BRANDON
2017
PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40934510
Business Review
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Brandon, MB
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Glen and I can’t say enough good things about our dealings with Sunrise Credit Union. They are very active in the community and support local business which we are grateful for. We love the friendly service we receive every time we go there. – Anita and Glen Haigh, Blinds by Anita Entrepreneurs bring a lot to the table and it is great when a financial institution like Sunrise Credit Union can come alongside, understanding that for a community to grow it needs a good financial partner. – Ed Dornn, Excel-7 We have found that Sunrise Credit Union understands the challenges that business owners face. Their approach to banking is a breath of fresh air! – Jason Powers, APEX Facility Services As a business owner, access to capitalize is very important if you want to expand your business. It is so nice that we can call Sunrise Credit Union. They are behind us all the way. – Ken Nerbas, Brandon Custom Auto and Truck I have been with Sunrise Credit Union for several years and have been extremely satisfied. I value the relationship I have built with their lenders as more than just a business relationship. – Ryan Jacobson, Forbidden Flavours
I’ve always felt valued as a member of Sunrise Credit Union and I continue to enjoy working with them. – Laird Lidster, Qdoba Mexican Grill One thing I really love about Sunrise Credit Union is their focus on me and my family. In addition to financing my business when needed, they understand what I need personally. – Stewart McMillan, Harvest Chiropractic We have been associated with Sunrise Credit Union for the past few years and are extremely happy with the service we receive. From the beginning I have gotten the sense that they are invested in our business and our future success. I look forward to a long and prosperous relationship with Sunrise as we go forward. – Eric Dickson, M&M Meats I would highly recommend Sunrise Credit Union. They’ve been incredible to us and they’ve really helped us grow our business over the last three years. – Justin Houde, Cleanups Residential and Commercial Cleaning I have been with Sunrise Credit Union right from the start and they’ve been absolutely fantastic to work with. – Gail Freeman-Campbell, Daughter on Call
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IN THIS issue Messages & Regular Reports & Board
Brandon
Business Review
6 Greetings from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce
is published by DEL Communications Inc. Suite 300, 6 Roslyn Road Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3L 0G5 www.delcommunications.com
8 Greetings from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce General Manager Carolynn Cancade
President David Langstaff
President Tami-Rae Rourke
10 2017-2018 Board of Directors
Publisher Jason Stefanik
12 Greetings from the Mayor of Brandon Rick Chrest
Managing Editor Bailey hildebrand-russel bailey@delcommunications.com
14 Benefits of Chamber Membership
Sales Manager Dayna Oulion Toll Free: 1.866.424.6398 Advertising Account Executives gary barrington Cheryl Ezinicki Corey frazer Jennifer Hebert Gladwyn Nickel DAN ROBERTS gary seamans Production services provided by: S.G. Bennett Marketing Services www.sgbennett.com Art Director Kathy Cable Layout / Design Dana Jensen Advertising Art DAVE BAMBURAK
Features 16 A bright future: Brandon expected to grow
in all aspects in the next year
20 Trekking into tech territory: How Brandon businesses
are embracing the digital era like never before
22 Business Person of the Year Award Winner: Jared Jacobson 24 Lifetime Business Builder Award Winner: Ray Redfern 26 Business Excellence Award Winner: Source for Sports 28 Outstanding New Business Award Winner: Daughter On Call 30 Community Service Award Winner: Jim Brannan 32 Vionell Holdings embraces software to spark growth
© Copyright 2017 DEL Communications Inc. All rights reserved.The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without prior written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in and the reliability of the source, the publisherin no way guarantees nor warrants the information and is not responsible for errors, omissions or statements made by advertisers. Opinions and recommendations made by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher, its directors, officersor employees. Publications mail agreement #40934510 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: DEL Communications Inc. Suite 300, 6 Roslyn Road Canada R3L 0G5 Email: david@delcommunications.com
36 Brandon Chamber of Commerce events 38 Index to advertisers 4
••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
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Greetings from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce President
W
Tami-Rae Rourke
elcome to the 10th edition of the Brandon Business Review. This magazine clearly demonstrates that investing in Brandon and Westman is an attractive opportunity by spotlighting Westman business success stories, highlighting the Brandon Chamber’s 2017 award winners and giving readers an update on the business climate in western Manitoba.
As we look ahead into the 2017-2018 year, we should be excited for the opportunities that lay ahead. The Conference Board of Canada has optimistic numbers for Brandon. Our service sector is projected to show a 2.2 per cent increase at the end of 2017 and continue to increase in the 2018 year. Employment is projected to climb by 2.8 per cent this year, and a further 1.5 per cent in 2018. Brandon’s population is projected to grow by 1.5 per cent in 2018, and this year a 1.6 per cent increase, which is slightly higher than the national average. We are seeing this growth occur, with the completion of GoodLife Fitness and the new Sobey’s Extra store, which is touted the largest in Canada. This will no doubt offer new jobs and attract more people to our wonderful community. We have also seen the ground break for new restaurants: Swiss Chalet, Harvey’s, East Side Mario’s, and Fionn MacCool’s. Another amazing accomplishment this year was the completion of our airport expansion. Brandon had the pleasure of hosting Charles Duncan, president of WestJet Encore, and many other local constituents to perform the official ribbon cutting. With this completion, the facility is now three times its former size and features dedicated arrivals, security screening, and departures areas, as well as expanded parking lot space.
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In addition, Brandon will see a physical growth with the recently-proposed South Brandon Annexation. This will expand the city boundary to include 69 hectares (170 acres) south of the city, which will provide additional lands for regional retail and residential development; another wonderful and exciting new growth. I personally had the pleasure of attending Brandon’s Assiniboine River Corridor Master Plan presentation. Not only will this bring back our beautiful river landscape and prepare for possible future flooding, but will invest an estimated $29.6 million in sustainable infrastructure. Once finished, this will no doubt attract many people from surrounding communities to Brandon to enjoy this wonderful facility. Also happening around us is forward thinking and strategic planning for our future growth. A grassroots movement led by Ray Redfern has formed a tactical group called Westman Opportunities Leadership Group (WOLG). This group consists of farm business leaders, economic development organizations and municipalities and has a goal of convincing potential investors or processing companies to build a soybean plant here in southern Manitoba. All these amazing opportunities and projected growth will no doubt spark an economic growth as well as bring Brandon even more to the forefront as a community that is wonderful to live, work and play in. In summary, there is no denying that Brandon has a lot to offer, but we need to step out of our comfort zone, accept change and get attention. Increasing local taxes, changing in global markets and external risks, such as the U.S., will play a part in our success to accomplish what is needed. However, I truly believe that Brandon has what it needs, and I look forward to watching it all happen. Please enjoy the magazine and thank you to the advertisers. ¢
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6
••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
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2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
7
Greetings from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce General Manager
W
Carolynn Cancade
elcome to the 10th edition of the Brandon Business Review magazine!
munity and why our city is a great place to live, work, play and do business in.
