Business in Calgary - May 2022

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MAKING LIFE BEAUTIFUL PM42455512

HASOON RAHAL, OWNER OF SPASATION, TRANSFORMS LIVES ONE HAIRCUT AT A TIME

THE RAIL BOOM

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EDMONTON CHAMBER SECTION

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Better ways to solve business problems?

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STORY TITLE // SECTION

Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time.

Volume 10 | Number 5

REGULAR COLUMNS

9 12

Who You Gonna Call?

By John Liston

Provincial and Federal Budgets Bring Some Optimism for Edmonton Businesses

By David MacLean

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CONTENTS COVER FEATURE

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Making Life Beautiful Hasoon Rahal, owner of Spasation, transforms lives one haircut at a time

By Nerissa McNaughton

ON OUR COVER: ABOVE: HASOON RAHAL, OWNER OF SPASATION. PHOTO SOURCE: EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY INC.

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MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

AI is Changing the World of Business; Falling Behind Is Not an Option

By Elan MacDonald

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Edmonton Chamber of Commerce

NUTRIEN INC. MAINTENANCE AND TURNAROUNDS Redwater, AB

INDUSTRIAL HEARTLAND PCL’s Heavy Industrial companies provide construction management, direct-hire execution, pipe and vessel fabrication, modular assembly, shutdown and maintenance, and commissioning services to meet clients’ needs in the renewable energy, electrical infrastructure, nuclear, petrochemical, oil and gas, mining, and resource extraction industries.

PCL.COM

STORY TITLE // SECTION

Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time.

Volume 10 | Number 5

53

CONTENTS COMPANY PROFILES

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D reamcatchers Gift & Art Gallery Celebrates Business Excellence

19 THIS MONTH’S FEATURES

19 31

The Rail Boom The Edmonton connection

By John Hardy

dmonton’s Infrastructure E Momentum

By John Hardy

T he Newly Institute

Celebrates Business Excellence

Rose Building Maintenance Celebrates 40 Years

Exquisicare Senior Living Celebrates 10 Years

A ltaPro Electric Celebrates 35 Years

MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

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Revenge of the Travellers Easing restrictions see increased outbound and inbound tourism for Edmontonians

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THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS Nerissa McNaughton Natalie Noble

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MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

WHO YOU GONNA CALL? // JOHN LISTON

Who You Gonna Call?

BY JOHN LISTON, VICE PRESIDENT, ALBERTA ENTERPRISE GROUP

O

n February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine. These crimes against humanity have triggered Europe’s largest refugee crisis since World War II, with more than 4.1 million Ukrainians leaving the country and a quarter of the population displaced. At time of writing the people of Poland have taken in 2.8 million people, and the resulting pressure on their infrastructure is leaving food shelves bare and supplies reduced.

On March 10th former Deputy Premier Thomas Lukaszuk of Polish descent, and former Premier Ed Stelmach of Ukraine descent, got on the phone and talked about how they could help. The obvious need was for food, medical supplies, hygiene products, etc. but how to gather them and how to get them there? As is so often the case, the phone calls go out to the business communities around the world.

Thomas Lukaszuk decided to start with a long shot, a cold call to the president of LOT Airlines, the national air carrier of Poland. “I need a plane” was the ask. “What for?” was the response. “To bring supplies to Poland to help the evacuees and our Polish friends caring for them.” Without hesitation, “The answer is yes, how big a plane do you need?” After a quick assessment, the 787 Dreamliner was booked. A small problem, LOT doesn’t fly to Edmonton. EIA then jumped on board and went to work. They were outstanding in gathering their team of partner companies who offered services, hotel rooms, suggestions – and all hands were on deck.

It is a simple formula; the world has problems, businesspeople step up. Over and over.

The LOT president asked if we could re-fuel the plane. Enter Shell Canada who offered to foot the bill for the great Alberta produced fuel that filled the plane. The cost of the trip with

pilots, staff, etc. was over $150,000. One call to a business leader, and he gathered a group of business folks to cover that expense.

Alberta Enterprise Group, a collection of over 100 businesses that employ over 100,000 Canadians offered to get the word out. They hosted a podcast with Premier Stelmach and sent out a list of needs to the member companies. Within seconds the emails and calls were buzzing. “What do you need, where do you need it?” They stepped up in large amounts. The first need was warehouse space. That was almost immediate.

Transportation and logistics companies were on it. MTE Logistics, NexGen Transportation, Encore Trucking and more. Then the need was pallets. Knelsen Sand & Gravel and other companies jumped in. Groceries were being delivered by the pallet from Mike Lovsin at Freson Bros. Valve company Prism Flow Products had crates that could be filled with wheelchairs and walkers. It just kept coming.

Between the business contributions and the public delivering to the Polish Hall, they filled the plane and ran out of space on it. They collected close to $20 million worth of goods in short order and have 10 loaded sea-cans to ship to Poland to follow the plane.

The plane arrived into Edmonton on a Monday loaded with Ukrainian evacuees coming to safety. It left Edmonton on a Tuesday full of supplies, and on Friday we saw pictures of the truckloads of supplies arriving in Lviv. It was extraordinary to see what Thomas Lukaszuk and Ed Stelmach created with their leadership, some phone calls and a defined need.

Who you gonna call? What Ed and Thomas now know is that their business community will be there. They always are!

ALBERTA ENTERPRISE GROUP (AEG) PUTS ALBERTA BUSINESSES FIRST BY SHARING INFORMATION, ADVOCACY AND BUILDING BRIDGES TO NEW MARKETS. AEG MEMBERS ARE BUSINESS OWNERS, SENIOR EXECUTIVES, INVESTORS AND ENTREPRENEURS REPRESENTING FIRMS IN EVERY MAJOR ALBERTA INDUSTRY. AEG MEMBERS EMPLOY OVER 100,000 ALBERTANS AND GENERATE BILLIONS IN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY EACH YEAR.

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // MAY 2022

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Dreamcatchers Gift & Art Gallery

MORE THAN A GALLERY Dreamcatchers provides education, advocacy, a home base for Indigenous artists and so much more

By Nerissa McNaughton

D

reamcatchers Gift & Art Gallery, a certified Aboriginal Business with Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, is family owned and operated. Its main goal is to help local businesses in Alberta enrich their offices, common areas and client contact spaces with beautiful, authentic Indigenous art. Through Dreamcatchers, art can be bought or rented, providing each office with a continuous stream of educational, motivational and cultural artworks.

The gallery is also open to the general public and provides commissioned paintings. Each canvas tells a story. Each work of art inspires those that pause to reflect on its meaning.

Dreamcatchers is owned by artist Ellie Lagrandeur and managed by her daughter Stacey Shearing.

Lagrandeur maintained a successful career as an artist for over 35 years and developed a large collection of paintings. She discovered an opportunity to rent her art and the business idea flowed from there. Collaborating with her daughter brought the gallery to life and provided a creative space for Lagrandeur to paint, to represent other local artists and act as a base for the gallery’s rental program. She incorporated the business in 2018 and opened the doors on December 21, 2019.

“We were able to rent a large amount of art to clients in the oil field housing industry, which then gave us the amazing opportunity to donate significantly to charities of their choice,” says Lagrandeur. “Together, with our present clients, we have proudly supported local charities such as Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation, Kids With Cancer Society, Edmonton’s Food Bank and Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council Education Authority.”

The gallery is also pleased to give back in traditional ways. Lagrandeur notes, “Since opening the gallery, we have had the honour of being called upon to perform smudging ceremonies in local community spaces such as the Fort Saskatchewan Public Library and The Bridge Wellness Hub for Youth.” Lagrandeur recently designed orange

Stacey and Ellie sit in front of Ellie’s latest moose painting.

t-shirts for Every Child Matters. The shirts sold out in two days and Dreamcatchers donated the proceeds to the Orange Shirt Society. This year she was commissioned to design two original Truth and Reconciliation paintings for the Education Student Association at Kings University in Edmonton.

The gallery is fairly new but Lagrandeur and the artists she represents are rapidly gaining traction across Alberta. In 2020, Lagrandeur was awarded the title of Artist of The Year for Art in Public Places in Fort Saskatchewan and in 2022 she was the artist of choice for a fully virtual paint night hosted by Painting For Truth to support the Anishnawbe Health Foundation. This virtual night was also used as a conversation starter about the importance of Indigenous culture, history and Truth and Reconciliation.

“We’re not just an art gallery, we’re an experience,” smiles Lagrandeur. “We strive to provide our customers and clients with one-of-a kind artworks and handmade gifts and often have our artists painting live in the gallery. Our exclusive and ever-growing collection for our rental program is flexible and unique while being affordable and accessible.”

The clients and community of Fort Saskatchewan have been very welcoming to the gallery; Lagrandeur and Shearing look forward to the continued expansion of their services across Alberta. They achieve this with a growing reputation along with incorporating Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

business, which has been instrumental for the opening of Dreamcatchers Gift & Art Gallery.

“The most rewarding thing for us” says Lagrandeur, “is to provide a welcoming space for everyone who walks through our doors, artists and customers alike. Our customers always mention how the gallery is inspiring, calm and spiritual. In addition, the positive feedback we have received from our rental clients has shown that not only is the product beneficial to all, but the charitable component enables us all to efficiently experience the joy of giving back. We are grateful for the opportunity to enrich their businesses and lives through art.”

Learn more at www.dreamcatchersartrental.com.

Dreamcatchers thanks and acknowledges its art rental clients, including GNS Industrial Trailer Service Ltd. and Red Earth Lodge for their continued

Lagrandeur and Shearing conclude, “We look forward to adding to our growing Indigenous art collection and creating new win-win business relationships that enable us to give back.”

Dreamcatchers Gift & Art Gallery 10209 100 AVE Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L 1Y7 780-589-2787 dreamcatchersgal@gmail.com

Find us @dreamcatchersgal

PROVINCIAL AND FEDERAL BUDGETS BRING SOME OPTIMISM // DAVID MACLEAN

Provincial and Federal Budgets Bring Some Optimism for Edmonton Businesses

BY DAVID MACLEAN

B

oth the federal and provincial budgets this year mark a significant change. The big headline, of course, was the remarkable Alberta provincial budget. For first time since 2014-15, a balanced budget is on the horizon.

This is a historic accomplishment. Yes, to a substantial degree the Kenney government was rescued by rising oil and gas royalties and a resulting corporate tax windfall.

However, dig a little deeper and you see that the government did some heavy lifting by holding the line on spending more than most other governments. The government has held spending increases in line with inflation and this has made a significant difference. More surprising is they managed this kind of restraint during a pandemic while significantly boosting health spending.

Of course, the biggest challenge for Alberta industry in the near term is labour shortages. This is the case across Canada, but it promises to be especially severe here at home with an oil gas sector gaining traction and drawing from an already shallow labour pool.

Alberta Budget 2022 acknowledges this makes some significant commitments that should help over the longterm. They’ve committed $171 million over the next three years to expand enrolment in post-secondary programs focusing on technology, finance, energy, health care and innovation. They are also investing $30 million to enhance apprenticeship programs and partner with Women Building Futures and CAREERS: The Next Generation.

