with a major in accounting.”

McConnell says the business brings

new challenges every month, but his dad is someone he can rely on when those challenges come up.

“His vast experience from past jobs in customer service, his ability to communicate, his work ethic, his ability to problem-solve — he’s able to relate those skills to what we do now.”

He says his father’s skill in creating solutions both internally and for customers is invaluable.

McConnell says one area that always benefits from ongoing development is clear communication.

“Good communications skills are so important to deal with customers on a more professional level, even just being able to manoeuvre from one customer to the next — whether that’s phone communication or email, face-to-face, sales meetings, it’s just something you can always work on,” he says.

“That’s ongoing — not just looking at myself to always improve, but also to train employees on how to do that properly, and those efforts separate us from other companies.”

McConnell says he and his father are proud to be acknowledged by the Brandon business community with the Business Excellence Award for small business. And GEM Services is a small business worth lauding.

He says looking back at the night of the awards, he remembers a conversation he was having with his father.

“You’re going day by day trying to provide good service and maintain quality standards, and it’s a lot of hard work and you kind of get lost in it — so when something like this comes along, it’s just a great reminder that people do notice the effort and they do appreciate the service we offer.

“We’re not looking to be flashy and out there, necessarily, so to be recognized by the community, it was humbling and very much appreciated.” ●

GEM Services President Brad McConnell, right, with his father and business partner Grant McConnell. (SUBMITTED)

BRANDON • PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE • MOOSOMIN

Tourism enjoying a resurgence in Brandon following pandemic

BY KRISTIN MARAND

Tourism and live events were among the sectors hardest hit during the pandemic; the first to close and among the last to reopen. But now that restrictions have eased, Brandon is seeing a slow but steady return to form.

Many landmark annual events resumed in 2022 and as international restrictions ease and new events make their way to the city, the future looks bright for the numerous sectors that benefit from visitors.

“During the time events were shut down, I could get a sense from people here locally, that they really missed what they had and were happy when these events returned. That sense of ‘not missing what you have until it’s gone,’” says Lanny Stewart, director of marketing and communications for Brandon Tourism.

Local facing events have seen the greatest rebound so far according to Jennifer Watson, interim executive director for Brandon First. Events such

as the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, Summer Fair and Super Run are slowly returning to pre-pandemic levels. She attributes their success to the desire for community events after two years of lockdowns, the summer events being outdoors and appealing to a local crowd that doesn’t have to worry about travel restrictions.

“The pandemic brought about a heightened sense of safety/security that’s more important for people when they do visit, which is understandable,”

says Stewart.

Other pandemic aftereffects still linger in the event space. Pre-COVID, Brandon hosted multiple events per week and the sheer volume has yet to return, but in addition, some people remain reluctant to travel and are also being more selective with their time and money.

“Because the pandemic caused an economic downturn, they're being more discerning with which events they're going to. So between those two things, people being reluctant to travel and people choosing where to spend their money differently, we’re seeing lower overall event attendance at those events that are returning,” Watson says.

“Attendance is down for just about every event we hold here, whether it's a private event, or a live touring show,” says Jared McKenzie, director of marketing and tickets for the Keystone

Centre. “It's a bit of a marathon and some people just aren't comfortable yet and we need to be okay with that and allow people to come back on their own terms.”

The area seeing the slowest recovery, according to Watson, is anything that requires cross-border travel. McKenzie agrees and estimates that Canada is roughly 18 months behind the ‘return to normal’ in the neighbouring United States. However projections from Travel Manitoba estimate that while recovery may be slow in 2022, 2023 is hoped to bring a true revival.

Watson is looking forward to Food Truck Warz and AG EX this fall and McKenzie adds that the upcoming Wheat Kings hockey season is also something to get excited about, hoping it will bring in both provincial and interprovincial travellers.

