Be awards book 2016lowrez by Business Examiner Media Group

16TH ANNUAL

January 21, 2016 at the Coast Bastion Hotel, Nanaimo

Proudly Presented By GOLD SPONSORS

CATEGORY SPONSORS

We recognize the hard work it takes to stand out in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business world. Congratulations to every finalist.

Welcome to the 16th Annual Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards

January 21, 2016 at the Coast Bastion Hotel in Nanaimo We’re celebrating the best of last year, as we head into an exciting New Year full of promise! What better way to kick off the new year is there than to have the Best of Business on Vancouver Island in a number of categories get together for an evening of celebration, networking and camaraderie? That’s what the Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards have always been about. There are always good stories to tell in every environment and economy, and these Awards were created for exactly that purpose: To celebrate the successes of companies in our economy in a wide variety of sectors. The pages of this Official Souvenir Bookl are filled with profiles, photos and contact Information for some of the most successful businesses on Vancouver Island over the 2015 calendar year. There are some amazing stories to be told, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to highlight these as sterling examples of what can be, and is being done, in our region. This event is brought to you by our generous Gold Sponsors: Hayes Stewart Little Chartered Professional Accountants, RBC Royal Bank, Air Canada and Coastal Community Credit Union, as well as Category Sponsors Grieg Seafood, CIBC, Invest Comox Valley, Thompson Cooper LLP, Helijet, and CTV Vancouver Island. Without them, the Business Excellence Awards would not be possible. And this year, we’re delighted to have Bruce Williams of CTV Vancouver Island serve as our Master of Ceremonies! Of course, this also wouldn’t be possible without all the businesses that have been nominated for the 17 categories in this year’s awards. Business Examiner Victoria and Business Examiner Vancouver Island tell stories, and the Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards gives them a great opportunity to highlight some of the biggest and brightest starts of the year. They are honored to be able to combine their efforts to put together this night to remember. Don’t forget to look for photos and the winners to be announced at: www.businessexaminer.ca

Mark MacDonald

Table of Contents Category

Page

Judges’ Biographies

Accommodation

Agriculture/Aquaculture

Automotive

Construction/Development

Entrepreneur of the Year

Green Business of the Year

Health Care

Hospitality/Tourism

Manufacturing

Professional

Real Estate

Retail

Small Business (Under 50 Employees) 39 Technology

Trades

Forestry/Wood Products

Business of the Year

President

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 1

Judges for the 16th Annual Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards Marilyn Hutchinson Marilyn has been involved with the Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards since they started 16 years ago, and is one of our original adjudicators. Marilyn is with Grieg Seafood BC Ltd., BC’s third-largest salmon farming company with over 100 employees from more than a dozen coastal communities. Grieg operates a hatchery in Gold River and has farms near the east and west coasts of Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast. She has been Director of Human Resources, Sustainability & Growth for nearly five years and is responsible for developing government and First Nations relationships, community outreach and identifying new business partnerships.

Marilyn Hutchinson

Derrold Norgaard For most of his career, Derrold was a Tax Partner with KPMG LLP, one of Canada’s largest accountancy and consultancy firms, working out of both the Vancouver and Victoria offices. Derrold held the dual role of Tax Partner in Victoria and Office Managing Partner for the office until his departure from KPMG LLP in 2008. Derrold is the Principal behind Island Tax. Derrold focuses on a family office role acting as a private tax advisor for high wealth individuals, families and businesses. His team of assistants and associates allow for his work and practice to take place across Canada. Derrold’s primary areas of practice include personal tax planning, international tax and corporate taxation. He has authored several articles on Canadian tax planning and has been an instructor in Canadian Institute tax programs for many years. He is a frequently requested speaker to business groups throughout Canada and Asia. He has also been recognized as one of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of BC, and the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, Top Instructors for his teaching in various tax programs over the years, including the Advanced Tax Program sponsored jointly by the Canadian Tax Foundation.

Derrold Norgaard

Over the years, Derrold has worked on a variety of assignments throughout Canada, and has also been an active speaker and seminar leader for the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Certified General Accountants Institutes of British Columbia and Hong Kong, as well as various business associations throughout Canada, Germany, and several Pacific Rim nations.

Jolynn Green Jolynn’s hands-on experience assisting hundreds of small business from startup to expansion and her rich and diverse work experience combined with lifelong learning has created a business acumen steeped in business, human resources, project management, organizational development and nonprofit sector management. She is an entrepreneur at heart and has been self-employed. Her career began in the community economic development arena as a Chamber of Commerce Manager/ EDO actively pursuing economic development opportunities. Motivated by the grassroots development approach and the business development aspect of Western Diversification Canada’s Community Futures Program mandate, Jolynn joined the team of Community Futures Central Island in July 2010 as an Executive Director. Community Futures, a not for profit itself, understands the need for diversified income streams and self-reliance. Community Futures provides capital to businesses in the way of repayable loans whether operated by an individual, corporation or not for profit.

Jolynn Green 2

Jolynn’s work experience gave her the desire to continue to expand her knowledge base and as a result she is a graduate from Royal Roads University of Victoria, BC.

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

CONGRATULATIONS to all the nominees Here’s to your continued success, from all of us at RBC® Vancouver Island Commercial Banking.

Tom Siemens Vice-President Commercial Banking South Vancouver Island 707 Fort St. 2nd Floor Victoria, BC 250-356-4544

Kevin Gillanders

Vice-President Commercial Banking North Vancouver Island 205 Commercial St. Nanaimo, BC 250-741-3516

® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. VPS94217

shelf ad Congratulations shelf ad - English 94217 AD_30075_Warwick.indd

30075 (05/2015) APPROVALS 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 3 100% of Final Size

7.5” x 9.75” None

Accommodation Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites This full service hotel has been a great employer and an active contributor to Victoria’s business community since 1974. They welcome visitors from around the world, with the largest visitations from Canada, the US, and Europe. They have a very strong corporate base and a solid leisure appeal, welcoming individuals and tour groups throughout the year, yet our rooftop restaurant and lobby bar draw mostly patrons from the community. They are among the occupancy leaders in Victoria with annual occupancy percentage in the high 70’s compared to an industry average of about 70%. Their vision: “To be known for our unique and unparalleled commitment to our guests, our team and our community” embraces their core values: Heart, Integrity, Respect, Environment, and Dedication. Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites 740 Burdett Avenue Victoria, BC Tel.: 250-382-4221 www.chateauvictoria.com

The English Inn The English Inn is a historic gem located a short distance from the hustle and bustle of downtown Victoria. The quaint character of the manor house cannot be found amongst chain hotels or large operators with an international presence; it offers the perfect blend of old world charm and new world elegance, nestled amongst beautiful gardens and water features. On 4.3 acres of land, the beautiful hotel was originally built as a private home in 1906, not becoming a hotel until 1947. The manor became known for its striking Tudor revival style, designed by renowned architect Samuel McClure and constructed by artisans transported from England. The English Inn 429 Lampson Street Victoria, BC Tel: 250-388-4353 www.englishinn.ca

Inn at Laurel Point Inn at Laurel Point is a reflection of Victoria’s vibrancy, culture and environmental ethics. Since 1982, it has been a destination, a place to celebrate and enjoy the waterfront, and relax while surrounded by the stunning scenery of Victoria’s harbour. With 200 guest rooms and 10,000 square feet of meeting space, Inn at Laurel Point welcomes both leisure travellers and conference guests alike. At the heart of Inn at Laurel Point is something that goes beyond what they expect from a responsible company. Everything stems from their commitment to each other and the community. At the Inn, they know that sustainability comes from truly caring for their people and the place they live. All of the property’s initiatives come from this way of doing business. Inn at Laurel Point 680 Montreal Street Victoria, BC 250-386-8721 www.laurelpoint.com

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Sponsored By

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 5

Accommodation Kagoagh Fishing Lodge and Resort Kagoagh Fishing Lodge and Resort is a secluded, ocean access, fishing property located on Hecate Cove. World class salt and freshwater fishing grounds are within minutes of the resort. Salmon, halibut, ling cod, rock fish and the occasional albacore tuna are what is targeted in the saltwater of Quatsino Sound and the Pacific Ocean. These waters are also teaming with Spot prawns, Red Rock and Dungeness crab. Cutthroat trout lurk in the pristine waters of Colony Lake, while steelhead and Dolly Vardon frequent the streams and rivers throughout the area. With such diversity Kagoagh Resort all but guarantees world class sport fishing, not to mention world class cuisine. Kagoagh Resort and Fishing Lodge 7 Hecate Cove Quatsino 250-902-0434 www.kagoagh.com

