Business in Calgary - September 2021 by Business in Calgary

SEPTEMBER 2021 | $3.50 BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

INVESTING IN THE EVERYDAY PM41126516

ANTHONY GIUFFRE ON AVENUE LIVING’S STRATEGIC SUCCESSES

B OMA CALGARY NEWS - FALL 2021

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WEBBER ACADEMY CLASS OF 2021

YOUSSEF SOLIMAN 2021 SCHULICH LEADER Webber Academy is thrilled to announce that Youssef Soliman has been named a 2021 Schulich Leader and awarded a scholarship valued at $80,000. As a recipient of Canada’s most coveted scholarship, he joins an elite network of national STEM scholars. Youssef has been a student at Webber Academy since Grade 1. He excelled in Advanced Robotics, AP Computer Science A, and AP Computer Science Principles, consistently achieving the highest grades in the class. He also competed on Webber Academy’s robotics team, which is ranked first in southern Alberta. As a Grade 11 student, he created and published the BetterMaplewood Chrome extension so his fellow students can easily analyze their grades. Youssef will be bringing his remarkable talents to the University of Toronto to study computer science. Congratulations, Youssef !

Learn more at webberacademy.ca

INNOVATIVE BUSINESS TO YOU BY CANADIAN

Jodi McDonald President, Keystone Labs Inc. The success is also due in part to Keystone Lab’s commitment to customer care, something McDonald uses to distinguish the lab amongst the competition.

eystone Labs is a GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) lab providing analytical and microbiological testing for the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, nutraceutical, medical device and cannabis industries in Canada. “I founded Keystone Labs in 2005,” says Jodi McDonald, president. “I was in the biotechnology industry in Alberta and saw an opportunity to provide a service to the province’s growing biotechnology sector.” She continues, “When I was working in the biotech sector, I noticed that much of the testing that needed to be contracted out was being sent to Eastern Canada or into the U.S.. I had worked in a number of labs and felt like this was an exciting opportunity to do something I loved. “Providing testing solutions for people who are innovating new cutting edge products is always exciting. We get to work with a wide variety of people and projects; every day is different. Even with my best laid plans, I never know what might happen the next time the phone rings or the front door opens. Every night when I go home, I am excited about getting back to work to find out what the next opportunity might be.” McDonald credits her team for Keystone Lab’s success. “For me, on a personal level, I have been tremendously lucky to work with an innovative team who love science as much as I do.”

“The experience that I had with contract test labs prior to starting Keystone was testing as a black box; I sent samples in, and magically I got sent data,” she explains. “There was no connection of the data to the process or the product, and this often left me with more questions than answers. At Keystone Labs, we put the data into the context of our clients’ process so they can use the data as a tool to monitor the quality of their products, ensure that the process is consistent, and recognize when everything is in a state of control. We believe in going beyond the data.” McDonald is pleased to be a co-inventor of a cannabis testing product for home growers, calling this innovation her “biggest accomplishment.” The cannabis industry is still in its infancy in Canada, unlike in other countries around the world. This can be challenging at times. “We are always ensuring that we are up-to-date with the regulations here in Canada and elsewhere in the world where our clients are working,” McDonald says, “The rewarding part of what we do is seeing our partners’ success with their products.” “Innovation can be tremendously rewarding, but it is a long road,” McDonald concludes. “Having a plan for moving a project forward is critical but having the flexibility to respond to changes is just as important. My best advice for women entrepreneurs is to work with people that you enjoy. The team that you assemble, the clients that you work with, the professionals that you rely on to support you – this is your community and they support you in the good times and sustain you when things are difficult.” Learn more at www.keystonelabs.ca.

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Val Fearon CEO, Custom Coatings International

ince 2017, Custom Coatings International has used exclusive coating solutions to extend the longevity and durability of metal parts, tools and other components. The coatings prevent corrosion, erosion and wear. Innovation is a big part of what the team at Custom Coatings does; there is seldom a need where they can’t find or create a solution. The solutions Custom Coatings International offers include polymer coatings, sand/bead blasting, industrial coatings, fire protection coatings, thermal sprays and heat treatments. “I like providing solutions to end users to help improve efficiently in their own life,” says Fearon. “While we haven’t created new coatings (we offer coatings developed for our exclusive use) we are known for being early adopters of new technology for application and deployment of the products.” When Fearon became the CEO of Custom Coatings she interpreted innovation in a different way. Being a female entrepreneur is difficult at the best of times – in a male dominated industry it is even more challenging. Her solution was to bring more women into leadership roles. “I’m proud to say we have a very female dominate company,” Fearon smiles. “Out of our 25 employees, 20 are female and most have been with me for over seven years. I have an incredible, amazing group that I work with in such a heavily male dominated industry, and that’s awesome. Initially we had

a lack of contacts since we lacked access to some networking opportunities. Custom Coatings overcome this by aligning with amazing people and letting the work speak for itself. Our certifications and end results prove what we can do.” The certifications include ISN® Member Contractor, COR, ISO 9001:2015 and NACE® International Certified Coating Inspector. Fearon also uses innovation to apply their products in ways outside of the traditional streams. For example, after trying to find an impact crate strong enough for her large dog, and realizing one didn’t exist locally, she helped develop a coating for dog crates to fill the need for herself and other pet owners. That’s not all the active entrepreneur does. “I’m taking a laser technology course, opening a hair salon and medi-spa in South Edmonton Common (Flawless Beauty & Body Boutique Inc.) and partnering with a welding/ fabrication shop to add another layer of service to Custom Coatings International,” the ambitious businesswoman says. When asked how she does it, Fearon has a very straightforward answer, “Failure is not an option.” She concludes with advice for other women in business, saying, “Don’t be scared to dream. Go after it!” Learn more at www.cintl.ca.

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Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time. Volume 31 | Number 9

REGULAR COLUMNS

It’s Our Race to Win or Lose! By Shane Wenzel

38 76

Calgary Chamber of Commerce Golf Like You Are a Junior By Scott Orban

CONTENTS

Parker’s Pen By David Parker

COVER FEATURE

Investing in the Everyday Anthony Giuffre on Avenue Living’s strategic successes By Melanie Darbyshire

ON OUR COVER: ABOVE: ANTHONY GIUFFRE, FOUNDER AND CEO, AVENUE LIVING. PHOTO SOURCE: BOOKSTRUCKER

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SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

LIFTBOSS

WHISPERING CEDARS RANCH

iftboss Inc. was established in May 2006 by four partners John and Andre Gagnon, Dale Ryan Greir, a full-time powerline technician in Calgary, and wife Beatty and Marc Tougas to be a oneAlta., stop shop Janna, a registered nurse in Chestermere, enjoyneeds. raising their flock of 450 dealership for all material handling Having Rideau Arcott ewesindustry in their spare time. the four partners, worked in the before, pooled all there resources, previous experience Ryan’s passion fordesigned farming developed a young agemodel while heto worked together and a newatbusiness fill the that industry needed. alongmuch side hisneeded great uncleniche Howard withthe horses and cattle. In 2012 they Liftboss is an Alberta owned operated establishedInc. Whispering Cedars Ranch just 10and minutes east of Strathmore. dealership, offering new and used equipment sales, aThe total department, forklift rentals, of forklift ranchparts is a tribute to the memory and dedication Howard who training, and to perform instilled his trained love for the landcertified and animalsmechanics in Ryan. repairs in shop and service vehicles to handle on site repairs. Liftboss it’s lamb self and on quick Ryan and Janna’s goalInc. is to prides raise Alberta provide response the industry time to customer’s breakdowns. with healthy and proven purebred replacement breeding stock. They are also excited to be involving their one-year-old son Finnegan.

adding JCB construction equipment in 2017 has been a great addition, and has made Liftboss Inc. even more They are of the Alberta Lambindustry Producersin and work closely with visible inmembers the heavy equipment Alberta. the University of Calgary, as wellhandling as other They will always stay GenOvis, true toFarmWorks, their material organizations to better sheep industry in Canada. roots, but having anthe established and well respected construction line has solidified the fact that Liftboss Ryan found being ato powerline technician Inc. ishas here formany the similarities long haulbetween and ready compete. and rancher.

Whether you are looking for a new machine, a rental, service parts on an existing unit, or simply want “It comesordown to planning ahead and completing a task that can be a very second option on something, give them a call and that dangerous, sometimes during a major storm or other elements they be happy point says youRyan. in the rightcan direction. makeswill it difficult to stayto focused,” “Farming be very similar, As a group, Liftboss Inc. do what do based from the dangers of running various piecesthey of equipment to making on fourerrors coreinvalues: do whatcalculations you say you will in a an critical feed or medication that could cause timely manner; be open and honest; do whatever it animal to die.” takes; and service the customer above all else. As each grows, each is held Jannadepartment naturally has compassion for theteam welfaremember of people and animals. accountable to those principles, theiroffocus She has always had lot of interest in the health the flock. She uses her isnursing to beknowledge a qualityascompany well as advicethat frompeople the veterinarian to develop are proud work for for.prevention and treatment of ailments in sheep flock health to protocols

Customer service was the reason the company was born, and has captured an impressive share “We put the health and safety of our animals at the forefront,” says Ryan. of business for Liftboss. In the past 3 years, the downturn in thetoAlberta has small definitely The couple decided raise sheepeconomy because of their size and gentle affected the sales comparatively or lambs. nature. Specifically, they activity, raise Rideaubut Arcotts, which were developed at the service and Centre parts inbusiness has in the 1980s. Arcott used the Animal Research Ottawa (Arcott) noticed substantial growth. The Ryan and Janna are excited to expand their sheep farm and involve several breeds to develop the line which have improved maternal sales team builds portfolios their family. characteristics. Certain breeds used infor the development include Finnish each client’s service Landrace, Suffolk,needs Dorset, and Shropshire and East Friesen. preferences; this way, they can have “Janna and I would not be successful with sheep if it weren’t for our aThe conversation with a client instead Introducing of construction equipment. extremely helpful and supportive family,” says Ryan. “Even though our improved characteristics include high prolificacy, excellent the future of simplyability, walking them the family isn’t in agriculture, they have been quick mothering increased milkaround production, extended lambing season The new JCB Hydradig is the world’s first wheeled excavator and to support us and eager showroom. Their clients appreciate to learn what we do. They are always coming to visit and help out.” and the ability to breed out of season. They also excel in crossbreeding tool carrier designed for purpose and built without compromise. the attention and reward them with programs with terminal sire breeds which emphasize meat production. Travel to—and around—work sites faster than ever, maneuver into repeat business and referrals.

With limited chore time and a young child, the family needed to find a tight spaces with greater apply theofright attachments singleand versatile piece equipment that would take care of all their As their ewes average 250 to 300 per cent lambing, Ryan and Janna love safety, Material handling and forklifts werewhere and continue to be they’re needed. needs. From moving large bales of feed and bedding, building much this truly Canadian breed. a huge part of what Liftboss Inc. has grown from, but accessing pens and clearing snow in the winter, Contact Liftboss JCB for needed more infrastructure, information. their search soon lead to the choice of a compact track loader. With One of the biggest challenges for Ryan and Janna is marketing their sheep. research, JCB stood out as the obvious choice. JCB’s wide tracks, excellent cab visibility and side-entry cab have made their lives much “Everyone has tried lamb once, more often than not, this has been a bad easier, more comfortable and most importantly, safer. experience,” says Ryan. “Sometimes it can be difficult to convince them that our lamb is delicious.” “The staff at Lift Boss, Calgary have been there whenever we need them; answering our questions, providing maintenance and repairs as needed Ryan and Janna have tried different avenues such as direct marketing, and encouraging us as young entrepreneurs,” says Ryan. private buyers and auctions.