Over the past 10 years we have had the pleasure of showcasing our community through the numerous business stories and articles featured in this annual publication. We know that the life blood of our organization is our membership, and we take tremendous pride in being able to showcase their successes.
At the Chamber, we advocate, connect and educate, but we also do so much more. We are always looking for ways to better serve our membership by re-evaluating and adding new programs and services based on member feedback. We continue to provide great networking opportunities, professional development sessions, and cost-saving benefits, as well as advocating on behalf of business. Whether it is municipal budget matters, provincial and federal policy issues or discussions and collaborations with other stakeholders and partners, we continue to work to strengthen our community.
In this edition, we are pleased to once again highlight the recipients of our Business Achievement Awards. Every year, through the Chamber Awards, we recognize the contributions of our business community in business excellence, new entrepreneurship, lifetime achievement, service to the community, and of those in the ‘peak’ of their career. Our award recipients are great examples of leadership, perseverance, and hard work, just as the overall membership represents a diverse business community with companies and organizations of all sizes, industries and sectors. Of course, these pages represent only a sampling of the countless leaders, innovators, and contributors that have played a part to a thriving Brandon. However, after reading these profiles, you will know why we are so proud of our business com-
As the City of Brandon celebrates its 135th anniversary, we celebrate over 134 years as the voice of business in the Wheat City. We have been here from the start and are proud of our long history of helping Brandon businesses succeed. We look forward to the future and serving our members and community in the years and decades ahead — and sharing the successes of our members any chance we get. Please contact us to learn more about the tools the Brandon Chamber of Commerce can give your business to prosper and grow. Visit us at www.brandonchamber.ca or call 204-571-5340. ¢
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8
••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
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9
2017-2018
board of Directors
PRESIDENT
VICE-PRESIDENT
Tami-Rae Rourke NetSet Communications & I-NetLink Wireless
Jeff Hood MNP LLP
Cathy Snelgrove Siere
PAST-PRESIDENT
Tayona Johnas Sunrise Credit Union
Steve McMillan VBJ Developments
Terry Burgess RBC Royal Bank
10
SECRETARY / TREASURER
Trent Sholdice Meighen Haddad LLP
Spencer Day Progressive Sanitation
Greg Crisanti Tim Hortons
Jason Thorpe Thorpe Construction Ltd.
Scott Norosky South End Lumber (1978) Ltd.
Tanya LaBuick LaBuick & Co.
Jordan Trotter C & C Rentals
Jill Watt Cando Rail Services
••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
Putting Your Family Trust First Introducing a family trust into your current structure or as part of a larger reorganization allows for the maximum flexibility with respect to a wide range of issues that a family-owned business can face. Properly structured, a family trust can be the ultimate planning tool for a family-owned business, providing benefits that often more than outweigh the cost of implementation and annual maintenance. Contact Michael Poole, CA at 204.727.0661 or michael.poole@mnp.ca
2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
11
Greetings from the Mayor of Brandon
Rick Chrest
B
Brandon: a thriving community for all
randon is celebrating its 135th Birthday this year, prompting many to reflect on where we came from and where are we going. If we dial back to the mindset of the leaders and business people of 1882 and imagine the general plan they had for this community, how would they feel their vision has turned out? Brandon was originally incorporated as a city, never having had the status of a village or a town. Our founders envisioned this community would be the major trading and service centre of the western part of the province, embracing the sub-division point on the railway and the rich farmland that surrounded us. Fast forward 135 years, I would have to presume that Mayor Thomas Mayne Daly and the many pioneers of this city would feel reasonably satisfied to see that their Brandon had indeed become this province’s
second largest city and has flourished as the western hub for services, commerce, health and education. Brandon’s status as a regional service centre remains a significant hallmark in the growth and development of our business and professional sector. The most recent census numbers showing our five-year growth at 6.1 per cent exceeds the rate of growth for both our province and the nation. Equally as important is the examination of our demographics. Despite some anecdotal feelings that Brandon was an aging community, our actual average age of 38.6 is significantly younger than the national average of 41 and, in fact, is closer to communities considered much younger, such as Calgary at 37.6. In Brandon, our percentage of children is quite high, helping to pull down our average, but our percentage of older residents over 80 is also higher than national aver-
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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
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ages. To me, both factors show a positive sign for Brandon. The older characteristic underscores that Brandon is a solid choice for people to retire. In the recent Money Sense report on the top Canadian Cities for retirement, Brandon was ranked number 25, one slot better than Kelowna. With the younger demographic, Brandon’s future is bright, showing a healthy sector of younger families buoyed up by our strong and welcoming record on immigration. Brandon’s business community continues to grow, flourish and evolve to uphold our place as a regional centre. Construction and development remain strong with permits, thus far in 2017, exceeding the previous year significantly. New business openings are frequent and our unemployment rate continues to fall. City council has kept municipal taxes reigned in with tax increases totalling 1.66 per cent over the three years combined. In my view on balance, Brandon is in very good shape with respect to services, amenities, infrastructure and quality of life. We are one of the more affordable and well-appointed, mid-sized cities in Canada and, best of all, our people are generous, caring, welcoming of diversity, progressive and industrious. Having been born a mere 15 years after Confederation, Brandon is really hitting its stride and is poised to continue its robust, steady and manageable growth. Congratulations to the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, its board, staff and membership on its own 134 years of service to this city. Our business community is strong, progressive and well-led by our Chamber, and we look forward to continuing the work toward ongoing growth, prosperity and positive lifestyles for all. ¢
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13
Benefits of
Chamber Membership Five Reasons to be a Chamber Member
1
LOBBYING AND ADVOCACY
2
LEADS, REFERRALS AND NETWORKING
With approximately 600 member companies, the Brandon Chamber of Commerce is the credible Voice of Business, speaking out on behalf of all members on a variety of topics, including working with the City of Brandon and Brandon School Division on business related issues. The Chamber also lobbies municipal, provincial and federal government representatives regarding issues that face our Chamber members. The Brandon Chamber is about making connections...whether it’s chamber staff getting to know you and telling others about you or whether it’s you attending a variety of gatherings from small group events (Committee meetings and Business After 5’s) to larger functions (Luncheons, the Annual Dinner or Golf Tournament).
