Penticton Chamber Business Review Inaugural 2022

PENTICTON CHAMBER Business Review

Inaugural Issue 2022

Then and Now

Years

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Jonathan (Tug) McGraw

Iam excited to see the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce issuing our first issue of its magazine. A special thanks to DEL Communications Inc. for publishing this issue and to all our members who have contributed by advertising and/or writing an article for this issue.

It is amazing to think that the Penticton Chamber of Commerce was organized 115 years ago. We all owe our thanks to the founders of the Chamber who had the foresight to see the need to work together to build a stronger community. We are thankful for their efforts and commitment and the legacy they left us

to build upon. Over the last several years your board of directors has dedicated themselves to making the concerns of the Penticton business community heard at the various levels of government. At times we work independently as a local Chamber and other times we work through our provincial and/or other regional Chambers. There is always more that can be done, and we ask that our members bring their concerns about legislation, bylaws, and taxation to the Chamber so we can work together with a much stronger voice.

I would like to thank the Chamber’s staff who have worked tirelessly over the past several years under the umbrella of

COVID-19. They reached out and built up our membership, procured new member benefits, organized both in-person and online events, and created policy. I am also thankful for the commitment that our volunteer directors, committee members, and Chamber ambassadors have made and continue to make. Without such volunteers our Chamber would not exist.

Let’s all keep moving forward to make this the best Chamber in the province. Lastly, we look forward to seeing everyone at this year’s Business Excellence Awards taking place on Saturday October 22, 2022, at the Penticton Trade & Convention Centre. b

OUR BROKERAGE IS GROWING!

Chances are we’ve worked in your neighbourhood or met somewhere in the beautiful Okanagan, but we’d like to re-introduce ourselves!

CPG has expanded to not only be in Penticton, but also West Kelowna! Chamberlain Property Group is a leader in the Okanagan real estate industry and offers world-class real estate services.

By providing its agents unparalleled support, access to the latest industry data, and up-to-date technological tools, Chamberlain’s real estate clients are assured of the most professional and comprehensive service in the industry. When you’re buying or selling, you can trust the real estate professionals at Chamberlain Property Group.

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Diane Kereluk

Welcome to the first publication of the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber Business Review. We appreciate you taking the time to learn more about the outstanding businesses, directors and stakeholders that make up this incredible business community. It has been a pleasure working with DEL Communications Inc. and a special thank you to all the business members that supported the publication through paid ads. This year marks the Chamber’s 115th Anniversary and without the support of all the members over the years, the chamber would not be here today. Whether you are a business owner or the lead of a business it is not an easy task. Over time, it is inevitable that supply and demand will change, natural disasters will happen and pandemics will arise. It is the resilience of great leaders that businesses withstand the challenge and move forward. It has been and will continue to be the Chamber’s

mission to deliver to the membership programs that benefit their needs, advocate on their behalf on important issues and support and assist anywhere we can.

The next year will see us all continue to adapt to the ever-changing landscape. Regardless of whether commerce returns to pre-pandemic times, the economy is probably going to look very different. As you look to your own planning, focus not only on how to overcome the challenges, but also on the lessons you have learned and the new skills you have acquired in the process. Being adaptable and innovative has never been more important.

Now more than ever, we need to support each other. Kindness and understanding along with innovative and creative thinking will help the progress to continue to build a thriving business community and a collaborative Penticton.

We are here, feel free to reach out at any time. All the best to everyone. b

2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ALPHA OMEGA SECURITY LTD

Strong communities depend on you being able to work, play and live in a safe and secure environment. In a world of ever-changing risk, keeping a safe and secure environment is a challenge. We design and manage security services for residential, public and private companies across the Okanagan region.

Mobile Patrol

Alpha Omega Security provides its own fleet of hybrid security patrol vehicles. Our patrols are highly visible and are the extra eyes and ears of your business.

Rapid Response

When it comes to alarm response, consistency and speed are key. Rapid Response teams respond quickly and effectively to emergency situations that may arise in or near our clients’ establishments.

Lock Up

Our Open Up and Lock Up service ensures a client’s premises are opened up at the start of the day and secured when staff leaves to go home. A trained officer will arrive and check that the area is free and safe.

Phone: (778) 363-8907

Email: ian.papa@aosltd.ca www.aosltd.ca

We are proud to be a locally owned and operated company servicing the security needs of the Okanagan Region for over 10 years. We’re a fullservice security company with a skilled, diverse, and highly-adaptive field service team.

Security Guarding Services

Security Guarding Services are available 24 hours a day. We provide first aid certified officers for the long term and short term guarding services, traffic management, and crowd control services.

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

ADVOCACY

4 Through our affiliation with the BC and Canadian Chambers, the Penticton Chamber lobbies on behalf of its members to all three levels of government – municipal, provincial and federal – a powerful leverage that a single business would not have on its own.