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Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time. Volume 31 | Number 9

CONTENTS COMPANY PROFILES

51 63

18 THIS MONTH’S FEATURES

Lupi Luxury Homes

Celebrates 50 Years

Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrates 100 Years

18 30 41 48

A is for Apprenticeship Modernizing Alberta’s apprenticeship system for a stronger workforce By Danyael Halprin

O peration Office Makeover Experts predict aesthetics to play a significant role in return to the office post-COVID By Jamie Zachary

B OMA Calgary News Fall 2021

T he Slump and The Streak The ups and downs of Calgary’s real estate market By John Hardy

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2021

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REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS Shane Wenzel Cody Battershill David Parker Scott Orban

THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS Melanie Darbyshire Rennay Craats Danyael Halprin John Hardy Jamie Zachary

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MILLER IMMIGRATION LAW Building Relationships to Serve Clients by Rennay Craats

alyna Miller was born and grew up in a small Ukrainian town. Her father, a journalist, exposed her to a library of classical literature and she felt a pull toward a life with more opportunities. “Although I lived in a homogenous environment, I felt I was a citizen of the global community. I always knew I would build a life elsewhere,” says Miller, founder of Miller Immigration Law Firm. She graduated from law school in Ukraine and worked as a business and employment lawyer before deciding to immigrate to Canada. Here, she had to start her education over, majoring in political science in British Columbia prior to completing her law degree at the University of Manitoba. While a student, she worked at a boutique immigration law firm and later worked toward establishing herself in immigration law in Winnipeg. Miller moved to Calgary in 2010 and after working for a number of firms she struck out on her own in 2018, founding Miller Immigration Law Firm. She quickly built her business as she served clients in all areas of Canadian immigration law and added U.S. immigration to the downtown practice in 2021. The legal team is committed to quality services and represents individuals, families and businesses undergoing the Canadian and U.S. immigration process from within Canada and the United States and from around the world. Miller is motivated by the desire to help people and has earned a reputation for going the extra mile for clients. “I was able to develop my own client base and more than 80 per cent of my new clients are referrals,” she says. Miller recognized the importance of personal connections with clients, even during a pandemic, and accommodated clients who were more comfortable meeting in person. Immigration law is built on trust and relationships and Miller spends

time getting to know clients to ensure her team is providing the best service. That trust also leads clients to solicit advice in outside areas, and Miller is continually building a referral network of professionals in other areas like family, corporate and real estate law, as well as mortgage and insurance brokers, real estate agents and financial advisors. In fact, Miller Immigration Law significantly expanded its offices and is seeking dedicated professionals to join the team or to rent space as part of the Alberta Business Centre in order to better serve its client base. Starting September 16th for four Thursdays, Miller is hosting wine and cheese meet-and-greets at her first Alberta Place office from 2pm to 6pm. Those interested in networking with team members of Miller Immigration Law Firm can RSVP to hmiller@millerlawfirm.ca or call 587-392-5199. “We’re looking to build relationship connections within the legal community and community at large, and help other professionals by referring our clients to them,” she says. Through her talented team and growing network, Halyna Miller is dedicated to providing quality immigration services for clients in Alberta and worldwide.

First Alberta Place, Suite 2300, 777 8 Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2P 3R5 Tel: 587.392.5199 | Email: info@millerlawfirm.ca | millerlawfirm.ca

IT’S OUR RACE TO WIN OR LOSE! // SHANE WENZEL

It’s Our Race to Win or Lose! BY SHANE WENZEL

he ‘Race’ is on!

They are off and running, recruiting candidates, door knocking and building signs. Some old and new candidates are promising change, while others are criticizing their own past decisions. The ‘nudge campaigns’ are showing up earlier than normal in our municipal election; possibly because there are nine empty seats to fill, including the Mayor’s. While there is still time for more to step up, at last count there was an astonishing 20 names seeking the Mayor’s job alone. Such a high number running for Mayor is interesting, considering that position (like the rest of council) only gets one vote. New faces are vying to fill all the vacant seats, or to unseat those who hope to stay. While it appears to be a union slate and a women’s alliance making up the bulk of candidates, it is enlightening to see there are some ‘stand alone’ candidates beating the streets on their own. Most new names are only known to a few, so there is a lot of campaigning left to do and little time for candidates to present their unique platforms. Polls regularly report on the most effective ‘nudge campaigns’ being promoted to grow candidate name recognition. There also appears to be a second race underway. If you were paying attention during Stampede, you might have noticed that ‘Ottawa arrived in town’; not to attend the Stampede, but for noticeable federal election recruiting. There was a number of ‘not-so-hidden’ appearances, hand shaking and back slaps. This was great timing as the grills had already been fired up and crowds were gathered. While it is still

speculation, there is talk that a federal election could get in front of our local election. Local federal candidates have been romanced or selected and money ‘enticements’ dropped across Canada. This tells us our attention to both elections is critical at such an important crossroads in time for Calgary and Alberta. Our municipal race could also be one of our most important in a long time and will have the greatest impact on our day-to-day lives. We should be paying attention to what is happening municipally by electing candidates for the best outcome for all Calgarians. Municipally, the key issues so far at the doors and in polls are taxation, public safety, uncontrolled spending and overplanning. While we are accustomed to Alberta being a ‘fly-over province’ we still need to be aware that this could also be our most important federal election. As citizens, we must become highly engaged if we are to have a fighting chance to end being strangers in either election. Also of importance, we must pay attention to the speech of the candidates and their potential or proven quality of their political leadership. We have learned the hard way that we cannot have faith in a good outcome on either level without strong citizen involvement. If political leaders are unlikely to change how they govern then citizens must change their leaders.

Shane Wenzel is president of the Shane Homes Group of Companies. Follow him @shanewenzel on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.His column is written for the Alberta Enterprise Group, @AEG on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

Leasing Considerations for the “New Normal” By Catherine Grygar and Karen Fellowes

Personal health and wellness are undoubtedly at the forefront of everyone’s mind these days. However, over the past 18 months, the fitness and hospitality industries were heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with operational restrictions, rotating shutdowns, and capacity limits. These mandated restrictions and operational changes stress-tested many businesses and landlord and tenant relationships, as requests for rent deferral, rent reduction, covenant waivers, and insolvency claims increased.

No matter how robust the terms of a lease agreement may be, negotiated landlord and tenant contractual rights can be altered significantly by an insolvency filing. A tenant may be placed into receivership by a secured lender or may file for bankruptcy or creditor protection through the Companies Creditor’s Arrangement Act or under the proposal proceedings under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act. Landlords, in both instances, will generally be prevented from taking any collection action against the tenant during the proceeding. Additionally, a tenant may “disclaim” its leasehold obligations on 30 days’ notice to the landlord, leaving the landlord with empty premises and an unsecured claim which may be worth pennies on the dollar. Landlords who are concerned about the solvency of a tenant should consider what pro-active steps they can take, and tenants should review their leases for potential restructuring options. As seen recently, some businesses have survived and adapted by modifying operations, other businesses proceeded with insolvency filings, and others underwent restructuring with new ownership under creditor protection. In the wake of inevitable change, we all have an opportunity to learn from these precedent-setting decisions and identify some key learnings.

Commercial leases can be highly customized, and as landlords and tenants move forward in this new normal, they will better understand what they need in terms of use, space and design. The pandemic has also highlighted lease provisions that landlords and tenants that may not have been considered or negotiated before. Questions to consider when entering a new lease or negotiating a lease renewal:

1. Does the lease require a tenant indemnity or third-party guarantee?

2. What are the security deposit or prepaid rent requirements? 3. Are there any tenant incentives or tenant improvement allowances? 4. What are the continuous operation and insurance requirements?

5. How does the lease respond to force majeure events, pandemic restrictions and Public Health Act orders? As Calgary emerges from the pandemic restrictions and high vacancy continues to be a factor in the current leasing market, landlords and tenants may be more willing to work together to meet the new challenges and uncertainties that arise in this new normal. By being proactive and working with experienced advisors, both landlords and tenants can better understand their leasing needs when considering whether a lease renewal or a new lease is a better fit.

To learn more about leasing in Calgary, visit Stikeman.com.

OFF

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Homes For Heroes Foundation Homes For Heroes Foundation opened its first village in Calgary in November 2019. 908 ATCO Village came together through the amazing support of local companies such as ATCO, PCL Construction, CP Rail, Cooper-Key Foundation, McCann Family Foundation, Canadian Legacy Project, Calgary Poppy Fund, Veterans Affairs, CHMC and many more. With a total of 15 tiny homes built by ATCO, the Village offers housing and wrap-around social support services for those that stood on guard for Canada and have found themselves facing homelessness. Homes For Heroes Foundation believes in bringing hope and wellbeing to the most vulnerable citizens through a holistic and client-centred approach. The Foundation believes in housing first, but not housing only. By utilizing external support networks through its partnership with Veterans Affairs, the program assists former military personnel to reintegrate into civilian society by providing holistic support services in a peer-supported, nonjudgmental tiny home community. When a veteran comes into the village there is a detailed needs analysis done to develop a social service program tailored to each individual tenant. Working with onsite counselors, there are four phases each tenant works through in developing a successful plan that enables them to reintegrate back into civilian life. The first phase, discovery, helps veterans settle and become stabilized in their new environment. Psychological intervention, self-help/self-regulation and case plans are developed in this phase. In the second phase, recovery and healing, based on their case plans, veterans have access to individual therapy, psychoeducation, self-help, self-care training and continuous medical assistance. In the third phase, retraining, through Veterans Affairs and the Foundation’s social service partners, retraining is provided around personal finances and budgeting, tax arrangements, legal support, employment support, assistance with finding and securing permanent housing, and training on how

to maximize various social support networks. The fourth phase, aftercare/follow-up, is to determine if the veterans are reintegrating themselves nicely into society. It is where it’s determined if they are accessing their support networks and are stable from a financial, employment and permanent housing standpoint. Along the way, The Homes For Heroes Foundation monitors, mitigates risk and evaluates the progress of each veteran from one phase to the next to ensure that a successful transition. Since 908 ATCO Village opened, eight Veterans have graduated from the program and new Veteran tenants move in. The Foundation is proud of the work done to date, but it is not done. The goal is to end the issue of Veteran homelessness across Canada. The second Veterans Village is under construction in Edmonton and scheduled to open this fall. The third Village is in the planning stages in Kingston, and an announcement will be made very soon on two more villages to be built in Canada. Ideally, the Foundation hopes to have 12 villages across Canada within the next six years. Homes For Heroes has a small team but they have all worked very hard to help Canadian Veterans in their time of need. The Foundation feels very fortunate to have the incredible support of Canadian companies and individuals who have donated to the builds. It has seen firsthand the love and respect Canadians have for those that served and those that continue to serve. To learn more about Homes For Heroes,visit the website at www.h4hf.ca. ABOVE: ATCO RADISSON

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

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The Kitsim Green Hydrogen (H2) Project

IEPS Canada Ltd. announced today the completion of initial planning for the company’s 50,000 ton per year hydrogen (H2) production facility as well as agreements for a life-ofproject water supply. The Kitsim H2 Project (www.ieps.ca) converts water, using electricity, into green H2. By producing a reliable source of green H2 the Kitsim Project will help Alberta industries that use H2 ensure that they can reduce their own greenhouse gas emissions while also meeting investor and customer demands for more sustainable operations and products. Successfully contracting for a water source has also been a major step forward for the project. Access to a secure source of water is critical to the success of green H2 production facilities. As the next step in advancing the project, IEPS is now actively seeking financing for Phase 1 of the $550 million southern Alberta project and has retained Pivotal Capital Advisory Group Ltd. to lead that effort. In announcing the next project stage, Mr. Greg Baden, IEPS president, observed that “Low carbon H2 will be increasingly important to Alberta’s energy and economic future and IEPS hopes to be an important part of that future. At the same time the introduction of commercial scale electrolytic technology, which is relatively new in North America, also offers Alberta excellent opportunities for further economic diversification.”

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

Green H2 from electrolysis can be easily introduced, with minimal capital cost or operational risk, to any chemical production facility seeking to increase the sustainability of its own products and operations. In the case of fertilizer production, for example, the growing availability of green H2 will substantially improve the sustainability of Western Canadian food production along with reducing greenhouse gas emissions. IEPS stated that in raising the required financing it intends to take full advantage of Pivotal’s strong reputation for supporting low-cost energy producers that offer investors solid returns. Pivotal’s president, Ms. Terry Allen, remarked that “This project has significant benefits for both equity and debt investors including early entrant advantages, utility-like cash flows and strong market demand for its products.”

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A IS FOR APPRENTICESHIP // TRAINING & EDUCATION

IS FOR APPRENTICESHIP MODERNIZING ALBERTA’S APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM FOR A STRONGER WORKFORCE

BY DANYAEL HALPRIN

he Germanic system of apprenticeships used throughout much of Europe recognizes 250 to 350 apprentice-based careers that span a broad range of occupations including skilled trades, information technology, business disciplines and various health fields. Alberta recognizes 47. With a passionate commitment to (re)build a robust economy, post-pandemic, the Alberta government approved Bill 67 the Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Education Act on June 17, 2021 to expand apprenticeship education beyond the traditionally designated skilled trades in the current model.

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

Says Alberta’s Minister of Advanced Education Demetrios Nicolaides: “We must take every possible step to help Albertans reskill and upskill for the new economy.” In the summer of 2019, Nicolaides commissioned the Skills for Jobs Task Force to examine and reimagine the Apprenticeship and Industry Training Act, established in 1991. The 21-member Task Force was co-chaired by former NAIT president Glenn Feltham and SAIT president David Ross and included Deputy Minister of Advance Education Curtis Clarke, Assistant Deputy Minister of Advanced Education Mike Fernandez, a skilled trades caucus, MLAs, etc.