There is also an additional $47 million over three years in capital funding and $25 million over three years in operating funding to expand collegiate programs and charter schools, with particular attention on expanding opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Highlights from the federal budget included some strategic commitments aimed at stimulating innovation and investment. We were pleased to see several measures designed to improve Canada’s innovation and investment performance, including the creation of a Canadian Innovation and Investment Agency. However, its mandate will need to be clear, agile and align with industry needs if the agency is to deliver on its promise of improving investment growth in manufacturing.

Ninety per cent of Canadian manufacturers say they are experiencing supply chain disruptions that are affecting their ability to produce and sell products. New measures announced in the budget, such as the National Corridors Fund to Facilitate the Movement of Goods, the development of industry-led solutions to make supply chains more resilient and the elimination of red tape to make supply chains more competitive could prove helpful.

Unfortunately, the federal budget did not offer any substantial measures to address ongoing and acute labour shortages in manufacturing, even though the sector is currently facing a record-high 81,000 job vacancies.

Recently announced changes to Temporary Foreign Worker Program are welcome but more solutions were expected in the budget.

The federal and provincial budgets signal a return to “normal” as we emerge (hopefully) from the worst of the pandemic.

There’s a line of sight to balanced budgets provincially and reduced national deficit nationally, with some targeted investments in key areas. Significant challenges remain, but federal and provincial governments seem to be emphasizing key areas needed for long-term recovery.

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MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

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AI IS CHANGING THE WORLD OF BUSINESS; FALLING BEHIND IS NOT AN OPTION // ELAN MACDONALD

AI is Changing the World of Business; Falling Behind Is Not an Option

BY ELAN MACDONALD, VP EXTERNAL RELATIONS, U OF A

O

“AI can help us make better-informed, data-driven decisions, amplifying the work that people do either through allowing them to do things they couldn’t before, or by refocusing on tasks that are better uses of their time,” says Linke.

More than a century later, those mammoth department stores of old are largely gone, replaced by multinationals and online vendors. But understanding and meeting the needs of customers remains at the core of business – and we now have some revolutionary tools to more accurately target and serve them.

Think about the problems you have to solve every day at your business: hiring and scheduling staff, managing your supply chain, marketing a new product or service, budgeting, and retaining or attracting new customers. What would it look like if machines could help your teams work more efficiently?

Think about the other tasks your staff could take on if the more rote tasks were left to the AI.

ne of the most well-known – and enduring – slogans in business is: “The customer is always right.” The phrase was popularized by a handful of 19th-century U.K. and American department store owners who wanted to make their customers feel special, and motivate staff to treat them as such.

Artificial intelligence has emerged as one of the most powerful of those tools. A global study last September by McKinsey & Company of almost 2,000 firms found that 56 per cent have already integrated AI into at least one business function – up significantly from just six per cent from the previous year. Respondents said that AI helped them reduce costs and increase revenue year over year.

But, perhaps more importantly, AI in business enhances the work of your human teams.

In my time as a consultant, I worked with a client in the radiology space. I was amazed by how they used AI as a tool to help their employees work more effectively and efficiently. They took advantage of the AI’s remarkable ability to recognize patterns to support their work. Of course, the AI didn’t replace skilled professionals, but it saved critical time, improved accuracy and allowed them to better predict instances of diseases such as cancer.

In other words, using AI helped people save time, money and most importantly generated better results. Or, as Cam Linke, CEO of Edmonton-based Amii, the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute, puts it: the real strength of AI is in working in concert with humans, not in isolation.

In fact, you might already be using AI-powered tools for some functions, like advertising and customer service, but the future for artificial intelligence in business is much more vast.

That is particularly the case in Edmonton, which for decades has been one of the most important global hubs for AI. The U of A has ranked No. 3 globally in AI research for more than 25 years, and in 2017 helped attract AI research leader DeepMind to open its first international lab — right here in Edmonton. Our AI experts are testing how emerging technologies like 5G and automated vehicles can be integrated into our growing cities, and developing new treatments for diseases like depression, dementia and diabetes. Researchers have also adapted AI to revolutionize complex industries, like construction, that face a lot of unpredictable challenges. It’s one more advantage you can give your business.

The customer might always be right, but if we don’t give them the services and products they want as efficiently as possible, they can and will go elsewhere. Let’s make artificial intelligence our secret weapon to ensure the Edmonton region is a global business leader.

ELAN MACDONALD IS PAST CHAIR OF THE EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND A FOUNDING DIRECTOR WITH EDMONTON GLOBAL. SHE ALSO SITS ON THE BOARDS OF COVENANT HEALTH, ATLAS BIOTECHNOLOGIES AND ALBERTA BALLET. SHE IS THE VICE-PRESIDENT (EXTERNAL RELATIONS) OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA. HER COLUMN APPEARS MONTHLY IN BUSINESS IN EDMONTON.

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Stantec Places on The Globe And Mail’s Women Lead Here Benchmark Of Executive Gender Diversity Stantec, a global leader in sustainable design and engineering, celebrates being recognized in The Globe and Mail’s 2022 Report on Business Women Lead Here list.

For the 2022 ranking, Report on Business conducted a journalistic analysis of nearly 500 large, publicly traded Canadian companies, evaluating the ratio of femaleidentifying to male-identifying executives in the top three tiers of executive leadership. The resultant data was applied to a weighted formula that also factored in company performance, diversity and year-to-year change.

“We are pleased to be included on the Globe and Mail’s Women Lead Here list. While the effort to realize gender diversity, specifically at a leadership level is ongoing, it is important to celebrate the recognition of Stantec’s efforts and improvements,” says Asifa Samji, Stantec’s chief human resources officer. “The recognition of Stantec’s progress could not be achieved without the focus and work of all our employees who strive every day to make our organization increasingly inclusive, and diverse.”

In total, 74 companies earned the 2022 Women Lead Here seal, with a combined average of 46 per cent of executive roles held by female-identifying individuals.

This annual editorial benchmark identifies best-inclass executive gender diversity in corporate Canada.

Established in 2020 by Report on Business magazine, the Women Lead Here initiative applies a proprietary research methodology to determine Canadian corporations with the highest degree of gender diversity among executive ranks. This initiative highlights businesses that have made

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tangible, systemic, organizational progress related to executive gender parity.

Stantec again achieves top ranking for sustainable performance from Corporate Knights and fourth consecutive A- rating by CDP Corporate Knights ranked Stantec 1st in its Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services peer group, 1st in the Construction and Engineering Global Industry Classification Standard, and 17th overall in the Corporate Knights Global 100 most sustainable companies rankings.

Stantec has also been awarded an A- rating by CDP, making it the only firm in the engineering and design industry to earn a “Leadership” rating for the last four consecutive years. The firm was among more than 13,000 disclosing companies worldwide reporting to CDP in 2021.

Stantec recently validated its emissions reduction targets for scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions through the Science Based Targets initiative. The targets are consistent with reductions to keep warming to 1.5°C to prevent the most damaging effects of climate change.

Stantec also remains top of class in the engineering and design space across other sustainability ranking systems, including Sustainalytics, MSCI, and ISS ESG, and was recently one of 45 companies awarded the inaugural Terra Carta seal for driving innovation and momentum towards a genuinely sustainable market by His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales.

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$50 Million For Projects to Support Alberta’s Circular Economy Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) is committing $50 million through its new Circular Economy Challenge to accelerate the province’s transition towards a low-emissions economy. The investment from the Government of Alberta through ERA is focused on advancing innovations that will reduce the impacts of material production, processing, and disposal and support economic diversification.

Waste has been identified as a global problem. The current economic system functions mainly in a linear fashion: natural resources are extracted and processed into products that are used once before being discarded at end-of-life. A circular economy is designed to significantly reduce waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use and regenerate natural systems. Product lifecycles are extended by reuse, recycling, upcycling, resource recovery and lowimpact design.

Globally, the circular economy is poised to unlock $4.5 trillion of economic growth by 2030, and as much as $25 trillion by 2050, according to research by Accenture Strategy for the book, Waste to Wealth. Circular economy approaches will make supply chains more resilient, significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, create jobs and boost companies’ competitiveness and profitability.

Funding is sourced from the Government of Alberta’s Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) fund. ERA launched the Circular Economy Challenge at GLOBE Forum on Wednesday, March 30, 2022.

Applications are invited for projects at the stages of field pilot, demonstration or first-of-kind commercial implementation. The $50 million Circular Economy Challenge is open to new builds, retrofits and projects that have been previously initiated but have stalled due to the current economic situation. The maximum length for projects is three years from initiation.

Innovators, technology developers, Indigenous communities, industrial facility owners and operators, industrial associations, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), research and development organizations, universities, municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, government research labs and individuals are invited to apply.

Projects may involve components outside of Alberta, but all technology demonstration and deployment activities must occur in the province. Projects could include waste-to-valueadd products, high value material extraction from waste streams, metals recycling and reuse, novel mineral sources, agriculture waste reduction, municipal waste, carbon dioxide conversion or utilization and advanced plastics recycling and circular plastics technologies.

“A circular economy, at its core, is about shifting traditional resource and waste challenges into new opportunities. ERA is actively seeking out the best and brightest ideas to inspire the adoption of technologies that support this new economy,” says Steve MacDonald, CEO, Emissions Reduction Alberta.

Partnerships are encouraged. Consortiums help attract and retain highly skilled workers, increase Alberta’s innovation capacity, engage local communities, and leverage complementary resources. Applicants are encouraged to partner with Alberta’s post-secondary and research institutions, Indigenous communities, co-operative organizations and municipalities where they can.

ERA will match private contributions to a single project for up to 50 per cent of the project’s eligible expenses. Successful applicants are eligible for up to $10 million with a minimum request of $500,000. The application deadline is Thursday, May 26, 2022, at 5 p.m. (MST).

Submissions will be selected through ERA’s competitive review process. A team of experts in science, engineering, business development, commercialization, financing and GHG quantification will conduct an independent, rigorous, transparent review overseen by a Fairness Monitor.

PROVIDED BY EMISSIONS REDUCTION ALBERTA.

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MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

THE EDMONTON CONNECTION // TRANSPORTATION & DISTRIBUTION

THE RAIL BOOM

BY JOHN HARDY

THE EDMONTON CONNECTION

T

here’s been a lot of buzz, often contentious and problematic, about North American supply chains, while business continues to rely on the sophisticated science of logistics: the movement of goods from Point A to Point B and the two key logistics function of transportation and warehousing.

The emphasis, particularly on the busy west coast and landlocked western Canada, is invariably four primary modes of transportation: truck, ship, train and plane, also known as road, maritime, rail and air shipments. It may not be in the glaring focus or in the news as much as trucking and cargo ships but, according to stats and revenues and shares of GDP, rail is the linchpin of Canada’s vital logistics sector.

The transportation bottom line is, Canada’s economic growth and standard of living depend on the export and import of goods. Freight railways ensure that those goods make

it to market as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.

Canada’s railways helped deliver more than $205 billion worth of Canadian exports to markets across North America and around the globe.

“Together, CN and CPR represent more than 95 per cent of Canada’s annual rail tonne-kilometres, more than 75 per cent of the industry’s tracks, and three-quarters of overall tonnage carried by the rail sector,” explains

THE TRANSPORTATION BOTTOM LINE IS, CANADA’S ECONOMIC GROWTH AND STANDARD OF LIVING DEPEND ON THE EXPORT AND IMPORT OF GOODS.