GROUP HEALTH BENEFITS

4 The Chambers Plan is Canada’s leading group health benefit plan developed specifically for Chamber members. This plan offers you access to competitively priced, comprehensive packages available to businesses from one person and up, and stable renewal rates that are realized through pooled benefits. Visit chamberplan.ca for more information.

SUPPLIER DISCOUNTS

4 Access to a variety of discounts from major national and local brands that want to do business with you. Discounts cover gasoline, business services/supplies, advertising packages, hotel and travel discounts. Visit the Chamber website Penticton.org for details.

MARKETING & BRAND BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES

admin.headoffice@buxtonconsulting.org

1-888-913-2060

www.buxtonconsulting.org

CAREER PLANNING SERVICES

Seeking assistance to determine a suitable career path?

Over 34 years of experience throughout the Okanagan and Fraser Valley Regional Districts offering customized Vocational Assessments and career exploration services that include:

• Aptitude/abilities assessments to determine suitable occupations based on skills

• Interests/work styles/ work personality Inventories matched to employment options

• Local Labour Market Research for potential employers, wage rates, required qualifications needed to be hired, and future outlook

• Educational and Formal Training options are identified

• Detailed Reports and Follow up Services are included

• Referral and Navigation to Community Service Providers where applicable

Events & Education

The Penticton & Wine Country

Chamber of Commerce takes great pride in offering our members and the Penticton business community high-quality events. From casual mixers to elegant galas, there is always something going on at the Chamber! Our event season typically runs from September to June. Currently most of our events are being delivered in person once again, but we will still host some virtual events as well. We are working hard to continue to deliver quality events and programs that our members find value in. Check out some of our featured events below!

Workshops & Learning

Join us for hands-on learning experiences that give you new skills to bring back to your workplace. These popular events are held monthly from September to June and feature presentations from business, industry, and government leaders on topical information of importance for the business community.

Chamber 101

This series helps you get the most of your membership by giving you a complete look at what’s available to promote your business, save money, provide benefits to your staff, and make the connections that you need to grow your business and career.

Special Events

The Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce is always pleased to assist our members with ribbon cutting, grand opening, and significant event celebrations. It’s a great way to promote your business to the community!

Chamber Cash Mob

Encourage members of a community to make a change and help support a local business. Cash mobs are a great way to show our local businesses some extra love! Don’t miss out on all the Fun!

Speaker Series

The Penticton Chamber is constantly looking for more event opportunities to educate, inform, advocate, or offer networking opportunities for our members. From round tables with visiting electoral officials, specialty conferences, to election forums.

Chamber Membership Drive

Attracting and retaining members is the lifeblood of the Chamber in many ways – in how we advocate, fund operations, and the ability to provide a wide range of networking and educational offerings through the year. Mid-year, in late summer, a Membership Drive gives current members an opportunity to reach out and tell other businesses about the value of membership and what they utilize most from the Chamber. New members or returning members can be updated on chamber activities, receive special perks, and become involved in making their investment count, both to themselves, fellow businesses, and the community at large.

ChamberBiz Tradeshow

In partnership with the Cherry Lane Shopping Centre, members are able to meet the community, let them know what they do, and how the community can benefit from the Chamber and its members. Held twice a year, spring for all members and fall for not-for-profit members, it gives the Chamber an opportunity to interact over several days with members that might not be able to participate in other chamber events and

with the community to educate them –with fun games and prizes – about the Chamber.

Business after Business

These events provide an opportunity to members to host a Chamber networking event at their business or an off-site location. It’s not just about networkingit’s also about getting to know more about what’s happening in your community and learning about what other businesses are doing to succeed. Host an evening of light refreshments for our members, show them a bit more about what makes your organization stand out from the rest.

Business Before Business –Over Easy Networking

Start your day off on the right foot by making connections and growing your business connections at our quarterly networking breakfasts.

Annual Golf Classic

Who is ready for great day filled with golfing, networking, fun games, and great prizes to be won? All skill levels welcome - Chamber Golf Classic is always guaranteed to be a great time.

Chamber Curling Rocks Funspiel

A fun event designed to maximize networking opportunities with fellow members. All skill levels welcome.

Annual Jingle & Mingle

Celebrate the season at our annual Jingle & Mingle mixer with fellow members and guests.

Penticton Women in Business

This is a female-driven networking organization made up of South Okanagan women. Our members and guests are owners or employees in finance, tourism, health, education, industry, retail, service, marketing, and everything in between.

You don’t need to be a business owner to participate.

Annual Awards Gala

As Penticton’s most prestigious business awards, the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards are dedicated to

recognizing excellence and community service by Penticton and area businesses, organizations, and community leaders who make Penticton a great place to live, work, and play.