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A IS FOR APPRENTICESHIP // TRAINING & EDUCATION

Not surprisingly, the findings revealed the 30-year-old act was outdated, unresponsive to our changing world, structurally rigid and employed non-inclusive language. The final report released in September 2020 states: “The regulatory environment restricts rather than empowers expansion of the system… It would be difficult, if not impossible, to significantly increase apprenticeship education programs without fundamentally changing legislation and governance.”

“YOU SHOULD’VE GONE TO SCHOOL, YOU COULD’VE LEARNED A TRADE… NOW ALL THE TIME YOU’RE CRYING THAT YOU’RE UNDERPAID IT’S LIKE THAT, AND THAT’S THE WAY IT IS,” RUN-D.M.C.

The provincial government agreed. Now that Bill 67 is legislated the Alberta government will launch a multi-year comprehensive plan to expand apprenticeships not only of skilled trades but also of professions: information technology, agricultural technology, engineering, social care services, and business disciplines such as banking, insurance, marketing and finance. “In many countries you cannot become a banker unless you apprentice as a banker,” says Glenn Feltham, acting president and CEO of Grande Prairie Regional College. “It’s a different way of thinking about education but in having travelled the world and seen the very best system this is absolutely the status quo in the most productive countries in the world.” Furthermore, the new act will also provide greater flexibility by legislatively separating apprenticeship education from regulated trades. Non-trade professions will have the opportunity to leverage apprenticeship programming without being required to become a designated trade. The shift is purposeful and practical in that the new model will provide paid experiential on-the-job training in real time. The ecosystem must teach individuals the right skills at the right time to produce skilled workers in order to successfully meet the emerging and ever-evolving needs of the workforce in the regional/national/global economy. The time is now to align educational programs with labour market needs. The majority of learning will occur on the job supplemented by academic programming in the post-secondary institution. Alberta is home to several colleges and polytechnics that deliver skilled trades and apprenticeship education. Alberta’s government recently announced that Red Deer College and Grande Prairie Regional College will transition to polytechnic

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

institutions. These new polytechnics will help lead and coordinate the delivery of apprenticeship training across the province, according to Taylor Hides, press secretary for the Office of the Minister of Advanced Education. Feltham points out that in those countries that follow the Germanic model of apprenticeship, business and industry take on a far larger role in the education process in ensuring that skills brought to the workforce are relevant and high level. And so the call is out for dialogue. Industry is being asked to come forward and work with post-secondary institutions to identify new apprenticeship professions and to create learning opportunities that meet the needs of both industry and the learner. Alberta’s Ministry of Advanced Education and the Registrar will have authority over apprenticeship education and the legislation. The legislation includes the creation of a new Alberta Board of Skilled Trades, which will set trades certification standards and make recommendations to the Minister on skilled trades designations and trades regulatory models. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, the board will consult with all levels — post-secondary institutions, employers, apprentices and industry — to inform its work. Business receives real value from an apprenticeship from day one and even more so when it more purposefully defines the nature of the participation. Students in the workplace are providing knowledge back to the mentor, especially in regard to technology. Trades are changing quickly and technology is an essential focus of the trades, such as instrumentation tech on rigs, robotics on dairy farms, etc. “We’ve got a lot of workplace mentors saying, ‘I taught this kid some things, but did I learn a lot from this kid!’” says Andy Neigel, president

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A IS FOR APPRENTICESHIP // TRAINING & EDUCATION

and CEO of CAREERS: the Next Generation, an industrydriven community partnership that provides paid, credited apprenticeships to Alberta students in trades, technologies and health since 1997. “The students come to the workplace with a fresh perspective and question why things are done a certain way and this puts pressure on an organization to think outside the box.” CAREERS places 1,000 students, mostly high school, in apprenticeships every year and in the new model will continue to assist post-secondary institutions in finding employers for these placements. It really is a win-win. At the end of the apprenticeship the employer has incredibly well-trained people and knows with certainty whether or not they’re a good fit and will elevate the organization in the future. Feltham says a significant number of apprentices under the Germanic model choose to stay with the organization with which they apprenticed; they know the culture of the organization and they’ve developed an incredible loyalty to it. “The apprenticeship model can be very powerful,” he says. The Task Force also made recommendations to assist in raising the parity of esteem of apprenticeship-based education, that is, the report states: “to elevate the understanding that apprenticeship education holds as much value, merit and worth as other post-secondary credentials, and that trade careers are as valuable as other professions.” In the current framework, a completed apprenticeship certificate for journeymen carries no academic value, ultimately limiting the ability of trades professionals to pursue further education and training or to shift into new careers. For example, a journeyperson might want to pursue a Masters of Project Management. Certain institutions such as NAIT have introduced a trades to degree pathway in which a certified tradesperson can enter the third year of the business program. Says Feltham: “The certified tradespeople who’ve gone down that route have done extraordinarily well in the business program.” The message is: No education is dead end. The new legislation will create the foundation to allow more educational options for journeypersons.

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

THE TASK FORCE ALSO MADE RECOMMENDATIONS TO ASSIST IN RAISING THE PARITY OF ESTEEM OF APPRENTICESHIP-BASED EDUCATION, THAT IS, THE REPORT STATES: “TO ELEVATE THE UNDERSTANDING THAT APPRENTICESHIP EDUCATION HOLDS AS MUCH VALUE, MERIT AND WORTH AS OTHER POST-SECONDARY CREDENTIALS, AND THAT TRADE CAREERS ARE AS VALUABLE AS OTHER PROFESSIONS.” “The goal is to ensure there are seamless pathways, that there is full recognition of past learning… Learners should have options to continue their educational journey throughout life — options that build on and fully recognize the education they’ve taken,” states the report. When the Task Force studied apprenticeships around the world, it found that Alberta’s act had not kept up with best practice. The province’s model is not broken but change is imperative. The revamped, modernized apprenticeship system, to be implemented in 2022, will fundamentally ensure that Alberta is productive and competitive, both nationally and globally.

DOWNTOWN DRIVES PROSPERITY We know we have to revitalize downtown. How? •

Business-friendly tax and regulatory environment to support existing business and appeal to start-ups; create a downtown economic zone

•

Attract young people to live downtown and build a talent pipeline with a work co-op program and educational facilities in downtown buildings

•

Renew the “Clean to the Core” program to improve safety, livability

•

Enable residential conversions, yes, but the huge reliance on this solution in the current downtown plan is impractical and expensive

•

Tackle issues of expensive parking, mobility challenges in the core

•

Upgrade the Plus-15 network and businesses

•

Support arts, festivals, entertainment and events that attract tourists and make Calgary a destination city for conventions, exhibits, trade shows

•

Support the proposed train from the airport into downtown

“A renewed downtown helps solve tax issues. It also drives tourism, business and people, and restores a confident Calgary.” — Brad Field Brad Field’s complete Platform: VoteBradField.ca; Issues tab

A Confident Vision  A Confident Plan  A Confident Calgary

INVESTING IN THE EVERYDAY // COVER

INVESTING IN THE EVERYDAY

ANTHONY GIUFFRE ON AVENUE LIVING’S STRATEGIC SUCCESSES BY MELANIE DARBYSHIRE

he real estate market is ripe with opportunity for every type of investor. From luxury single-family homes to industrial and commercial properties, to bare agricultural land, there are as many choices of real estate investment as flavours of ice cream; an investor’s preference depends on a variety of factors specific to the individual or institution and can change over time. For Calgary’s Avenue Living, the real estate investment of choice is workforce housing, a lesser-known subclass of the multi-family market that has proven to be a stable, often growing niche. The strategy has evolved over Avenue’s 16 years in business to make it one of the largest private real estate owners/operators in Western Canada. With more than $2.8 billion in assets under management, including 12,500 apartments in more than 450 buildings, and five mutual fund trusts, Avenue Living is a dominant player in its market. “We invest in the everyday,” says founder and CEO Anthony Giuffre. “Those low-density, multi-family buildings that you drive by on the way to work, that you may or may not pay attention to. Typically, in the 20- to 50-unit range.” Workforce housing tenants are gainfully employed, making between $15 and $50 an hour who, throughout the pandemic, were the essential workers. “They’re the folks that had to show up every single day, put their masks on, and brave it,” Giuffre says. “And they did an incredible job.” “This demographic needs housing affordability, not affordable housing,” he continues. “They are a cross-section

of those who want to own and those that might not, whether by necessity, need or desire. They’ve been incredible customers throughout the years.” A born-and-raised Calgarian and University of Calgary graduate, Giuffre and co-founder Carl Diodati started the business in 2006, with the purchase of a 24-unit building in Brooks. “I would love to say it was this grand plan that I came up with over 16 years ago, but that would be the farthest thing from the truth,” Giuffre laughs. “After 10,000 mistakes and a whole lot of pivots, we are here.” The pair had originally wanted to invest in the Calgary to Fort McMurray corridor (during the boom days of 2005/06) but lacked the capital to do so. “So we kept looking out in larger and larger concentric circles, to where we could find a diversified economy with non-sector specific biases that could last the test of time,” Giuffre recalls. “We landed on Brooks, Alberta.” With a large meat packing plant, Brooks also had a service sector and agricultural land sector, as well as serviced a large trading hub population. “We saw it as a diversified minieconomy,” he explains. “And when we looked at the multifamily buildings in the area, we very quickly determined it was those two- or three-storey walk-ups inhabited by the workforce housing demographic.” The interesting part, however, came when Giuffre looked at the significant difference in how much rent those tenants paid as a portion of income, compared to the primary

RIGHT: ANTHONY GIUFFRE, FOUNDER AND CEO, AVENUE LIVING. PHOTO SOURCE: BOOKSTRUCKER

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

INVESTING IN THE EVERYDAY // COVER

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2021

INVESTING IN THE EVERYDAY // COVER

markets of Calgary or Edmonton. “There was an opportunity for us to purchase at a reasonable price, make upgrades and increase the rent per square foot to a number closer to that of Calgary,” he says. “It was the same workforce, and the wages were typically standardized across Alberta and Saskatchewan, but rents weren’t.” The limited access to credit in secondary markets like Brooks further sweetened the opportunity. “It was a lot more work than buying in Calgary, but we were of the view that if it worked in Brooks, it could work in other markets too,” Giuffre says. “We could actualize real rent growth – resulting in net-operatingincome (NOI) growth of an asset on a strategic basis.” The gamble paid off, and with the success of Brooks, Giuffre expanded into other secondary and tertiary markets in Alberta and Saskatchewan. By 2014 Avenue Living owned and operated 5,500 units in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. “In order to operate in all of these small centres we had to create a platform,” Giuffre recounts. “To handle the deal from end to end, and the tenant experience. We had to be able to manage a lot of small assets with individual market specific needs.” “After numerous pivots and mistakes and challenges along the way, we increased the size of our platform,” he continues. “Today, we cover the end-to-end customer experience: from the call centre straight through to logistics, maintenance staff, construction staff, leasing, services staff, accounting, marketing, finance and legal. We now have a team of eight lawyers that work for the organization.”

One key benefit of the platform was the legitimacy it has provided the company. For example, in 2006 most Canadian banks were reluctant to participate with Avenue Living. Today it is one of the largest customers for most banks in the country. As the company grew, so did its capital requirements. “Real estate in a lot of cases is very capital intensive,” Giuffre says. “You’re seeking capital for that next acquisition since your rents, typically speaking, are a fraction of the value of the assets. You need capital to grow, to operate the business and maintain your buildings.” To obtain funds, the company sought to raise its first round of outside capital with the initial goal of $85 million, which was swiftly met through its business networks. Rather than use the capital to acquire more units, the company shifted its focus to those assets it already held and undertook a large renovation program including maintenance and value-add

ABOVE: AN AGRICULTURAL LAND TRUST WAS ALSO CREATED IN 2016 TO HELP DIVERSIFY THE BUSINESS.