CONTINUED ON

The 3rd Annual Food Truck Warz at the Riverbank Discovery Centre in 2019, featuring a wide variety of food trucks. (BRANDON SUN FILE PHOTOS)

As Manitoba’s second-largest community, Brandon is a tourism hub for western Manitoba. From country, folk, rock and classical music concerts, to dance and the arts, to all manner of sporting events — including our very own Western Hockey League team, the Brandon Wheat Kings — Brandon has a lot to offer visitors to our city.

(BRANDON SUN FILE PHOTOS)

“You get people buying hotel rooms, people eating out, and then people spending money in the facility, which is always a positive because we could reinvest that in improving the facility for all of those other events that we have, weddings, trade shows, youth hockey, figure skating,” McKenzie says.

Looking ahead to 2023, Ag Days will return in January, after a shortnotice cancellation in 2022. Ag Days is especially important as it brings in an estimated $350 million in revenue to the region, about $50 million of which is derived from tourism and shopping. Brandon is also set to host the World Clydesdale Show, the Softball Canada U15 Girls National Championships and the Western Canadian Powerlifting Championships in 2023.

The greatest challenge to tourism in

Brandon according to bother Stewart and McKenzie is promotion; getting the word out and getting people into the facilities. But newer events such as Professional Bull Riding held earlier this year with excellent attendance –around 3,000 – give hope for the future of new and more diverse events that appeal to residents and visitors alike.

“There are always ways to increase visitation to the city. Whether it’s different unique events, creating placemaking initiatives or simply continuing to increase promotion and marketing when it comes to existing attractions. Brandon is a great city but it also has a ton of potential for so much more,” Stewart says.

Watson believes that Brandon as a host city could do even more with a few conscious improvements to event

infrastructure. She cites the new event space The Backyard on Aberdeen as an excellent example. During the planning stages, the owners incorporated everything a modern event space could need including AV equipment, livestream capabilities, big screens and a DJ booth. She is also encouraged by the development at the Riverbank and upgrades to the blowing alley.

“Where somebody's here for a horse show or a conference, when they're not in programming, they have someplace that they can go and hang out. That's cool. Giving people other tourist attractions and things to do while they're here for the events” she states.

“Events are big money to small businesses.” ●

BRANDON TOURISM

The 3rd Annual Food Truck Warz at the Riverbank Discovery Centre in 2019, featuring a wide variety of food trucks. (BRANDON SUN FILE PHOTOS)

Accessibility is... Good for your customers. Good for your employees. Good for your business.

Did you know nearly one in four Manitobans has a disability?

To remove barriers for people with disabilities, the Manitoba government has made it the law for all businesses to:

offer accessible customer service,

provide reasonable accommodation at all stages of the employment process, and

have a workplace emergency response plan in place for staff.

Prioritizing accessibility within your organization is not only the right thing to do — it’s the smart thing to do.

Offering respectful customer service, and accommodating employees will help make your business more inclusive, innovative, and productive.

Visit AccessibilityMB.ca, to learn how to improve accessibility within your organization, and access free training and resources.

BRANDON CHAMBER CELEBRATES

WESTMAN'S TOP FOUR UNDER 40

The award recognizes the outstanding achievement by an individual under the age of 40 who works in a leadership role in any size organization from the public, private, or non-profit sector. The ideal canidates are active and engaged in work and the community, as well as being a creative problem solver, disciplined in performance, and generous in spirit.

HERE ARE THE WINNERS FOR 2022

Cassandra Jamieson

MCPHAIL TRAVEL & MOONLIT CANOPY

BY TRINA BOYKO

The last few years haven’t been easy for Cassandra Jamieson, owner of McPhail Travel.

The tourism industry all but shut down when the pandemic hit. Jamieson worked hard to get her customers home from their travel destinations and guide them through the challenges of filing insurance claims and requesting future travel credits.

As it looked like a return to normalcy might be on the horizon, customers started using those credits and rebooking their trips—only to find our borders shut down.

“It felt like a circle we couldn’t get out of,” Jamieson says.

But they did, proving the resilience of Jamieson’s business—and the need for it.