PHOTO SOURCE: TIM STEVENS

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // MAY 2022

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THE EDMONTON CONNECTION // TRANSPORTATION & DISTRIBUTION

Stéphanie Montreuil, senior director of communications with the Railway Association of Canada (RAC), “and they are important supply chain links for Canada’s key trade corridors and gateways.” She adds that, with more than 46,000 kilometres of tracks, the rail transport industry is an important element of Canada’s transportation system, generating approximately $10 billion per year – 95 per cent from rail freight operations and approximately five per cent from commuter, intercity and tourist passenger rail services.

There’s no doubt about it. Rail is key component of the logistics sector in Alberta, and particularly the Edmonton area.

According to CN spokesman Mathieu Gaudreault, “Alberta generates substantial volumes of agricultural and energy products. CN also handles growing amounts of intermodal container traffic through our Edmonton and Calgary terminals. In Edmonton, where over 2,000 CN railroaders live and work, we have automotive distribution and CargoFlo bulk handling facilities as well as metals and forest products distribution centres. CN also maintains large railcar and locomotive repair shops at Edmonton’s Walker Yard.”

“RAIL IS VITALLY IMPORTANT TO THE

RAC has research and documented facts and figures about the vital role of rail in Canada’s economy and volumes of detailed proof about the undisputed advantages of rail in Canada’s logistics sector. Although transportation of goods by railway is somewhat below the capacities offered by trucks, rail freight still accounts for a fairly substantial portion of supply chain movement. RAC underscores the many good reasons to send freight by rail. It is cost-effective and up to four times more fuel-efficient than sending freight by truck, which is better for the environment. RAC stats show that a rail freight shipment company transports can move nearly double the quantity of goods they could in ‘80s, for about the same price.

CHEAPER WAY TO TRANSPORT GOODS

Montreuil points out that “Rail is one of Canada’s most capital-intensive industries. Canadian railways are vertically integrated, including ownership of the track, real estate

ALBERTA ECONOMY. RAIL IS IMPORTANT TO CANADA’S EXPORTS, PARTICULARLY AGRICULTURE EXPORTS AND SOMETIMES THE RAIL BOTTLENECK IS KNOWN TO HAVE CAUSED PROBLEMS IN OUR EXPORTS. RAIL IS ALSO A THAN TRUCKS,” SAYS WONG. and rolling stock, which illustrates the need for significant investments. On average, Canadian railways invest between 20 and 25 per cent of their revenues back into their networks each year – more than $20 billion in Canada over the past decade.”

According to Edy Wong, associate dean at the International School of Business at UAlberta in Edmonton, “Rail is vitally important to the Alberta economy. Rail is important to Canada’s exports, particularly agriculture exports and sometimes the rail bottleneck is known to have caused problems in our exports. Rail is also a cheaper way to transport goods than trucks.”

ABOVE: EDY WONG, ASSOCIATE DEAN AT THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AT UALBERTA IN EDMONTON.

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MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

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THE EDMONTON CONNECTION // TRANSPORTATION & DISTRIBUTION

He notes that COVID disruptions and last year’s supply chain problems negatively impacted the logistics sector, with broadsides like shortage of truckers, lack of containers, rise in container costs, port congestion, etc. “Some of these may recover post-COVID,” he says, “but a better rail system can take some pressure off the logistics sector caused by shortages of driver and capacity.

“If Edmonton is to become a distribution hub and manufacturing centre, better logistics are absolutely crucial. In Alberta and throughout Canada, we need better supply chain management to support our exports and future aspirations. Links to markets, trans-shipment and distribution capabilities are all important. This would include a viable airport and better management and capacity at the West coast ports too.”

A dynamic example of harnessing the importance of rail to business and the economy is Parkland County, the booming logistics hub just outside Edmonton. The county has created a thriving business community supported by a robust transportation ecosystem, centered around Edmonton International Airport, Canadian National and Canadian Pacific railroads, intermodal facilities and Highways 43 and 16.

“Acheson is the beating, industrial heart of our county, with more than 400 businesses residing at the intersection of these major logistics routes,” says the enthusiastic Allan Gamble, Mayor of Parkland County. “To support Acheson as one of the largest and fastest-growing industrial areas in western Canada, Parkland County helps optimize supply chain efficiency and reduce operating costs for the diversity of businesses that have made Acheson home.

“Parkland County also uses a major business attraction program, which contributes to Acheson’s attractiveness. This includes a dedicated team, a hands-on approach to planning and permitting, and potential realignment of infrastructure priorities to support development.”

“PARKLAND COUNTY ALSO USES A MAJOR BUSINESS ATTRACTION PROGRAM, WHICH CONTRIBUTES TO ACHESON’S ATTRACTIVENESS. THIS INCLUDES A DEDICATED TEAM, A HANDS-ON APPROACH TO PLANNING AND PERMITTING, AND POTENTIAL REALIGNMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE PRIORITIES TO SUPPORT DEVELOPMENT,” SAYS GAMBLE. The mayor underscores that railroad connectivity is one of Parkland’s greatest assets. “Both Canadian National and Canadian Pacific, Canada’s largest rail providers, have a presence in the county. A Canadian National main line directly intersects Parkland, with many industrial sites having direct spurs on their property. Both companies also have intermodal facilities nearby. These rail lines link Parkland County to eight Canadian provinces, 16 U.S. states and Mexico.

“Intermodal is a very integral element in the logistics and supply chains of companies in the Edmonton region,” ABOVE: ALLAN GAMBLE, MAYOR OF PARKLAND COUNTY.

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MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

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Logistics experts point out that, at the present, trucking rates are increasing due to driver shortages and regulatory changes, opening the door even further to a modal shift in favour of rail. They also urge that this will happen only if all parties involved enhance their collaboration, leverage digital technology and utilize data-driven analytics to make decisions.

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“Supply chain management is more than logistics,” cautions Wong.

“Information systems, distribution management and trade relations are all part of the larger supply chain picture for Edmonton and for Canada. If we want to develop new markets or new exports, we need to ensure that the supply chain or logistics to support these products are there.”

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // MAY 2022

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MAKING LIFE BEAUTIFUL // COVER

MAKING LIFE BEAUTIFUL HASOON RAHAL, OWNER OF SPASATION, TRANSFORMS LIVES ONE HAIRCUT AT A TIME

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

T

hese days he is a household name and sometimes even mistaken for a local celebrity, but before he found fame and fortune, Hussain Rahal (also known as Hasoon Rahal) suffered loneliness, cried himself to sleep many times and sometimes had no place to sleep.

Yet despite the hardships and setbacks, Rahal built himself into one of Alberta’s most well-known businessmen. While not an actor, his journey can certainly be told through a documentary worthy of being the next Netflix binge. But as local businessman that worked hard to change the face of Edmonton’s beauty and spa industry, and as a noted philanthropist that has donated millions in time, in-kind gifts and volunteer hours to the city, Rahal is happy to share his story here in Business in Edmonton magazine.

The story began when his father decided to sell the family farm in Lebanon and move his family across the ocean to make a better life for all his children in Canada. Rahal was 15 years old when he stepped off the plane at Montreal International Airport and discovered Canadian winters for the first time. He also discovered French, even though he could (at the time) barely speak English.

ABOVE: HASOON RAHAL, OWNER OF SPASATION. PHOTO SOURCE: EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY INC.

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MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

MAKING LIFE BEAUTIFUL // COVER

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // MAY 2022

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MAKING LIFE BEAUTIFUL // COVER

EVENTUALLY, RAHAL HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO WORK AT THE VIDAL SASOON CHAIN. HE BECAME ONE OF SASSOON’S TOP EDUCATORS AND BARBERS. HE WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN DEVELOPING SASOON’S EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM AND ASSISTED THE CHAIN TO GROW The family immediately began to question their decision, packed up and left… but not Rahal. He stayed because he was determined to build a better future for himself in Canada.

With the type of dogged determination he would become known for, he sold newspapers, chocolates and t-shirts door to door to finance his dream of becoming a lawyer.

For a very long time money was tight. His brother gave him $50. Apart from that, nobody else gave Rahal support. Since he could not afford more than $3 for a haircut, his hair began to resemble a tumbleweed. His friends had enough of his bad hair days and suggested that he visit Marvel College for a cheap haircut by a practicing student. Rahal took the bus to Marvel College and waited patiently for his turn. As locks of his thick black hair started falling to the ground, he thought about changing directions. He was mesmerized by the relaxing atmosphere and decided that becoming a barber was better than becoming a lawyer. “A barber is like a lawyer because you tell your barber everything,” he thought. Plus, “nobody knows any good barber jokes!”

The very next week, Rahal enrolled at Marvel College.

He continued to sell goods door to door during the early morning hours, attended class from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and then went home and fell asleep, only to rise and do it all again next day.

After graduating, his first job was at a hair salon in Fort Chipewyan, an Indigenous community with a population under 1,000 people and located seven hours north of Edmonton. Rahal’s first customer wanted a perm. Rahal prepared the client’s hair but when it came time to rinse it,

INTO ONE OF CANADA’S LARGEST SALONS, EMPLOYING OVER 700 PEOPLE AT ITS PEAK. the water tap broke and blasted the client’s head with hot water. The client screamed and ran out into the street. Rahal was immediately fired. So, then he made his way to another salon and spent nights between shifts sleeping under a tree.

He got pinecones in his hair, but this wasn’t a trend yet, so he had to brush them out each morning.

One day, around 4 a.m., a voice cried out and startled Rahal.

An Indigenous man named Sam “the Man” was out hunting beavers. He took the fledging hairdresser in for about a year.

Now Rahal had a place to live while he cut hair.

Eventually, Rahal had an opportunity to work at the Vidal Sassoon chain. He became one of Sassoon’s top educators and barbers. He was instrumental in developing Sassoon’s educational program and assisted the chain to grow into one of Canada’s largest salons, employing over 700 people at its peak. Rahal cut hair for members of the Edmonton Oilers, gave celebrities style advice and styled Air Canada’s stewardesses.

Although the “pinecones in your hair trend” didn’t pan out, Rahal thought that opening a Roman bath would be a good idea. He used some of his earnings from Sassoon’s to start the new venture, but it quickly fell flat. Edmonton was not ready for such a revolutionary idea. However, Rahal had a vision and he knew it would eventually become a reality. He told the Edmonton Journal to watch out for the rise of the spa/wellness

ABOVE: HASOON WITH HIS WORK MATES AT A SALON IN EDMONTON, 1980S.

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MNPCF.ca

MAKING LIFE BEAUTIFUL // COVER

industry in Alberta. He was right – spas of varying styles began to trend 15 years after his Roman bath concept failed.

Once again, Rahal was eager to lead the trend. He opened the first Spasation in 1995. Spasation was not just a hair salon; it was a complete spa, inspired by the wellness trends of Europe and the Middle East. Ten more locations soon followed, employing over 480 people. The largest location employed over 50 trained professionals. Rahal’s businesses expanded. Next, he opened the Hot Shears barbershop, which provides men with a haircut and a hot shave.

While Rahal is quick to say “thanks, God” every time he talks about his success, he addresses his challenges with the same level of pragmatism. Every venture that failed to take off, every door that closed, was a learning experience.