Parkside Hotel & Spa The Parkside Hotel & Spa was opened in the summer of 2009. The concept for the property was to design an all-suite hotel built and furnished with the environment and guests in mind. It is our goal to offer an environmentally friendly travel option to our guests, while presenting the highest quality services and product possible. Located in the heart of downtown Victoria, our award-winning hotel is the perfect mix featuring modern amenities and local Victorian charm. The Parkside features 126 one and two bedroom guest suites, seven distinct meeting and event spaces and The Parkside Spa. The property is within easy walking distance to the Inner Harbour and the city’s best shopping, dining and cultural attractions. Parkside Hotel & Spa 810 Humboldt Street Victoria, BC 250-940-1200 www.parksidevictoria.com

Two Eagles B&B “Success is a journey, not a destination,” said Ben Sweetland. That is the experience and belief of Carolyn and Steve Touhey, the entrepreneurs who physically built Two Eagles Lodge, a waterfront B&B and vacation rental on a 12-acre hobbyfarm in Union Bay (Comox Valley). When the Touheys designed Two Eagles, they created a “B&B wing,” attached to the house by a guest lounge and kitchenette. There are two B&B rooms and a family suite with a full kitchen, all with private entrances/private baths and offering an incredible view of the water and Denman Island, with coastal mountains in the distance. Not only has Two Eagles found success in the traditional B&B world, but its location and owners’ flexibility is earning it recognition as a versatile venue for events. Two Eagles Lodge 6409 Island Highway South Union Bay, BC 250-335-2342 www.twoeagleslodge.com

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Sponsored By

Accommodation

Sponsored By

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre is an all season destination resort and has proudly been offering guests and the business community outstanding service and experiences since 1981. Located in Parksville, on 22 acres of forest and waterfront setting, , this unique resort offers guests 192 handcrafted log accommodation, two exceptional restaurants, the Grotto Spa, voted the #1 spa in British Columbia, a seasonal Resort Recreation Program as well as the largest hotel/resort conference facilities outside of greater Victoria. As a well-established business, we believe in supporting the island economy by maintaining excellent relationships with our island business partners be it through investments in people, advertising initiatives, suppliers for our restaurants, artisans in the gift shop or purchasing handcrafted furniture from Duncan for our guest rooms. As the largest hospitality employer in the region, we value both the economic benefits that are derived from the tourism and hospitality industry as well as embracing community outreach in order to enhance the overall

well-being of our island communities. In February 2014, Tigh-Na-Mara was presented with the Humanitarian Award of Excellence from the Hotel Association of Canada. In 2015 we created the Vacay It Forward Challenge â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a hospitality initiative that includes a number of island properties.

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre 1155 Resort Drive Parksville, BC 800-663-7373 www.tigh-na-mara.com

Category Winner

As a proud supplier to Tigh-NaMara/The Grotto Spa for over 7 years, we are excited to congratulate them on their nomination. To the entire resort & spa team, we wish you all the best at the awards ceremony and look forward to continuing to work with you in 2016!

Vancouver, BC - (604) 874-2588 - www.beautythroughbalance.ca

We Are Proud To Wish Tigh Na Mara Continued Success.

tswilliams.ca

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 7

Agriculture/Aquaculture

Sponsored By

Emandare Vineyard

Emandare Vineyard is a locally owned, family run business that focuses on creating high quality, local, sustainable, organic and naturally made wine from 100% estate grown grapes.

In September of 2013, the journey began. With the purchase of an 8.5 acre, 14 year old vineyard in the Cowichan Valley, just north of Duncan BC, the Nierychlo’s had there work cut out for them. Previously just a grower for other wineries in the area and in some disrepair, Mike and Robin stepped foot onto the vineyard and set out to achieve what at the time was an overwhelming undertaking. Over the last few months of 2013 and through the course of 2014, the entire property was overhauled, a winery was built, equipment was purchased from all over the province and in September of 2014 harvest took place and some incredible wines were produced. To date, Emandare Vineyard has released 5 different wines and a cider. Emandare Vineyard 6798 Norcross Road Duncan, BC 778-679-6706 www.emandarevineyard.com

Coleman Meadows Farm Water Buffalo Dairy

Coleman Meadows Farm is 171 acres of refurbished farmland. Located in the Alberni Valley and surrounded by forest, mountain views, lakes, rivers, and flourishing wildlife, Coleman Meadows is passed by hundreds of thousands travelling to the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Coleman Meadows Farm located in the ecologically and agriculturally rich Alberni Valley. The farm has a unique diversity of revenue streams, coupled with an idyllic country setting, functioning as a water buffalo dairy farm. The farm has developed its operation into a wide-ranging collection of land holdings that serves as a working farm. The farm operates as one of only two dairies in the Alberni Valley, the “most West Coast” dairy in BC. The farm is an attraction for local and visiting consumers for local fresh farm products; water buffalo meats and cheese, flowers, blueberries and some seasonal vegetables. The farm food distribution includes restaurants and direct markets to consumers to the Central and Western Vancouver Island Region. The farm has attracted increased interest as a working educational farm with a focus on ethical farming practices, biodiversity (working within the landscape), 100% grass-fed meat and milk and the most unique water buffalo which are highly suited for Canada’s West Coast. The operation is comprised of Russell, Jennifer and Edward Dyson, who, working as a team, manage the land and holdings, animals, gardens, fruit and vegetables, meat and cheese sales and other farm products. Although the Dyson’s have only owned the farm since 2003, the tight-knit community of the Port Alberni region has shown enormous support for the Dyson family’s work.

4779 Roger StreetPort Alberni, BC

1-866-723-3013

Email: sales@dolansconcrete.com www.dolansconcrete.com 8

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Coleman Meadows Farm Water Buffalo Dairy 6670 Coleman Road Port Alberni, BC 250-724--0876 Email: awpb@island.net

Agriculture/Aquaculture

Sponsored By

Hollie Wood Oysters Hollie Wood oysters has been in business since 2010. They supply fresh ocean wise sustainably grown seafood direct to high-end restaurants and also help other smaller farms develop their businesses by partnering together to help out smaller farmers. Hollie Wood Oysters farms our located on Denman Island, however, the owners live on Vancouver Island and mainly work from the Fanny Bay wharf. There are always plenty of tourists that show up to look at all the sea lions at the wharf. The Woods always like to take the extra time to explain to people how unique the area is, and how important it is to maintain clean water for Baynes Sound, as it is Canada’s oyster capital. This inspired them to do farm tours, and they have partnered up with Comox Charters and the Kingfisher Resort to give monthly farm

tours of Hollie Wood Oysters. The Executive Chef from the Kingfisher goes on the charter and cooks up some beautiful clams, mussels and oysters with some local wine for the guests that take the farm tour, which helps everyone understand what really goes on at the farm site, and helps shed some light on how green and sustainable the shellfish sector is and how important it is to the Comox Valley. Hollie Wood Oysters Site-41, C-3 Fanny Bay, BC 250-335-3004 www.hollliewoodoysters.com

Category Winner

• Corporate & Commercial Law • Real Estate & Property Development • Divorce & Family Law • Wills & Estates PAUL R. IVES MARK BURGER

334-2416 Fax: 334-3198 www.ivesburgerlaw.com

505-5th Street, Courtenay, BC (Corner of 5th & Fitzgerald)

Hollie Wood Oysters Ltd. Congratulations On Your Success! 200 – 457 Cliffe Ave Courtenay BC V9N 2J3

T 250.871.7038 F 250.871.7246 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 9

Automotive

Sponsored By

Associated Tire & Auto Associated Tire is a locally owned and operated tire and automotive repair facility in Campbell River, started in March of 2011 by Kermit and David Dahl. We provide service to all types of rubber tired industrial machines and automobiles, in all types of industry from the Oyster River north. Associated Tire & Auto 1710 Island Highway Campbell River, BC 250-286-6132 www/associatedtireandauto.ca