“There’s always been a place for travel agents, but more so now,” Jamieson says. “When COVID hit, those who booked on their own had nowhere to go and no one to call. There is value in what we do.”

She likens her career to that of an accountant.

“You can do your own books, you can do your own taxes, but when you have problems and questions, who are you going to call?” she asks.

Jamieson enjoys the problemsolving aspect of her job, along with the opportunity to put together itineraries her customers will love.

“If you told me you wanted to go to Australia for three weeks but didn’t know what to do,” Jamieson says, “just give me some dates. I like learning about new destinations—the little towns and wineries and rivers you can explore. That, to me, is fun.”

She prefers the term travel professional over travel agent, as it better encompasses her role. Along with knowing the ins and outs of the travel world, Jamieson has had to adapt to technological changes in the industry. It’s come a long way since she started 13 years ago, as a student at the very agency she now owns.

From social media to email to maintaining a web presence, Jamieson says the days are gone when she could go home at 5 p.m. and not have to think about work or where in the world her customers might be. Now,

Jamieson says she’s working more than ever, especially since taking on her newest venture.

In the summer of 2021, Jamieson and her husband, Turner, launched Moonlit Canopy, a unique “glamping” experience (think glamorous camping). Customers can book one of three all-season domes that sit on the edge of the Pleasant Valley Golf Course, each dome complete with a bed, bathroom, outdoor seating area and hot tub.

Jamieson wanted to bring some of her worldwide travel experience back home and create a boutique destination, right here in the Prairies. The business has been received so well that she’s looking at potentially adding a second location.

Jamieson is also working to grow her agency, as she looks to relaunch small group tours and increase staff to support the post-pandemic travel rush.

Having faced such a difficult time head-on and coming out ahead, Jamieson is a natural choice for Westman’s Top 4 Under 40 award.

“When COVID hit, those who booked on their own had nowhere to go and no one to call. There is value in what we do.”

“It was nice to be honoured as hardworking, and to be seen and heard and celebrated,” Jamieson says. “I didn’t get here on my own, though. My staff, my husband, my family and friends—they all came together to overcome the challenges, which are now milestones in my life.” ●

- Cassandra Jamieson, owner McPhail Travel & Moonlit Canopy

Nirmal Thakar

BY WENDY JB KING

Manufacturing technology — like time — is always on the move. And over time, the technologies and processes used by production companies become dated, physically break down, or become too inefficient to keep up with demand.

Nirmal Thakar, one of Westman’s Top 4 Under 40, would encourage you to take the retro-fit.

Thakar’s company, Shreem Systems & Solutions (shreemsolutions.ca) was formed in 2015, although it takes the name ‘Shreem’ from an ancient Sanskrit word.

“Shreem is like a positive start, full of energy,” says Nirmal Thakar, president.

And since the company focuses on retrofit and upgrading manufacturing systems — you could also think of it as a positive, energetic ‘re-start’ for the businesses that need to contemporize their systems and processes, giving them the impetus they need to move forward.

The main problem they face is old systems can’t get the technical support to maintain them, except at great expense. Shreem specializes in those oldsystem upgrades.

“Shreem is like a positive start, full of energy.”

- Nirmal Thakar, president, Shreem Systems & Solutions PVT. LTD.

SHREEM SYSTEMS & SOLUTIONS PVT. LTD.

support them for a long time.”

Shreem serves a number of sectors such as chemical, food and beverage, water/wastewater and mining.

“On each project, we bring value. We can save them money and we are here to help them locally, 24/7,” he says.

Thakar completed his training in engineering in India and he holds Canadian credentials for electrical contracting. He also brings past experience with multinationals Rockwell Automation and Schneider Electrical. He leverages that education and experience to help clients with their needs.

“I enjoy discussing with our clients about their daily challenges for manufacturing, operations and reliability. Our strategies are not to sell the services or products only,” he says.

“We bring value added solutions to help them improve plant efficiency under budget.”