Or whether it’s you connecting with other Chamber members through our business directory, with its nearly 70 pages of listings and contacts - a who’s who of the business community.
3
AWARENESS AND PROMOTION OF YOUR BUSINESS
Joining the Brandon Chamber is about raising your profile in the business community. The Chamber offers you numerous opportunities to promote your business through sponsorship of a variety of events from luncheons and networking events to dinner’s and golf tournaments.
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce also provides advertising opportunities for your company in both print and electronic media, getting your message out to more than 800 business owners and their employees.
4
COST REDUCTION PROGRAMS
The Brandon Chamber can save you money and make it easier to do business through such member benefits as group insurance, merchant discounts and payroll.
5
LEARNING, EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT
Whether it’s attending our luncheons and hearing from key political, business and community leaders or coming out to our Special Events throughout the year, the Brandon Chamber keeps you up-to-date on topics of current interest.
The Brandon Chamber also provides you an opportunity to volunteer and grow as an individual - whether it’s helping to develop policy, speaking at a Chamber meeting or welcoming guests at a Chamber event.
The Power of Affiliation
Approximately 600 businesses with one unified voice for business means protection for your business. Businesses faced with unfair government administration, taxation, or legislation can use the Chamber as a valuable resource. Well-established channels to government and the power of representing over 800 delegates business people give the Chamber a voice that speaks louder than each business can alone.
Making the Most of it ADVERTISING
Advertise to a targeted market through the Chamber Insider e-newsletter, Chamber @ a Glance, Membership Roster, mail inserts and Event Sponsorship. As a new member, you also receive recognition at the first luncheon you attend and an opportunity for a free member profile in the Chamber @ a Glance.
NETWORKING
You are your greatest asset in teaching other people about what your business can do for them. By attending a Luncheon, Business After 5, Friday morning Coffee Break and other special events you can spread the word about your business to other Chamber members in the Brandon community. This is also your opportunity to learn about other businesses and how they can be of service to you.
ADDING YOUR VOICE
There are many opportunities to assist on a Chamber committee to lend your hand towards various Chamber initiatives on behalf of the business community. To maximize your membership benefit—get involved, meet people and be available for other members. Use the Chamber to broaden your personal network. Other business leaders, who know the pressures of ownership, can offer insight to the local marketplace or can be a sounding board for your newest idea.
DISCOUNTS
As a member of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, you are automatically associated with the Manitoba and Canadian Chambers of Commerce!
Various discounts are available to Chamber members, such as; Security Systems, Payroll, Office Supplies, Telephone & Data Plans, Group Insurance, Debit/Credit Card Payments, and more!
For more information please contact the Brandon Chamber of Commerce (204) 571-5344 | external@brandonchamber.ca | www.brandonchamber.ca 14
••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
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cancaderestoration.com 2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
15
A bright future
Brandon expected to grow in all aspects in the next year
By Sandy Trudel, director of economic development, City of Brandon Like other mid-sized cities across Canada, Brandon’s economy continues to feel the impacts of a sluggish oil sector. But thanks to the city’s diverse industries, the local economy continues to grow. According to the Conference Board of Canada Brandon’s real gross domestic product (GDP) is projected to grow 1.8 per cent in 2017 and
16
••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
1.9 per cent in 2018, in line with provincial norms, an improvement from the 2016 growth of 1.4 per cent. The manufacturing sector is forecast to increase by 1.7 per cent and some services-producing industries appear to be gaining momentum, particularly non-commercial services, public administration, finance, insurance and
real estate. The Shoppers Mall expansion is well underway with the recent opening of the new Sobey’s Extra and ground work underway for the addition of pad sites for stand-alone restaurants that include East Side Mario’s, Fionn MacCool’s, and Swiss Chalet/Harvey’s. VBJ Development’s request to annex 170 acres south of Brandon
The Conference Board of Canada is projecting continued healthy population growth of 1.6 per cent for 2017 in Brandon. Residential construction remains solid but is forecast to be below the 10-year average of 315 new units in both 2017 and 2018.
to facilitate the development of a regional retail area is progressing, with confirmed plans to open five new restaurants in various areas of Brandon in 2017. Employment in Brandon is forecast to increase in 2017 by 2.8 per cent with an average of 610 new jobs per year projected for 2017 and 2018. The positive momentum will place downward pressure on the unemployment rate. Monthly historical unemployment rates are available online at www.economicdevelopmentbrandon. com/unemployment-rate. With today’s mobile labour force, Brandon, like many small cities across North
America, struggles to attract specialized talent. Experts say successful recruitment of key candidates to smaller urban centres requires a good understanding of the unique benefits the community can offer, a full appreciation of the allure of larger cities, and creating a personal connection with prospective employees. To connect individuals outside Brandon with skilled/ professional job opportunities and quality of life information in one spot, employers are encouraged to publish job postings on the free job site www.jobsinbrandon.ca, embedded in the Economic Development Brandon website. An external marketing campaign focused on skilled trades work-
ers and professionals helps drive potential candidates to the job site where they can access information on amenities, quality of life elements and career opportunities. Economic Development Brandon also offers a city tour to assist Brandon businesses in recruiting key/specialized candidates. Businesses can contact the Economic Development Brandon (EDB) office and request a city tour for the candidate(s) being interviewed. EDB staff, or one of their volunteer community champions, will spend time understanding what matters to the candidate and their family and then customize the city tour to ensure information is provided that align with the candidate’s
2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
17
Employment in Brandon is forecast to increase in 2017 by 2.8 per cent with an average of 610 new jobs per year projected for 2017 and 2018.