Category Winner

Clydesdale Automotive Clydesdale Automotive started on July 1, 2010 and they have never looked back. Their shop, in the back of their property, is where it all started. Scott Clydesdale is a marine and automotive technician which allows the business to be a one stop shop with for vehicles and boats. They specialize in diesel repair, wiring, European cars, performance upgrades, RV and quad repairs, and they are able to work on any make and model of vehicle of truck or car. Clydesdale Automotive Ltd. 5047 Southgate Road Port Alberni, BC 250-720-3836 Email: lisa-scott@shaw.ca

Sooke Centre Auto Repair Carl Scott has been an employee of Sooke Centre Auto Repair since 1988 when he was 14 yrs old doing weekend and after school clean up and parts washing. After graduating in 1993 he started full time and started an apprenticeship in early 1994. He completed his apprenticeship in July 1997 and continued to work in the shop for 13 years until he purchased the company in Dec 2010 and moved into a service writer position in the office. They have expanded into transmission repair and currently provide transmission overhauls for our own customers and several repair shops on lower Vancouver Island. Sooke Centre Auto Repair 2061 Otter Point Road, Sooke, BC 250-642-6341 www.sookeauto.ca

BMT Group Services Ltd.

As an all-inclusive repair facility, situated on 2.5 acres, we offer our customers through our three (3) operations, a one stop shop for mechanical repair, collision repair and refinishing of their Buses, Motor homes (RVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) and Trucks. Since we started operations, our mandate has been to meet or exceed our customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expectations in providing a service where they felt they had good

10 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

value for their money. As a result, our growth has been through word of mouth proving that a satisfied customer is the best form of advertising a company can have.

BMT Group Services Ltd. 1947 Canso Road Sidney, BC 778-426-2684 www.bmtgroup.ca

Congratulations to

BMT Group Services Ltd.

whiteandpeters.com

basfrefinish.com

Automotive

Sponsored By

Terminal Auto Body (Parksville) Ltd. Terminal Auto Body has been servicing the Oceanside area since July, 1979. They are a production collision repair facility with state of the art equipment and a 12,000 square foot building situated in downtown Parksville. They have nine certified technicians as well as five support staff. They do claims for ICBC and all private insurance companies, as well as being a certified auto glass replacement facilities. Terminal employees have all been with the company long-term. They have a paint technician who was hired out of high school as a detail person and is now a certified paint technicians and has been for over 25 years. In the last 12 months they have hired two new technicians, and year over year, business is up 15 per cent. Terminal Auto Body (Parksville) Ltd. has always been innovative in the way it does business. They were the first shop in the mid island area to have water borne paint, lowering the VOC’s used for the refinish proce-

dure. This year they purchased a heated nitrogen generator for their refinish department, which enables them to produce a superior finished product, as well as using less materials in the process.

Terminal Auto Body (Parksville) Ltd. 440 E. Island Highway Parksville, BC 250-248-2082 www.terminalauto.com

At CARSTAR, we understand that cars are more than just metal. They are our best friends and our workhorses. They are our security and our freedom. Our cars prove to us that sometimes life isn’t about the destination, but the journey. CARSTAR proudly offers: • Collision repair • Auto glass repair & replacement • Lifetime Nationwide Warranty Terminal Auto Body Parksville Ltd. 440 E. Island Highway, Parksville carstarqaterminal@carstar.ca 250-248-2082

carstar.ca

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 11

Construction/Development

Sponsored By

RW (Bob) Wall Ltd. During the past 29 years R. W. (Bob) Wall Ltd. has become a highly specialized project management company, which assists in the purchase, sub-division, re-zoning, design and construction of medical and health care facilities. Not only providing new modern “leading edge” facilities for Central Vancouver Islands’ existing medical practitioners, but also upgrading many existing Medical and Health Care facilities. This also serves to accommodate additional doctors and new medical services as the population on Vancouver Island continues to grow. To make this service affordable to all doctors, we offer contracting, purchase and leasing opportunities. After the doctors move in, R. W. (Bob) Wall Ltd. provides an extensive warranty and maintenance program to keep the facilities looking prime and functioning well for many years to come. R.W. (Bob) Wall Ltd. 6040 Hammond Bay Road Nanaimo, BC 250-756-2707 www.bobwallcontracting.com

Proud to support R.W (Bob) Wall Ltd. Interior & Exterior

• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

(250) 390-3035 Nanaimo, BC lantzvil@shaw.ca

Congratulations to R.W (Bob) Wall Ltd on your nomination. We are proud to be your partner.

INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

250-248-8355 12 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

randy@vikingreinforcing.com

Sponsored By

Construction/Development

Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. began operations in the Comox Valley in 1980. Today, their corporate head office is located in Cumberland, and they have branches in Campbell River, Powell River, Sechelt, and Vancouver. They are the largest Roofing and Cladding contractor north of Victoria. As a leading roofing contractor, they provide high quality installations of all types of roofing systems for residential, commercial, industrial and institutional locations. In addition to their successful roofing division â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they also specialize in architectural wall cladding. They are the recipient of an International Architectural Metal Award for the work they performed on the Vancouver Island University BC Shellfish Research Centre, and recognized in several international magazines. Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. has achieved a welldeserved reputation for quality and workmanship over the years. Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. 3132 Grant Road Cumberland, BC 250-336-8088 www.nelsonroofing.com

A part of coastal communities griegseafoodcanada.com

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 13

Construction/Development

Sponsored By

Congratulations Ken, Jason and all the staff at Pheasant Hill Homes. • Vinyl siding • HardiePlank® • Soffit • Cedar siding

greg@ravenwoodexteriors.ca Well Deserved Recognition, Pheasant Hill Homes Ltd.!

McGregor & Thompson Hardware Ltd. Nanaimo • Tel: 250-729-7888

Congratulations on a job well done. Hein Mechanical Services Inc.

Heating Ventilation & Gas Fittings 4434 Wellington Rd., NANAIMO • Email: heinmech@shaw.ca Ph: (250) 729-8815 • Fax: (250) 729-8655 Proud to support Pheasant Hill Homes

Congratulations to Ken, Jason and all the team at Pheasant Hill Homes on your nomination. www.goroshcranes.com | Nanaimo, BC | 250.758.1145

Congratulations On Your Success!

Way to go team at Pheasant Hill Homes! COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL COME IN FOR ALL YOUR GLASS NEEDS!

InsulPro Insulation Inc. #100- 2550 Kenworth Rd. Nanaimo, BC V9T 3Y4

250-751-1108

3900 North Island Hwy NANAIMO

Ph: 250-758-3374

Congratulations to the team at Pheasant Hill Homes. www.kitchenandbathclassics.com

Nanaimo, BC - 250.751.7584

Congratulations to everyone at Pheasant Hill Homes. We are proud to be a part of your homes, and look forward to working together in the future.

164 West Is. Hwy | Parksville, BC | 250-951-0509 | www.classickitchensbc.com 14 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Construction/Development

Sponsored By

Pheasant Hill Homes Pheasant Hill Homes began in 1999 when Ken Connolly embarked on his long-held dream of becoming a quality new home builder and renovator. In 2007 Jason Schmidt joined the company as a partner and continued down the path of offering clients quality, integrity, and a commitment to listening to them. This approach has put them on the leading edge of sustainable building on Vancouver Island. They offer high quality custom new home work, renovations, select commercial projects, and sustainable building. In addition to excellent building standards, they offer the opportunity for clients to incorporate the Canadian Passive House Institute Standards, and Net Zero Energy housing technology into their homes. They build better homes by reducing the environmental impact of our houses. Pheasant Hill Homes incorporates natural elements and materials in design, and demonstrates the very highest degree of integrity in all they do. In addition to this, they have an experienced and professional approach that offers the client detailed budgeting, an online project timeline and tracking system, trained project managers, and a commitment to quality and integrity through every stage of the project. The size and strength of their talented team allows us to execute projects on time and on budget. Pheasant Hill Homes Ltd. strongly believes in supporting staff in furthering their skills and education. In 2015, we had two staff members complete training in Net Zero Energy home building. This education gives us expertise in cutting edge environmentally progressive building practices in which we incorporate new product lines, such as Passive House certified tapes and sealants. Pheasant Hill Homes Ltd. 9-2480 Kenworth Road Nanaimo, BC 250-618-6880 www.buildbetterhomes.ca

Category Winner Proud to support Pheasant Hill Homes.