All entrepreneurs face hurdles and Thakar says that as a business owner, his biggest challenge is securing qualified employees. He says the shortage stems from a lack of training available in Manitoba, and he feels it is in need of development.

“This is a specialized trade, and it requires training and certification and experience,” he says.

“We have very limited people available in this market who have this kind of experience and skills. Most of the time we have to bring people from Alberta, Ontario, even Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.”

But, like a true entrepreneur, Thakar is forging ahead to fill the void.

“Right now, we are recruiting apprentices and we are training them in order to become journeymen so we can use them in Manitoba when we have a project,” he says.

It’s the kind of can-do work ethic that earns acknowledgement.

“I am truly humbled receiving this award and thankful to the Brandon community, local businesses and voters for considering me and providing this opportunity.”

“I believe this would offer us a great opportunity to reach our community and introduce our services.”

And he’s introducing those services as the company’s reach extends from Manitoba to Saskatchewan, Alberta and now beyond.

“We are just starting to work with the paper industry in Northern Ontario in the Thunder Bay area - which is a new industry for us. We are working to expand further into Ontario.”

That’s a sign that Nirmal Thakar is taking Shreem Systems & Solutions into the future — powered by a burst of positive energy. ●

What started off as a $300 in vestment to purchase a table at a farmers’ market quickly turned into one of Brandon’s most popular bakeshops and cafés.

Chez Angela Bakery & Café, located at 29

opened their doors on July 27, 2018, ex actly one year, one month, and 26 days af ter Angela Chambers started her booth at a farmers’ market. The husband duo of James and Angela Chambers had the idea for opening their own restaurant ever since they were dating as teenagers. Angela ended up pursuing her culinary arts diploma from the Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts – graduating with distinc

tion – and obtained her from Brandon University. and a business plan in started to make Chez and the café now has seating pandemic), ployees, and over 2,000

“It was a cool experience, some to see her grow all and build a team. We laugh cause in our business plan will be in the front of tomers come then he will help out’,” says James Chambers, manager. “Now we actually time staff members and

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Amber White

ANYTIME FITNESS BRANDON

BY TRINA BOYKO

Amber White is a woman who gets things done. She’s started a photography business, opened two gyms, and given back through frequent charitable work — all before her fortieth birthday.

It’s these accomplishments that earned her a spot on Westman’s Top 4 Under 40.

“I just barely made it, because I’m 39,” White laughs. “I had to joke around after I found out and ask, what took so long? It was nice to receive something like that though, after all the years of hard work.”

White and her husband, Bryan, had their first taste of the business world in 2010, when they launched Champion Digital Photography. Their athletic backgrounds led them to focus on sports photography, and eventually to opening their own gyms.

Anytime Fitness’ Brandon location came first in 2013, with another location in Souris following suit in 2020—yes, at the height of the pandemic that saw a complete shutdown in gyms across Manitoba.

“It wasn’t the best timing,” White says, “but we already had the plan in action. We knew the gym would be needed eventually.”

That doesn’t mean it was easy, waiting for that time to come.

White says it was a like rollercoaster, going through eight months with no revenue to pay employees or even their own mortgage.

That’s when White took action, becoming co-leader of the Manitoba Fitness Council so she could voice her concerns— and those of others in the industry—to the government.

She also joined other female business owners in creating a Facebook page to help businesses through the pandemic. With weekly lives that often featured government officials and media, followers were able to ask questions and get answers.

“We all had the same questions, so why not collaborate?” White asks.

White took it a step further, becoming a board member of the Fitness Industry Council of Canada.

“I probably wouldn’t have taken on these roles if we hadn’t gone through that shutdown,” White says. “As hard as it was, I met lots of people and hopefully, was able to make a difference.”

Making a difference is important to White, whether in her day-to-day work or through volunteering.

White is a mentor for Futurpreneur Canada, guiding new business owners through the start-up period. She’s worked alongside a team building schools in Haiti and Dominican Republic, and volunteered at the local hospital through the pandemic.