With today’s mobile labour force, Brandon, like many small cities across North America, struggles to attract specialized talent. priorities. To date, close to 70 per cent of the candidates for whom EDB conducted a city tour have accepted the employment offer. In addition to the job site and community tours, Economic Development Brandon provides relocation packages, promotional materials (including slide show presentations and an online photo library) and cost of living and marketing overviews to businesses at no cost. During the 2016 Census, Brandon’s population grew by 6.1 per cent, or 2,798 people, placing Brandon’s population at 48,859. The Conference Board of Canada is projecting continued healthy population growth of 1.6 per cent for 2017. Residential construction remains solid but is forecast to be below the 10-year average of 315 new units in each of 2017 and 2018. As industrial growth fuels commercial and residential growth, Brandon’s industrial area is a major focus of work for the department. Building on an industrial land development forecast completed in 2016, EDB, partnering with our planning and engineering departments, have undertaken the development of a secondary plan for 18
••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
Economic Development Brandon also offers a city tour to assist Brandon businesses in recruiting key/specialized candidates.
the industrial area and staff continue to advocate for an industrial land servicing strategy to address servicing constraints in the area. With much of today’s initial site selection and vetting done online before personal contact with Economic Development offices, the EDB office has launched an online industrial land inventory. The inventory aims to address the gap in online exposure resulting from many of the industrial land parcels available for development not having an online presence. The inventory will be expanded over the coming months to include additional sites and commercial development opportunities in Brandon. Existing listings can be found at www.economicdevelopmentbrandon. com/development-opportunities.
During the 2016 Census, Brandon’s population grew by 6.1 per cent, or 2,798 people, placing Brandon’s population at 48,859. A growing population, sustained investments from existing and new businesses, a strategic yet flexible plan for economic prosperity combined with rich agricultural resources, close proximity to the oil services sector and an engaged business community all form a solid foundation for continued economic prosperity. ¢ 2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
19
Interactive media arts 2017 graduate Dallas Flett-Wapash built a virtual reality game from scratch during the second year of his studies. supplied by Assiniboine Community College
Trekking into tech territory How Brandon businesses are embracing the digital era like never before Brandon is a force to be reckoned with on the technology front: students and recent post-secondary graduates are using innovative tools and devices to be ahead of the curve, new businesses based solely on technology are popping up, and older companies are embracing a new digital age. To groom the up-and-coming workforce, Assiniboine Community College is in constant conversation with industry, according to Jill Ferguson, chairperson of the School of Trades and Technology at ACC. “We have regular advisory committees, so we meet with our industry partners at least twice a year for each of our programs and we’re always keeping our ear to the ground to figure out what is new and how do we adapt what we’re teaching and how we’re teaching to make sure that we’re meeting those demands,” she said. While technology is sometimes seen as a distraction to some instructors who may 20
••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
feel they have to compete with social media, many of those teaching have begun to use smartphones as a tool in the classroom, Ferguson said. “We’ve got people who are super excited about technology and we’re always looking for new ways to incorporate it into our studies,” she said. “Certainly you do have some people who have been instructing for a long time and they understand that good pedagogy to them is good pedagogy and they teach things a certain way, but for the majority of it, my instructors are always looking for ways to incorporate the latest and greatest into the classroom, and also being responsive to what our industry partners are looking for.” That means getting used to creating things you can’t touch with non-tangible tools. Ferguson said there’s a focus on the cloud and the technology that goes along with it. “If we take a look at network administra-
By Bailey Hildebrand-Russell
tion technology, everyone’s talking about the cloud, so we have to make sure that we have our students trained in cloud technology and what exactly the cloud means so they’re well prepared when they go out to our industry partners to be able to assist them with moving their data to the cloud or not moving their data to the cloud. For interactive media arts, augmented reality and virtual reality are huge right now. We’re constantly looking at ways we can incorporate those things into our program.” Local businesses such as Dash! Mobile Dining and Entertainment rely solely on customers that embrace technology. Chris Thomas, president and creator, said the initial goal of the mobile application, which launched in 2015, was to inform Brandon residents of deals and menu updates at local restaurants. Now, the app is taking on new roles with 30,000 users in several markets, including Brandon, Regina, Winnipeg and Saskatoon.
change, but so will your employees. Thom-
“We went very quickly from just being a restaurant app to being a digital marketing agency for businesses, restaurants in particular. We found the best way for us to get our app out to people was through social media.”
While being innovative is typically seen as a positive, using new programs and software can make consumers who are used to older technologies uneasy at first. Roulette McCartney said after a while people get used to it and recognize the benefits.
Restaurants began to take notice of how Dash! uses social media, which Thomas said eventually led them to creating an online presence and curating content for a number of them. Now, Dash! runs more than 40 YouTube and Facebook accounts for restaurants, as well as car dealerships, yoga studios and hotels.
“Change always comes with some trepidation, but after an initial adoption phase, people are usually quite pleased with the advanced features and capabilities that come with new technologies.”
changes so fast. Don’t get too comfort-
Not only will customers need to adjust to
ing out there in the rest of the world.” ¢
as has advice for other businesses looking to adopt new technologies, no matter what industry they’re in. “Learn to be flexible,” he said. “Everything able in one space if you live in the technology world because by tomorrow that whole idea could change...You really have to learn to be flexible and pivot with what’s happen-
Thomas said one of the biggest challenges is keeping up with technology that’s constantly changing. Often, the competition is already on the same level or even a step ahead. “Things are changing at such an exponential rate that you pretty much have to commit a part of your day to reading on the internet what’s going on,” he said. “You’ve got to stay on top of what’s coming out competition-wise, with potentially new forms of technology or new ideas that could be competitive to you or supplemental to you. We’ve had some pretty cool experience with finding companies that are doing things that are different than us, but work well with us, too.” Sunrise Credit Union, with headquarters in Brandon, also recognizes the importance of keeping up with technology. Over the past few years, it has incorporated a number of new technologies to stay relevant, including Interac Flash, the Sunrise Lite mobile app and Deposit Anywhere. Since its inception, Sunrise has worked toward staying ahead of the curve in all areas of business, according to marketing manager Terri Roulette McCartney. “Offering new programs that meet the changing lifestyle needs of members is critical to service excellence,” said Roulette McCartney. “Just one example is our mobile app. With more and more people using their mobile devices for banking on the go, offering an easy-to-use app was an obvious need to fill early on. Sunrise launched the app a few years back and a good portion of its membership use it regularly.”
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MLA for Spruce Woods 204.827.3956 ccullenmla@mts.net 2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
21
Business person of the year award winner
Thinking big
Jared Jacobson’s quest for growth earns him Business Person of the Year award By Bailey Hildebrand-Russell
A
t 38 years old, Vionell (Jared) Jacobson still has a long career ahead of him, but he’s already a star in the Brandon business community.