THREE TIME WINNERS AT THE

2015 VANCOUVER ISLAND BUILDING EXCELLENCE AWARDS Pheasant Hill Homes is a leader in building energy efficient homes, and completing spectacular Best Environmental Initiative renovations on Best Kitchen Renovation over $50,000 Vancouver Island. Renovator of the Year!

250 618 6880

Pheasant Hill Homes Ltd.

Interior & Exterior

• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

(250) 390-3035 Nanaimo, BC lantzvil@shaw.ca

CUSTOM HOMES • RENOVATIONS • DESIGN & BUILD

Find us on houzz.com

2015 Renovator of the Year!

“Congratulations to Pheasant Hill Homes on your nomination!”

Stephen J. Stuthers 250-729-0904 |

101 - 5070 Uplands Dr, Nanaimo, BC

COM PRE HEN SIVE FIN AN CIAL P L AN N IN G Retirement Planning t Tax Planning t Insurance PlanninH t Cash Management t Investment Planning t Estate Planning

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 15

Construction/Development

Sponsored By

Nicon Developments Ltd.

TOTAL INTERIORS Professional Drywall Service â&#x20AC;&#x153;Proudly Serving The Valley Since 1991â&#x20AC;?

Residential * Renovation * Commercial

MIďż˝ E STďż˝ ďż˝ A

250-715-8775

Congrats Nick

Congratulations on your nomination and on all of your success in 2015! Duncan, BC | www.abacostone.com | 250.597.1375

Congratulations Nick on an outstanding project. Congratulations

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;reOn proud to be part of Nick Your Project

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your team.

Bruce Rowbotham

5PMM 'SFF

250.995.3560 Bruce.Rowbotham@cwbank.com

&NBJM TBMFT!TUBSMJOFXJOEPXT DPN

1201 Douglas Street, Victoria BC V8W 2E6

Proud to work alongside Nicon Developments. McDANIEL BA RRISTERS

COMPANY SOLI CI TORS

www.hb-electric.ca

Congratulations, Nicon Developments!

â&#x20AC;˘ Commercial â&#x20AC;˘ Industrial â&#x20AC;˘ Residential

Proud to be Legal Advisors to Nicon for 35 Years

Proud to support our friends at Nicon Developments

201 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 64 Station St., Duncan BC V9L 1M4 Tel: (250) 748-6633 â&#x20AC;˘ www.mcdancolaw.com

tel: 250-748-3814 cell: 250-710-3814 fax: 250-748-3817 email: jsplumbing@shaw.ca

Proud to be working with Nicon Developments! Quality Carpet and Flooring Services

PH 250-748-9977 1-877-865-2753

www.mastercraftflooringltd.ca Â&#x2021; 2727 James St. Duncan, BC V9L 2Y1 16 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Construction/Development

Sponsored By

Nicon Developments Ltd. Nicon Developments Ltd. has been in business since 1976. They offer a wide range of products and services that include single family homes (their award winning Trumpeter Pointe development) multi-family homes (including their Sequoia Homes development as well as their new project in Courtenay set to begin next year), property development where they take great pride in building communities rather than subdivisions and the addition of their newest custom homes division, Nicon Homes. Historically they also offered commercial construction services from dams to schools to the Chemainus Theatre. They are able to service almost the entirety of Vancouver Island. Nicon has built its business relying on the philosophy of providing extraordinary product using exceptional and responsible business practices all with the goal of making happy customers. Their main objective is to make each and every client of theirs, no matter the scale of the project, enjoy the build process. They want

their clients to WANT to recommend them, to want to be a reference for their future clients, to have pride of ownership and to brag about the exceptional quality Nicon mandates from each and every employee or trade that touches their project. They know that customer satisfaction is the basis for any successful business and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what has kept their company growing and expanding for nearly 40 years. They provide exceptional service, unprecedented craftsmanship at unbeatable prices while engaging in environmentally responsible business practices using Built Green, Energy Star standards and beyond. Nicon Developments Ltd. 2922 Allenby Road Duncan, BC 250-748-5353 www.nicon.ca

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 17

Entrepreneur

Sponsored By

Eagle Eye Adventures Eagle Eye Adventures is a 5 year old company with a total of 7 full and part-time employees. It is an ecological tour company based in Campbell River, and work closely with local businesses to improve their customers’ tourism experience. They can arrange accommodation, take customers on tours, set them up with an airplane/boat tour, and even find showers and a laundromat for those camping. They work in the waters and islands near Campbell River and offer tours of up to a full day. Eagle Eye Adventures Discovery Marina Harbour, ‘K’ Dock Campbell River, BC 250-286-0809 www.eagleeyeadventures.com

Modern Marketing Advantage Modern Marketing Advantage has been in business since May 2015 and serves Canada and the United States. They offer Social Media Management & Marketing services, Marketing Material design & Website design & creation. It is a transparent marketing company that respects and values clients and have had results with their marketing efforts on Facebook for clients. Modern Marketing Advantage 3732 Island Highway West Qualicum Beach, BC 250-927-4840 Email: celeste@mma1st.com

The Catnap Inn

The Catnap Inn building boasts 10’ ceilings, music, fireplace, catnip, treats, climbing furniture, and multi level shelves accommodating cats young or old. A large common area offers extra room to play and roam in, individually. The openness, peacefulness and cleanliness, keep clients coming back. “Wow!” they say, “I love it, it’s so bright and smells so good! Can I stay?!” Owners bring pets in because of vacations, cat-allergic visitors, open houses, waiting for new home occupancy, renovations/flood damage, surgeries, even cancer treatments. The Catnap Inn 7850 Mountain Ranch Road Port Alberni, BC 250-723-7889 www.thecatnapinn.ca

Cumberland Brewing Company

Cumberland Brewing Company (CBC) is a tiny brewery in the thirsty Village of Cumberland. It was started almost one year ago by the team of Michael Tymchuk who makes the beer, Caroline Tymchuk who counts the beer, and Darren Adam who sells the beer. Caroline and Michael opened Riders Pizza then waited for the right time and the right partner to realize the next step, building a brewery. The pizzeria is right next door, and a small window between the two buildings is the delivery spot for the food. Pizza and Beer! Pretty revolutionary stuff! Cumberland Brewing Company 2732 Dunsmuir Avenue Cumberland, BC 250-400-2739 www.cumberlandbrewing.com

18 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Category Winner

Entrepreneur

Sponsored By

Elite Image Software Corp. Elite Image, a Nanaimo marketing firm was founded in 2011 by Catrina Elliott in the basement of her home; and has grown to be a marketing powerhouse. Within four years Elite Image grew both in business, operations and geographic scope because of the innovative marketing solutions, strategic business partnerships and commitment to providing the highest level of service to their clients and partners. From software development, to graphic design and print services, Elite Image has increased their market share across Canada and just recently into the U.S and a new print location in Vancouver, BC. Elite Image Software Corp. 2030 Boxwood Road, Nanaimo, BC 250-591-0175 www.eliteimage.ca

Enchanted Fables Princess Parties Enchanted Fables Princess Parties specializes in children’s entertainment in Victoria, BC and surrounding areas. Their Princess characters create magical memories as they entertain, play games, tell stories, and bring fairytales to life. They also collaborate with other local businesses for special Birthday party add-ons such as carriage rides, photo booth parties, and more! They are the only company in Victoria that hires performers with professional entertainment training and years of theatre and childcare experience. Enchanted Fables Princess Parties 303-837 Ellery Street Victoria, BC 250-857-9283 www.enchantedfables.com

Mitchell’s Soup Co. Mitchells Soup Company has just completed its 8th year in business. In those 8 years they have grown from a 250 sq ft cottage on their parents’ property to a 3,000 sq ft production facility and warehouse. They began selling at local farm markets, and are now available in over 250 stores across Canada. Their products are consistently top selling items in these retail locations. Mitchell’s Soup Co. Unit 2, 3006 Boys Road Duncan, BC 778-455-4150 www.mitchellssoupco.com