White is a mentor for Futurpreneur Canada, guiding new business owners through the start-up period. She’s worked alongside a team building schools in Haiti and Dominican Republic, and volunteered at the local hospital through the pandemic. She also sits on a board of women who put on special events in support of charitable causes.

“I love helping people,” White says, noting it’s what she enjoys most about being an elite certified trainer at the gyms she owns. “We’ve seen a lot of changes—I’m sure the whole world has—with mental health and obesity through the pandemic. Just having somebody come to the gym and share their success with me means a lot.”

With the mind of a true entrepreneur, White says she’s always on the lookout for her next project.

“There’s definitely that thought,” she says. “How can we build on the businesses we currently have? Can we open another business? What does Brandon need?”

Whatever it is, you can count on White to make it happen. ●

Ty Worthington

LIMITLESS EVENTS & PINNACLE EVENT RENTALS

BY WENDY JB KING

“The Brandon Chamber of Commerce presented Westman's Top 4 Under Forty awards to recognize community-conscious up-and-comers in the region. One of those four is Ty Worthington, Owner/Opera tor of an impressive portfolio of enterprises including Limitless Events & Pinnacle Event Rentals, VIP Portable Restroom Rentals, and Clara Clear Top Venue, and the

Worthington is a business owner to watch. Youthful and ambitious, the Brandon born-and-raised entrepreneur started out at age 19 renting laser tag guns for birthday parties.

Always scouting for ways to build bigger and better events, with Limitless Events & Pinnacle Event Rentals, Worthington has quickly built a company which is making waves, available to do business in Winnipeg, Brandon, Regina, Saskatoon, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver.

What does Limitless do?

“We provide the foundation for a variety of sustainable functions and beautiful events,” Worthington says.

“We do everything from weddings to corporate to festivals

The “and more” is extensive. It includes marketing activations, fundraising, event photography, and trade show activations. The company also secures all the needed infrastructure and equipment to ensure that every production

“We’ve got great people on our team,” he says.

“We provide a great product and we do our best.” Ty Worthington grew up in Brandon and attended Crocus High School. He says events were always his thing.

“I love seeing events coming to fruition -  seeing something go from nothing to something,” he says.

“I have a severe case of FOMO — fear of

That “FOMO” tends to make him goal-oriented in ways that lets him make sure no client misses out.

“It’s not so much the creative end -  but seeing the final product,” he says.

It’s about seeing what we can do for our clients.”

He says they’ve put a lot of time and effort into developing the brand so it can

STACEY GABRIEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Ty Worthington, Owner/Operator of Limitless Events & Pinnacle Event Rentals.

be recognizable, adding that people should reach out and see what they can do. But it is, after all, an events company, so there has to be a certain spiritedness to the work.

“It’s our job to make sure your event runs perfectly — and we have a lot of fun,” he says.

Like so many other businesses, Limitless slowed under the pandemic.

“When COVID happened, we were pretty much hit with events - so much was shut down,” he says.

But Worthington and his crew have come through the on other side, and the future is looking bright.

“Everything is up and running — we’re so busy — we’re full-bore,” he says.

“Events are back!”

Now that things are on the go again, he has a new skill set to work on.

“My biggest challenge? I would say learning how to

manage staff at a young age,” he says.

“We’ve got 35 full time staff — so I’ve just had to go and figure it out.”

He is pleased to be recognized for the successful work Limitless Events & Pinnacle Event Rentals has been doing. Worthington and his team serve on a variety of boards in Brandon including Brandon First, Brandon Chamber Events Committee, and Family Visions.

“It feels important to be honoured with this,” he says.

“It shows us that what we’re doing, we’re doing right.”

He reiterates that he doesn’t do it alone.

“The award shows that our team is pulling together and as much as I’d like to say I’m the key, I’m not,” Worthington says.