Visit us at www.penticton.org to learn more about upcoming events. b

Since 1987, the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce has been recognizing local businesses for their outstanding achievements. From start-ups to local legends, the awards shine a light on hard-working businesses, businesspeople, and community leaders.

Please join us in celebrating the outstanding contributions of successful businesses, organizations, and leaders who make Penticton and area a great place to live, work, and play.

The 2022 Business Excellence Awards Mardi Gras Gala, presented by Total Restoration Services on Saturday, October 22, 2022, is where we will be announcing the winners of the 35th Annual Business Excellence Awards!

Celebrating 35 Years of Business Excellence! b

Photography by www.govisible.ca

Housing construction makes strong growth

Construction of new residential homes in Penticton is on track to beat the previous two years in terms of total value, topping $130 million by the end of June 2022, with six months remaining. In comparison, total construction value in 2021 reached just over $168 million, approaching the all-time highs of nearly $198 million in 2016 and 2017.

While housing supply continues to be a major factor facing our community, it’s important to understand the work that has been undertaken to increase the existing housing stock.

Current developments underway include everything from rental housing and condo units to single-family homes. The approximate existing and future house numbers include:

• 520 residential units under construction

• 1,060 residential units approved

• 650 units in the development application process

Of the housing stock approved since 2014, single-family dwellings make up 20 per cent and multi-unit dwellings make up 80 per cent. A total of 3,142 housing units have been approved since 2014.

In addition, the total number of active licensed vacation rentals as of June 30, 2022 has reached 339, and business licences have been steadily growing yearto-year and is currently at 3,579.

Where to learn more

• For more information about building or economic development within the City of Penticton, visit penticton.ca/businessbuilding.

• For more details about starting a business or relocating to Penticton, visit StartHerePenticton.com. b

Encouraging small business to thrive

By Richard Cannings, MP, South Okanagan - West Kootenay

Congratulations to the Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce on this inaugural publication. It is testament to the strength of its members that after three long pandemic years, our local Chamber is still finding new and innovative ways to promote and support the businesses in our region.

And what a three years it has been. While a global pandemic was devastating in itself, small businesses have had to contend with labour shortages, inflation, a housing crisis, childcare shortages, crime, immigration issues, and some of the most severe climate challenges on record.

But despite being the hardest hit sector, it is small businesses that are holding

our communities together – they are the engine of job creation and need our support now more than ever.

I am proud to be a member of this Chamber. No other entity connects and buoys small business more. Through its trainings, events, and resources, our Chamber is an influential voice advancing the economic well-being of our community. Small businesses rely on relationships, and I’ve seen firsthand at events how conversations turn into collaborations and connections become clients. Kudos to all involved; you are truly keeping our community running.

But there is so much more to do. As your representative in Parliament and the NDP’s Critic for Small Business and Tourism, conversations shared around

‘Business after Business’ events have been invaluable.

It is from conversations like these that my Private Member’s Bill on removing the alcohol excise tax from low-alcohol beer was formed; an initiative that was taken up by the government and put into the Budget earlier this year. Similar conversations resulted in Okanagan MPs rallying together to help secure the Canadian wine industry $101 million in support after the end of the excise tax exemption. We have worked to advocate for funds, flights, and families.

A few years ago, an NDP colleague put forward a bill to end a costly flaw in Canada’s succession planning rules that, incredibly, made it easier to sell a family business to a third party than pass it on to a member of the family. The majority government of the time voted against that bill but, through crossparty collaboration in this minority parliament, a Conservative member reintroduced that same bill earlier this year and it was successfully passed.

Call: 250-770-4480

Richard.Cannings@parl.gc.ca

I will keep fighting for small businesses. For example, we are working to place a hard cap on credit card transaction fees that have been gouging our local businesses for years. We’re working to ensure small businesses have access to a healthy and talented workforce, especially in rural areas. We need to support small business to grow, innovate, and stay competitive with streamlined access to government

Proud to represent our beautiful region and advocate for the small businesses that make it an amazing home.

export services, simpler ways to break into foreign markets, and easier regulatory processes so businesses can focus on growing their success. We need investments in housing and childcare

and action on crime that has proven to work elsewhere.

I am proud to be working alongside organizations like our Chamber that exist to keep small businesses thriving.

I encourage you to reach out to me at my office to share your ideas on how we can help our region prosper. Or, even better, come find me at our next Chamber event! b

Penticton, Summerland, Peachland, Naramata and all Areas in between are home to some of the best people, scenery, and of course, Businesses in the South Okanagan.

If I can be of assistance, please contact our Penticton or Summerland offices.

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Penticton Chamber of Commerce marks 115th Anniversary Commitment,

communication, and dedication attribute to its success

By Lisa Kopochinski

The Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce celebrates a special anniversary in 2022. It was 115 years ago that the Penticton Board of Trade was formed on May 7, 1907.