Pro Stick Repair Victoria Pro Stick Repair Victoria is a full service hockey pro shop focusing on “Making Hockey Affordable” by offering the best products available, services rendered by someone with over 10 years professional hockey equipment experience (ECHL Victoria Salmon Kings & WHL Victoria Royals) coupled with outstanding 1 on 1 customer service to provide concise, accurate information about hockey products, equipment sizing, equipment maintenance for players to get the most enjoyment and cost savings out of a traditionally expensive sport. Pro Stick Repair Victoria 717 Demel Place Victoria, BC 250-858-2349 Email: glen@prostickrepair.com

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 19

Entrepreneur

Sponsored By

Sharon Rai Hair & Makeup Artistry When Sharon Rai Hair & Makeup Artistry was founded in 2008, no other company offered both bridal hair styling and makeup. Brides were paying around $200 for hair and makeup. Today, the company’s luxury on-location, and in-studio celebrity-style packages retail from $700 - $1,000. Repackaging these traditional beauty services resulted in a 400% increase in the average value of the company’s bridal bookings (including additional services) to $2,000 since 2010. Rai changed the status quo with a groundbreaking new approach to styling a bride’s wedding day. Now, Rai looks after a bride’s beauty needs from the moment she says, “I will” to the moment she says, “I do.” Sharon Rai Hair & Makeup Artistry 105-2745 Veterans Memorial Parkway Victoria, BC 250-686-8155 www.sharonrai.com

She Works She Plays Active Wear Inc. Audrey Rippingale has a Kenworth and 32 foot converted semi-trailer. Inside it is a mobile store filled with industrial work, safety and outer wear designed for women. Research showed that she was not alone, women working in all types of trades and industry shared her frustration of finding proper wear. On June 2, 2015 she pulled the rig for the first time and set up shop in her home town of Campbell River. Since then I have set up in Port McNeill, Courtenay, Duncan, Kitimat, Prince George, Terrace, Prince Rupert, Smithers, Chetwynd, Fort St. John, Grand Prairie, Whitecourt, Fox Creek, Dawson Creek. She Works She Plays Active Wear 4330 York Road Campbell River, BC 250-203-8955 www.sheworkssheplays.ca

Total Prepare Inc. Total Prepare supports emergency services, first responders and emergency response volunteers with high quality emergency freeze dried food, water storage options, and emergency preparedness supplies and equipment. They also support businesses and government agencies to help business continuity in the event of a disaster or emergency. And finally, they support the public, as part of the shared responsibility model to preparedness, assisting them to be self-sufficient for a minimum of 72 hours in the event of an emergency. Total Prepare has been in business for 3.5 years and though they serve the local Victoria community with a stocked showroom, approximately 85% of our business is online, serving Canadians coast-to-coast. Total Prepare 48 Crease Avenue Victoria, BC 778-265-5331 www.totalprepare.ca

20 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

THOMPSON COOPER LLP

BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE WINNERS, FINALISTS & NOMINEES!

PAT E N T & T R A D E M A R K A G E N T S

PATENTS

TRADEMARKS

201, 1007 Fort Street, Victoria, BC V8V 3K5 Mich a e l C ooper & Douglas B. Thom pso n

250-389-0387 • www.tcllp.ca

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 21

Green

Sponsored By

Coast Environmental Ltd. Proud to be a partner of Coast Environmental

Providing quality construction service for over 30 years 5ROO 2II %LQV Â&#x2021; 7HPSRUDU\ )HQFLQJ Â&#x2021; Soil Mart 6WRUDJH &RQWDLQHUV Â&#x2021; 6OLQJHU 6HUYLFHV ZZZ DOSLQHJURXS FD

Locally owned and operated for over 30 years

Proud to Support Coast Environmental

Alpine Group would like to congratulate Coast Environmental.

Vancouver Island Distributors of: UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160; Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x153;ViĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160;*>VÂ&#x17D;>}Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;} UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160; ,iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x152;>Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160; Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;ÂŤÂ&#x153;Ă&#x192;>LÂ?iĂ&#x192; UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160; >Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;>Â?Ă&#x160;-Ă&#x2022;ÂŤÂŤÂ?Â&#x2C6;iĂ&#x192; UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x160; -Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;ÂŤÂŤÂ&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x160;-Ă&#x2022;ÂŤÂŤÂ?Â&#x2C6;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160;E Ă&#x160;

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p. 250-544-1227 f. 250-544-1228 www.victoriabox.ca #3 - 6809 Kirkpatrick Cres., Saanichton, BC V8M 1Z8

TURNHAM WOODLAND Barristers & Solicitors

1002 Wharf Street Victoria, BC V8W 1T4 Phone: 250-385-1122 Fax: 250-385-6522 Website: www.turnhamwooland.ca

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is proud to provide services to Coast Environmental, and congratulates them on their nomination for a 2016 Business Excellence Award.

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1-866-500-1553

terrawest.ca

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Columbia Fuels is proud of the strong relationship we have with Coast Environmental. Congratulations guys!

www.columbiafuels.com â&#x20AC;˘ Vancouver Island â&#x20AC;˘ 1-877-500-4328 22 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Green

Sponsored By

Coast Environmental Ltd. Coast Environmental is a diverse and growing, locally owned company with operations across Vancouver Island. We have over 50 years of experience. Our core businesses consist of: wastewater services, portable toilet and fence rentals, industrial waste management, soil remediation and composting. Our values guide our actions and decision making, and include: respect for the environment, respect for our staff, customers and communities, integrity and ethical business practices. We believe in making a positive contribution to the environment. Our goal is to provide sustainable waste management solutions by diverting from our local landfills all reusable waste materials that we handle for our customers. These reusable materials are recycled into alternate materials, processed into renewable energies, or manufactured into compost at our own corporate composting facility. In 2015, Coast Environmental did a number of things to improve the environment, including: Recycling of asphalt shingle roofing by grinding into road base Recycling of wood waste by grinding into biomass / alternate energy Composting of biosolids and food waste – as a diversion of this waste material going to landfills Sorting of demolition waste material to remove recyclable materials in order to divert from landfill – approximately 80% of the construction waste material we receive is diverted from landfill for recycling. Coast Environmental Ltd. 9401 Trans Canada Highway Chemainus, BC Tel: 250-246-3216 www.coastenvironmental.ca

Congratulations to Coast Environmental on their award nomination from your friends at the Inland Group PARTS-SERVICE-SALES FOR HEAVY TRUCK AND EQUIPMENT

www.inland-group.com

2365 Northfield Road, Nanaimo, BC – 1-800-565-6960 2900 North Island Highway, Campbell River, BC – 1-800-567-7660

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 23

Coastal Community Credit Union: Together, Let’s Do Great Things! Providing services for almost 70 years, Coastal Community Credit Union (CCCU) is the largest Vancouver Island-based financial services organization, and among the top 25 largest credit unions in Canada when measured by asset size. CCCU provides personal, business and commercial banking services, complemented by its wholly-owned subsidiaries Coastal Community Insurance Services (2007) Ltd., (offering personal and commercial insurance solutions) and Coastal Community Financial Management Inc., (offering wealth management services through its Coastal Community Private Wealth Group division). In total, the Coastal Community family

Air Canada Air Canada is Canada’s largest domestic and international airline serving more than 200 airports on six continents. Canada’s flag carrier is among the 20 largest airlines in the world and in 2014 served more than 38 million customers. Air Canada provides scheduled passenger service directly to 63 airports in Canada, 52 in the United States and 86 in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Australia, the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America and South America. Air Canada is a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network serving 1,321 airports in 193 countries. Air Canada is the only international network carrier in North 24 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

BE Award Gold Sponsor

of companies serves over 110,000 people on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, from Victoria to Port Hardy. CCCU was the first to bring cutting-edge Interactive Teller Machine technology to the Island, incorporating live video teller service and extended hours of operation. Past recipient of the Corporate Responsibility Award for the Vancouver Island region, Coastal Community is also one of BC’s Top Employers® for 2015. At the heart of it all is Coastal Community’s passion for improving financial health, enriching people’s lives and building healthier communities. Learn more at cccu.ca, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