Rahal’s latest venture was to invest heavily in new technology.

Spasation spent over a million dollars on advanced equipment to provide cryolipolysis, microneedling, vampire facials and

many more high-level med-spa services. Once again, he hit the med-spa trend just ahead of when it was taking off in North America. While COVID impacted the takeoff of the med-spa division, Spasation is (now that restrictions are on the wane) storming up the ranks as the place to go for all your med-spa needs. Rahal has positioned these services to take place in the luxury environment that Spasation is known for, but at prices affordable to whomever wants to indulge in these beneficial, anti-aging treatments. To Rahal, both luxury and confidence should not be unattainable.

Rahal took COVID-19 personally because of its effect on his extended family – the nearly 500 employees of Spasation. The pandemic fallout permanently closed six Spasation locations since the spas went through the open/ closed/capacity restrictions cycles during the height of the pandemic. Each restriction left the expensive, advanced and mostly imported-from-Europe equipment sitting idle.

ABOVE: RAHAL RECEIVES AN AWARD FOR HIS CONTRIBUTION TO THE FALLEN HEROS DOCUMENTARY.

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MAKING LIFE BEAUTIFUL // COVER

Does this stop the entrepreneur? No. COVID is temporary.

Rahal’s vision is eternal. He will continue to invest in new technology because it’s the way of the future. Spasation is setting the trends, not following them, and the entrepreneur knows that med-spa concept is the next wave in health and wellness. The specialists that were brought in or trained on the equipment speak to how it is a growing industry in North America. His team follows up this confirmation with praise for being able to work their trade at Spasation.

“Our employees are happy and loyal,” Rahal smiles. “We have a good working environment and Spasation has an excellent reputation. COVID-19 closed us down four times and cost us millions of dollars, but we ultimately survived because of our outstanding reputation.”

“Spasation,” he continues, “is trustworthy, honest and has affordable luxury services. Here, you can afford to treat yourself as we use the highest quality organic products on the market and we practice excellent hygiene.”

He’s pleased he was able to build the brand in the capital city.

Having lived in Vancouver, Calgary and even Mexico, Rahal knows that he could have expanded his brand into Montreal, Vancouver and maybe even taught in the fine salons of Europe.

However, “Edmonton has the ideal combination of lifestyle advantages, business services and fair taxes,” he says. For the record Rahal has not taken a penny for himself from the Canadian Government. “Not one penny,” he emphasises, while being proud of the fact that he contributes to the economy by creating jobs and paying taxes on his multiple business locations.

Humbly, Rahal is grateful for the opportunities that his community provides, and he makes great efforts to pay it forward locally and abroad. He has helped hundreds of new Canadian immigrants get settled in Edmonton so that they do not have to bear the hardships that he endured as a teen. He also contributes hundreds of volunteer hours to various local charities here at home and abroad. Rahal has had a hand in the upcoming “Edmonton Gibran Khalil Gibran Park,” in the WIN House women’s shelter where every Christmas he pampers over 50 ladies, and in the Hair Massacure where he has worked 24-hours non-stop to help raise over a million dollar for cancer research. Rahal has lent his time, money and talent to the Fallen Heroes: The Journey Home documentary, while also working with the local police

and fire department through Neighborhood Watch. Despite all this he still makes time to work with the Canadian government and the United Nations.

As a testament to his reputation, the government of Lebanon appointed him as Honorary Consul, a five-year position he has just concluded. This is not the only way Rahal serves the multicultural communities in Edmonton – his service as a notary public has seen him process more than 14,000 documents, mainly for new Canadians from the Caribbean, Middle East and Europe. He is happy to donate his time as a power of attorney while helping new immigrants settle into the city. “As a notary I’m happy to serve anyone from anywhere!”

His giving back extends far beyond local borders. When the large explosion rocked Beirut in 2020, Rahal was instrumental in the fundraising and supply drive, which garnered him interviews on national television.

“We procured ambulances, fire trucks and equipment to help the needy people,” he says of collaborating with community partners, banks and officials locally and abroad. “We collected around $850,000 in donations.”

Rahal’s journey to success has not been without setbacks and rough times but success takes hard work. For years he worked six days a week, from dawn to dusk. Nowadays, he takes more time off – as a self made man, he has more than earned the right to slow down and enjoy the fruits of his labour.

Sitting back, he can fill in the details of his next vision. He plans a countryside farm-like retreat where hardworking parents, worn-out entrepreneurs and those living with chronic conditions or recovering from illness can rest, surrounded by nature while being pampered by wellness staff. It’s inspired by the European spa concept, but in an environment more familiar to Albertans.

Rahal’s message to the community – especially young entrepreneurs – is that long hours, hard work and focus are the keys to achieving your goals, no matter how big they are. We can all relate to his journey in some way; he is an inspiration to all of those around him. If you have benefited from a charity he has worked on or have enjoyed a day of pampering in one of his salons, now you know the story, the determination and the man behind the brand.

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // MAY 2022

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EDMONTON’S INFRASTRUCTURE MOMENTUM // CONSTRUCTION

EDMONTON’S INFRASTRUCTURE MOMENTUM

BY JOHN HARDY

E

dmonton infrastructure construction is vital and a proven way to stimulate the economy. While the infrastructure sector was impacted by various pandemic-related speedbumps and disruptions, the direct impact was delays and a recent cut in provincial funding.

Overall, Alberta municipalities and infrastructure construction companies ranged from underwhelmed to disappointed by the recent Alberta budget’s infrastructure funding. The bottom line: municipalities across Alberta will

have less money to spend on their own capital projects this year, as the provincial government’s 2022 budget makes good on promised cuts to the grants cities and towns use to build and restore infrastructure.

“There have been three main impacts of COVID,” says the knowledgeable Jayson Veldhoen, district manager, Civil Infrastructure at Graham Construction. With annual revenues exceeding $4 billion, Graham is one of the leading, fully-integrated construction companies in North America.

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EDMONTON’S INFRASTRUCTURE MOMENTUM // CONSTRUCTION

“First, there was a reduction in spending in the first eight months of COVID caused by general uncertainty and economic lockdowns that reduced revenue for all levels of government. The low oil prices at the time also contributed to fewer royalty revenues. This slow down abated as we moved through 2021 and governments implemented infrastructure spending as a value-added way to stimulate the economy.

Unplanned funding from the province was injected into the large municipalities, and investment on highways was held relatively constant when the industry was anticipating a reduction” he says. “Municipal coffers are still in recovery across Alberta and there is a reduction in smaller projects typically funded on an annual basis – by municipalities.”

The encouraging, good news? The Edmonton infrastructure construction momentum continues. “The city is in the midst of its most ambitious four-year capital program ever. This includes both new and renewal projects,” says Sam El Mohtar, director

of Edmonton’s Transportation Infrastructure Delivery. “The City Plan was released in 2020, which is our guide for how we approach infrastructure over the next 10 years. We are building infrastructure that ensures Edmontonians feel that they belong, they have opportunities to thrive, have better access within the city and feel at home – the roads, the bridges and sidewalks, neighborhoods, parks, facilities and the LRT.” El Mohtar details with enthusiasm that Edmonton has 270 infrastructure projects on the go, employing some 13,000 people and many Edmonton-based companies are benefiting directly or indirectly.

Although Edmonton’s infrastructure construction is still dealing with lingering pandemic issues, like price increases in commodities as well as challenges in securing materials, “A consistent challenge that infrastructure work faces will always be how short our construction season is: May to October. That’s it!” he explains.

ABOVE: THE CONVERSION WILL HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON TRAFFIC FLOW AND REDUCE ACCIDENT RATES. RIGHT: JAYSON VELDHOEN, DISTRICT MANAGER, CIVIL INFRASTRUCTURE AT GRAHAM CONSTRUCTION.

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EDMONTON’S INFRASTRUCTURE MOMENTUM // CONSTRUCTION

“MUNICIPAL COFFERS ARE STILL IN RECOVERY ACROSS ALBERTA AND THERE IS A REDUCTION IN SMALLER PROJECTS TYPICALLY FUNDED ON AN ANNUAL BASIS –

BY MUNICIPALITIES,” SAYS VELDHOEN.

A good sign of Edmonton’s infrastructure construction momentum is that the city’s transportation team is busy.

Very busy. In addition to the massive Yellowhead Trail, their to do list includes: • LRT expansion across Edmonton continues to be a major priority with a number of large-scale projects in full swing.

Valley Line Southeast is expected to be completed later this year, while Valley Line West, from downtown to Lewis Farms, will embark Established in 1993, our focus is on servicing the on its first major construction institutional, commercial and industrial HVAC marketplaces. season this spring. Early work is also underway on extending the Exel is a proud partner of Icon Industrial!

Capital Line further south from Celebrating 25 Years.

Century Park to Ellerslie Road, while construction also continues on the Metro Line with progress being made on two new stations in the City’s net-zero community of Blatchford, the future home of 30,000 Edmontonians.

• The Terwilligar Drive Expansion Program began in 2021 and is being completed in stages.

Stage Two and Stage Three start construction in 2022 and 2023 and will take approximately five years to complete. The program is upgrading Terwillegar Drive into an expressway that will meet the current and future needs.

10550 110 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 3C5 Phone: 780.466.6268 • exelsystems.ca BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // MAY 2022

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EDMONTON’S INFRASTRUCTURE MOMENTUM // CONSTRUCTION

• The Latta Bridge Replacement project is set to begin this summer. On the north end of Jasper Avenue, the historic Latta Bridge has carried commuters into downtown Edmonton for over 100 years. Replacement is considered when infrastructure reaches a point where rehabilitation is no longer economical or does not meet current City of Edmonton standards. The Latta Bridge Replacement includes a widening of the bridge and sidewalks, along with the addition of a shared-use path. The bridge is scheduled to be closed from summer 2022 to fall 2023.

• The Coronation Park Sports and Recreation Centre, in the heart of the 35-hectare Coronation Park and surrounded by the existing Telus World of Science, Queen Elizabeth II Planetarium and will be linked to the Peter Hemingway Pool.

Construction starts this spring and the Park re-opens in 2026.

El Mohtar enthusiastically adds that the first of five supportive housing developments are set to open in King Edward Park this spring. “Increasing the supply of supportive housing as a key priority in the plan to end homelessness in Edmonton. The city has a goal of developing 900 supportive housing units, in all areas of the city, by 2024.”

Graham Construction is a key factor in Edmonton’s infrastructure development. Graham is working on the Terwilligar Drive upgrade project and the construction of the Strathcona Pedestrian Bridge in east Edmonton over the North Saskatchewan River. In addition to the company’s current work on the Yellowhead Trail, Graham will be bidding on the upcoming procurements for Edmonton’s Yellowhead Trail program (97 Street to St. Albert Trail) and the extension of the Capital Line LRT to southern Edmonton.

Even though the pandemic broadsides are mostly in the rear-view mirror, there is a rebound and encouraging momentum. Graham’s Veldhoen is positive and enthusiastic about a rebound of infrastructure construction. “The market is actually fairly tight due to shortages of Alberta trade and craft workers and construction supervisors. Some of the shortages are due to many people going back to their home provinces during the early 2020 slowdowns and not yet returned to their construction careers in Alberta.