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

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INVESTING IN THE EVERYDAY // COVER

capital expenditures. “We doubled down on our asset base,” Giuffre says, “and saw great operational results. We realized we were onto something and considered what capital we needed to further consolidate the market.” That insight led to the inception of the Avenue Living Real Estate Core Trust. “We wanted to provide investors with the optionality to get exposure to real estate – workforce housing – and be a part of a growth story,” Giuffre says. Since its creation in 2017, the fund has raised over $450 million and acquired nearly 5,000 multi-family units. To maximize market potential, an Opportunity Trust was split out of the Core Trust. While the latter holds stabilized, smoothly operating assets, the former buys and manages assets that are in some form of disruption. An Agricultural Land Trust was also created in 2016 to help diversify the business. The Trust invests in Saskatchewan farmland, and leases it to farm operators for cash rent. Providing an opportunity to decouple the business of real estate and the business of farming, the Agricultural Land Trust now holds over 48,000 acres valued at over $85 million. “We don’t ‘operate’ anything for the Agricultural Land Trust,” Giuffre points out. “But there is no better commercial real estate tenant than someone with an aligned interest, such as a farmer.” Avenue Living launched a third multi-family trust in early 2020, the U.S. Real Estate Trust, which also focuses on the workforce housing segment, albeit in the much larger U.S. market. The company purchased seven properties in Colorado, Kansas and Wisconsin (the strategy is to stay in high growth, secondary markets, which is more affordable than the seaboards). The expansion has been successful thanks to the platform. “It’s the same customer, the same platform, obviously a different currency, some different state and federal laws, but for the most part it’s the same business,” Giuffre says. “But about 30 times larger. It’s been doing very well and growing.” The latest fund launched by Avenue Living is the Mini Mall Storage Properties Trust, which began with the acquisition of a storage business from Giuffre’s father last year. “It was a family business 40 years in the making,” he says. “And at 92 years old, my dad said, ‘Next year, I want to sell it and you’re

going to buy it.’ I knew the business well but wasn’t sure if we could fit it into the portfolio.” After much research the team was confident it had a business case, which has been proved out over the last year as the fund now owns over 1.6 million square feet across 35 stores: “We’re coast to coast now, from the lower mainland into New Brunswick, in five different provinces. And now we’re launching into the U.S.” The company is also involved with a number of different businesses, all linked to the platform, including a telecom business (Valo Networks), virtual reality training (Circuit Stream), food manufacturing (Noto Gelato), and fashion (the iconic Alberta Boot Company) – all everyday businesses. Giuffre credits the platform for much of the success of each expansion. Given the size of its application – to all properties and tenants – it provides a means to experiment and implement new technologies, particularly in PropTech and FinTech. In fact, a dedicated team in the organization is tasked with this work.

ABOVE: THE LATEST FUND LAUNCHED BY AVENUE LIVING IS THE MINI MALL STORAGE PROPERTIES TRUST, WHICH BEGAN WITH THE ACQUISITION OF A STORAGE BUSINESS FROM GIUFFRE’S FATHER LAST YEAR.

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

INVESTING IN THE EVERYDAY // COVER

Consistency Quality Craftsmanship

“We can implement new ideas easily and see if they work, or don’t work,” he explains. “For example, during the pandemic we were able to go paperless for lease signings and renewals.” Indeed, Giuffre acknowledges the pandemic was kind to the organization and in fact proved out the business, as those workforce housing tenants – essential workers – remained solid renters throughout. At over 700 employees today, Avenue Living’s team operates on core values of entrepreneurial spirit, honest communication and integrity. Giuffre ensures that everybody is heard and makes himself available once per week for an hour to any employee who’d like to talk. “Over the last 16 years we’ve attracted some incredible people that are driving the business forward,” he says. “Now talent is coming to us. We’re attracting the best people out there. It’s very encouraging.” A believer in giving back, Giuffre sits on a number of different boards, including UNICEF Canada, the Calgary Public Library Foundation, TELUS Spark Science Centre, and the Canadian Olympic Foundation. “Whatever I have learned along my journey and my mistakes, I try and lend those to the boards, and just be a part of some really cool initiatives.” An avid athlete and outdoorsman, he has completed 16 Ironman Triathlons and will complete his seventeenth this fall. “I love being outside,” he says. “I walk 10 kilometres a day with my wife, and this is when we catch up. It’s a really good way to communicate. I love communicating while moving.” Reflecting on his journey thus far – which included a significant business remanufacturing appliances with nine retail stores in his teens and late 20s – he’s humble and candid: “When I look back at the accomplishments, I think ‘Geez, years ago nobody would talk to us; now everybody talks to us and wants to do business with us.’ That’s what I deem as success: the growth and the journey, not necessarily the destination.”

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LEFT TO RIGHT: PARKLANE GARDENS (EDMONTON, AB), BORDEN PLACE (SASKATOON, SK), KENWOOD MANOR (SASKATOON, SK) AND SCHERER APARTMENTS (MEDICINE HAT, AB).

2777 Hopewell Place NE Calgary (403) 250-1020 Toll Free: 1-800-382-8502 BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2021

OPERATION OFFICE MAKEOVER // CORPORATE HEALTH, WELLNESS & REJUVENATION

OPERATION OFFICE MAKEOVER EXPERTS PREDICT AESTHETICS TO PLAY A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN RETURN TO THE OFFICE POST-COVID

BY JAMIE ZACHARY

he road back to the office post-pandemic will be paved with good intentions. Yet local interior design experts urge employers to avoid the fast lane back, and instead use this opportunity to reset the traditional workspace aesthetic. The incentive? An opportunity to promote creativity, productivity and collaboration when its arguably needed the most. “We’re finally returning to the office from home where we’ve been for what seems like forever. And there’s a newfound level of excitement that comes with that … as well as a bit of apprehension,” says Lucy McMurray, a Calgary-based architecture and design market manager with Conexxion, a contract furniture agency. “This is a great time for employers to capture that energy and freshen things up a bit – break away from the norm and try some new things, specifically as it relates to design.” A poll conducted earlier this year by market researcher Leger found four out of five respondents in Canada don’t want to go back to their pre-pandemic schedule. Dig into that a bit more and the poll also found 82 per cent of respondents gave their working-at-home experience a positive review. “People who have been working from home during the pandemic and are now coming back have become used to

certain creature comforts. We’ve become used to having the kitchen a few steps away or being able to lounge on the couch or sinking into a comfy chair while trying to pound out some documents,” says Julie Okamura, principal with Calgary-based interior design firm Pop Design Group. ABOVE: LUCY MCMURRAY, A CALGARY-BASED ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN MARKET MANAGER WITH CONEXXION, A CONTRACT FURNITURE AGENCY. PHOTO SOURCE: CONEXXION

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

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Strong Roots New Growth Greenery Office Interiors Promoting Workplace Wellness with Nature

or Greenery Office Interiors, strong roots and new growth means more than just the health of the plants they care for. It speaks to their appreciation of servicing Calgary for over 44 years and their excitement for the changes occurring in workspaces throughout Calgary. President and founder Joanne Young recalls a time “[when] plants were discouraged in interior design plans. Now people are realizing how important they are and what they can add to their surroundings. Plants are essential in providing workspaces with fresh air and an uplifting and energizing effect.” Just like a seedling, Greenery started small and continued to grow. Today the team of 20 cares for tens-of-thousands of plants throughout Calgary offices and workspaces. Their approach is to focus on two key components: wellbeing and design. The design consultation process includes detailed images and specifics and professional and timely installation, followed by ongoing plant maintenance by their team of horticultural technicians. “It’s a unique business in the sense that we’re fortunate enough to see our clients on a weekly/bi-weekly basis. During our maintenance visits, we provide professional plant care for the betterment of people’s environments. We are committed to our vision and values, and our business model upholds that,” says operations manager Erica Steven. Companies incorporating plants into workplaces emphasize the importance of employee health and productivity. Greenery applies the concepts founded in biophilia (the desire to be in nature) and biomimicry (the imitation of nature’s designs in everyday life) to create a work environment that people feel comfortable and grounded in.

Camille Anderson, Joanne Young and Kelsie Anderson. Photo by Courtney Lovgren.

Every good growth story has its challenges and the pandemic has certainly shifted the nature of workplaces, but Greenery is looking forward to the future. Their team agrees. “Vacancy rates in Calgary can be daunting. However, it’s exciting to see companies investing in employee-centric and tenant-centric spaces. These companies are recognizing what people want – to feel good in their workspaces. And incorporating plants in the design adds so much more than just aesthetic value,” says Young. Sisters and sales and design associates, Kelsie and Camille Anderson, combine their passions to gain the upper hand over their competitors. Kelsie, the professional horticulturalist, and Camille, the design enthusiast, utilize their knowledge and talents to bring their client’s vision to life. “Whether we are working directly with a client, designers or architects, we establish the vision and tackle every detail from consultation through installation. The best feeling is watching

the space come to life when we arrive and knowing people will continue to enjoy those benefits,” says Camille. Greenery’s recent award-winning design in Absorb Software in Calgary’s new TELUS Sky building is a testament to that. “We were flexible with the client’s needs during the lockdown, and while the office was closed, we incorporated living walls and custom plant fixtures in phases. Now that employees are back in the office, they’re experiencing the commitment that their employer places on their wellbeing,” says Kelsie. Whether corporations opt for a selection of live plants, a moss or living wall, or an extensive atrium, the results are the same. Studies suggest that having plants in the workplace decreases tension and anxiety levels and reduces feelings of fatigue while at the same time increasing creativity and productivity. As Calgary learns to pivot and trends continue to change, people returning to work post-pandemic are asking for human-centric environments. Greenery believes that plants are an essential element in those environments.

@greenerycalgary

OPERATION OFFICE MAKEOVER // CORPORATE HEALTH, WELLNESS & REJUVENATION

“It’s understandable that people would come back and have a bit of anxiety. They are not able to relax and be themselves like they were in their own home.” Some of those creature comforts will include everything from lounge areas and games rooms to restaurant-style lunchrooms and multi-functional outdoor spaces. “Part of it is about creating that social experience,” says Okamura. “But it’s also about creating a lifestyle within the office workspace, which never used to be the case.” Adds McMurray: “We call it ‘resimercial design’ – the combination of residential and commercial interior design. It’s about having these flexible and comfortable spaces that resemble home – more lounge furniture and casual collaboration spaces.” Okamura also points to the importance of natural light – “people will crave it after being holed up their homes for so long” – as well as well-placed artificial light. She recommends something in the range of 2,500 to 3,000 Kelvin. Meanwhile, colours, textures and even scents offer the opportunity to bring Mother Nature inside, whether through aromatherapy or vibrant greens, yellows, oranges and pinks. “These scents and colours give us more energy, which can lead to improve creativity and collaboration,” says Okamura. Speaking of Mother Nature, biophilic design is also expected to play an important role in defining the office aesthetic post COVID-19. Joanne Young, president of Greenery Office Interiors, says plants were already making their way into many Calgary offices pre-COVID. Now with workers returning to the office, that little touch of green will go a long way in making them feel right at home. “Offices are going to change. They have to,” says Young, whose company offers interior plant service and office plant leasing services. The company’s more recognizable projects include the Winter Garden in Jamieson Place and the awardwinning “The Staghorn” Living Wall project for ATB built in partnership with Green Over Grey.

“They have to look great if you want people to come back, especially if that employer is also allowing them to split time working from home. They are going to want to feel comfortable. They are going to want to be impressed once they walk back through the doors.” A study titled “The Global Impact of Biophilic Design in the Workplace” commissioned by flooring company Interface and led by psychologist Cary Cooper found employees who worked in environments with biophilic design elements were 15 per cent more productive in comparison to groups with no greenery or natural environments. The study also found nearly 90 per cent of workers in offices with biophilic design reported improved wellbeing following the change. “In addition to providing increased oxygen, there are obvious mental health benefits to incorporating plants into the office. And healthier environments equal more productive employees,” says Young, noting that in addition to traditional planters, some of the more popular trends recently include living or moss walls. ABOVE: JOANNE YOUNG OF GREENERY OFFICE INTERIORS SAYS A WELLDESIGNED PLANTER WITH A SINGLE PLANT INSIDE CAN CREATE SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL IN THE OFFICE. PHOTO SOURCE: COURTNEY LOVGREN

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

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“When you also consider things such as worker productivity, creativity and improved concentration, the cost of purchasing and maintaining plants provides a great return on investment for companies. The benefits far outweigh the costs.” Strategically placed planters can even be multi-functional in also providing physical distancing in the office – something McMurray anticipates will be in place for some time still. In fact, she expects to see larger workstations, more open space and even higher cubicle panels making their way into offices moving forward. On the way out? Benching – where workers sit side-by-side in a long row of desks – along with hot desking or desk sharing and even large corporate boardrooms. “I just don’t see 20 people being crowded in a boardroom being the norm moving forward,’ says McMurray. “In their place, I see more things like smaller breakout spaces for up to four to five people. We will still crave connection. We will still crave collaboration. We just need to be respectful and conscious of what people may or may not be comfortable with in an office environment moving forward. She also points to a new product by Artopex called the Mute Box. The free-standing phone booth is encased by double glass walls and three-inch air chamber and high-density soundproofing. “One of reasons it’s fantastic during these times is it has a robust ventilation system – almost 10 times better than you would see in an office model in terms of air circulation,” says McMurray, noting air in the Mute Box circulates once per minute. For small businesses on a budget, Okamura says a fresh coat of paint and the right choice of lights will go a long way.