BE Award Gold Sponsor America to receive a Four-Star ranking according to independent U.K. research firm Skytrax. For companies looking to save on air travel, Air Canada offers corporate programs for businesses of all sizes including Air Canada Corporate Rewards which is designed to help companies save on business travel, earn rewards and enjoy exclusive member services every time they book with Air Canada and Lufthansa Group* carriers. Visit www.airanada.com/corporate to enroll your business. For more information on Air Canada, please visit: www.aircanada.com, follow @AirCanada on Twitter and join Air Canada on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Green

Sponsored By

Oughtred Coffee & Tea Oughtred Coffee & Tea Ltd. (Oughtred) has been a family-owned, Vancouver Island business for over 40 years. Their mission is “to foster the growth and awareness of specialty coffee through education, customer service, relationships and sustainability.” Oughtred roasts some of the finest specialty-grade coffees, distributes high-quality beverage brands and educates customers about the value of sustainably sourced coffee. Each year, they roast more than one million pounds of beans in our 12,000 square foot small-batch roasting facility and service businesses across Vancouver Island, the Lower Mainland and the Okanagan. With a triple-bottom-line approach, they strive to support a strong local economy, invest in vibrant communities, and limit environmental impact. As one of BC’s first Carbon Neutral companies, Oughtred has reduced its total carbon footprint by 31% since 2009 and are on course for a further 20% reduction by 2016. Sustainable practices have

become core to Oughtred’s business and transcended each area of operations, from roasting to waste management and more. Oughtred is a leader in environmental responsibility and has taken its passion beyond its doors by inspiring other local businesses to adopt commitments to sustainable practices. Jason Chan, Oughtred customer and owner of The Village Cafes, says that they “always looked to Oughtred as a great example of what sustainable business could be … the steps they have taken to reduce their impact inspired us to take on that challenge.” The Village is working towards carbon neutrality and continues to find ways to reduce their impact. Oughtred Coffee & Tea Ltd. 723 Vanalman Avenue Victoria, BC 250-883-510-0 www.oughtred.com

Category Winner

Proud to send our congratulations to Oughtred Coffee & Tea #205 9485 189 Street / Surrey, BC / 800-459-2882 www.newtechbeverage.com

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 25

Health Care

Sponsored By

Care & Company - Fit for Life Care & Company - Fit for Life helps seniors live happier and healthier lives. As they like to say, they add years to their life â&#x20AC;Ś and life to those years. They have two avenues for doing that â&#x20AC;&#x201C; senior care and fitness. In 2005, Care & Company began to care for seniors in their home. It was evident that seniors required more than just home support or care. Many were falling due to poor balance and muscle imbalance. As a result Johanna Booy, the owner, received two certifications to assist in aiding seniors - CPCA (Certified Professional Consultant on Ageing) and Medical Exercise Specialist. Currently, 37 employees assist seniors to live longer and better at home. Care & Company - Fit for Life 201-2187 Oak Bay Avenue Victoria, BC 250-382-2328 www.seniorcareandfitness.com

Thetis Massage Therapy Thetis Massage Therapy is a massage therapy clinic. Registered Massage Therapists provide thorough assessment, treatment and homecare recommendations as well as a personalized treatment plan for every patient. Thetis Massage began in June, 2014, and since then has strived to provide the best possible care. Owner and therapist Alana Erkelens continually tries to find new ways to improve her business by making it more accessible and creating a distinctive and recognizable brand. Thetis Massage Therapy 204A-1910 Sooke Road Victoria, BC 250-881-3697 www.thetismassage.com

Victoria Eye VICTORIA EYE was established in January, 2015 as the first cataract surgical facility on Vancouver Island to house the latest Femtosecond Laser Technology and implant the state-of-the-art intraocular lenses. It is a multi-physician practice that is equipped with the latest diagnostic and surgical technology to offer patients the highest level of ocular care. Drs. Olivia Dam and Darren Behn are implanting the latest intraocular lenses allowing their patients to see distance and near without glasses. The technology and procedures the VICTORIA EYE surgeons perform places Victoria firmly on the map to offer the latest in cataract surgery care. 300-1537 Hillside Avenue Victoria, BC 250-598-5665 www.victoriaeye.com

26 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Category Winner

Health Care

Sponsored By

Cosmedica Laser Centre Cosmedica has been in business since 1998. The director of Cosmedica is Dr. Mark Lupin, Dermatologist and Clinical Instructor, Faculty of Medicine, UBC. Dr. Lupin has a particular interest in photo-dermatology, the interaction of light and the skin, with additional subspecialty training at St. John’s Hospital, London, England. This, along with his B.Sc. “cum laude” in Applied Mathematics gives him an insightful appreciation of lasers and their aesthetic use. The scope of this practice is cosmetic and medical dermatology. Cosmedica has been fortunate enough to offer leading edge technology to repair such conditions as sun damage, scars and treat excess sweating. Cosmedica is the designated centre on Vancouver Island for Hyperhidrosis (Sweat) and Sun Damage management. The company has brought many “firsts” to Canada and Vancouver Island in latest advancements in technologies and treatments. An example is the Fraxel laser – first in Canada. Cosmedica is also the first centre on Vancouver Island to offer laser hair removal and laser tattoo removal with over 18 years’ experience. The company’s gold standard in laser hair removal will improve ingrown hairs. They address and treat concerns such as unwanted tattoos (including radiation tattoos as a pro bono service) with the best technology available in Canada. Cosmedica Laser Centre 207-1990 Fort Street Victoria, BC V8R 6V4 250-598-3300 www.cosmedica.ca

Congratulations from your friends at

Lee and Sharpe to

Cosmedica Laser Centre Victoria Eye Surgery and all the other finalists!

201 – 4400 Chatterton Way Victoria, B.C. V8X 5J2 Phone: (250) 386-8834 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 27

Hospitality/Tourism

Sponsored By

Arbutus Ridge Golf Club Arbutus Ridge Golf Club is a golf course, restaurant, event venue, indoor tennis courts and golf academy that has been in business for 27 years, attracting local, national and international guests. It had a record breaking year in 2015: 1) Most profitable year in 27 year history and up 52% over 2014. 2) Highest Member survey results on record. 3) Highest staff survey results on record. Solving macro issues of the game with record high ladies (up 27% over 2014) and junior participation (up 49%). Arbutus Ridge Golf Club 3515 Telegraph Road Cobble Hill, BC 250-743-5100 www.arbutusridgegolf.com

Craig Street Brewing Co. Ltd. Craig Street Brewing Co. Ltd. started in 1991 as Just Jakes Restaurant. In 2006 they opened Craig Street Brew Pub in the building next door, at 25 Craig Street. Then in the summer of 2012, we opened a restaurant called “Jakes at the Lake” in Lake Cowichan. Most recently we partnered with our brew master, and opened Red Arrow Brewing Company, this past June. Craig Street Brewing Co. currently employs 85 people; while the brewery has 10 employees. Craig Street Brewing Co. Ltd. 45 Craig Street Duncan, BC 250-746-5622 Email: csbrewery@shaw.ca

Genoa Bay Cafe Ltd. Nestled in the tranquility of picturesque Genoa Bay, the Genoa Bay Café rewards guests with one of the most delightful dining experiences in the Cowichan Valley. What makes dining at the Genoa Bay Café so satisfying – besides the dramatic scenery, montage of docks, sailboats and yachts in the adjacent marina, and the welcoming friendly service – is the food’s perfect blend of contemporary imaginative cuisine elegantly presented, and hearty satisfying home cooking the Island is famous for. They have received Trip Advisors Certificate of Excellence for multiple years in a row. Genoa Bay Cafe Ltd. 5000 Genoa Bay Road Duncan, BC 250-746-7621 www.genoabaycafe.com

Howlers Family Restaurant & Amusements Howlers is a full renovation of an existing business that was a restaurant with a bowling alley and games that was originally built in the late 60’s. Howlers is now running a licensed family style restaurant, as they wanted to fill a void and give the community an option to have great food and fun into the night for people of all ages. Howlers likes to source as locally as possible and take care to ensure that our products are of high quality while still maintain affordability on our menu. Howler’s Family Restaurant & Amusements 1992 Peninsula Road Ucluelet, BC 250-726-2211 Email: amieshimizu@hotmail.com