Born in 1979, Jacobson grew up in the family business, Jacobson & Greiner Group, which had its beginnings in 1956. A third-generation employee and eventual owner, Jacobson worked a variety jobs within the company, from construction sites to the lumber yard to making deliveries. In 2003, he graduated from Brandon University with a four-year bachelor of business administration. From there, he took the initiative to not only advance his own personal career, but also to grow the family business.
“After university, I was basically doing project management and sales because I was writing my real estate license. From there, my father and I acquired the business from some family and then I became an owner and started doing some of the general management tasks along with sales.” That’s when Jacobson started the process of acquiring more companies, going from two companies to upward of 20. “We got the Rona franchise and then created J&G Homes. Now we have 15 to 20 companies vertically integrated like a cement plant, infrastructure companies, multiple home-building companies in different markets.” Today, he’s the CEO of the Jacobson & Greiner Group. For Jacobson, it was important to stay close to home and continue the work of those who came before him. He said the family business is important to him, not only because he’s carrying on his family’s legacy, but also because he’s providing opportunities to other families in the area.
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“We’re keeping the tradition going,” he said. “We employ a lot of people so seeing that survive and all the other people that work with us grow and mature and advance is important to me as well, along with my own goals.” Despite working hard, Jacobson ensures he still has time to give to local initiatives through volunteering. Over the years, he’s worked with Brandon University, Brandon Regional Health Authority, Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Young Presidents’ Organization, to name a few organizations. “When you’re in the community, you’ve got to give back to the community. That’s part of business — not just taking, you’ve got to give. That’s why it’s important to me.”
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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
At the Chamber’s 2017 Business Achievement Awards, Jacobson took home the Business Person of the Year award, following in his father Jack Jacobson’s footsteps (he won the same award in 2005). He said he’s honoured to receive the title, especially for being a younger business person. “I was quite surprised and humbled. I didn’t expect to win it this early in my career. I know I’m doing a lot of things and working hard, but it usually takes a while to win it. It was nice and a big surprise to me and I was very honoured.” ¢
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Lifetime Business Builder award winner
Seeing red
Ray Redfern’s contributions to the ag industry recognized with Business Builder Award
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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
By Bailey Hildebrand-Russell
Y
ou could say Raymond Redfern’s career began when he was just a boy. Growing up on a farm about
an hour away from Brandon near Kenton, Man., Redfern became involved in dayto-day farming operations at a young
age. In his final year of high school, the family moved to Brandon, but his passion for the farm didn’t stop. Fast forward to now, Redfern is the owner and president of Redfern Farm Services, which has been in business for 45 years and has 11 locations. But getting to this point wasn’t easy — it took a lot of hard work. Moving to Winnipeg after high school, Redfern graduated from the University of Manitoba with a bachelor of science in agriculture, majoring in soil science and economics. He also served as a member of the International Agriculture Students Association and took a number of different agriculture-related jobs over the summers. After graduation, Redfern landed a job with Imperial Oil as an agronomist. He later had the opportunity to move to Alberta working as a marketing manager with Imperial. Redfern said that avenue helped lead him to opening his own business, Redfern Farm Services Ltd., at the end of 1972 in Rivers, Man.
tunity led Redfern to Uganda, working with a local organization there on community development initiatives. Redfern has served on executives for a couple ag committees, including that of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. He’s also a long-term member on Assiniboine Community College advisory boards, and a former member of the board and president for Child & Family Services of Western Manitoba. Taking home the Business Builder Award at the Chamber’s 2017 Business Achieve-
ment Awards, Redfern said he can’t take all the credit himself. “On behalf of our team, I can say that I’m pleased it was recognized and I think it’s a vindication of the passion that all of us have put into this business for a number of years to be a long-term business builder,” he said. “It certainly wasn’t just by Ray. We’ve got some very long-term folks and even some newer ones that have helped us up our game significantly over the years. When I think about it in terms of the recognition for Ray, I’m humbled.” ¢
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“I’m still there. I told the local people when I came that this would be a fiveyear project for me and then I’d try the next phase of my life. I like to say I forgot to leave.” Redfern’s career didn’t stop there. Since then he has made significant contributions in the Westman region and in the agriculture industry. He sticks close to home, playing an active role in Redfern Family Farms and serving as president for Redspur Enterprises Ltd. in Rivers, but he’s also travelled the world — one of his most notable trips was to Australia for a Rotary International Study Exchange in 1977. Redfern’s career transcends his work life. He’s served many volunteer hours for a number of organizations and causes that are not only important for those living in Westman, but people around the world. He’s played the role as president for the Marquis Project, which provides Manitobans with education on global issues. The organization also partners with non-government organizations in Africa and Central America. That oppor-
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Business Excellence award winner
THE SOURCE OF CUSTOMER SERVICE
Source for Sports wins 2017 Business Excellence Award
By Bailey Hildebrand-Russell
T
he name may have changed a few times since its inception, but Source for Sports’ goals have remained the same — to provide the community and surrounding area with quality sporting goods and excellent customer service. Brian Barnes, current owner and general manager, started working on the retail side of the store in 1990, when it was still called
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Sports Traders. At that time, the store had only been around for two years, opening in April 1988. Barnes said in the mid-1990s the Sports Traders was taken over by a new buying group and changed its name to Sports Excellence. Then, in 2003, there was another takeover giving the store its current name — Source for Sports. When it first opened in the 1980s, Source for Sports sold new and used equipment and also offered trades. Barnes said this meant sports became more affordable for families living in Westman. “The price of team sports, such as hockey, is very high. So we gave people the option to trade in their old equipment and purchase used equipment, purchase new as well, but we gave them options.” As years progressed, Source for Sports began stocking more hard goods for hockey, soccer and baseball players, Barnes said. In the 1990s, the store transitioned to make way for more apparel. But more stuff required more space. After a move to Brandon Avenue and then an expansion in 2017, the store now boasts 14,000 square feet. Barnes said the footwear and apparel section has been expanded and the store also purchased an embroidery machine to
create customized goods for both sports teams and businesses. But the products that Source for Sports carries only play a small role in what makes the business so great — it’s the staff and how they treat everyone who walks through the door. “We call ourselves a small big business,” Barnes said. “We are kind of a big business but we still have the small town mentality. We try and treat all our customers coming through the door not just as customers. They’re our friends, they’re people we see on the street. In the world we live in now, in the electronic and online world, there’s only certain ways for us to continue to succeed as a brick and mortar store, and we feel customer service is key to that.” As for winning the Business Excellence Award at the Chamber’s Business Achievement Awards, Barnes said it’s an honour for everyone. “It’s very exciting and humbling. It’s an award that’s somewhat brought forward by your peers in the business community and we’re obviously very proud to do business in this community and to be recognized by the chamber and our peers as a successful business.” ¢
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2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
27
Outstanding New Business award winner
Friends you need most
Daughter On Call wins Outstanding New Business By Bailey Hildebrand-Russell
Gail Freeman-Campbell, founder and CEO, started Daughter On Call in November 2012.