“If you could only do one thing, I would say play with some really fun, vibrant colours that will allow you to update your space. It’s the easiest and least-expensive way to spruce up a place,” she says. McMurray agrees, saying even the smallest things that an employer can do to elevate the look of their office offers an opportunity to inspire their employees and make them excited about coming back. “People don’t necessarily want to work from an office full time anymore. They want to have more flexibility and adaptability in their working styles,” she says. “This means to have people back in the office full time, there are going to be certain things employers are going to want to implement into the office space to have people feel more comfortable post-COVID. “We’ve all been so disconnected for so long. Going back into the office doesn’t have to be a mundane transition. We can be excited about it, and the first way to do that is making the office a really inviting and inspiring atmosphere.” ABOVE: THE MUTE BOX BY ARTOPEX IS A PHONE BOOTH-STYLE BREAKOUT ROOM FOR UP FOR FOUR OR FIVE PEOPLE. PHOTO SOURCE: CONEXXION

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

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BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2021

Pathways to Potential Pathways tovibrant, Potential Potential A Pathways guide for Calgary’sto inclusive, and guidefor forfuture Calgary’s vibrant, vibrant, inclusive, inclusive, and A Aguide Calgary’s and prosperous prosperousfuture future prosperous

Calgary’s 2021 municipal election presents a transformative opportunity to determine Calgary’s future. Despite several years of economic headwinds and the COVID-19 pandemic, we know our city and business community have tremendous and a path ahead to getathere. Calgary’spotential 2021 municipal election presents transformative opportunity to determine Calgary’s future. Despite Calgary’s 2021 municipal election presents a transformative opportunity to determine Calgary’s future. Despite several years of economic headwinds and the COVID-19 pandemic, we know our city and business community have several years ofChamber economicofheadwinds and COVID-19 we know our cityfor and business community have At the Calgary Commerce, wethe work alongsidepandemic, our members to advocate stability and certainty for business, tremendous potential and a path ahead to get there. tremendous potential and a path ahead to get there. and to position Calgary as a beacon of potential where the world’s best and brightest choose to live, work and play. At the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, we work alongside our members to advocate for stability and certainty for business,

At the Calgary Chamber of as Commerce, work alongside members to advocate for stability and certainty for business, Reaching potential requires strongofwe and thoughtful policy backed by collaboration, andplay. and toour position Calgary a beacon potential wherepublic theour world’s best and brightest choose toinnovation live, work and and to position Calgary as a beacon of potential where the world’s best and brightest choose to live, work and play. determination. Five pathways include specific recommendations and shape a way forward: a guide for our next City Reaching our potential requires strong andisthoughtful policyinclusive, backed byand collaboration, Council to ensure we, as a city, achieve what possible –public a vibrant, prosperousinnovation Calgary. and Reaching our potential thoughtful public policy backed collaboration, innovation determination. Five requires pathwaysstrong includeand specific recommendations and shapeby a way forward: a guide for ourand next City determination. Five pathways include specific andinclusive, shape a way a guide for our next City Council to ensure we, as a city, achieve what recommendations is possible – a vibrant, and forward: prosperous Calgary. Council to ensure we, as a city, achieve what is possible – a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous Calgary.

Pathways to Potential Pathways to Potential Pathways to Potential Pathway 1: Attract, retain, and invest in talent Pathway 1: Attract, retain, and invest in talent

Pathway 1: Attract, retain, and invest in talent Pathway 2: Rebalance and stabilize property taxes Pathway 2: Rebalance and stabilize property taxes

Pathway 2: Rebalance and stabilize property taxes Pathway 3: Reimagine Calgary’s downtown Pathway 3: Reimagine Calgary’s downtown

Pathway 3: Reimagine Calgary’s downtown Pathway 4: Create an inclusive Calgary for everyone Pathway 4: Create an inclusive Calgary for everyone

Pathway 4: Create an inclusive Calgary for everyone Pathway in Calgary Calgary Pathway5:5:Make Makeititeasy easyto to do do business business in Pathway 5: Make it easy to do business in Calgary

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

2021Calgary Calgary 2021 Municipal Election Platform Municipal Election Platform 2021 Calgary Municipal Election Platform

Pathway 1: Attract, retain, and invest in talent •

Promote and develop growing companies, including through accelerators and incubators.

•

Invest in community vibrancy.

•

Encourage and develop workplace best practices, including mental health initiatives.

•

Advocate for the development of Calgary’s talent pipeline through strong post-secondary institutions.

Pathway 2: Rebalance and stabilize property taxes •

Introduce fairness between the non-residential and residential property tax rates.

•

Accelerate and explore mechanisms for municipal revenue generation.

•

Increase transparency and accountability in the property tax assessment and dispute process.

•

Reduce costs and increase effectiveness of local government.

Pathway 3: Reimagine Calgary’s downtown •

Invest in capital and social infrastructure in our downtown.

•

Attract and retain post-secondaries in downtown.

•

Continue to invest in a well-developed public transit and transportation network.

•

Accelerate the conversion of vacant offices to mixed-use space.

Pathway 4: Create an inclusive Calgary for everyone •

Pursue policies and infrastructure that increase physical and social accessibility.

•

Invest in mental health supports.

•

Use the GBA+ framework to inform decision-making that facilitates equity.

•

Collaborate with government, public, and non-profits to invest in affordable housing.

Pathway 5: Make it easy to do business in Calgary •

Maintain the creative and agile approach adopted by the City during the pandemic.

•

Facilitate direct communication between businesses and the City, creating a more customer-centric model

Join the conversation and ensure this October, your voice is heard. •

Visit: www.calgarychamber.com/pathwaystopotential

•

2021 Calgary Municipal Election Platform

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2021

Small Business Week is Back!

mall business week pays tribute to you, the wearer-of-many-hats, the up-all-nighters, the notknowing-and-figuring-it-outers, the job creators and economic contributors. This year we are pleased to bring the Calgary business community back together in-person for Small Business Week! While 2020 was the year of virtual events, we cannot wait to gather face-toface once again in 2021 and beyond. Calgary’s strong entrepreneurial spirit forged a path through the COVID-19 pandemic and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate Calgary small businesses once again with an in-person awards gala, expo and much, much more. GET INSPIRED Listen to business owners tell their growth story and become inspired to grow your business.

MEET WITH EXPERTS Have in-depth conversations with business experts to help you overcome obstacles in your business. EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE WEEK Evening with the Entrepreneurs •Wednesday, October 20, 2021 •National Music Centre Small Business Week Expo •Thursday, October 21, 2021 •BMO Centre Calgary Small Business Awards Gala •Friday, October 22, 2021 •Westin Hotel

GROW YOUR NETWORK With hundreds of attendees, make new connections and potential new business leads.

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

To learn more about these events and more, please visit our website at calgarychamber.com.

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Page 1 - Three Tips to Keep Your Property Insurance Effective Page 4 - BOMA Insider

NEWS FALL 2021

By Craig Burkart, MNP LLP

Three Tips to Keep Your Property Insurance Effective

t’s a well-worn adage that the worst time to review your insurance policy is when you need it. Property damages and interruptions are stressful enough without having to worry about whether you’re covered for a specific loss. This is not the time to be reviewing your coverage and coverage amounts and hoping it will be enough to get you back to normal. Of course, nobody ever wants to face the type of disaster that might trigger an insurance claim. Unfortunately, the laws of probability don’t really care what’s convenient or whether you’re prepared. That’s why it’s imperative you take the proactive measures below and revisit them on a regular basis. These steps can make all the difference in ensuring you and your tenants can get back on your feet as quickly — and with as few costs and administrative headaches — as possible.

REVIEW YOUR EXISTING INSURANCE POLICY

Keeping your insurance policy up to date and in line with your most likely losses is the most important step you can take to reduce your costs and get your properties back to normal after an interruption. Consider working with a third-party advisor who can help analyze your coverage for specific loss scenarios, review insurance limits and co-insurance amounts, and clarify terms and times.

Gross rental business interruption insurance typically covers short-term financial losses (e.g., 12 months) arising from the shortfall of gross rents received versus standard gross rents due to covered events. Coverage may extend to include lack of access to a premises and interruptions that disrupt the normal functioning of your property. However, policy wordings will differ and it’s imperative you understand the specifics of your policy. Like all coverages, your policies will almost certainly be subject to typical exclusions, such as break or lapse of leases, specific natural disasters, contract penalties, etc. Understanding the full scope of your business interruption insurance policy is essential to execute an effective loss strategy and business interruption analysis. As well, check to see if your policy covers professional fees for claims preparation.

MAKE SURE YOUR INSURANCE VALUES ARE STILL RELEVANT

A common thought is the COVID pandemic will increase insurance premiums. Depending on the nature of your property, they might. But tenant closures, a rise in vacancies, and reduced profits also might also cause your insurance values to decline — which in turn could see your premiums decrease. It’s also possible your

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Business in Calgary

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Communications Committee Christine White, Chair, Oxford Properties Group Rita Borrow, Brookfield Properties Lance Merrifield, Epic Roofing Jon Holmes, Camfil Aydan Aslan, BOMA Calgary

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CHAIR Richard Morden, QuadReal Property Group CHAIR-ELECT Rob Blackwell, Aspen Properties SECRETARY TREASURER Candace Walker, Brookfield Properties PAST CHAIR Lee Thiessen, MNP LLP

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Aaron Pratt, Allied Properties REIT Art Skow Blair Carbert, Carbert Waite LLP Carla Fedele, Choice Properties Christine White, Oxford Properties Group Dan Lindsay Kevin Morgans, Avison Young Tanya Befus, Cadillac Fairview

The Building Owners and Managers Association of Calgary publishes BOMA Calgary News quarterly. For advertising rates and information contact Business in Calgary. Publication of advertising should not be deemed as endorsement by BOMA Calgary. The publisher reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to reject any advertising at any time submitted by any party. Material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of BOMA Calgary, its members or its staff. © 2015 by BOMA Calgary. Printed in Canada.

insurance provider may no longer offer the same levels of coverage your property requires. Insurance values influence your insurance premium calculations — and loss-based coverage rests on them. It’s possible you’re currently paying insurance premiums to protect a gross rental revenue stream that simply does not exist anymore. And, if your insurance values reduce, your policy premium will reduce as well. Confirm your insurance values with a claims professional and conduct a maximum probable loss study. Given the impacts of the pandemic and the lingering uncertainty to come, this is an ideal time to review your insurance values and evaluate the impacts to your tenants, employees, and your business outlook. Consider key factors including real estate industry trends, consumer demands, and pricing issues.

CONSIDER CYBER INSURANCE

With many property owners and managers integrating the internet of things (IoT) into all facets of their operations — from HVAC systems to elevators, security infrastructure, and more — buildings face a greater threat of cyber attacks than ever before. It is no longer a matter of if a property will be targeted by cyber criminals, but when. However, despite the growing risk, investment in cyber insurance continues to lag. Connect with a trusted cyber security advisor to assess your exposure and identify strategies to reduce the likelihood of a breach. If you already have a cyber policy, consider an independent cyber review to assess what your coverage does and does not cover — and whether you’re taking the appropriate steps to maximize your payout and minimize the downtime in the event of a loss.

BE PREPARED, NOT SORRY

Knowing what’s included — and what’s excluded — in your insurance coverage, along with regular reviews can help mitigate legal claims and get your business back on track sooner. Accelerate and ensure your full recovery by building a comprehensive team of specialists who understand you’re your business and your insurance coverage. Take proactive steps in advance of any loss to identify team members who understand your properties, the business impacts of a disruption, and your insurance coverage. Establish and practice team-wide communications practices and be ready to delegate tasks to your team members when a disruption occurs. To learn more about how to make your business interruption policy work for you, contact Craig Burkart, National Leader Insurance Advisory, at 403.536.5533 or craig.burkart@mnp.ca 2

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BOMA Insider Welcome New BOMA Member Companies! XA Security ~ Chris Kerr Over and Above Contracting ~ Andy Dolan Cenovus Energy ~ Jeffrey Wong Audette Analytics Inc ~ Matt Alfke Black Tie Property Services Calgary ~ Kyle Egeland

If you’re interested in becoming a BOMA member, contact the BOMA office at info@boma.ca or 403.237.0559

BOMA Mentorship Program, celebrating its 9th year, focuses on individual development through mentorship and professional development; however, it also helps the industry to grow and succeed by retaining employees and enriching their skills. We are now accepting applications for the 2020/21 program. Visit www.boma.ca/professional-development/mentorship-program/ for more info.

KEEPING YOUR FACILITIES CLEAN AND SAFE

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Photos by Riverwood Photography. Wendy Docherty, Executive Vice President; Francis Docherty, President; Dolores Docherty, Administrative Assistant; Chelsy Blackmore, Customer Service; Laurie LePan, Manager of Business Development and Sales and Anton Steyn, General Manager.