28 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Hospitality/Tourism

Sponsored By

Orca Spirit Adventures Orca Spirit Founder John Douglas was instrumental in building the whale watching industry in the region, launching the first covered vessel operation in Victoria almost 30 years ago, and helping to create the original responsible whale watching guidelines designed to prevent their harassment and injury. Today Orca Spirit Adventures and sister-company Orca Spirit Marine Transport employ over 45 staff to provide water-based transportation services throughout the entire BC Coast. Orca Spirit Adventures 146 Kingston Street Victoria, BC 250-383-8411 www.orcaspirit.com

Category Winner

Sporty Bar & Grill Sporty Bar & Grill offers a full dining section overlooking Hardy Bay, a beautiful cedar patio in the summer, game room and pub seating. Sporty Bar & Grill has multiple large screen TV’s to catch customers’ favorite game and BCLC license for those who like to game, and offers a wide array of local products from seafood to Vancouver Island brewed beer. Sporty Bar & Grill can cater your special event, as well as deliver right to your door. Sporty Bar & Grill 8700 Hastings Street Port Hardy, BC 250-949-7811 www.sportybar.ca

Tacofino Tacofino was born out of an orange truck in the back of a surf shop parking lot in Tofino. They prepare surf-inspired cuisine: Mexican, Asian, Pacific. Everything is affordable and prepared fresh with love: fast slow-food. They currently serve Tofino, Victoria and Vancouver. A quick anecdote: Before the ZZTop concert at Save-on Centre this summer some roadies came to the truck and got a bunch of food. Then later during the concert between songs, Billy Gibbons took the mic and said “This goes out to Tacofino... best tacos this side of Texas.” Tacofino 787 Fort Street Victoria, BC 604-761-7291 Email: ryan.tacofino@gmail.com

The Truffles Group The Truffles Group is a collection of businesses with a big vision. Locally-owned and operated, TTG has been devoted to changing the way people think about Vancouver Island’s hospitality, tourism and beverage retail industries for over 23 years. The group is comprised of: Cascadia Liquor Stores, Truffles Catering, Habitat Catering at Royal Roads, Canoe Brewpub and Victoria Butterfly Gardens. The Truffles Group 45 Swift Street Victoria, BC 250-415-7573 www.trufflesgroup.com

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 29

Manufacturing

Sponsored By

Bath Fitter Vancouver Island Bath Fitter transforms tired, old and out-dated tubs into brand new acrylic baths and showers in as little as a day—ensuring minimal disturbance to their customer’s home. Bath Fitter focuses on providing customers with an unparalleled renovating experience from beginning to end. Bath Fitter has been in Canada for 30 years and has proudly served the people of Greater Victoria and Vancouver Island since July, 2000. Bath Fitter 482 Bay Street Victoria, BC 250-418-8827 www.bathfittervancouverisl.com

DBA Silencing 2016 marks the 50 year anniversary for DBA Silencing.The company manufactures exhaust systems for the marine and logging industries, but their largest success is the air, coolant and exhaust systems they fabricate for large companies all over the world within the mining industry. The majority of their business has been with companies in Canada and the U.S., and they’ve added customers in Australia and Columbia this year. DBA Silencing 4917 Burde Street Port Alberni, BC 250-723-2288 www.dbasilencing.ca

Revolution 3D Printers Founded in 2011, Revolution 3D Printers is a proud Canadian manufacturer and R&D company based in Sidney. 2015 was a pivotal year for the company as it grew the team and launched the award winning and affordable Infinity 3D printer for schools and small businesses. The company moved into a larger commercial facility to keep up with production demands and to provide a 3D printing space for the community through monthly all ages events where the local community gathers, collaborates and 3D prints together. Revolution 3D Printers 5-2064 Henry Avenue West Sidney, BC 877-269-5510 www.revolution3dprinters.com

Category Winner

Specific Mechanical Systems Ltd. Specific Mechanical Systems has been providing superior quality craft brewing and distilling equipment into distilleries, brew pubs, micro breweries and the craft brew industry since 1985. In that time, Specific has designed, manufactured and close to 1,000 brewing systems throughout the world. They are not only in the Craft Brewing Industry, but as well as other industrial sectors including: Food processing, oil and gas, waste water treatment, pulp and paper, pharmaceuticals and more. Specific Mechanical Systems 6848 Kirkpatrick Crescent Saanichton, BC 250-652-2111 www.specificmechanical.com

30 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Congratulations on your nomination Specific Mechanical Systems Ltd. We look forward to being a part of your continued success.

538 Hillside Ave, Victoria, BC

1-866-385-5349 • www.lindecanada.com www.shop.lindecanada.com

Professional

Sponsored By

de Hoog & Kierulf Architects The dHKa team has worked in Victoria since the early 1990s, cultivating a thorough understanding of local development conditions, planning policy, community associations, and neighbourhood interests. Through a diverse range of projects the firm has developed good working relationships with City Planning and Engineering staff as well as local consultants. dHKa Provides project leadership with an emphasis on collaboration and flexibility. They play close attention to detail from initial concept development to successful project completion. dHKa has built its reputation on consistently meeting budgets and timelines without compromising functionality or aesthetics. The team has the expertise in a range of design and BIM software to suit the requirements of any project. dHKa operates two studios: one located in downtown Victoria at 977 Fort Street and a second office, opened at #102 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5190 Dublin Way in Nanaimo in January, 2014. They have 17 dedicated and experienced staff, including 6 registered architects and four foreign trained architects. de Hoog & Kierulf Architects 977 Fort Street Victoria, BC 250-658-3367 www.dhk.ca

Sorensen & Associates Engineering LTD would like to congratulate de Hoog & Kierulf Architects on their nomination for professional company of the year, and look forward to their continued success. 103-5220 Dublin Way, Nanaimo, V9T 0H2 250-585-1360

Nanaimo 250.751.8558 | Victoria 250.590.4875 | Fort Nelson 250.774.4675

We are proud to support de Hoog & Kierulf architects and congratulate them on their great success in 2015! www.heroldengineering.com 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 31

Professional

Sponsored By

West Coast Family Medical Clinic West Coast Family Medical Clinic opened in 2011 when the Harbour Family Medical Clinic and the Evergreen Medical Centre joined as a single clinic. It serves the Sooke region, which encompasses the rural communities of Sooke, East Sooke, Saseenos, Milnes Landing, Otter Point, Shirley, Jordan River, and Port Renfrew, with a total population of about 14,000. WCFMC includes eight family physicians. West Coast Family Medical 6625 Sooke Road Sooke, BC 250-642-4233 Email: rmstewart@shaw.ca

Pacific Rim College Pacific Rim College (PRC) is Canada’s leading college of Complementary and Integrative Medicine. It offers 9 diploma and certificate programs in natural health, many of which are the most comprehensive programs in North America and some in the world. PRC’s campus is located in Victoria in Market Square. Since being founded in 2006 by a 27-yearold healthcare practitioner, PRC has experienced significant growth and has developed a global reputation. Pacific Rim College 229-560 Johnson Street Victoria, BC 250-483-2119 www.pacificrimcollege.ca

Category Winner

Hayes Stewart Little & Co. Chartered Professional Accountants Hayes Stewart Little & Co. is proud to honour small businesses by sponsoring the Business Excellence Awards. Business leaders are often community leaders, and the partners of Hayes Stewart Little & Co. are committed to giving back to the communities that they live in. It is equally important to recognize those who have taken a leadership role by operating small businesses and taking responsibility for the well-being and improvement of our communities. As the largest independent accounting firm on Vancouver Island, with offices in Victoria, Duncan and Nanaimo, Hayes Stewart Little & Co. have been meeting their clients’ 32 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

BE Award Gold Sponsor

business needs for over 40 years. They have a wealth of experience in diverse areas such as auditing, accounting, tax, business valuations, corporate restructuring and reorganizations. Throughout the life of your business - from the start-up stage, established business stage, to developing an exit strategy and transitioning to retirement, they can provide the professional experience, knowledge and expertise you need in a timely and effective package. Their goal is to work with you to find creative solutions to help make your enterprise as profitable and financially efficient as it can be. Please contact them to see how they can help you. www.hslco.com