“My team is the reason that we can do any of the stuff we do. I’m just the visionary. The team is all we are.” ●

-

Ty Worthington, Owner/operator, Limitless Events & Pinnacle Event Rentals

“It’s our job to make sure your event runs perfectly and we have a lot of fun.”

Ty Worthington's business team. STACEY GABRIEL PHOTOGRAPHY

From on-site construction to technical sales, project managers and maintenance technicians, the Shreem team works well to support their clients and each other.

ONE STOP INTEGRATED INDUSTRIAL SERVICES FOR INDUSTRIAL INSTRUMENTATION & CONTROLS

Shreem

Systems & Solutions is a proud Brandon-based company. Founded in June 2015, Shreem brings value to their clients by offering unique, cost-effective solutions to varied industries. From food and beverage to pulp and paper, mining, metal, automotive, power production and the water industry, the company has comprehensive solutions to fit each of these demanding sectors.

Despite having gone through some challenging times during the pandemic — the company has grown.

Nirmal Thakar has skillfully guided the Brandon headquartered organization. Under his leadership, Shreem has expanded into the Western Canadian market. And it continues to grow. In addition to its Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta offices, Shreem will soon open an Ontario location in Q4, 2022.

It’s well known that success is rarely tied to just one individual. Shreem is no different. Nirmal is thrilled to be part of a dynamic team. From on-site construction to technical sales, project managers and maintenance technicians, the Shreem team works well to support their clients and each other.

Shreem is also associated with a partner company that assists in offering cloud based Industrial Internet of Things solutions (IIOT) to agriculture, commercial and the industrial markets. Together, the company and its partner provide secure connections and real-time data monitoring. As a result, Shreem has delivered several large projects for instrumentation construction, machine/process automation upgrades and installing or upgrading safety instrumentation systems.

During the busy turnaround and maintenance season, the organization typically hires more than 40 technicians for site execution and project completion.

Shreem has been a member of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce since their inception. As a small business owner, Nirmal believes it’s important to support the local Chamber. It’s an excellent opportunity to network and collaborate with other Chamber members. ●

SUBMITTED PHOTO

PHOTO BY MATT GOERZEN

Serving Brandon and area for all your FINANCIAL needs.

It is such an honour to be able to serve the unique and diverse community of Brandon. The rewarding feeling that comes from helping our members and our community is second to none. I am so thankful for our amazing staff and members and look forward to continuing to build a brighter future together.

I like helping members solve their financial problems and succeed in their industry. I love when I see my members recognized for their hard work and contributions to our Brandon (and Westman) community, whether by peers or the local Chamber of Commerce.

My favorite lending moment was when I helped a young immigrant family purchase their first house in Canada. I have educated them about the Canadian banking system and helped them establish a credit history. After three years, they have become first-time home buyers.

KATHY MICHNIEWICZ, Personal Loans Officer

I honestly have not worked a day since I became a lender since it’s not work when you love what you do!

I have been lending for over 15 years and can honestly relate to every story someone shares with me. Working at a credit union is not just a job; it’s my life. I love what I do. People are drawn to me because I am genuine, just like them!

One of the most satisfying moments in my career was helping facilitate a business succession plan from retiring parents to the next generation. These members put their heart and soul into their business, which was an extension of the family. When a business transitions from one generation to another, especially family – it is exhilarating and emotional for everyone involved.

RYAN HOLDEN, Commercial Loans Officer

I love going to visit members at their place of business because it helps me further connect and understand what they experience on a daily basis. One of my favorite moments was helping to quickly facilitate the purchase of a commercial property so the members could start earning additional revenue. I was able to secure their financing very quickly. It was tremendously satisfying for both me and the members!

I understand how daunting it can feel for people in the process of purchasing their first home, so it is always such a pleasure to watch their nervousness transform into happiness and excitement. I love serving the diverse community of Brandon, helping people to achieve their goals and get to a better place financially!

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DEVIN MOORE, Commercial Loans Officer

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BRYCE SCOTT, Commercial Loans Officer

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