D
aughter On Call offers more than homecare — it could be compared to a friendship matchmaking service, according to founder and CEO Gail Freeman-Campbell, who started the company in November 2012. As a nurse, she saw there was a demand for a program to assist individual seniors living in the area. “I recognized a real need in Westman for individualized services for seniors, something that was very focused on what they needed that covered not only their physical needs but also their emotional and psychological needs.” After researching, working on a business plan and discussing the opportunity with others in Manitoba and outside the prov-
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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
The Chamber has supported me since the beginning. recognized and see the community is looking at Daughter On Call as an asset and a good business they stand behind. It was a wonderful experience.” Care specialists meet with clients to determine their needs, as well as their hobbies. This means clients and care partners with similar interests can develop a friendship as opposed to a working relationship. ince who owned private homecare businesses, she opened her own business. Freeman-Campbell tested the waters with one employee — a casual health-care aid. The demand has been so great that the company has now expanded to around 50 employees, including care specialists. Care specialists, the first people who meet with a client who has been in touch with Daughter On Call, have a great responsibility — matchmaking. They attend a client’s home for a free consultation and get to know them and their needs. From there, staff determine which care partner is best suited to work with that person. “For example, if I have a client that speaks Ukrainian, I’m going to send them staff members who also speak Ukrainian. Or if I have someone who loves to bake but needs help to do that, then I’m going to make sure we send out a care partner that is a proficient baker.” As there are more requests for services, the more Freeman-Campbell looks at expanding. Daughter On Call is currently working to open an office in Neepawa, Man. She said in the future she hopes the company can reach seniors in need across Canada. Freeman-Campbell said she feels humbled to have received the award for Outstanding New Business at the Chamber’s Business Achievement Awards and be recognized by her peers. “You spend the last four and a half years working, working, working and sometimes you don’t have time to take a deep breath and lift your head and see what’s going on around you,” she said. “It was nice to be
Freeman-Campbell said the Chamber has supported her since the beginning and recommends other businesses join to better themselves as well.
“I’m a proud Chamber member and I would encourage any new businesses to reach out to the Chamber for any of their needs — to join, to come to the luncheons that are great networking opportunities. I’m always able to help new businesses as a member, too. I like to pay it forward.” ¢
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Community Service award winner
Giving back
Jim Brannan wins 2017 Community Service Award By Bailey Hildebrand-Russell
W
hile Jim Brannan has spent most of his working life volunteering, he credits his former employers for making time for staff to donate time to different initiatives. “I’ve actually been fortunate to be able to work for companies that would allow you the time to (volunteer),” Brannan said. “I think that’s a big part of volunteering, when you have a company that promotes that type of thing and giving back to the community.”
Now retired, Brannan was most recently vice-president of engineering services at Cando Rail Services. But his career began in 1970 as one of the originals at manufacturing company Inventronics Ltd. Brannan remained at Inventronics for 31 years before becoming president and co-owner of Practical Concepts Inc., a consulting company. Despite contemplating retirement, Brannan joined Cando Rail Services in 2002. “One of the founders of Cando (Gord Peters) told me I was too young to retire. So
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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
we argued about that and negotiated and it was going to be a year-over-year deal and I ended up staying there for 14 years until I retired. I lost the argument,” he said with a laugh. Brannan’s volunteering resume is long. He’s held important decision-making roles as part of an oil and gas task force in southwest Manitoba, the Premier’s Economic Advisory Council, the City of Brandon Aboriginal Task Group and the housing committee task group. “I’ve been fortunate to have a great bunch of mentors that I worked with and I had a lot of success in my career. It’s just nice to give some of that back and help in different ways in the community. Some of that is on boards, some of that is on things such as the Special Olympics.”
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Of the organizations he has volunteered with, he said Special Olympics sticks out in his mind. “It’s fun to see the families and to watch the faces,” he said. “Seeing how involved these people are and how happy they are just to be a part of it.” Brannan also said having the Memorial Cup come to Brandon was a memorable experience. “I worked with a great bunch of volunteers and people that just want to get out there and contribute back to the community and just go about and get the work done.” Today, Brannan is still involved in a number of initiatives, including Westman Immigrant Services, the Travellers Day Parade, and Servants of Service (affordable seniors housing). He’s also been involved in a committee looking to Brandon’s future by working with Brandon University on a downtown development. For his efforts and engagement in the community, Brannan has received the 2017 Community Service Award at the Chamber’s Business Achievement Awards. “I was very honoured to win the award. The part of it that I struggle with is it’s for an individual when it’s really about a team. Everything I’ve been involved with has always been a team — always working with committees and other people. As much as I appreciate being singled out, it really always was part of the people that you worked with.” ¢
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2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
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Since September 2011, Vionell Holdings has grown the number of residential units under their management from 417 to almost 2,600.
Vionell Holdings embraces software to spark growth By Wanda Kurchaba 32
••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
G
rowing your business often means being more efficient. Business owners and managers will often look to the latest technology to determine if systems can be adapted or changed to gain efficiencies, improve productivity and provide customers with the best customer service possible. Vionell Holdings Partnership (VHP) is a professional property management company with operations in Brandon and Thompson. Since September 2011, Vionell Holdings has grown the number of residential units under its management from 417 to almost 2,600. With such tremendous growth, it was essential for the company to embrace new technology that would not only help to improve systems, but to also mitigate some of the challenges that were prevalent with such strong growth in the last six years.
Yardi tracks work orders and assigns work to technicians in real time. It also tracks vacant units so potential renters can see the same information when searching for an apartment.