Thermotex Therapy Systems Helping People and Animals Live Pain-Free by Rennay Craats

ain happens for many reasons, but the team at Thermotex Therapy Systems knows that pain doesn’t need to sideline sufferers. What began as a therapeutic product for horses has changed the lives of people with pain from ailments ranging from arthritis, sprains and tendonitis to menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia and sports injuries. Thermotex was started in the 1980s as an infrared treatment to improve racehorses’ performance, and the incredible success founder Dr. Joseph Bender had with the animals spurred him to research applying the same technique to people. In 1996, Francis Docherty purchased the company and the Docherty family has been expanding on Dr. Bender’s offerings ever since. “It’s pretty exciting and really rewarding to do what we do for 25 years. We get phone calls, letters and Thermotex Therapy Systems

emails saying we’ve changed clients’ lives now that their pain is under control or gone,” says Wendy Docherty, executive vice president of Thermotex and Francis’ daughter. The Docherty family started with a line of four personal products – the Gold, the Platinum, a knee pad and an elbow pad. The Platinum, measuring 17 inches by 15 inches, is the company’s top seller for its versatility in treating pain throughout the body, whether it’s applied flat on the back, wrapped around an arm or leg, draped over a shoulder or across the neck. The infrared heating pads target pain and inflammation where it originates, which is something a traditional heating pad can’t do. Unlike standard heating pads that offer high heat that only reaches a few millimetres into the body, the patented Thermotex products penetrate at least six

Wendy Docherty.

Francis Docherty and Dolores Docherty.

centimetres (2.36 inches) into the body using low heat. As the infrared is absorbed it heats the tissues causing the treatment area to be flooded with fresh blood and oxygen, proteins and nutrients. As the lactic acid buildup and inflammation is flushed away, it creates a natural analgesic effect for pain relief. “Our product is unique and we’ve proven the depth of penetration,” she says. “It takes 20 minutes to penetrate to that point where it is truly therapeutic.” Users are encouraged to use the infrared pads for 45 minutes twice a day for the first 10 to 14 days of treatment and then once a day as needed to maintain the benefits of infrared penetration. “Once you get the inflammation under control you don’t need to use the product as often. People who use our products regularly find that they can decrease their medications as well,” Docherty says. Thermotex expanded the product line to include pads tailored to both the left and right wrists, a foot unit, and a professional unit employed by chiropractors, physiotherapists and massage therapists for pre-treatment muscle warmup. This fall, Thermotex is also adding a neck unit to the product line, all of which are available for purchase through the company’s website, on Amazon and a few other online sellers, and select home-care facilities. The Dochertys haven’t forgotten the company’s equine roots and continues to cater to a fourlegged demographic. Thermotex upgraded the original design for horses from six pads to 12 pads to cover a larger surface area and added leggings, a sinus hood, a TMJ hood and a neck unit. “It’s great for injuries as well as pre-event warm up. If a horse is going to run a race or participate in an event, trainers typically warm up the animal ahead of time to loosen up the muscles,” she

The Thermotex Platinum Far Infrared Heating Pad.

says. “Trainers can give them a treatment with our blankets first to get the blood flowing, elongate the tissue and warm the muscles so they can save the energy the horse would otherwise use in its warmup exercise.” Along with equine pads, Thermotex has a great line for pets, with a selection of dog and cat beds and a pad for large breeds. These therapies help combat the effects of arthritis for pets in much the same way as they do for people. Unlike standard heating pads, Thermotex products are registered as medical devices with both Health Canada and the FDA in the United States and meet ISO manufacturing standards. Safety and quality are paramount to the Dochertys and they manufacture, hand-assemble and test every product before it ships out from the four bays in their southeast Calgary offices. While local, hands-on manufacturing costs more, it’s worth it for Thermotex to ensure their highquality standards are maintained on every delivery. The small family business has grown significantly over the past several years after Docherty started marketing the products more aggressively and expanding their network to include large distributors and resellers. Thermotex brought on 10 of its total 18 staff members over the past nine months to accommodate this considerable growth. As the company continues to grow, Docherty hopes more people will discover Thermotex’s line of therapeutic infrared pads and feel the pain relief for themselves.

Discover Thermotex’s full product range: www.thermotex.com

THE SLUMP AND THE STREAK // REAL ESTATE

SLUMP AND THE STREAK

THE UPS AND DOWNS OF CALGARY’S REAL ESTATE MARKET BY JOHN HARDY

ost residential real estate professionals in Calgary will remember this time as the wild market of 2021! There are various, expected and unexpected factors but, re-sales and prices are way up, condos continue a slump and rentals have cooled off.

home prices went from $492,000 in January to $537,200 in June. “With some of that pent-up demand now filled, sales are expected to remain strong through the end of the year,” Lurie adds, “but they should slow to levels more consistent with longer-term trends.”

“In Calgary, re-sales totalled 15,050 units after the first half of the year,” says Ann-Marie Lurie, the plugged-in chief economist with CREB. “The highest levels seen in more than a decade. While pent-up demand and low interest rates were expected to support sales growth in 2021, the strength in housing demand has surprised many, especially given the amount of job loss that occurred due to the pandemic.”

Lorna Hamm, the current CREB chair, underscores the positivity. “We’re moving through this recovery phase in Calgary, and that’s good for the economy and business in general. When these areas are strong, we see a stronger job market and more people wanting to come to Calgary and pursue home ownership.

Numbers show that in the first half of this year supply gains did not keep pace with demand causing a “hot seller’s market” with some big price gains. Calgary’s benchmark

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

“Real estate is very local, which means the way a particular area is functioning may be quite different than another area within the same general marketplace,” she says. “This is typically tied to competition for a given property, the location,

the community and even the specific neighbourhood and street where the property is situated.” Despite the ups and downs of real estate, Lurie projects that re-sales are expected to exceed 24,000 units, making 2021 the best year of sales since 2014. Even the quirky condo category is showing some slow and gradual improvements. Earlier this year, CREB tracking showed that the condo inventory went down and prices went up, slightly, by about three per cent year over year. According to experts like Gerry Baxter, executive director of the Calgary Residential Rental Association, “The economic recession in Alberta began in the fall of 2014. The effects of the downturn did not impact the residential rental industry in Calgary until the third quarter of 2015. Since that time, the recession has taken quite a toll on the industry. “Then COVID struck in the first quarter of 2020 and compounded the negative impact of the economic recession, and made it even more challenging to operate and maintain rental properties. Today, the rental market is showing some slight signs of recovery as inquiries and showings of rental units have been increasing.” Michael Mak, economist with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) also underscores some encouraging factors about Calgary’s rental

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BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2021

THE SLUMP AND THE STREAK // REAL ESTATE

SOME THINGS RARELY CHANGE. “EMPLOYMENT, INTERPROVINCIAL MIGRATION AND INTERNATIONAL IMMIGRATION ARE KEY FACTORS TO THE CALGARY RENTAL MARKET,” MAK SAYS. market. “Supply has steadily increased over the past five years, with both primary and secondary rental units coming to the market. Prior to COVID, the vacancy rate decreased since 2016, while average rents have slowly risen. “There has been a rising vacancy rate in the city, with downtown Calgary having the largest vacancy increase at 8.8 per cent last year compared to 3.4 per cent in 2019. Rental demand has decreased due to a combination of the economic impact of the pandemic, oil sector job losses and the border closure leading to restricted immigration. Some things rarely change. “Employment, interprovincial migration and international immigration are key factors to the Calgary rental market,” Mak says. “Today, the rental market is showing some slight signs of recovery as inquiries and showings of rental units have been increasing,” Baxter says with positivity. “With the removal of most of the COVID restrictions and some signs that our economy is improving, there is a cautious optimism as we look ahead. Like everyone else we are hopeful that at some time in the near future our lives and businesses will return to normal.”

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

Emilio, Antonio, Nick and Daniella Lupi. Photo by Riverwood Photography.

THE 50 YEAR LEGACY OF LUPI LUXURY HOMES by Rennay Craats

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years

Nick, Antonio and Emilio Lupi. Photo by Riverwood Photography.

house is just a collection of rooms under one roof but a home is where families gather to build memories. The Lupi family understands this well, and that is why every client Lupi Luxury Homes works with is delivered the home of their dreams. And it has been that way since Antonio Lupi founded the company 50 years ago. In 1963 Antonio and his wife Antonia embarked on a journey travelling from the small town of Fossacesia, Italy to immigrate in Calgary. Antonio began working at a local bakery in the morning and doing construction in the evening to support his family. After learning essential skills like cribbing and framing, Antonio became eager to master the entire home building process. Shortly afterwards, he attended the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) where he not only received his Journeyman Carpentry Certificate but also fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming an entrepreneur. Lupi Construction Ltd. was founded in 1970 in the Lupis’ Huntington Hills home. Antonia managed the reception duties for the company while raising three children as Antonio lead the job sites and sales of the company.

The birth of a family legacy truly came to fruition once their sons Luciano, Nick and Emilio joined the team. As young boys they would often assist Antonio on the sites sweeping and cleaning up. Through his dedicated work ethic and his ability to take risks, Antonio proudly crafted a legacy of old-world quality, craftsmanship and integrity. Not much has changed in the past half-century; the Lupi team has remained small to stay connected to clients and continues to create quality homes for all its clients. The business has only a half-dozen of the best people running the operation in the office. Antonio left the awardwinning company he built in the capable hands of his sons knowing they would carry on as he had. “Very few family businesses survive this long,” says Antonio Lupi. “It’s my sons who have brought the company to the next level. They are doing a great job.” Unexpectedly, Luciano, the eldest of the Lupi brothers passed away last year. To honor his spirit, Nick, Emilio and the entire Lupi family wanted to do something special. Lupi Luxury Homes introduced the Luciano Lupi Memorial Student Award to support students in the SAIT School of Construction to honor both

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years | 2

him and Antonio as alumnae. Luciano oversaw the quality control department and managed the postpossession service. He was integral in establishing and maintaining the reputation for quality and service associated with Lupi Luxury Homes, always going above and beyond to ensure clients were fully satisfied with their Lupi home. Antonio always hoped his beloved company would continue to be run by the family throughout its growth and progression. The addition of a third generation Lupi with Nick’s daughter, Daniella, joining the company as its marking coordinator represents the best kind of growth for this family business and is encouraged by Antonio. Today, family continues to be a key part of the business for Lupi Luxury Homes, and even those employees without the Lupi last name are treated like family. The brothers value their family of trade partners who are so much more to them than contractors on their job sites. Many of these partners have worked with the company for decades and have become an important part of the Lupi family. To preserve this, the brothers are careful when bringing on new partners to ensure they have the same

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years | 3

Luciano Lupi (1965-2020).

philosophy, work ethic and focus on quality that Antonio established in 1970. Lupi has earned a stellar reputation in the business, both with other professionals in the field and with clients, and the team does all it can to build upon that reputation. In fact, Lupi Luxury Homes has been a finalist three consecutive years, winning H.O.M.E. award’s “best customer experience” in two of three years and many local, provincial and national awards as well. “The great thing about remaining small is we treat every home as if it is our own. That’s something we’ve taken pride in over the years,” says Daniella Lupi. “There’s a lot of thought and love put into each home.” Currently the builder is developing homes in Rock Lake Estates in Rocky Ridge. Lupi has lots ranging from 40 to 58 feet wide available in both the “Five Lakes” and the final phase of the development “The Summit.” This coveted northwest area features natural reserves as well as mountain views and allows buyers to enjoy the convenience of city living while being surrounded by nature. The Lupi team is well versed in the area after building homes there for over a decade. Nick and Emilio are excited about creating more incredible homes in

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years | 4

the development. Homebuyers are excited too. Lupi’s showhome sold within weeks of being open, and they are currently working hard to build another to showcase their craftsmanship and design. The new showhome will be ready in 2022.

have built in northwest communities like Arbour Lake, Edgemont, Hamptons and Hawkwood, Lupi Luxury Homes has left its mark on south neighborhoods like Aspen Estates and West Grove Estates as well. It is also known for its quality inner city infills in established areas

Lupi will also soon be building in Sage Meadows, creating 28 stunning villa units. This development will feature mainly walk-out lots with breathtaking views with most lots backing west onto a beautiful greenspace. This sensational project is still in the preliminary stages and is set to launch in the fall of 2021. “One of the benefits of being a customerdriven, custom-home builder is our ability to be flexible not only in how we build but in where we build,” Emilio Lupi, general manager says. The Lupi name has become synonymous with quality and integrity in all their developments around Calgary. While they

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years | 5

like Varsity, Bridgeland, Hillhurst, Lakeview, Elbow Park and Parkdale and for building spectacular custom homes in the surrounding communities of Priddis, Bearspaw, Cochrane and Chestermere. “Consumers are looking for two main things. A home that stands the test of time, not only in design but quality, and secondly, a builder they can trust,” says Nick Lupi, president. It’s easy to maintain relationships with clients a year or five years or 20 years later when the company focuses on quality and takes the time to ensure clients are satisfied. The family is honoured to be trusted partners in that journey with clients and to take those relationships further. Lupi began doing renovations after new home clients kept coming back to the company asking for renos for their kitchens, basements and more over the years. Lupi undertakes the renovation process with as much focus and care as they do with their new home construction.