Another reason for worker shortage is Alberta’s construction contractors are often geographically diversified. Mobile employees and contractors have found busy markets for

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their staff and craft in the other provinces from BC to Ontario and places in between.”

He also highlights one COVID-related broadside for infrastructure construction. “The supply of construction materials and facility equipment has been significantly disrupted by the pandemic and this challenge persists.

With COVID outbreaks still affecting production of goods in China and the destabilization of global commodity prices due to Russia’s War on Ukraine, we are going to continue to face disruption to supply and heightened risk for the foreseeable future.

“There was also a reduction in spending in the first eight months of COVID caused by general uncertainty and economic lockdowns, which reduced revenue for all levels of government. The low oil prices at the time also contributed to fewer royalty revenues. This slow-down abated as we moved through 2021 as governments recognized infrastructure construction is a very effective way to stimulate the economy.

Federal and provincial spending therefore increased, perhaps with a higher percentage of larger projects than smaller projects. But municipal coffers are still in recovery across Alberta and there is a reduction in smaller projects typically funded on an annual basis by municipalities.”

Veldhoen is upbeat and positive about Edmonton infrastructure construction but also urges factors that would make things even better. “While there was a decrease in contracting activity in 2020 due to COVID, contracting levels have been rising steadily over the last 16 months. It is busier than it was pre-COVID, particularly in the civil infrastructure sector. Encouraging more people, particularly skilled trades, to move to the province would help alleviate some of the pressure caused by the shortage.

“As a North American company,” he says, “Graham is fortunate in being able to level workloads by using employees from other geographical regions to manage its Alberta-based projects. Encouraging more women and secondary school students to explore careers in the trades will also help fill the pipeline as more Baby Boomers consider retirement. Graham supports numerous programs like Women Building Futures and Careers the Next Generation that do just that.”

REVENGE OF THE TRAVELLERS // TRAVEL & TOURISM

REVENGE

OF THE TRAVELLERS

EASING RESTRICTIONS SEE INCREASED OUTBOUND AND INBOUND TOURISM FOR EDMONTONIANS

BY NATALIE NOBLE

T

here’s nothing better than the thrill of an upcoming vacation. That is, unless a pandemic puts the kibosh on it. As global restrictions are lifting, Albertans find themselves with a major travel itch. It’s a scenario Hidar Elmais, Travel Gurus founder, calls “revenge travel.”

“A lot of people have built up their vacation days, Albertans are ready to travel again and they deserve it,” says Elmais.

“It’s beautiful for us to see them de-stressing, returning happy and excited, bonded with family outside the home, and with a changed perspective when they return.”

The demand, combined with an ongoing environment of uncertainty, has travel agents working overtime. “Many people are not fully aware of the world we’re living in right now with exorbitant gas prices, inflation and so many future travel plans already booked,” says Elmais. “They’re looking

for certain deals that just aren’t there right now and won’t be for at least a couple years until this current backlog of future travel vouchers and revenge travel that we’re seeing ease off.”

How did we arrive here? Back in 2019, Travel Gurus was in a steady growth stage. However, “Over the past couple years, it’s been a never-ending roller coaster ride for all travel agents,” says Elmais. “Going back to March of 2020, our first job was simply getting people home. Then, we worked to secure refunds from airlines and hotels, all the while earning no income.”

Agents worked to rebook travel plans only to have them canceled time and again. They were also servicing essential travel in conditions Elmais describes as “the worst of times,” with a lack of flight options and ongoing restrictions. “Even now, we continue to have restrictions to stay on top of and new rules that change every day.”

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REVENGE OF THE TRAVELLERS // TRAVEL & TOURISM

As travel looks to finally open up, Travel Gurus continue to do record-making business. November of 2021 was their biggest month in 10 years’ history. While December saw a drop-off due to travel bans, 2022 saw a massive uptick.

“We said, ‘wow, if this is how it’s going to be, we better get ready,’ and we’re actively recruiting more agents,” says Elmais. “Over January, February and March of 2022, we’re at least 10 times over the business we were doing one year prior. These are the most record-breaking months ever, not just within the pandemic.”

For travel agents, the momentum is much appreciated but brings an incredible amount of work pouring in. “We’re receiving incoming quotes for all kinds of things. We have to be fast and efficient in turning them around,” says Elmais.

It’s an effort of love for these professionals passionate about helping clients realize the wide-ranging benefits of travel. “It’s so exciting to look forward to a trip,” says Elmais. “It puts an extra drive in their step. Then, they come back excited to get home and work harder. Travel has great impacts for Albertans when we return, but it also helps so many people around the world feed their families. It’s a major economic boost for so many small businesses and families.”

Where online travel services have encouraged DIY booking over the last decade, ongoing uncertainties, including restrictions, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and economic volatility will likely see more folks turn to the dependency a local, trusted travel agent can offer.

“An expert travel agent can guide you through all the changing rules people need to know before and during travel,” says Elmais. “They can beat or match what you’re seeing online, plus there are extras they’re aware of that the average consumer lacks access to.”

YEG SCOOT, THE SCOOTER ADVENTURE BUSINESS ELMAIS LAUNCHED DURING THE PANDEMIC TO KEEP HIS STAFF EMPLOYED, IS SET TO WELCOME INTERNATIONAL VISITORS THIS SUMMER. “AS OF MARCH, WE ALREADY HAD BOOKINGS FROM EUROPE, THE U.S., MEXICO, TONS OF DIFFERENT PLACES,” SAYS ELMAIS. There are perks, too. “Good travel agents have great connections with airlines and hotel representatives,” adds Elmais. “We can score you a free upgrade, special extras in the room, a spa credit. Most importantly, if something goes wrong, because we have these relationships, we can help fix any problem on the spot.”

ABOVE: PANDEMIC TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS OPENED LOCAL BUSINESS’ EYES TO THE OPPORTUNITIES IN INBOUND TRAVEL. WITH YEG SCOOT, VISITORS TOUR THE CITY IN WAYS NEVER EXPERIENCED BEFORE. PHOTO SOURCE: YEG SCOOT

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MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

The One-Stop Meetings and Events Destination in Edmonton

When reaching out to book a trip, consumers can achieve the best outcome and save money when they’re flexible. While vacation pricing is expected to continue to rise over the next year or two, deposits and insurance can ensure vacationers hold their spot and price, rebooking without penalty if needed.

“When we tell you, add that extra $50 to your travel package for cancelation up to three hours prior. Why not protect yourself in these times at such a low-cost investment?” says Elmais. “Small deposits can secure a great price, and if it drops in the meantime, you’ll get the lower price. There’s no reason to not book for the future right now.”

As business ramps up for Travel Gurus, their team will also have their hands full with inbound travelers. YEG Scoot, the scooter adventure business Elmais launched during the pandemic to keep his staff employed, is set to welcome international visitors this summer. “As of March, we already had bookings from Europe, the U.S., Mexico, tons of different places,” says Elmais.

That returning international presence is welcomed by the local tourism industry. Daniel St. Pierre, director of Strategic Communications and Partnerships at Explore Edmonton, says the pandemic impacted visitation to the city in interesting ways. “People still wanted a getaway, but one within driving distance that wasn’t across a

Located in

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WELCOME BACK MEETING OFFER! Call 780-444-5500 or email groups@flh.ca.

flh.ca | wem.ca BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // MAY 2022

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REVENGE OF THE TRAVELLERS // TRAVEL & TOURISM

border,” he says. “There was more domestic tourism demand, without question.”

Explore Edmonton spent seven years running up to 2019 developing their current brand. They changed their marketing approaches and campaigns to promote Edmonton as a destination while helping local businesses grow and expand their marketing reach. These efforts led to more than six million visitors to the city in 2019, who spent nearly $2 billion into the economy.

“In terms of businesses and jobs, it’s hundreds, if not thousands, of businesses and it’s thousands, if not 10s of thousands, of jobs,” says St. Pierre.

COVID-19 was an eye-opener for Edmonton’s tourism industry. “[It has] shown us how many service jobs, and other jobs around the city, are tangentially connected to tourism and the visitor economy,” says St. Pierre. “There’s a connectivity and awareness around how much the elements of hospitality, tourism and events of the visitor economy really impact the city as a whole.”

With that realization, efforts were shifted to help the city’s businesses access government funding and programs to keep them viable. They also encouraged Edmontonians to be tourists within their hometown.

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MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

Meanwhile, the city’s appeal is far reaching, evidenced last November when Edmonton hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifying matches in Edmonton. In just two games held at Commonwealth Stadium, nearly 100,000 people attended with Explore Edmonton estimates suggesting nearly 30 per cent of visitors resided outside the Edmonton region.

St. Pierre recalls the excitement in seeing Mexican nationals staying downtown at the Westin for the event. “They went through all that hassle to get across the borders to come here,” he says. “It got cold, snowy, and created a more iconic Canadian experience. They were loving it, buying winter coats, and it was a much more novel experience than just a typical soccer game.”

It also generated nearly $40 million in economic impact for the city. Now, as the pandemic shifts to an endemic phase, St. Pierre is optimistic about Edmonton’s tourism industry.

“People are starting to get their heads around being out and about again. I think we’ll see an increase in visitation,” he says. “This is the place to hold your conference or convention so people can experience all of Edmonton’s secret sauce – the culinary scene, the festivals, that small-town vibe in a big city with things to do – when people experience it, they can’t help but rave about it.”

2022 Board of Directors

Edmonton’s Tech Hub has Momentum

Board Executive

Chair: Dennis R. Schmidt Principal, ALTURA Legal Advisory Vice-Chair: Haydar Al Dahhan President and CEO, Design Works Engineering Secretary-Treasurer: Jason Pincock CEO, DynaLIFE Medical Labs Past Chair: Elan MacDonald Vice President (External Relations), University of Alberta Jeffrey Sundquist President & CEO, Edmonton Chamber and World Trade Centre Edmonton

Board Directors Nicole Bird Owner, Rsvp Design Inc.

Aziz Bootwala Managing Principal, Edmonton, Vice President, Business Development, Kasian Architecture Interior Design and Planning Ltd. Nathan Carter Vice President, Projects and Construction, ATCO Energy Solutions Jonathan Gallo Managing Partner, Gallo LLP Chartered Professional Accountants Sandy Jacobson Vice President, Richardson Executive Search Sam Kemble Chief Operating Officer, Workforce Delivery Inc. Annemarie Petrov President and CEO, Francis Winspear Centre for Music Amir Shami President and CEO, Rotaflow Celia Wanderley Chief Customer Officer and Head of AltaML Invent, AltaML

Edmonton Chamber Executive Cadence Bergman Director, Policy

Alexandra Hryciw Director, Strategy and External Affairs Kefa Ogada Director, Finance and Operations Amin Samji Director, Member Services

Contact

Edmonton Chamber of Commerce #600 World Trade Centre 9990 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5J 1P7 T: 780.426.4620 | F: 780.424.7946 edmontonchamber.com

Share your thoughts on business issues with the Edmonton Chamber at policy@edmontonchamber.com

Jeffrey Sundquist, President & CEO

E

arlier this year, Innovate Edmonton announced its upcoming move to a new high-profile location on Jasper Avenue. This will bring Startup Edmonton, Scaleup Edmonton, and Accelerate Edmonton together in one cool space. We can’t wait to celebrate this exciting downtown development, one that symbolizes the growing tech and innovation presence in the Edmonton Metropolitan Region.