Jason Roblin, chief executive officer of VHP, said the biggest change was implementing an integrated property management software system called Yardi. “The program is multifaceted and fully meets the needs of the all the services we provide in terms of property management. It is useful for employees and managers, for our valued customers, as well as for investors,” said Roblin. From the office perspective, Yardi tracks work orders and assigns work to technicians, as well as tracks the time it takes to complete work orders. The system operates in real time, which gives staff the ability to monitor and track progress, as well as provide realistic estimations to customers on the completion of maintenance projects.
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“The software program is also very useful from the public perspective as it tracks vacant units. This means that with website access, renters can see the same information that we do when searching for an apartment. They can narrow their search by location, price and other features to find the most suitable accommodations for the date they wish to move in,” said Roblin. This information is also available in real time on the company website, as well as on a national internet listing service called RENTCafé. Once an apartment seeker finds 2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
33
a suite they would like to rent, an added feature allows them to apply online and get approval within minutes (if qualifications are met) through the RENTCafé screening system. Vionell Holdings has found the new software system to be a valuable part of its business.
“When our clients add Yardi Resident Screening to their Yardi Voyager leasing workflow, they can approve qualified tenants expediently. In extremely competitive rental markets, a fast and reliable screening process is critical,” said Peter Altobelli, vicepresident with Yardi Systems, Inc. In addition, for real estate investors the improved system has helped VHP to attract
large owners of multi-family properties to utilize their services. “For those who are keen on real estate as an investment, our services allow investors to maximize their investment without being involved in the details of leasing and maintaining the units. We have grown our management services area where investor units exceed our own portfolio in terms of units under management,” said Roblin. “By treating each property as if it were a fully-owned VHP asset, our team can add value by assigning specific tasks to our own team members such as leasing units or scheduling maintenance. It’s proven to be an effective and efficient system where the investor isn’t bogged down with dayto-day operations.”
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1040—26th Street, Brandon, Manitoba R7B 2C1
Zenith
Paving
Specializing in Reverse Osmosis Home/Office/City/Rural Delivery Water Cooler Sales/Rentals/Sanitizing Water Treatment/Filtration Systems Sales & Service Purified Ice and Gourmet Coffee Specialists Toll Free: 1-866-768-4847
Phone: (204) 729-8844
Fax: (204) 727-4630
Insurance Tailored to your Individual Needs
Beside the Big License Plate B-435 Rosser Avenue, Brandon, Manitoba www.dickagencies.ca
Contact us today for all your paving needs 108 Richmond avenue e. Brandon, MB R7a 7g1 P. (204) 728.3388 | F. (204) 727.3748 toll Free. (877) 728.3388
204-727-6481
RESIDENTIAL • FARM • COMMERCIAL • TRAVEL • HAIL • AUTO
Wheat City Concrete Products Ltd.
Plant: 918 McTavish Avenue E. • Office: 4801 Victoria Avenue E. Brandon, MB R7A 7L2 • Phone: 204-725-5600 • Fax: 204-725-5606
ELEGANT AMBIENCE, GOURMET FOODS, FRESH BAKED GOODS & RICH COFFEE
Sand • Gravel • A-Base • Limestone, etc. Washed & Deshaled Aggregate Midwestern Redi-Mix (1980) Virden • Melita • Deloraine • Elkhorn – 204-748-1592 Prairie Redi-Mix Foxwarren • Hamiota • Minnedosa/Erickson • Shoal Lake – 204-847-2331 Supplier of
510 1st st., Brandon, MB (204) 717-9100
Souris Redi-Mix Souris – 204-483-3308
jandmwindows.com
QUALITY
SERVICE
908 Rosser Ave., Brandon MB R7A 0L4 204.728.1746 george@jandmwindows.com
CoffeeCultureCafe.com 2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
35
Mark Your Calendars
Please contact us to learn more about Brandon Chamber of Commerce events – event dates and times are subject to change.
Please visit us at brandonchamber.ca for up-to-date events listings.
Breakfast Series The Breakfast Series will be held from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. throughout the year and will offer attendees a hot breakfast and chance to network before the workday begins. Each breakfast will feature a speaker or panel discussing local business topics.
Pub Nights
Saving energy is smart business for every business. Manitoba Hydro offers a variety of incentive programs and financing for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re purchasing new kitchen appliances for your small restaurant or upgrading your office’s heating system, our programs will help you identify areas where you can improve energy efficiency, lower operating costs, and increase overall profit. Improve your bottom line with Power Smart*. Contact us: powersmartforbusiness@hydro.mb.ca 204-360-3676 (Winnipeg) or 1-888-624-9376 hydro.mb.ca/psfb Available in accessible formats upon request.
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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
*Manitoba Hydro is a licensee of the Trademark and Official Mark.
There is nothing more sociable than getting together at your local pub. Like Business After 5, Pub Nights will put a spotlight on a member's restaurant/ lounge/bar. The hosts will showcase their business and offer a sampling of their cuisine to attendees. These evenings will offer attendees an informal and relaxed networking event.
Chamber Friday Coffees The Chamber’s coffee events are held the first Friday of every month (September to June) and are an excellent networking opportunity for you and your business. No RSVPs, no speeches and open to all, the coffee get-togethers are a great way to catch up with colleagues, meet newcomers and practice your networking skills in a casual setting.
Calendar Date
Event
Location
September 12, 2017
Chamber 101
Chamber Boardroom
September 14, 2017
September Luncheon: Robyn Sneath
Victoria Inn
September 28, 2017
AGM/Reception
TBA
September 29, 2017
Workshop: Website Marketing with Scott Kasprick
Chamber Boardroom
October 5, 2017
Breakfast Series: Women in Leadership
Victoria Inn
October 12, 2017
2017 Westman HR Conference
Victoria Inn
October 16, 2017
October Luncheon: Small Business Week
Clarion
October 18, 2017
Workshop: Email Marketing with Scott Kasprick
Chamber Boardroom
October 19, 2017
BA5: Career Connections
Career Connections
November 16, 2017
November Luncheon: Carbon Tax
Victoria Inn
November 22, 2017
Workshop: Social Media Marketing with Scott Kasprick
Chamber Boardroom
November 28, 2017
Breakfast Series: Bravo Brandon
Clarion
December 5, 2017
Chamber 101
Chamber Boardroom
December 7, 2017
December Luncheon: Holiday Luncheon
Victoria Inn
January TBA, 2018
Breakfast Series: Let’s Talk Mental Health
TBA
January 18, 2018
January Luncheon: Business Climate Survey
Clarion
February 15, 2018
February Luncheon: Champions of Ag — Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods
Victoria Inn
February 21, 2018
Chamber 101
Chamber Boardroom
March 8, 2018
March Luncheon: Manitoba Success Story — Coal and Canary
Clarion
March 15, 2018
Annual Awards Gala
Keystone Centre
April 3, 2018
Breakfast Series: State of Healthcare
TBA
April 19, 208
April Luncheon: State of the Province
Keystone Centre
May 2, 2018
Breakfast Series: Women in Leadership
TBA
May 17, 2018
May Luncheon: State of the City
Keystone Centre
May 21, 2018
Chamber 101
Chamber Boardroom
June 6, 2018
June Luncheon: Changeover Ceremony
Clarion
June 13, 2018
Annual Golf Tournament
TBA
DEL Communications Inc. and you – the key to success! We offer outstanding personal service and quality in the areas of: CREATIVE DESIGN ADVERTISING SALES TRADE PUBLICATIONS QUALIFIED SALES & EDITORIAL TEAM
INSURANCE THAT GROWS WITH YOUR BUSINESS Our commercial products are designed to meet the needs of small to medium-sized businesses, spanning over a number of industries.