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years | 6

When reflecting on the future of both new home construction and renovations, Nick emphasizes how important it is that they hold on to their principles of superior customer service, open communication with their clients, and delivering a high-quality experience from consultation to turning over the keys and post-possession service. For 50 years, those standards have put Lupi Luxury Homes in a category all its own. From custom homes to renovations, the Lupi team will continue to turn houses into homes and clients into friends for years to come. That close client relationship is important to all three generations of Lupis. Over the year-long building process, clients become friends and often remain friends for decades. In the early days, Antonio even helped clients with financing if they couldn’t get bank approval, and those clients paid him back and built their second and even third homes with Lupi. Antonio can still remember all the families for whom he has built homes and is still greeted with a hug when he sees them.

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years | 7

Now, Antonio Lupi spends his well-earned retirement travelling with his wife Antonia and reveling in watching their seven granddaughters grow up. When he is in town, he drops by the office and although things have changed since he was at the helm, he is glowingly proud of the family business he started by pushing wheelbarrows of concrete and framing homes with his own hands.

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years | 8

1700A Varsity Estates Dr NW Calgary, Alberta (403) 239-9699 www.lupihomes.com

CHOICE.

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KNOWLEDGE.

SERVICE.

As a fellow family run company our shared values has made for a great partnership. We look forward to many more years ahead. Congratulations Lupi Luxury Homes on 50 Years!

cartwrightlighting.ca 7301-11 Street S.E. Calgary, AB, T2H 2S1 | Phone: (403) 270-8508 | cwlsales@cwlpark.com

Chartered Professional Accountants

Personal u Dedicated u Service 1700B Varsity Estates Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta,T3B 2W9 u (403) 277-0511 u www.bbbcpa.ca

Congratulations Lupi Luxury Homes Inc. on 50 successful years! We are proud to have been working along with you for the past 50 years! Here’s to another 50!

Congratulations Lupi Luxury Homes on your 50th Anniversary of Providing Quality Homes! Thank you for your support throughout the past several years. We wish you many more years of continued success. Don, Sharon and all of us at Brydon Stairs

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years | 10

To The Lupi Team,

Congratulations

The Garage Door Experts

on 50 years of being in business! Your commitment to excellence, integrity, and customer service is something to be admired. It has been an honour and pleasure to have worked with your company for the last 25 years. Cheers to you, Sagium and Kinsted Wealth

Glass A C Mirror Glass A C Mirror TM

Sagium.com || Kinsted.com

Congratulations

Lupi Homes on your 50th Anniversary!

Residential • Commercial & Industrial • Hollow Metal - Division 8/10 • Dock Division • Service & Repair

Dwayne Schjefte Residential Sales Manager - Ultralite Doors 7307 – 40 Street SE Calgary, AB | (403) 280-2000

www.ultralitedoors.ca

LTD

A Tradition of Exceeding Expectations

LTD

50 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE Congratulations to our valued customer, Lupi Luxury Homes for supporting the Calgary Community and building beautiful custom homes.

Congratulations Lupi Homes on 50 years!

AC Glass & Mirror Ltd. is proud to work with you and we look forward to a continued partnership for many more years. 403-250-8080 • www.acglass.ca

Toll-Free 1.800.640.8913 Calgary 403.279.5898 Edmonton 780.489.5591

artisticstairs.com

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years | 11

CONGRATULATIONS TO LUPI HOMES ON 50 YEARS!

CONGRATULATIONS Lupi Luxury Homes!

50 years of creating homes for your customer’s memories is a beautiful legacy. Fairways Drywall is honored to have witnessed your years of success.

Bay D, 7131 - 6th Street S.E. 403-253-2010 • regalbuilding.com

REGAL

Building Materials Ltd.

RE/MAX Real Estate (Central)

CONGRATULATIONS TO LUPI HOMES ON YOUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY! WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE BEEN A PART OF YOUR SUCCESS FOR THE LAST 27 YEARS.

Fairways Drywall Ltd 403-948-0023 • lynda@fairwaysdrywall.com www. fairwaysdrywall.com

Congratulations Lupi Luxury Homes on 50 years!

Tony DiMarzo 403-861-7669 (cell) | email: tdimarzo@remax.net www.tonydimarzo.ca

Success never comes in a day. It comes with strong determination and hard work.

Congratulations Lupi Homes on 50 years!

403.241.6991 www.rhinowaste.ca 12 YD Roll-Off Bins Porta Potties Site Fencing www.albertamarble.com

“

Custom Granite Fabricators

Specializing in all types of Concrete and Gravel Work

”

Congratulations, Lupi Homes, on your milestone!

Commercial, Industrial, Residential Concrete Suppliers

7209 Railway Street SE, Calgary, Alberta Phone: 403.253.6426 | www.rollingmix.com

231-11979 40th Avenue SE | (403) 619-8598

Congratulations to Lupi Luxury Homes on your 50th Anniversary!

Lupi Luxury Homes | Celebrating 50 Years | 12

Andy Heath, Rick Andison, Beau Brown, Jeremy Boldt and Sandra MacDougall. Photo by Photo by Candace Ward.

BIRD AND STUART OLSON Redefining Canadian Construction Together by Rennay Craats

Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

Photo by Candace Ward.

o find one thriving century-old construction services company in Canada is incredible. To find two that have combined is historic. That is exactly what happened in the fall of 2020 as Bird Construction and Stuart Olson joined forces to create a company with increased breadth and experience to better serve its client bases across the country. “This is two equivalent-sized firms that are coming together, and it really cements us as a leading coast-to-coast general contractor,” says Jeremy Boldt, assistant district manager for Bird and Stuart Olson. “With the merger we’ve diversified the portfolio of what our two firms can do.” What the new firm can do is expand its footprint and further grow the business across sectors and across the country.

GROWING SINCE 1920 Since Bird and Woodall Construction Company started in 1920, the business has consistently grown in scope and geography. By the mid-1940s it was the largest home builder in Canada and had expanded to Alberta to service the energy sector. Public since 1949, Bird Construction has worked on

Jeremy Boldt, Assistant District Manager,

100 years

committed to excellence

As the number one cordless brand in Canada, Milwaukee Tool provides innovative tools for every trade. That’s why Milwaukee is a proud partner of Bird – celebrating 100 years of construction experience in Canada. Thank you, Bird, for supporting Milwaukee Tool as we continue to innovate alongside you for safer and more productive jobsites across Canada. NEW

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Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton.

enormous projects ranging from university campuses to clean coal silos, big box stores to military facilities, hydroelectric generating stations to schools.

2017, Bird recognized the opportunities surrounding modular construction and acquired fifty per cent of Stack Modular.

The company set up districts as it secured new clients. To accommodate growth, Bird acquired its first company in 2007 to facilitate the push into the Maritimes, acquired another to support its heavy civil infrastructure, mining and energy interests, and expanded again with the acquisition of a leader in water and wastewater facilities construction. In

In 2020, Bird Construction acquired Stuart Olson, another leading construction company that has operated across Canada since 1911. While it is an acquisition by definition, it is a merger by approach, and the teams on both sides of the deal are excited about what this relationship means for the industry and for the new Bird.

ALUMINUM COMPOSITE PANELS MEMBRANE ROOFING ROOFING SERVICE & MAINTENANCE METAL ROOFING SPECIALTY WALL CLADDING FIBRE CEMENT SIDING & PANELS INSULATED METAL PANELS Cold Lake Energy Centre with Bird

Woodhaven with Stuart Olson

Beyond Building Envelope Commercial - Institutional - Industrial

Edmonton - Calgary ccscontracting.com

Congratulations Bird Construction/Stuart Olson on your 100th anniversary! Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

MAKING TWO COMPANIES ONE Early in the merger, an Integration Committee was assembled consisting of representatives from both companies’ operation groups and co-chaired by Sandra MacDougall, project director from Bird, and Beau Brown, project director from Stuart Olson. The goal was to keep employees informed about what was happening and offer points of contact should anyone have questions or concerns. By integrating the processes and communications

of both companies, they started building relationships to maintain the focus on team inherent in both legacy companies. It was important to have a smooth transition and that was made easier by the similar cultures of the two companies. “The Integration Committee has been beneficial to date and easy to implement given that we are aligned on our ideas, values and vision,” MacDougall says.

Photo by Candace Ward.

Sandra MacDougall, Project Director.

Beau Brown, Project Director.

congratulations!

Mechanical Contractor

bird stuart olson on your 100th Anniversary

Project Expertise:

• Project Management • Design/Build Services • CAD and BIM Modeling

commercial@arpis.com

• Plumbing and Heating

University of calgary Mackimmie tower

• Ventilation

(403) 236 - 2444

• Off site fabrication • COr certified • Planned & Preventative Maintenance

ARPIS.COM

• industrial piping fabrication

Bird and Stuart Olson

central library

Celebrating 100 Years

riddell library mount royal

Manyhorses High School - Tsuut’ina Nation. Photo by Sean Stewart Photography.

WHAT BIRD AND STUART OLSON CAN DO TOGETHER While the businesses were similar in culture, they offered some different services delivered in a different way. The merger further diversified the portfolio of the new company, and the complementary nature of the two sides’ strengths opened opportunities for new business. The companies were essentially operating in separate market sectors so the overlap found in many

mergers wasn’t present at Bird and Stuart Olson. There were things that Bird Construction did that Stuart Olson had not, and offerings at Stuart Olson that Bird had not explored. The teams are now amalgamating the best practices and processes into a new approach to business, thus leveraging more value for clients. “We hope to take all of this and move towards increasing that value for clients to the point where one plus one is more than two, and we can multiply with some of the complementary things that we can deliver to clients,” says Boldt.

Blueprint for a Bright Future For more than 55 years, Herc Rentals has served customers in Canada with equipment and expertise to get the job done. As a company, we are honoured to have Bird Construction as a partner leading us into the next 100 years. Congratulations to Bird on its 100-year anniversary and Stuart Olson acquisition.

HercRentals.com | 1-800-654-6659

Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

Central Library.

While Stuart Olson historically applied a construction management delivery approach, Bird Construction took more of a hard bid, lump sum method. Today’s company can offer most delivery models, finding success with general contracting and construction management, design-build, integrated project delivery, engineering, procurement, construction (EPC) and public-private partnership (P3) models. “It is a very interesting yin and yang where there’s different experience and strengths that come from the two different companies and each company has developed a certain style. Then you bring them together and we’re picking the best from both companies and combining it into the new Bird,” says Rob Otway, executive vice president, Buildings West. The new toolkit of skills and perspectives is attractive to potential and existing clients. Clients now have an expanded menu of capabilities, allowing them to use Bird and Stuart Olson as a one-stop shop that can check off most boxes in a client’s wish list. And with more than 5,000 employees operating in 18 districts across the country, Bird Stuart Olson can cover greater territory and create specialized teams. “The opportunity of the merger between these two companies is not lost on me,” says Rick Andison, director of business development. “We’ve got a unique and grand opportunity to do really good things in a short time.” Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

Central Library.

The company has expertise in a wide range of industrial, infrastructure and agricultural/food projects. It can offer clients financing options to kickstart projects that otherwise would be grounded. The company has expertise in a wide range of industrial, infrastructure and agricultural/food projects. It can offer clients financing options to kickstart projects that otherwise would be grounded. It also has a strong buildings division broken into Buildings East covering jobs from Manitoba east and Buildings West servicing clients in Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.

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New Location, Now OPEN to Serve You! Calgary and Area Call us @ 403.968.3475

Edmonton and Area Call us @ 780.915.3100

Congratulations Bird Construction/ Stuart Olson on your 100th anniversary!

BUILDINGS WEST As part of the company’s growth plan, Buildings West plans to add people who are a cultural fit with the company and to place the right people from within the company into the right positions to increase volume and opportunities across the West. Rob Otway came out of retirement to join the company after the merger to assist with the next exciting phase of growth.

We wish you many more years of continued success.

“It really is like rebuilding a company, like it’s a 100-year-old start up,” says Otway. “We’re trying to create an approach where rather than having three offices for Buildings West that are siloed, we have teams in each area that look after the local geography and clients but also cover Western Canada as a group.” It is a hybrid approach where the three western districts have their areas but are available to help with a project in Calgary, Edmonton or Vancouver as needs arise. This allows the company to serve more than just metropolitan centres as it can call upon expertise in other areas to take on jobs across the buildings division.