On that theme, I joined the “I love Alberta tech” campaign put on by AltaML, a homegrown applied artificial intelligence leader. Encouraged by a series of provincial tech initiatives and funding this year, the founders are eager to keep the momentum going. I agree, this is no time to take our foot off the pedal, and we must continue all efforts to support and develop our capabilities in the accelerating tech and innovation areas. It is essential for future economic growth and success.

Not long ago, “technology hub” meant someplace other than Edmonton like San Francisco, Seattle, or Vancouver, but that has changed. According to the 2021 Scoring Tech Talent report by real estate organization CBRE, Edmonton’s tech labour force grew by more than 50 per cent over five years, faster than all North American cities, and broke the top 50 markets list for the first time. You should also know that the Edmonton Metro Region is one of just three national hubs in the Canadian AI strategy.

Our tech and innovation ecosystem fascinates with an impressive array of research, development, and applied use and is expanding rapidly. We have world-class companies in digital creative industries, artificial intelligence, machine learning as well as precision agriculture with satellites, autonomous vehicles, nanotechnology and cleantech. This list is far from complete, but it gives an idea of how important tech and innovation is to our economic aspirations locally and as a country.

We must keep driving to ensure competitiveness and reputation in these critical sectors. We need to keep solving the tech labour shortage knowing that the highly skilled workers we need are being wooed by companies the world over. We must persist in supporting post-secondary institutions so they can be agile and fill changing demands. Creating a robust and vibrant local tech community, funding and incentives from governments, and building a city attractive to workers, are integral factors.

We saw government respond in Budget 2022 with new Alberta at Work allocations of $171M to expand post-secondary enrolment in areas with skills shortages like computer science, fintech, and data modelling. Another $30M will expand apprenticeship programs, and $8M is targeted for developing micro-credential programs that helps workers upskill or reskill. That’s without mentioning $35M in federal-provincial support for four world-class business and tech accelerators, and Alberta Enterprise’s $31.2M venture capital investment. The push is underway.

Edmonton’s tech hub is on the radar of venture capitalists looking to invest in Alberta tech hubs. For three consecutive years, Alberta’s venture capital industry has grown and in 2021 posted deals worth $561 million. Our region has tremendous potential, and the Edmonton Chamber continues to advocate for the growth and development of our amazing innovation and tech.

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // MAY 2022

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SYC Brewing Edmonton, Alberta

Here for the passionate and dedicated.

As a member, you have a range of resources, discounts, and networking opportunities to help you do what you love.

Discover for yourself at edmontonchamber.com

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MAY 2022 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

JustCook Kitchens Member Profile Jennifer Keith, Co-founder & CEO justcookkitchens.com What’s your story?

I’ve had the entrepreneurial itch for some time. I come from a family of entrepreneurs who have started restaurants, travel agencies, and other hospitality and service businesses. I have been very passionate about starting something of my own and especially in a space where I could help small businesses thrive. After finishing my MBA, I worked with Luke (JustCook’s co-founder) on a telehealth startup he built, and I knew building businesses would be my calling.

In May 2019, Luke and I started discussing Jennifer Keith, Co-founder & CEO of JustCook Kitchens, in front of their first location. going into business together on another venture. I shared my interest in food businesses and solutions that Family Owned, Local Business facilitate making food more accessible. He had recently seen how difficult and capital intensive it was for a chef to start their own concept, as he tried to help his brother, who is an executive sous-chef, get something off the ground. We both The Coffee Connection supports local could see how hard it is coffee roasters through our coffee offerings. to take a food brand and scale it effectively. So, we sat down to tackle this Ask us how you can enjoy locally roasted coffee at work! very issue and that’s how JustCook came to be.

Serving Albertans SINCE 1978

Choose Local, Keep Alberta Strong!

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce?

The connections we build with other business owners and all the opportunities to network through different events offered by the Edmonton Chamber. As a member, you’re a part of an inclusive community that contributes to a stronger Edmonton.

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Visit us at www.TheCoffeeConnection.ca Calgary - Edmonton - Red Deer BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // MAY 2022

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What is one thing people are surprised to learn about your business?

That we’re not your regular restaurant. In addition to being a food hall where we’re hosting several restaurants under one roof, which is uncommon in Canada but rising in popularity, we’re also built around technology. Ordering and payment are done directly online through our in-house app, and we’ve digitized the whole back-ofhouse, helping make operations more seamless while gathering the needed data to make smart decisions for future success.

Who is your ideal client?

It happens at two levels. First, we partner with and empower talented chefs to bring their creative ideas into reality. That’s the B2B part of our business. And second, on the B2C side, our ideal client would be anyone who loves good food—with a bit of an adventurous palate! Our food hall is a perfect place to gather a bigger group of friends with diverse tastes so that everyone leaves happy.

What is your favourite thing to do in Edmonton?

We have such a gorgeous and expansive river valley right in the heart of our city and several beautiful parks, and I absolutely love taking my dogs D.va and Inigo on walks, especially in Dawson Park and Millcreek Ravine. I also love trying out new dishes at our plethora of high-quality restaurants on the growing food scene.

If you could make one substantial improvement to Edmonton’s business environment, what would it be?

Overall, I think Edmonton has a very supportive business ecosystem, but it does tend to favour more established business models and industries. I would love to see greater, more effective support for tech-based startups and disruptors, especially in their need to find talent and capital to assist with growth. We also need to do more to cultivate and retain tech talent in Edmonton.

Voran Group Ventures Member Profile Chelsey Reschke, President & CEO bacoban.ca What’s your story?

During unprecedented times like these, people and businesses are navigating a great deal of uncertainty. It’s also a time when human ingenuity and collaboration have become more important than ever. At Voran, we have worked tirelessly to achieve Health Canada approvals on a variety of formulations, strengthen our supply chain, build meaningful branding, and bring together top talent with diverse backgrounds. Today, our brands, like Bacoban™, place leading innovation in the hands of consumers. We understand—as consumers and community members—that access to critical PPE has been a challenge during COVID-19 and we are committed, for the long run, to ensuring Canadian’s have access to high-quality, locally manufactured products that outperform the traditional options. We exist to bring together employees, customers, communities, and partners to collectively ensure a healthier, happier, and

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more productive society. And we believe that every little bit counts. A portion of all Bacoban™ sales supports critical research in antimicrobial resistance (AMR)—a top 10 global threat listed by the World Health Organization. Through our donations, community partnerships, and our product’s innovative properties, we are uniquely positioned to make a positive impact.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce?

We love collaborating and connecting with our peers, giving us the opportunity to support local businesses.

What is one thing people are surprised to learn about your business?

Our product is made in Canada. They are extensively tested and approved for use inside and outside aircraft, in hospitals and healthcare facilities, and for food processing use. They are water-based, will not damage electronics or paint and have no volatile organic compounds.

Who is your ideal client?

What has been your biggest challenge in business, and how did you overcome it?

We’re currently working with the U of A to replicate all our European tests to capture the full list of claims.

Some meetings are better face-to-face.

Business pitches, annual conferences, client meetings, and everything in between, we’ve got something for you.

Discover the World Trade Centre at edmontonchamber.com

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Nadine Weller (Chief Operating Officer), Dr. Robert Tanguay (Chief Medical Officer), Arthur Kwan (President and CEO) and Natasha Meadus (VP, Clinical Operations).

The Newly Institute Brings New Approach to Mental Wellness

by Rennay Craats with photos by Riverwood Photography

S

ociety is finally paying some long overdue attention to mental health and is welcoming The Newly Institute to the battle. The new company is making inroads as it prepares to bring its innovative clinic approach to Edmonton.

pioneering innovative treatments, and Dr. Marshall Ross, an experienced emergency medicine physician, to further explore what a new company could bring to this area. Their discussions and brainstorming led to the creation of The Newly Institute Inc. in early 2021.

The idea behind The Newly was born out of equal parts opportunity and available time during the pandemic. Business veteran Arthur Kwan had successfully sold a company he had been operating when COVID hit in early 2020 and shut everything down. Kwan began a deep research dive into the area of mental health and the novel treatment options becoming available, including the use of psychedelics in certain treatments, and determined there was a major needs gap in the market.

“We believe The Newly can become the largest interdisciplinary mental health clinical company in Canada. We want to operate coast to coast, and we want to change the way people across this country experience mental health therapies and treatments,” says Kwan, who has become The Newly’s President and CEO.

Over the next several months, Kwan learned all he could about mental health treatment and connected with Dr. Robert Tanguay, a psychiatrist who was 44

The company’s flagship clinic is in Calgary, with another recently opened in Fredericton, New Brunswick; the team is excited to be opening in Edmonton this spring.

The Newly treats individuals suffering from PTSD, depression, chronic pain, addiction, anxiety and

childhood trauma who have been unable to access services or who have not responded to traditional treatments. The client base in Edmonton includes the city’s business community, its veteran population, as well as its high number of first responders and healthcare workers.

“My colleagues and I knew it was time we do something different and do it better,” says Dr. Tanguay, The Newly’s Chief Medical Officer. “Canada’s public medical system had struggled to meet the demand to support those suffering with mental health issues. The approach we developed for The Newly was to be the country’s first medically assisted intensive outpatient program for mental health rehabilitation.”

At the clinics, The Newly employs a dedicated team of psychiatrists, addiction specialists, pain medicine specialists, psychologists, registered nurses, nurse practitioners and social workers to treat patients in a holistic manner. The clinics also tap into occupational therapists, kinesiologists and physiotherapists to support return-to-work and other programs.

The Newly’s advisory board includes some of the top psychiatrists in the country, and The Newly is currently seeking exceptional professionals of the same calibre to join its Edmonton team. Candidates are encouraged to reach out to careers@thenewly.ca or call (825) 540-4042 to learn more.

What also makes The Newly unique is how it brings together the full gamut of comprehensive mental health services under one roof, presenting patients with outpatient programs that often span four weeks with treatment sessions between three and five times per week. This patient-centric concept has shown it can yield fast results, rapidly alleviate symptoms and give hope to people for whom conventional treatments have been ineffective.

“We know the need for new treatment options is present in our society and we have the approach to be successful at providing those therapies,” says Dr. Ross, The Newly’s Chief Scientific Officer. “We’ve already seen our protocols show strong outcomes for clients at the clinics. We are constantly testing and reviewing how all our treatments are performing to ensure our approach to client care is evidence based and data driven. We’re excited to share the results and will be publishing our data in peer-reviewed journals.”

The Edmonton clinic will be a welcome addition to the city as it can offer relief to individuals who are suffering with psychiatric illnesses, some of which have surfaced during the pandemic.

“With The Newly, we can provide people in need with access to the most applicable and effective mental health treatments so they experience a rapid recovery and a return to healthy living and to full lives,” says Dr. Tanguay.

The Newly’s Edmonton clinic will be located at 13611 – 163rd Street and any individuals seeking treatment for a mental health issue can book a free consultation at www.newly.ca without a referral.