The formation document listed 46 individuals and their occupations, which included merchants, traders, brokers, mechanics, manufacturers, bank managers, and insurance agents. “Occupations also ranged from barber, saddler, boat builder, blacksmith, printer, pharmacist, civil engineer, jeweler, and real estate,” says Diane Kereluk, the Chamber’s Executive Director.

The original area served stretched from Peachland to the U.S. border, with a population of 1,500. Early accomplishments included the establishment of a public cemetery, sports fields, fire brigade, telegraph service, postal service, Main Street dock, and a small debts court.

Fast forward to today

In 2022, Chamber membership has grown to more than 450 members. The types of businesses include tourism, hospitality, and recreation, in addition to professional services, retail, industrial, and more.

“The main reason for joining has been

Some of the past Chamber members from the 1950s. On the far right is Matt Berry’s grandfather, Don Salting.

PHOTO: PENTICTON AND WINE COUNTRY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

commitment, communication, and dedication,” says Kereluk. “We have a number of longstanding members. Just some of them include the Royal Bank of Canada (since 1945); CIBC (1949); Hotel Penticton (1960); and the South Okanagan Events Centre Complex (1965).”

One long-time member is Berry + Smith Trucking, which joined the Chamber 54 years ago in 1968. Current President Matt Berry, the son of Stu Berry—who started the company in 1954—says his father and partner joined the Chamber for many of the same reasons individuals and companies join today.

“Benefits such as networking, meeting other businesspeople in the community, a shared voice to review issues or concerns, and constructive

Past Chamber members shake hands as they discuss the issues of the day.

PHOTO: PENTICTON AND WINE COUNTRY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

discussion on problem solving,” says Berry.

“We are very committed to our community and our staff. The company has been involved in many projects over the years such as yearly college bursaries, School District 67 bursaries, sponsorship of various sporting teams, annual donations for cancer, MS, heart and stroke research, among others. More recently, Berry + Smith Trucking contributed $30,000 to the Penticton Hospital expansion. Our staff then contributed a further $30,000 to this very worthwhile project.”

Strong communication

The Penticton and Wine Country Chamber has been successful in maintaining its strong connection to members by communicating in a variety

of ways including events such as Business After Business, trade shows, and ribbon cuttings, educational seminars, Chamber 101 series, weekly newsletters, and by hosting special events such as Business Excellence Awards, golf tournaments, Valley Wide Expo. The Chamber keeps its current event calendar updated on their website and provides media releases on positions of importance.

The Chamber has also long focused on education and advocacy. For example, the Advocacy Committee meets monthly to discuss current challenges members are facing.

“Depending on the issue, the Advocacy Committee is committed to contacting their local, provincial, or federal government via direct letters, press releases, voice at city council,” says

Kereluk. “The Chamber also collaborates with other valley chambers to address issues as a whole.”

The Education Committee consists of volunteers that source out material/topics that are beneficial to membership and is delivered through workshops and webinars.

Support throughout the pandemic

During the pandemic, the Chamber remained open and accessible. Wellness calls were made, and many educational and support webinars were held. The Advocacy Committee consistently communicated to elected officials the challenges and support the businesses needed through this taxing time.

Perhaps Berry sums it up best on why the Chamber has been so successful since 1907.

“The goals of the Chamber are advocacy and sourcing out, on a larger group basis, for better pricing, marketing opportunities, and networking. Just getting to know your neighbours and understanding their business can open doors for you,” he says. “Often, the issues you think are your own are shared by many. The Chamber gives a greater voice to dealing with matters that may affect us all. At the very least, it will make you a better neighbour and strengthen relationships.” b

Berry + Smith Trucking have been members since 1968.

PHOTO: BERRY + SMITH TRUCKING

The Chamber today.

PHOTOS: PENTICTON AND WINE COUNTRY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

STEADY GROWTH

While membership in the Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce has steadily increased over the past 115 years, the reasons for doing so remain constant.

“There are great opportunities through memberships to both increase customer base and generate community exposure,” says Chamber Executive Director Diane Kereluk. Some of these include the following:

• The Business after Business events are proven to be one of the most successful tools in networking with Chamber members.

• On the Chamber website, the Events Calendar keeps up to date with events posted by members and the community.

• The weekly emailed newsletter keeps members informed of what the Chamber is doing.

• The Board of Directors is a very progressive and diverse cross

section of the business community represented by volunteers who share the vision of a strong and clearly focused Chamber.

• The Chamber is the member’s voice in the community supporting the views and sourcing solutions for the challenges businesses face by the lobbying municipal, provincial, and federal elected officials.

• A membership offers many benefits such as group insurance discounts, supplier discounts, marketing opportunities.  b

PARKERS, Serving the Community since 1946

This Chamber has been a catalyst to enrich the economic and civic well-being of its membership, business at large, and the whole community.