Visit wawanesa.com/findabroker to find a Wawanesa Insurance broker near you.
Suite 300, 6 Roslyn Road Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 0G5
www.delcommunications.com
2017 ••• Brandon Business Review •••
37
Index to Advertisers Accel Towing & Transport Ltd.....................................................................................................29 Atom-Jet Industries...........................................................................................................................15 Behlen Industries LP.........................................................................................................................13 Benmarks.................................................................................................................................................27 Blue Moon Water................................................................................................................................35 Brandon Business Interiors...........................................................................................................13 Brandon Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.......................................................................................18 Brandon Economic Development..........................................................................................IFC Brandon First.........................................................................................................................................24 Brandon University............................................................................................................................23 Burns Maedel........................................................................................................................................38 Cancade Restoration........................................................................................................................15 Cando........................................................................................................................................................31 Cardinal Signs Ltd...............................................................................................................................26 C.M.S. Services Inc..............................................................................................................................23 Coffee Culture Café & Eatery.......................................................................................................35 Construction Association of Rural Manitoba....................................................................15 D&B Sprinklers......................................................................................................................................27 Dick Agencies Insurance Brokers..............................................................................................35 Ducks Unlimited.....................................................................................................................................8 Excel 7 Design & Construction...................................................................................................31 Giant Tiger...............................................................................................................................................33 Glacier Wash Inc..................................................................................................................................27 Guild / HMS Insurance Group Inc.............................................................................................34 Horizon Builders Ltd.........................................................................................................................11 HUB International...............................................................................................................................31 J & M Windows & Door Inc...........................................................................................................35 Jani-King of Manitoba.....................................................................................................................12 Leech Printing................................................................................................................................Insert Lucky Break Ranch & Tack..............................................................................................................30 Manitoba Hydro..................................................................................................................................36 Manitoba Pork Council................................................................................................................OBC McMunn & Yates.................................................................................................................................23
McPhail Travel and Discovery Tours........................................................................................23 Minute Muffler & Brake...................................................................................................................15 Mnp Llp..................................................................................................................................................11 MPI..................................................................................................................................................................7 Nate! Plumbing & Heating Ltd..................................................................................................27 NetSet Communications...............................................................................................................19 Paddock Drilling Ltd.........................................................................................................................13 Party Professionals.............................................................................................................................22 PC Caucus...............................................................................................................................................21 Persnickety Furniture Refinishers..............................................................................................15 Pinchin Ltd..............................................................................................................................................27 Roland/Weir Appraisal Associates............................................................................................33 Rotary Villas............................................................................................................................................13 Shreem Systems & Solutions.......................................................................................................27 Sunrise Credit Union...........................................................................................................................3 Taylor Jackson Financial Services Inc......................................................................................27 The Green Spot Home & Garden..............................................................................................34 The Paw Resort & Wellness Centre.............................................................................................9 Trend Collection & Bailiff Services Ltd...................................................................................23 Vanguard Credit Union......................................................................................................................7 Venture Accounting Group Ltd.................................................................................................28 Vionell Holdings Partnership..................................................................................................... IBC Visa2Canada Immigration & Settlement Services.............................................................6 Wawanesa Mutual Insurance......................................................................................................37 WCB.............................................................................................................................................................25 Western Manitoba Public Library.............................................................................................15 Westman Communications Group............................................................................................5 Westman Spray Foam......................................................................................................................23 Westoba Credit Union Ltd...............................................................................................................9 Wheat City Concrete Products Ltd..........................................................................................35 Windsor Plywood...............................................................................................................................27 Zenith Paving Ltd...............................................................................................................................35
Please support the advertisers Daniel Burns, P.Eng.
Michael Maendel, P.Eng.
Civil Engineer
Structural Engineer
Offering complete design solutions for your commercial, industrial, agricultural & residential projects.
204.728.7364
1331 Princess Avenue, Brandon, Manitoba
www.bmce.ca
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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2017
who help make this publication possible.
Brandon’s Largest Rental Portfolio • 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units available in various locations throughout the city • Pet-friendly units available • Full service property management solution for real estate investors and condo corporations • 24-hour emergency on-call service for tenants • Check out the Groves, Brandon’s newest townhouse rentals • The new Summit Life Lease Community is opening in summer of 2018
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204-726-1681 info@vhproperties.ca
SUSTAINABLY GROWING MANITOBA’S $1.7 BILLION OPPORTUNITY
“As multi-generational farmers, my family and I depend on the land and water entrusted to us for our livelihood. I work hard to protect the environment for future generations.” – Cal Penner, Calvern Farms Argyle, Manitoba
Manitoba’s pork industry contributes over $1.7 billion to our economy annually, helping to create economic stability for all Manitobans. Pork products – fresh, frozen and processed – are leading Manitoba exports. Over 13,000 Manitobans rely on the pork industry for jobs, including construction workers, veterinarians, environmental scientists, food production workers and transport drivers. The industry also provides sustainable opportunities for farmers and their families. As stewards of land and water, Manitoba farmers have become world leaders in soil and manure management technology, and take pride knowing that the carbon footprint per pound of pork has been reduced by 1/3 over the past five decades.
Learn more about what we’re doing to grow sustainably at manitobapork.com /sustainably manitobapork.com