13611 163 Street Edmonton AB info@thenewly.ca 825-540-4042 www.thenewly.ca

A Clean Commitment

Rose Building Maintenance Celebrates 40 Years

By Nerissa McNaughton with photos by Rebecca Lippiatt

S

ince 1982, Rose Building Maintenance Ltd. has provided exemplary contract cleaning services to a wide cross section of businesses and institutions including universities, manufacturing and medical sectors, as well as groceries and construction clean ups. During COVID-19, they are a trusted, experienced team offering deep sanitation, disinfecting and electrostatic cleaning.

With young children in tow, Sarwan and Balbir Gill moved from Victoria to Alberta. They both found work cleaning Woodward’s department stores, but they desired more flexibility in their schedules and the ability to clean to their highest standards. So, the couple launched their own cleaning business.

“Sarwan approached an accountant in the Professional Building in St. Albert to register the company and the

46

receptionist advised that ‘Alberta is Wild Rose Country.’ So, Sarwan took the ‘rose’ and registered the company as Rose Building Maintenance Ltd.,” says Balbir. But things didn’t stop there.

“The receptionist told him the Professional Building was looking for janitors and put him in touch with the person in charge. Rose Building Maintenance got the cleaning contract, and the Professional Building still remains a client today. We also secured office space in the building and continue from there as the base of our operations.”

Within the next year (1983) Rose Building Maintenance secured major contracts with Canada Post (through Edmonton’s post office on 97th Street), Wood Wyant and the Edmonton International Airport. What started with a company of two is now a thriving corporation with 125 on staff.

The growth is due to the excellent service, COR certification, WHIMS certified cleaners, a voluntary opt-in to the Green Cleaning Program and staff diversity.

“Our goal is ‘to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs,’ Balbir explains. “We also pride ourselves on providing excellent leadership to our loyal and devoted employees. We make each staff member feel like they are part of the team. About 50 per cent of our team have been with us for over 25 years.”

Firmly established long before the pandemic, the dawn of COVID-19 saw Rose Building Maintenance on the front line of helping workplaces and commercial buildings stay safe and open to the public.

CONGRATULATIONS

ROSE BUILDING MAINTENANCE

ON 40 YEARS!

www.transtarsupply.com

CONGRATULATIONS Rose Building Maintenance on 40 years!

Sarwan says, “To help mitigate the spread of the virus, we offer an electrostatic spray disinfection solution. It is deployed by handheld or backpack Victory cordless electrostatic sprayers to apply a Bioesque botanical disinfectant solution that kills 99.9 per cent of bacteria, fungi and molds. It kills Norovirus in just four minutes and eliminates 99.9 per cent of most allergens.”

Bioesque botanical disinfectant is so natural and gentle that it does not need to be rinsed off, even when applied to foodcontact surfaces.

“Commercial cleaning has a significant impact on human and environmental health,” says Balbir. “This is why Rose Building Maintenance identifies the best tools, products and practices that protect human health and the environment. Our mission statement is ‘to consistently deliver outstanding, environmentally responsible cleaning services to our clients, while ensuring a safe and healthy workplace for our employees.’”

Providing a clean and healthy environment extends to their work in the community. To this end they are proud supporters of the University Hospital Foundation.

Rose Building Maintenance continues to grow and is pleased to announce a recent expansion into British Columbia.

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Congratulations to Rose Building Maintenance on your 40th Anniversary!

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Congratulations

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Building Up, Branching Out

By Nerissa McNaughton

D

EXQUISICARE CELEBRATES 10 YEARS

awn Harsch, BScN, MBA, is the founder of ExquisiCare Senior Living, senior care residences that give families options instead of institutional-style models of care.

ExquisiCare facilities are large homes built in thriving residential areas to facilitate complete community integration, making it easier for families to visit and interact and to provide a wonderful workplace for the nurses and staff in each home. Ten years have passed since Harsch first launched her innovative care homes, and now the next phase is to grow the concept outside of Edmonton.

ExquisiCare Senior Living • Celebrating 10 Years

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Cameron Heights

For the first five years of operations, Harsch pondered on how to expand the business in the most sustainable way. “Do I own it all? Expand across Canada?

Take on business partners? I landed on franchising because I want to support other nurses that do good work. I wanted them to own the ability to provide the care they wanted in their own communities.”

With the franchise model, Harsch plans to share her operation manual that has been proven to work so well in Edmonton, but allow the franchise operators to put their own flair and ideas into their locations.

Westcliff

“We will support those nurses,” she says. “Each location will be backed by my years of policies, startup manuals and procedures. We know we have a successful model and that there is a huge need for it in places like Ontario where they were hit so hard with COVID

Windermere

ExquisiCare Senior Living • Celebrating 10 Years • 2

and where there are still extensive waiting lists for people to get into care.”

One of the many things that will drive the success of the franchise model as it moves forward is ExquisiCare’s philosophy of care and service that guides the company’s daily actions. This philosophy is summed up as their 3Es – ExquisiCare Everyday Excellence.

“Our 3Es define our company culture and sets us far above other long-term care operators,” says Harsch. “It determines how we interact with our customers – who are our residents, family members, team members, contractors – anyone that comes into contact with us. It also defines how we interact in the areas of care, hospitality and customer service.”

Harsch knows that handing over a how-to manual of building plans, regulations and permitting will make the franchises a success, but what will really drive the real and lasting change they are working to implement coast to coast is instilling their very unique corporate culture into each location. As she notes, “Culture is a little harder to communicate and put on paper. This is why we are so careful about creating and executing on our 3Es every day. Our philosophy truly stands the test of time. We believe the service should be there and in that regard, we lead by example.”

Harsch is determined to ensure it’s not just the seniors in her care that are happy. She is equally focused on her team; another aspect of service that will be important for each franchise location.

“We did an employee engagement survey after two years of COVID. It showed that our staff are still happy and still enjoy coming to work. They feel fairly compensated and enjoy close engagement with our seniors. They like that each resident is not just a person in a warehouse. We know them by name. We know their families. We offer the best possible care because we love each and every one of our residents.”

With COVID on the wane and the franchise process on the rise, Harsch has little time to reflect on the first decade, but when she does she remembers, “Lots of ups and downs, but more ups overall.”

“We are very proud of what we have been able to do. If anyone tells you going into business for yourself is easy and fun, they are lying. For a business like this to reach 10 years is actually rare but here we are, including taking the business through a global pandemic. We are excited because we knew, and now it has been proven (with the excellent outcomes for seniors and staff in our homes during the pandemic), that this is one of the best options for seniors. We are very excited for the next phase. My dream is to see an ExquisiCare home in every community that wants one, and many do want one.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO EXQUISICARE ON 10 YEARS OF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE!

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www.kbbenefits.com ExquisiCare Senior Living • Celebrating 10 Years • 3

She recounts a heartwarming story of how brand awareness made a big difference between opening up the first and third homes.

“When I built my first home, nobody knew who we were.

For the second home we had a few people show up at the hearing, but there were no problems. However, for the third home I got a call from the president of the

community league to let me know how happy they were to have an ExquisiCare residence in their neighbourhood.

With their community members being in their 40s and 50s, they didn’t want their aging parents going into institutionalized care. They wanted their parents to have an option nearby. We were even offered a community garden plot!”

Harsch adds, “I am very excited, but I admit this is a little daunting. We want to affect change across the country and provide care for not only seniors in a wonderful environment, but also peace of mind for families and a place where people can come to work knowing they made a difference.”

Congratulations, ExquisiCare!

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Her work makes a difference in her own family too.

Harsch’s daughter is following her mother’s footsteps and is currently a health care aide.

“I don’t do this on my own,” she concludes. “My husband Cory has always been incredibly supportive, as are my daughter and 14 year-old twins.”

It’s been a long road and there is an even longer one ahead, but Harsch and her team of determined nurses persist so seniors locally, and soon across Canada, will have more choices when it comes to long-term care.

Visit www.exquisicare.com to learn more.

(780) 540-8358 | info@exquisicare.com

www.exquisicare.com

ExquisiCare Senior Living • Celebrating 10 Years • 4

AltaPro Board of Directors.

Photo by Rebecca Lippiatt.

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT AltaPro celebrates 35 Years AltaPro • Celebrating 35 Years 53

Garth Worthington School.

B

e the best and experience success - This is the mission statement of AltaPro Electric. A company that has been around for 35 years and has a proven track record of success. I met with Bert and Jeanette DeBruin, the founders of AltaPro Electric to discuss the achievements of their business and the challenges they have faced in the recent years since their 30th anniversary. Through talking to Bert and Jeanette it was obvious that there are passionate about their business and especially their people and who they work with.

I would like to share with you a bit about where they have come from and their achievements, since the 30th.

This tremendous growth in the areas of solar PV(Photovoltaic), IPD (Integrated Project Delivery), their service department, along with some of the key projects, challenges and solutions around that, and I would also like to share their excitement around some of their accomplishments and the bright future I see for AltaPro. Five years ago the De Bruins shared with Business in Edmonton how they started and built the company through grit and determination, all with the goal of being at the top of their game, while providing a great place for people to work through the intentional development of leaders, and be in a position to always give back to the community. They did all that in 30 years. Now, at their 35th anniversary, the discussion is “What has happened since?”

For 35 years, this is the foundation that Bert DeBruin, CEO, Business Development and Jeanette DeBruin, Director, HR Manager, have built their brand upon.

AltaPro is continuing to lead the way in the electrical design-build industry for clients in the multi-tenant, institutional, educational, multi-family, healthcare, recreational,

correctional, agricultural, transportation, hospitality and religious facilities. Their special projects and service department is still in constant growth. More now than ever before the design build services has largely transitioned to be procured through the IPD department.

When I asked Bert to highlight a few of the recent accomplishments he rattled off a list bigger than I was expecting “Since AltaPro’s 30th anniversary, annual revenues have more than doubled, almost tripled in fact. “Our team has designed and installed Canada’s largest rooftop solar array, we have experienced unparalleled accomplishment with the completion of 16 IPD projects and counting, our solar department is experiencing explosive growth, and we have expanded our pre-fabrication shop, to name a few,” Bert explains grinning with boyish enthusiasm.

“Additionally, we completed over 22 schools through design build, design assist or IPD, and more than 500 projects of all types, over the last five years. But you can’t forget our biggest project to date that we are currently working on which required an unprecedented hiring feat from Jeannette whom we are very proud of” Jeanette, as HR Manager couldn’t be happier about achieving a record, she and her team set in 2021. “Since May 2021 we hired well over 200 great people and grew our total staff to over 330 employees. We had a huge target to hit and the team pulled together to refine and lean up processes to help me be able to meet the targets, sometimes hiring around 20 people a week! “she explained.

On every front, AltaPro has experienced what the De Bruin’s call “ferocious growth in both people and revenue, but this

AltaPro • Celebrating 35 Years • 2

Let the sun shine on.

Congratulations AltaPro on 35 years in business.

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AltaPro • Celebrating 35 Years • 3

would not be possible without our team continually performing and living to our core values.”

Key projects of note include our IPD projects such as the Edmonton Public Schools projects Thelma and Soraya, Garth Worthing School, the St Patrick’s Red Deer Catholic School. Also the Freedom Cannabis facility with Canada’s largest rooftop solar array and YEG2 Amazon Sort facility in the Acheson business park. The IPD project of Larkspur and Pilot Sound communities provided unique opportunities, challenges and risks that our project team handled with excellence. The two schools opened under budget and ahead of time and were part of a long-standing relationship with many of the partners for AltaPro.