Corporate development at Okanagan College

From changing technology to issues with recruiting new employees, businesses large and small across the Okanagan are facing a number of challenges in today’s highly competitive marketplace.

But there is help available through Okanagan College’s Corporate Training programs. “At Okanagan College we have a wide variety of programs that can help businesses deal with the unique challenges they are facing today,” says Danelle Greebe, Okanagan College’s Director of Continuing Studies and Corporate Training. “Companies today need innovative solutions to meet a changing marketplace. Our Corporate Training programs provide a variety of educational opportunities to help employees develop

their skills and help businesses attract and retain skilled workers.”

Corporate Training at Okanagan College (OC) provides innovative solutions to help businesses in many ways, from leadership development and new skills training to engaging new employees and providing industry certifications.

OC works with individual businesses to create training tailored to their needs and the college also offers several industryrecognized certificate programs such as hospitality, professional development workplace training, and more.

“Our Corporate Training programs can help businesses build more productive teams and attract and retain employees,”

OC works with individual businesses to create training tailored to their needs and the college also offers several industryrecognized certificate programs.

says Greebe. “We want to help you develop employees who will lead your business to where you want it to go in the future.”

Whether you have a group of employees with a specific skills gap, want to provide training as a service for your own clients, or need a comprehensive training and development plan across your company, OC has a solution. Training opportunities may include:

• Industry specific instructors

• Tailored curriculum

• Training at your location, ours, or online

• Custom training dates

• Assistance with the B.C. Employer Training Grant

Okanagan College can deliver your training where and when you need it. Find out more at https://www.okanagan.bc.ca/ corporate-training or contact Okanagan College at corporatetraining@okanagan. bc.ca to get started. b

Okanagan Inclusion

Providing person-centred services

The mission of Okanagan Inclusion is to provide support that allows adults with developmental disabilities to participate meaningfully in all aspects of community life.

The organization, which began services in 2013 and became CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) accredited in 2021, employs highly qualified staff and contractors to deliver their programs and services to program participants. Their community inclusion programs are offered in Penticton and Keremeos and provide individuals with volunteer, recreational, and social opportunities as well as life-skill development and social support to ensure individuals have access to fulfilling endeavors such as attending college and gaining employment.

In response to the desire of individuals with developmental disabilities to pursue employment as a means of full inclusion in their community, Okanagan Inclusion provides services that include resume building, interviewing skills, and job search. In addition, the employment support staff may also provide job coaching and job shadowing, as required.

The organization’s home share services provide individuals with the opportunity to choose a living arrangement that is specifically designed to meet their needs and lifestyle preferences. Homes may be owned, rented, or leased by the home share provider or by the individual receiving support.

Their programs also provide supported living, which assists adults to access resources in their community such as housing, grocery shopping, and attending appointments. It also provides shortterm relief and support services to primary caregivers of adults with developmental disabilities.

By providing these services, Okanagan Inclusion hopes to create a community in which all individuals are included, accepted, and valued.

Is your business woman-owned?

WeBC can support you!

Contributed by WeBC

purchasing a business, or growing your business, WeBC lends based on the viability of your plan and the strength of your vision, so you may qualify with them even if you haven’t with other lenders. Some popular WeBC-funded businesses in Penticton include Origin Wines and Elma Restaurant!

WeBC is a not-for-profit organization that has supported women business owners across B.C. for nearly three decades, and they have an office right here in the Okanagan. Funded by Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan), WeBC has one mandate: to help women start, grow, or buy a business.

What kinds of services are available?

WeBC provides sustained support that women can access at every step in their business journey. To help women achieve their goals of business ownership, they provide support in four crucial areas:

Business loans up to $150k

Whether you’re just starting out,

WeBC loans are different from those of traditional lenders because they’re bundled with complimentary, ongoing, professional business advice, business skills training, and access to mentors so you feel supported throughout your loan and beyond.

To learn more about the loan program, you can register for a free bi-weekly

phone-in session at go.we-bc.ca/ BusinessLoans.

Affordable training to boost your business skills

The WeBC Skills Development program focuses on the essential business skills that you need to run a successful business, from marketing to operations, finances to exporting.

The interactive workshops are packed with information and designed by experts, so every session is time well spent. You can choose between quick webinars on key topics, or longer seminar series with opportunities to network and get inspired. Over 95 per cent of workshop attendees say the training is directly applicable to their business. Workshops are offered year-round and many are free!

Expert advice when you need it

Whether it’s an answer to a specific question or to help illuminate a path in the right direction, WeBC business advisors are here to help and guide you. The Business Advisory service is free and provides a safe space for women to discuss a potential business opportunity or a

looming challenge with an experienced advisor to find their next step.