10805 - 50th Street SE • Calgary, AB T2C 3E5 Canada P: 403.279.6661 • F: 403.279.6604 • 24/7 Service: 403.279.6661

www.crestviewgroup.com

Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

Canadian Blood Services Facility.

BUILDINGS DIVISION GOING STRONG

less energy during construction and operation, and minimizes noise and other site disturbances during construction.

Bird and Stuart Olson have a robust buildings division nationwide and services a diverse client base. It has an extensive footprint in the commercial and retail arena, engages in a variety of residential projects, and boasts a strong portfolio of institutional projects. The company has also been involved in cultural and recreational projects along with various food processing, defense and military, and transportation buildings. Bird has embraced the growth of modular buildings, integrating conventional site construction with the opportunity to leverage pre-built steel frame modular buildings of up to 40 storeys. The company has partnered with Stack Modular on a variety of remote housing, long-term care, and multi-unit residential projects. Bird is also currently involved in a large resource project in Kitimat, BC incorporating 400 units. “On the modular side, we’re starting to look at leveraging in different commercial environments as well,” says Boldt. This aligns with the combined company’s commitment to environmental practices too as modular construction reduces waste, consumes Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

BUILDING GREEN Environmental practices are ingrained in Bird’s culture and it is implementing sustainability practices at multiple levels. The company delivers systems that meet LEED, Green Globes, Passive House and Zero Carbon building requirements and, combined with Stuart Olson, has built more than 200 LEED buildings to date. It also seeks out strategic partnerships with environmental companies to provide the best green options for clients while exploring inhouse net zero possibilities. Bird and Stuart Olson employ innovative energy-efficient initiatives for sustainable construction and low carbon solutions. Their mass timber projects use renewable wood-based resources to capture carbon and offset total CO2 emissions. The company also implements plans to reduce waste and reuse materials when possible to avoid the landfill. “There is a lot that we engage with on a regular basis on the environmental side and renewables side – reclamation of old sites, environmental cleanup, waste water infrastructure, solar power – and it

Thermo Design Insulation Ltd. provides construction supply & installation services for pre-insulated metal panels throughout Canada.

Congratulations Bird Construction/ Stuart Olson on celebrating 100 years of excellent business.

Unit 26 4550 112 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2C 2K2

403-720-8203 | info@thermo-design.com WWW.THERMO-DESIGN.COM

seems that every new opportunity that comes along opens up a new universe because we have the tools and resources at our disposal including a solid team of knowledgeable people able to deliver and bring that value-add to the client,” says Andison.

contractors

To further help the company build smarter, more efficient environmentally-friendly buildings, Bird and Stuart Olson created the Centre for Building Performance. This group helps construction teams, designers and clients implement systems that optimize building systems sustainability while reducing its environmental footprint. Once the building is turned over, the Centre provides building management solutions that can reduce operating costs and improve efficiency over time. Clients can monitor building operations in real time to identify if systems aren’t operating at peak capacity. The Centre helps teams implement the best smart building technology system for each individual project to get the best outcome for clients. The team at Bird and Stuart Olson is proud of their commitment to sustainability and is drawn to clients who are as dedicated to reducing environmental impacts as they are. Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

A GREEN TOWER The company is excited to help the University of Calgary campus reach carbon neutrality through the MacKimmie Tower project. The project’s success lies in a combination of sustainable design and modern technology and building analytics. “The University of Calgary decided to take a leadership position with regard to sustainability and pursue net zero for that structure. We’re proud to be part of that and for our teams to see and explore some of the paths to get there,” says Boldt.

Bearstone Ex Inc. Masonry Professionals

Commercial | Residential | Restoration

CONGRATULATIONS BIRD/STUART OLSON! 53 Industry Way S.E., Calgary, Alberta T3S 0A2 403-466-0006 | office@bear-stone.com www.bear-stone.com

Mount Royal University Riddell Library.

CONGRATULATIONS

Bird Construction/Stuart Olson on celebrating their 100th anniversary! Calibre Coatings (Calgary) 6224 29 Street SE • Phone: (403) 287-7728

Calibre Coatings (Edmonton) 8804 51 Avenue NW • Phone: (780) 451-6680

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

www.calibrecoatings.ca

Congratulations Bird Construction/ Stuart Olson on your 100th anniversary!

Calgary: (403) 870-2753 Edmonton: (780) 245-2753 www.unitedroofing.ca Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

Net zero paths are many: double-skin façade to decrease energy consumption, photovoltaic roof panels, wastewater energy capture and using less carbon-intense building materials. The Centre also provides realtime analytics to help the University of Calgary improve ongoing system performance for maximum energy efficiency. The MacKimmie Tower will be one of the most energy-efficient buildings on a Canadian post-secondary campus.

The company is dedicated to the health of the environment as well as the health of the communities in which it works. The company contributes to more than 60 causes and scholarships yearly, with employees often steering the initiatives’ direction. They host a quarterly blood drive in the Canadian Blood Services facility Bird built, and partner with organizations like Zero Hungry Kids to make sure kids in schools like those they build don’t go hungry. The company and its employees donate time, funds and fundraise for many causes dear to them to better their communities. This includes bettering the First Nations communities touched by many of its projects.

Congratulations on 100 years in business, and on merging with stuartolson! 800-230-5516 • WWW.ALLMAR.COM

Congratulations Bird Construction/Stuart Olson on your 100th anniversary!

780-451-0060 | www.overheaddoor.ca

Bird and Stuart Olson are moving forward post-merger with sights on measured growth through a quality product coupled with social and environmental responsibility. “We have a really strong Indigenous Relations program,” says Boldt, and the company continues to engage and consult with Indigenous people on projects and to encourage them to participate in the workforce of those projects.

United Supreme would like to congratulate Bird Stuart Olson for years of servicing commercial construction clients in Calgary and surrounding area.

Bird and Stuart Olson are moving forward post-merger with sights on measured growth through a quality product coupled with social and environmental responsibility.

CALGARY 403-569-1101 • EDMONTON 780-784-4040 unitedsupremegroup.com

UNITED SUPREME GROUP

Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

Andy Heath, Rick Andison, Jeremy Boldt, Beau Brown and Sandra MacDougall. Photo by Candace Ward.

FUTURE IS BRIGHT As Bird enters its second century in business, it is focused on optimizing its IT and delivery systems, financial systems and technology to be ready to meet the challenges of the future. It is leaning into digitizing the business, working with 3D-digital versions of buildings to allow clients and teams to look at all aspects of a building virtually in pre-construction. “The new Bird going forward is going to be a very modern and sophisticated company that delivers on what clients are really asking for – the relationships and collaboration as well as the technical expertise,” says Otway. It’s exciting times at Bird and Stuart Olson and the integrated team is more than up to the challenge.

We are grateful for the 20+ years we have been working with Bird Construction and Stuart Olson and look forward to celebrating the next milestone. D.C.M. Mechanical Ltd has been a Calgary owned and operated company since 1993 specializing in design and installation of commercial mechanical components ranging from HVAC Systems, to complete refrigeration systems. Given the opportunity, we will provide you with high quality estimating which will eventually lead to the execution of a quality built project. w w w.dcm-mechanical.com

Bird and Stuart Olson

Celebrating 100 Years

Take a look as two 100-year-old companies come together for #OurBestBuildYet

GOLF LIKE YOU ARE A JUNIOR // SCOTT ORBAN

McKenzie Meadows Golf Tip:

Golf Like You Are a Junior BY SCOTT ORBAN, PGA EXECUTIVE PROFESSIONAL, MCKENZIE MEADOWS GOLF CLUB

e’ve all golfed with somebody who wants to give us advice and constantly tells us what we did wrong after every shot: “You looked up,” “You were aimed over there,” “You were too quick.” Man, that would drive me crazy if I had to listen to it during a game. Sometimes the advice is solicited and sometimes it is not. The good news is it’s actually against the rules of golf to give or receive advice during a game. (See rule 10-2 titled “Advice and Other Help.”) I think it’s poor etiquette during a friendly game to give people advice relating to their swing mechanics. When I am playing, many golfers ask me for advice during the game. There is a lot going on in golf and we can assist on many things not related to swing mechanics such as distance, swing selection, club selection or even direction (if asked). I tend to steer away from any swing advice during the game if I can. Swing advice during the game is distracting. It takes the focus off the simple objective of striking the ball toward a target and changes the golfers focus to physical movements that make up their swing. Golf is a motor skill, just like jogging. Do you ever think about the extension or flexion of your left ankle when you are jogging? Junior golfers are very intuitive and tend to shut out unsolicited advice related to their swings. They are doers, not analysers. Following are a few tips that they seem to learn very quickly without over-analysis. They will help your game without getting into your head about your swing. Try these a few times at the practice areas and then take them on the course:

Side hill / down hill lies: Get into balance on the hillside. Make a practice swing and ensure you are in balance at the end of the swing. Visualize and sense where you think that shot would have gone. Adjust direction based on your swing path (or divot) and also let this determine your ball position. Now commit to that and hit the ball. Putting: If you have a downhill putt, concentrate on the distance and play for the break. If it is uphill, play for less break and be more aggressive. Greenside bunker: Try using a square clubface and then graduate to opening it just a little bit. Most golfers open the clubface too much, so be careful with this. Driving: Have a good routine. See a target in the distance and pick out an intermediate target about 10 yards in front of your ball. Commit to your intermediate target when you set up. Rough grass around the green: Practice swing to get a sense of the grass and the lie you have. Do it several times. This may lead to you changing clubs or the type of swing. Get your rhythm through this rough. The practice swing will tell you what you need to do. Trust that decision. My old pro used to tell me that my swing would be the same on the 18th hole as it is on the first hole. Improve your focus and you will improve your shots. Play like a kid, have fun and forget about all the noise.

Fairway bunkers: Take one more club than you normally use from that distance. Stand a little taller at the knee. Focus on the target side of the golf ball. Make a balanced swing. HTTPS://WWW.MCKENZIEMEADOWS.COM/ACADEMY/GOLF-TIPS

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

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PARKER’S PEN // DAVID PARKER

Parker’s Pen BY DAVID PARKER

have voted in all of the elections we’ve (thankfully) been able to participate in. But I am not a big fan of politicians, wondering their reasons for wanting such a demanding job and why, once elected, they spend their time trying to make sure they get re-elected instead of buckling down and solving the problems that might make the world a better place. Isn’t it interesting how people who have served a term find things that are wrong and promise to right them when they are back in the chambers, even though they have sat there for a whole session without doing anything to solve them? The polls – on this day – make mention of only sitting members but I was pleased to note a comment from first-time candidate for mayor Brad Field who said, “I’m a businessman, I employ a lot of people, and I sign the front of cheques every month.”

Our current mayor says the arena is a good deal for the citizens, a huge win for the ratepayer. But, not being a believer that the moon is made of cream cheese, I would like to revisit the comment a couple of years down the road. The cost keeps going up and we have yet to get a shovel in the ground. For goodness’ sake don’t demolish the Saddledome just yet. Add to this cost the donations from the public purse into a few other projects such as the BMO Centre, Glenbow Museum, Arts Commons and the Green Line, and I hope your kids have good jobs to be able to reimburse the city kitty.

So much for American technology – and spending. It was pointed out to me recently that the U.S. spent millions in designing a ballpoint pen that could write in space. The Russians took a pencil.

SEPTEMBER 2021 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

British media reports that National Health Service staff, including nurses, paramedic, consultants and salaried GPs, are to get a three per cent pay raise, recognizing their contribution during an ‘unprecedented’ year. So, what ‘rewards’ are ours getting?

I think one of the sillier pandemic restrictions has to be the banning of rakes in bunkers. Most of us wear a glove anyway but it sure helps those I’ve noticed ‘teeing-up’ the ball on a mound of sand.

Hope we don’t have a worrying environmental problem but during an enjoyable round at Kananaskis I noticed only one chipmunk and not even a crow. And among the flowers in my garden, I have yet to spot a butterfly or a ladybird.

Back to e-scooters if I may. With small wheels and a floorplate close to the ground they must be hard to control over Calgary’s infamous potholes. And I was surprised and ticked off while waiting behind a man and his teenage daughter on 8th Street and 4thAvenue S.W. to watch them nonchalantly buzz across while the light was red. Not a very good example of parental guidance.

Final Words Earning a living is mostly earning and not enough living.

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Business in Calgary - September 2021

Articles inside

Parker’s Pen

Calgary Chamber of Commerce

Lupi Luxury Homes

BOMA Calgary News

Golf Like You Are a Junior

Investing in the Everyday

Operation Office Makeover

A is for Apprenticeship

It’s Our Race to Win or Lose!