Soraya Hafez School - EPSB.

Garth Worthington School was an IPD project with challenges in budget constraints requiring target value designing, critical forecasting, and team building which lead to wish list implementation. Additionally, the project was just starting construction when COVID hit but the team pulled together, pivoted and delivered a successful project that was also on time and under budget.

St Patrick’s School, established in 1981, was one on the first school IPD projects that consisted of a renovation and an addition with many unknown levels of asbestos and what lurks in the walls and above the ceilings. The biggest challenge of the renovation was that the school had to remain open for the students, pressing the project to many phases with strategic turn over of class rooms and teacher spaces. Again, there was success; under budget and ahead of schedule.

Freedom Cannabis involved a large-scale design-build warehouse tenant improvement with Canada’s largest rooftop solar installation (1.83MW). “Our innovative design-build practices, in short order, saved the FC owner over one million dollars, which allowed them to add more solar and become the largest rooftop solar array in Canada,” Bert stated with a big grin.

Thelma Chalifoux School - EPSB.

Solar 1.83 MW solar array Freedom Cannabis Facility.

Congratulations to AltaPro Electric for 35 successful years in business!

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AltaPro • Celebrating 35 Years • 4

4.39 MW solar array Shepherd Solar Farm.

With all of these proud achievements constantly pushing their team to new boundaries of success they knew the team could tackle anything they set their minds to. Then came the opportunity of YEG2. It is a complex 2.7million square foot facility that was to be built in just over a year!

This massive of an undertaking was going to require a unique approach so Bert reached out to friends in the industry to partner up and help us tackle this mammoth project. It is nearing completion and is on track to be one our biggest successes to date.

AltaPro’s renewable resources/solar division was started more than five years ago, but recently it has really taken off. By the end of 2022 AltaPro will have installed more than 25 megawatts of PV and is set to start work on the 100+ megawatts worth of projects in its pipeline. They are the company to call for the installation of solar PV and EV chargers, and are pleased to become one of Alberta’s largest solar-PV installation contractors. Practicing what they preach, AltaPro’s own shop has a roof top solar array that makes their facility operate at net zero electrically. To help Edmonton usher in the growing movement of switching to solar, AltaPro offers free solar assessments for residential, commercial and industrial properties.

In the past 5 years AltaPro has gone through some large growth and delivered some critical projects. “Our focus

remains on hiring, training and retaining highly skilled people,” says Jeanette with the pride of their people beaming through her smile. “We intentionally train all our people for success. With this method we have enjoyed high employee retention with low turnover, especially in leadership positions. Every team member is a very key part of our success and we don’t lose sight of that. The personal touch is there”. Bert pipes in “The staff are often impressed that Jeanette will remember their birthdays and the names of their children or what they do for fun. It shows that the company really cares even though they are a medium sized business they know what it means to be a part of the lives of the staff. We have a social chat on our team’s platform that often celebrates people’s personal achievements and milestones. When one person succeeds, the whole team succeeds. We celebrate and recognizes these successes in part with a gong that we ring in the lunchroom when new projects are awarded. There are ski trips, river canoe rides, social activities and more with the team. We are very proud of our strong corporate culture.”

“Fostering the growth of key individuals in our ownership team is also important,” Jeanette points out. “We added an executive leadership team who work on the strategic focus of the business, which involves key leaders who drive the business forward and work on annual priorities and meet

Gescan is a proud partner of AltaPro, who are celebrating 35 Years of Business this year!

Congratulations AltaPro!

AltaPro • Celebrating 35 Years • 5

AltaPro Electric Team.

bi-weekly to monitor and track progress towards our goals. To keep the executive team as accountable as possible, we work closely with Results-orientated Business execution specialists.”

David DeBruin is one of our executive leadership team members. His vision as the VP of renewable resources has helped to propel AltaPro to be at the leading edge of the solar market in Alberta.

“David is highly knowledgeable in the solar design field and has become a resource for several architects and engineers who rely on him for design methodology, constructability and new product knowledge in the industry,” say Bert and Jeanette, with pride. “He continues to research new inno-

David and Bert DeBruin.

vations in the solar market and bring them to the Alberta businesses and homes.

AltaPro Electric, EWEL-sized kudos to you on your 35th anniversary!

Let’s raise a glass to 35 more!

“On the project side, our focus is intentionally on our request for proposal method of opening doors to be pre-qualified for projects where we can focus on the value, we add to the project rather than how cheap we can do it,” Bert emphasizes.

“We continue to bid on lump sum projects, but with contractors whom we already enjoy a positive working relationship.”

AltaPro has a laser focus on negotiating with their partners for the best path forward with them as part of the team.

Thanks to a collaborative, high accountability approach and an early adoption of new construction technologies, AltaPro continues to build their industry presence and market share, standing on a great reputation for the mastery of design-build, IPD and solar PV. Their willingness to do joint ventures with the competition helps them grow across western Canada, as does the ability to provide quick turn around class D budgets for multimillion-dollar projects.”

“Through it all we still manage to have fun, even in tough times!” As with every business in Alberta, those tough times included the sudden industry changes demanded by COVID,” Bert says. “We are well advanced into the technology of our industry, which allowed us to pivot almost seamlessly into the COVID times because of our digital prowess.

All of the systems we use were already on digital platforms and our staff were able to pivot almost instantly to a work from home approach. Its been many years since we printed drawings sets for estimating as all our takeoffs and estimat-

AltaPro • Celebrating 35 Years • 6

ing is live and digital. Of course, we have a large labour force who had to adapt to COVID policies on sites but our safety culture allowed for a smooth transition here as well.

“The transition to on-line only allowed our staff to fit more into a work day and we were able to achieve record productivity from many of our office staff,” Jeanette notes. “The executive team worked tirelessly making sure the transition was as fluid as possible and that our staff were able to stay connected and be a team even though we were spread across the city working remotely.

“Other challenges both directly and indirectly related to COVID, include supply chain management, procurement, material cost increases and finding the right team members. The unfortunate outcome is that these costs and risks have been borne by those least likely to be responsible for these cost increases, but AltaPro approaches each challenge with the experience and adherence to their core values that keep them overcoming the hurdles, one at a time.”

“Today and in the near future, the risk will be material procurement, product cost increases, availability of a high performing labour force or just knowing that a contractor will still be there to complete your project. With our value

add of driving pull planning, QA/QC and keeping the end user and the customer, happy,” Bert says.. “This partnership is rare and irreplaceable, especially when trades are at risk of bankruptcy as our industry has been absorbing all the costs of tremendous material increases and labor shortages, especially in the last two years.”

“Our core values drive our performance to be your strategic partner more than ever for all types of electrical and related systems. Our culture resonates from the top to the bottom and we operate as one team. Our values and success are not limited to a few people in the company.

“The culture we have built ensures that no matter which project we are building, you will receive AltaPro’s unparalleled experience. Whether it is an IPD project, solar project or a design-build project, we will ensure you have the same success no matter which team members are on your build because we work together as one team, push performance and continue to rise above. We focus on innovative solutions to the industry’s biggest challenges such as material procurement, labour shortages, and stale project delivery models. We continually strive to be the best and experience success, our track record proves that we deliver on our promises every time.”

Congratulations to AltaPro Electric on 35 Years of Excellence!

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Keswick Church of God.

Alongside overcoming the many challenges, AltaPro celebrates the wins that help maintain this balance. Just some of the memorable moments over the past five years include the ribbon cutting ceremony for the solar array installed on AltaPro’s roof; the successful transition to a near-paperless office; remaining stable through tremendous growth; Jeanette’s Alberta Women Entrepreneurs win; achieving Strategic Partner of the Year 2019 by Kemway Builders; and being an EY finalists for Entrepreneur of the Year Prairies Region in 2012, 2015, and 2019.

The recognitions are nice, but Jeanette and Bert both cite their greatest achievement, “What we are the proudest of is seeing our people flourish and grow in their fields of expertise, developing as a team and living our core values.”

Electric Avenue.

Botanica Project St. Albert.

AltaPro has always used its success as a platform to give back to the industry and the community. The founders sit on seven industry boards and committees, have donated AltaPro’s electrician training centre to NAIT as an in-kind gift to train future electricians with hands on learning as AltaPro expanded their pre-fabrication space. They also donate free electrical services to non-profit organizations around Christmas. AltaPro is a proud supporter of Edmonton’s Food Bank, Edmonton Down Syndrome Society, hope mission, United Way, and the Mustard Seed.

A lot has happened in the last five years, and there is a lot more to come. Jeanette hints at the future saying, “We are currently successfully facilitating and executing the first IPD project as a three-member team of solar contractor, electrical engineer, and structural engineer, delivering approximately $6 million of solar across 12 schools in 7 months time. A first of it’s kind!”

AltaPro • Celebrating 35 Years • 8

Congratulations

— Congratulations to AltaPro for 35 successful years. ®

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Bert goes on to talk about some of the business strategies that have helped them to succeed. The Board of Directors and shareholders have been available for many afterhours conversations that help our business to pivot and adjust to the multiple challenges that came up in the past five years.

Covid especially showed the strength of AltaPro’s versatility and adaptability. AltaPro was able to maximize the opportunities and limit the attrition through a very tough time in the construction industry and in the rest of the world.

They came out ahead of the curve and started their growth pattern which continues to this day and looks like it will continue forward from here. “we have the owners that are willing to step up to the plate whether it be to help out on a project, get a submission done in time, rush a complex bid

CONGRATULATIONS AltaPro Electric on 35 Years of Business Excellence!

10802 172 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5S 2T3 admin@coyleco.ca • (780) 489-9923 • www.coyleco.ca

Congratulations AltaPro on 35 years!

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Bert and Jeanette DeBruin. Photo by Rebecca Lippiatt.

out the door or even attend business community functions.

We can count on our other owners to step up to the plate.”

AltaPro continues to grow their renewable energy dominance, create more IPD projects across Western Canada and grow the service and special projects department. AltaPro is on a mission to spread knowledge and skills in IPD across the industry through mentorship, alignment and support to other contractors and team members on new IPD projects across different regions.”

Faith and community are drivers of the core values of Bert and Jeanette and realize that the success is not of their own doing but is derived from a team that has and will continue to develop their God-given talents. The health and welfare of their People is constantly in their prayers.

CALGARY | EDMONTON | LETHBRIDGE | VANCOUVER

CONGRATULATIONS AltaPro Electric Ltd. on 35 Years!

We wish you many more years of business excellence.

The founders are incredibly grateful to, “Our people, close industry friends, leaders that press us to ‘do better,’ developers, architects, consultants, engineers, contractors, sub trades, suppliers, industry leaders, results coaches and boards and associations.” Bert adds, “my number one thanks goes to my wife Jeanette who is the core of our culture here at AltaPro, with huge thanks to my son David, the ownership group, and the rest of our upcoming leaders.”

7225 102 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB • (780) 486-6400 www.aci-arch.com AltaPro • Celebrating 35 Years • 10

Address: 13415 149 St, Edmonton, AB T5L 2T3 Phone: (780) 444-6510

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