Mentoring programs that keep you on track

WeBC mentoring programs connect you with an experienced entrepreneur who has been there, gets the grind, and shares their knowledge so you don’t have to learn the hard way. With a fresh perspective, you gain the clarity to focus on what really matters and feel more confident making decisions for the future.

WeBC personally matches women with a mentor or group that fits their needs so they can build a strong support system. They also provide a structured program for mentor engagements to ensure you achieve measurable results.

The mentoring program is in high demand, and WeBC is always happy to have a conversation with any woman who would like to volunteer their time as a mentor to use their experience to help another woman entrepreneur thrive and grow.

Why does WeBC exist?

In 1995, PacifiCan (then Western

Economic Diversification Canada) identified critical gaps in access to financing and services for women entrepreneurs. To fill these gaps, they committed funds to create Women’s Enterprise Initiatives (WEI’s) in the four Western Provinces.

Since then, WeBC has provided over $81.7 million in direct and leveraged financing to women-owned businesses, trained nearly 50k entrepreneurs and held nearly 79k business advisory sessions with women entrepreneurs. This impact is possible thanks to local partners like the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce!

Connect with WeBC

If you’re a woman business owner in the Penticton area and are interested in learning more, check out the WeBC website at www.we-bc.ca. To learn more about our mentoring intakes, upcoming training, and other opportunities, be sure to sign up for their eBlasts. To speak with someone about your business, e-mail hello@we-bc.ca or call toll-free at 1.800.643.7014. b

Prioritizing people: How Penticton businesses can navigate labour challenges Becoming a choice business means becoming a choice employer

By Peter Maclntosh Partner, Assurance Services Grant Thornton LLP

Labour shortages aren’t a new challenge for Penticton businesses. Over the last few decades, our region has faced a decreasing talent pool due to many reasons, including young professionals moving away, a retiring population, unaffordable housing, and the seasonality of many industries that rely on the warmer months for customers. Nonseasonal industries also deal with the added bulge in the summer which ties up staffing. Across industries — from tourism and agriculture to manufacturing

Jon Milligan Partner, Assurance Services Grant Thornton LLP

Clemens Rettich Senior Manager, Advisory Services Grant Thornton LLP

and construction — Penticton businesses are grappling with how to attract and retain talent. It’s a conversation we consistently have with our clients who are forced to shorten their service hours, reduce product offerings, or look for other ways to keep their business going.

At the same time, labour shortages have become a prevalent national issue, adding more pressure to the region. According to Statistics Canada, Canada’s unemployment rate remains at a record low of 4.9 per cent for both June and July this year. In the first quarter of 2022, the

unemployment-to-job-vacancy ratio in Canada was 1.4 — meaning there’s one opening for every unemployed person — and in British Columbia, it was 1.0, the lowest in the country alongside Quebec. For Penticton, a one-size-fits-all approach to the labour shortage challenge won’t work as there are many different industries operating here who have different staffing needs. What can work is focusing on people — the uniting thread that underpins every aspect of business. A people-focused strategy involves becoming the choice business for your customers by being the choice employer for your people.

Your culture matters more than you think

Culture guides and shapes an organization, radiating across a business

and impacting people, processes, and products and services. It’s a set of behaviours, values, and mechanics — the way your business lives and breathes its purpose — that drive your decisions and why you hire, promote, or let people go. Benefits and compensation reflect culture, too, as they contribute to how you value people and how you’re defined as the employer of choice in your market. People are more likely to stay (or return to your business year after year if they’re seasonal workers) because of a strong culture that engages them by showing — not just saying — they’re valued. Disengaged employees are almost three times more likely to leave their company for a better culture, according to a recent report by Quantum Workplace.

Employees can also become culture champions and positively promote your business to prospective employees, attracting new talent. A heating and cooling client shared that they’ve garnered interest from candidates from competing businesses, thanks to their employees sharing their positive culture. In fact, 77 per cent of job seekers said they would consider a company’s culture before applying, according to a survey by Glassdoor. One of our clients — a veteran who found purpose through starting a local business — has seen seasonal staff return for six consecutive years because of the engaging culture they’ve created.

Culture is your business advantage

Culture isn’t only internal. Customers don’t just buy what you’re selling — they also buy your brand and everything it represents. According to Forbes, companies with strong cultures experienced a four times increase in revenue growth. Happy employees can also influence how your customers perceive your business as the level of customer service they deliver is impacted.

Life Mastery Consultant and Virtual Assistant empowering people to create and live a life they love.

Engaged employees are almost five times more likely than less engaged employees to be customer-centric, according to a Gallup survey. It’s a reciprocal cycle: valued employees value their customers and valued customers become brand advocates.

Culture, however, is far more than free lunches and ping-pong tables in the staff room. While ‘fun’ can be a part of your culture, it should also be shaped by imbuing critical values like inclusivity, positivity, support, and collaboration. It should also reflect the needs of your employees, whether they’re seasonal, part-time, full-time, youth, or older.

Culture is shaped by leadership and communicated to everyone on your team to share your vision and inspire. Once you’ve built your culture, you need to continually evaluate it—it’s a measure of your business’ success. When you’ve laid a solid foundation through culture, you can begin finding, attracting, and retaining the people you need.

Broaden your talent pool

Consider looking outside traditional talent pools to locals like new retirees or high school students. While they may require different training, these two demographics could be year-round part-

time workers that can also demonstrate your values of diversity and equity. If you have the ability, you could also cast your net further by offering remote work. Not all industries are able to do this, but it does allow you to reach more candidates.

Accessing the skilled talent and expertise you require to build your team can also be done by making an acquisition. While this process involves finding an ideal company, conducting due diligence, and considering tax implications and finances, it’s possible to acquire a business that both aligns with and strengthens your culture strategy.

Invest in technology

Junior Hockey Prep Camp

Train for your upcoming hockey season with the Strength & Conditioning coach of the Penticton Vees!

Personal Training

Train with Matt in a private studio and get in the best shape of your life!

Group & Team Training

Train alongside friends or teammates and get in great shape together!

Implementing innovative software or digital tools can streamline your culture strategy to promote your team and business’ success. For example, employee surveys can help you keep a pulse on team engagement, satisfaction, and perception of culture. Other platforms can help with goal setting and providing feedback and recognition, which sets a clear path of success for your team and boosts morale.

NASM Certified Personal Trainer

Fitness, hockey, and personal training have always been my passions in life. I moved to Penticton in 2016 and have been coaching with the Penticton Vees of the BCHL since. I began training high level athletes in the summer of 2017. As Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Penticton Vees I see how hard work, organization, and commitment translate to success on the ice and in life. I offer personal training services of all kinds for people in the Penticton area. Contact me today to see how I can help you get in the best shape of your life!

Phone: 289-969-6706

503 Vancouver Avenue, Penticton

mfraser6717@fraserathleticperformance.ca www.fraserathleticperformance.ca

Review your internal processes—are they manual and time-consuming? Consider technology that makes your team’s roles more efficient and effective. When employees are provided with the right tools and resources to do the job, it affects their productivity and most importantly, job satisfaction. A huge pain point for many teams is having outdated programs that eat up time or not having secure connections working remotely that pose a risk to them and the business. When bringing in new tools, also look at how

If you’re looking for support with your talent strategy, digitalization, operation optimization, or acquisition options, we can help you find the way forward for your business.

long your team requires to learn to use them. These tools should be measured against goals because if they’re not working for your team, they won’t work for your business. The result of using them should be clear: reducing time, providing more data to drive decisions, or making overall processes more effective.

Reduce the need for people roles

To minimize the need for a higher headcount, look at reducing the roles on your team that require people (which likely aren’t filled anyway) to streamline complex processes and strengthen your businesses’ operations with automation. Operational changes can improve your business, reduce costs, and help your existing team at the same time. An energy client of ours was feeling the squeeze of the labour shortage and we created a virtual cloud accounting team which gave them access to a senior manager, manager, and FTE technicians — without the added headcount to their payroll. They gained the talent and expertise they required quickly and improved their internal controls.

It all comes down to people

A successful business puts people first. Clear and simple: people run your business at every touchpoint, which is why it’s important to look at the core of what your business stands for before you can adequately deal with attracting and retaining talent.

While we realize there are some issues

Penticton businesses can’t solve because of the microeconomics of the region, there are ways to adapt to the challenge of labour shortages. Whether you’re a new or well-established business, consider people-centric strategies to position yourself as the choice employer. Then, becoming a choice business for customers will follow. b

Penticton Trade and Convention Centre

As one of the largest convention centres in the province and the Okanagan Valley’s only full-service facility, we offer you 60,000 square feet of versatile, flexible space that can easily be configured to meet your meeting, convention, trade show, festival, or special event needs. We have been hosting events since 1965 and understand that no two events are the exact same. We pride ourselves in offering the best service to ensure your event is a success from start to finish. Customizing every quote and proposal, while suggesting and sharing best practices from our team’s 50+ years’ experience, ensures that you’re event will be seamless from initial contact through the entire event.

Our facility and event services

We can accommodate up to 3,500 attendees throughout the facility, and seat 2,000 banquet guests or 2,700 theatre style. Choose from two spacious ballrooms, eight meeting rooms, and a 2000 square foot outdoor patio all located on one level and in close proximity. In addition, we offer two spacious prefunction lobbies that can be utilized

as additional space for registration, receptions or an intimate dinner.

As part of a larger complex, we are connected by a covered walkway to the South Okanagan Events Centre (SOEC), a 5,000 seat state-of-the art sports and entertainment venue offering an additional 30,000 square feet of special event and exhibit space. We are located in the heart of downtown Penticton only steps away from hotels, the beach, restaurants and breweries.

As home to annual events and festivals such as the Okanagan Fest-of-Ale, the Penticton Pacific Northwest Elvis Festival, and Pentastic Jazz Festival, we know a thing or two about special event production. If you have an idea, our production and staging experts can make it happen.

Our team is at your service prior to and day of your event with suggestions to help your event run smoothly and attend to any concerns you may have. We also offer a concession space and expo lounge that can facilitate ticket sales and admission. Additional services are available upon request.

Food and beverage

Passionate about the art of creating great cuisine with the best ingredients, our in-house culinary team, led by Executive Chef, Luke Cosgrove, is guided by the principle that fresh is best. We take pride in using the freshest products available to create a memorable dining experience. Our menus are flexible and offer variety to appeal to any group’s desired budget or size, from the most adventurous cuisine requests to basic boxed lunches and retail food services. If there is something that you envision for your event, we are happy to customize and create a menu just for you.

Let’s start planning

From small intimate meetings, to large conventions, trade shows, or weddings, we are here to help you create a memorable event.

Reach out to us and get your customized quote:

Dana Harlos Sales Manager

dana.harlos@penticton.ca

250.490.2461 b

MEET IN PENTICTON

PENTICTON TRADE AND CONVENTION CENTRE

As one of the largest convention centres in the province and the Okanagan Valley’s only full-service facility, we offer you 60,000 sq ft of versatile, flexible space that can easily be configured to meet your meeting, convention, trade show, festival, or special event needs

In the heart of Penticton's downtown 50+ years experience in events and hospitality

Additional 30,000 sq ft of special event and exhibit

space through our attached sports arena

900 boutique hotel rooms under 10 min walk

Excellent in-house food & beverage service

HAVE YOU PLANNED YOUR OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY YET?

Leave the planning to us and treat your team to an unbelievable party this holiday season. Join our annual Multi-Business Party 'Small Business Big Christmas' on Friday, December 2, 2022.

For more info and tickets, visit: ValleyFirstTix.com

G

Dana Harlos | Sales Manager Penticton Trade and Convention Centre

dana harlos@penticton ca | 250 490 2461

A positive life step

Summerland Seniors Village

There is a new era blooming when it comes to seniors’ homes and assisted living lately, and it’s hard not to take notice when it’s a common topic of conversation among residents.

Summerland Seniors Village has a new leadership team from top to bottom, and it is clearly making a difference for those who live there. There is a new general manager, new chefs, and a new community relations manager, and they wasted little time in putting their stamp on the place.

After noticing a sunny piece of green space beside the back terrace, one of the chefs turned it into a large garden that now grows fruits and vegetables that go right onto the plates of the home’s residents. Not only is he bringing in incredibly fresh, delicious food but he has also created a gardening program for residents that love to still get their hands dirty and keep their thumbs green.

Harley, the new community relations manager, just hosted an antique car show and 50’s Day – complete with entertainment, root beer floats, and ginger cookies baked in the “Country Kitchen”. Those are just a few of ways in which the team is making life better for the residents who live there now and those who will do so in the future.

Moving to a seniors’ home or an assisted living residence is now, more than ever, a positive life step that enables the tenants to have their freedom while not having to worry about the stresses of living on their own. Residents are talking about their good experiences daily. “It’s very clean and the staff is very friendly. The chef is amazing, and I would recommend it to anybody!” says Bea Duquette, current resident of Summerland Seniors Village.

Summerland Seniors Village offers independent and assisted living as well as complex care, and it has a list of activities that will never have you searching for something to do. Baking, walking club, movies,

nice to come home to

card games, lunch outings, gardening, bridge, and a weekly happy hour are just a few of the ways to live your life to the fullest in one of the most beautiful parts of the country.

It’s a gem nestled in between Penticton and Kelowna at the foot of Giant’s Head. The mountain not only adds to the scenic views but also helps to keep that little part of Summerland much cooler with the sun setting behind it. Between that and the community and suite air conditioning, the seniors really love it.

The new management at Summerland Seniors Village is always listening to its residents, listening to feedback and working with families and residents to make their home as comfortable, engaging, and supportive as possible.

For more information about Summerland Seniors Village, visit retirementconcepts.com/locations/summerland-seniors-village/. b

Moving to a seniors’ home or an assisted living residence is now, more than ever, a positive life step...

Get the plan that adapts with you.

Real benefits for your business.

As the exclusive marketing agency of the Chambers Plan in the South Okanagan, Brown Benefits has worked with small & medium sized businesses for over twenty years. Regularly recognized for marketing & service excellence, our team takes great pride in providing efficient solutions & outstanding client service, allowing business owners to focus on their professional ambitions. Contact us for a quote!