Real Estate

Sponsored By

The Dave Team

Dave Koszegi has been in business in Port Alberni for 23 years, and maintains a 25 per cent market share. They have four licensed people on their team and two unlicensed, and a social media person on staff. He has been with Re/MAX of Nanaimo for six years. Dave holds the only Global Marketing Agent (GMA) designation in Port Alberni, and is a recipient of the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board CARE Award. The Dave Team 4646 Elizabeth Street Port Alberni, BC 250-723-7653 www.thedaveteam.ca

Category Winner

DFH Real Estate Ltd. DFH Real Estate Ltd. (DFH) is one of Vancouver Island’s largest independent real estate companies. A recognized industry leader, the firm is highly regarded and epitomizes the concept of “full service” proudly serving generations of Southern Vancouver Island families. There are now approximately 100 licensees working from 6 offices – Victoria, Sidney, Westshore, Sooke, Shawnigan Lake and Cowichan Bay. DFH Real Estate Ltd. 3914 Shelbourne Street Victoria, BC 250-477-7291 www.dfh.ca

Congratulations to all the Nominees! Best wishes for continued success in the year ahead. CIBC Vancouver Island Commercial Banking Team Simon Philp - Director 250-356-4271 simon.philp@cibc.com Scott White - Manager 250-756-3430 ext. 402 scott.white@cibc.com Garry Griffin - Senior Manager 250-286-4300 ext. 401 garry.griffin@cibc.com

www.cibc.com 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 33

Retail

Sponsored By

Career - Cruise - Casual We carry over 12 Lines Made in Canada Regular and Petite sizes 2-16

Largest selection of Petites north of the Malahat T he Store Where Baby Boomers Shop www.kcsboutique.ca

34 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Retail

Sponsored By

KC’s Boutique & Petites After winning Best of the City this year for Best Ladies Wear store and third in Customer Service after Thrifty’s and Home Hardware, 2015 has been a fabulous year.

pertise in packing light. The store’s Albertan snowbirds prefer to pay more tax in B.C. and shop with at KC’s because of their selection and service.

Now eight years in business, KC’s has seen the benefits from providing exceptional service. The store services women on Vancouver Island and Petite ladies come from Vancouver because of a Petite Chains closure to find a good petite fit.

Personal shopping appointments and packing seminars set us apart from the rest.

KC’s Boutique specializes also in the Travel Customer - empty nesters and retirees have been enjoying our packing seminars and ex-

KC’s Boutique and Petites 1-5771 Turner Road Nanaimo, BC 250-751-7799 www.kcsboutique.ca

Congratulations on your nomination

We are pleased to congratulate KC’s Boutique on their nomination, and are proud to support one of our valued members of Longwood Station.

5765 Turner Rd, Nanaimo, BC | For leasing inquiries contact Jana Huot: 604-713-6473 | jana.huot@gwlra.com

-RVHSK 5LENR΍ would like to congratulate

on their Business Excellence Award nomination.

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 35

Retail

Sponsored By

Level 10 Eurospa

2015 was certainly a milestone for Level 10 Eurospa as it celebrated 25 years of providing “A Beautiful Experience!” Level 10 Eurospa was also named Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year. Being a full service salon and spa, the services Level 10 Eurospa offers not only help clients look and feel great but also do wonders for their mental well-being. From hair design, facials and skin rejuvenation, manicures and pedicures to relaxation massage, reflexology, steam, hydrotherapy and body wraps, we offer some exquisite signature treatments and packages that people come from far and wide to experience. Wanting to offer clients the utmost in quality skin care and cosmetics, it launched it own line of all natural botanical skin and body care products, ‘L10 haute naturals’ in the year 2010.

Level 10 Eurospa has always supported fellow businesses and been an advocate of shopping locally. Consistently now for 25 years, Level 10 Eurospa has continued to grow and thrive with a strong commitment to our employees. Providing an exceptional work place with good compensation, continuous training and health benefits are some reasons why they have such a long term, loyal team Level 10 Eurospa 204-1025 Cliffe Avenue Courtenay, BC 250-334-0209 www.level10eurospa.com

951 Fitzgerald Avenue, Courtenay, BC team@presleyandpartners.com • www.presleyandpartners.com Phone: (250) 338-1394 36 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Category Winner

Congratulations to Leanne and the team at Level 10 Eurospa on their nomination as a finalist for “Retail Business of the Year”

Retail

Sponsored By

Pedego Bikes Hello Funâ&#x20AC;Ś hello affordable green transportation! Pedego Electric Bikes Qualicum Beach opened in March 2014, providing Vancouver Island easy access to the latest in fun with our mobile sales and service of all styles of Pedego electric bikes, the most popular electric bikes in Canada. These bikes give the freedom and fun of being a kid again â&#x20AC;&#x201C; requiring no licence or insurance. They operate just like all bikes, but with added power support. They can go anywhere a regular bike can go, but with the additional power of the motor, on a Pedego Electric Bike you can ride anywhere you like, for as long as you like. Ride to work? No sweat! Dress for your destination, rather than the journey. Offering great exercise at exactly the pace and amount of exertion you want at any time, you can pedal or not or use the pedal assist to share the work. Pedego Bikes are rented by the hour and the day and offer guided tours of local attractions with the thrill of an electric bike. The company provides mobile sales and service throughout Vancouver Island as well as doorstep delivery. Free test rides are always available. Pedego Electric Bikes Qualicum Beach 702 Memorial Avenue Qualicum Beach, BC 844-738-9333 www.pedegoqb.ca

Let your car www.pedegoqb.ca

702 Memorial Ave., Qualicum Beach

1-844-738-9333

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 37

Retail

Sponsored By

Olive This and More Olive This and More specializes in fresh extra virgin olive oil from around the world and fine Italian balsamic vinegar. The store is a fun interactive tasting room, that customers can learn about how to use the products as well as taste them. Olive This and More opened our Nanaimo store in September 2014 and their second location in Qualicum beach in June 2015. Olive This and More 2-6332 Metral Drive Nanaimo, BC 250-933-1122 www.olivethisandmore.ca

The Funk Trunk Clothing Company Inc. The Funk Trunk Clothing Company Inc. is a retail clothing store that targets males and females from the ages of 25-50. The Funk Trunk was launched in 2006 and products include clothing and accessories (including shoes, purses, belts and jewelry) that are unique, highquality and can’t be found at other stores. It provides quality casual and dressy clothing to outfit customers for everything from a day lounging around the house to that perfect night out on the town. The Funk Trunk Clothing Company Inc. 4920 Cherry Creek Road Port Alberni, BC 250-723-7719 www.thefunktrunk.ca

Kgeez Cycle

Kgeez Cycle is an electric scooter store offering sales, rentals, parts, service and accessories. Kgeez Cycle opened its door to the public on March 29, 2014 introducing two signature electric scooters named the TAG 500 and the VROOM 500 in 2014. Having imported 24 of each model these were sold out within 6 months. These two scooters were the pioneers of a new upbeat trend to a new way of cost affective (GREEN) transportation in Victoria and Vancouver Island. Kgeez Cycle 352 Burnside Road East Victoria, BC 778-678-0069 www.kgeezcycle.com

Frontrunners Frontrunners Footwear is Vancouver Island’s most comprehensive running and athletic footwear establishment, with a knowledgeable and experienced staff to help you find the footwear and technical clothing that will suit customers’s needs. Frontrunners is also committed to helping the community, as a sponsor of countless running related events, charitable foundations and athletic associations such as Runners of Compassion. Rob Reid first opened Frontrunners doors in 1988 and now owns 3 Frontrunners locations in the Victoria area. Stefan Jakobsen and Normon Thibault opened Frontrunners Nanaimo in 1999 and are the sole owners of this location.

38 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Frontrunners 101-1825 Bowen Road, Nanaimo, BC 250-591-4786 www.frontrunners.ca Congratulations Normon Thibault, Stefan Jakobsen and the entire Frontrunners Nanaimo Team! Your commitment to serving your community and business excellence is inspiring. Wishing you continued success and achievement, Your friends at New Balance Canada

Sponsored By

Small Business (Under 50 Employees)

Graphic FX Signworks Inc. Graphic FX Signworks is a family run business for just over 16 years serving Vancouver Island and the lower mainland. They are a full service sign manufacturer specializing in illuminated signage, vehicle wraps and large format printing. From in house graphic design, production and installation if it can be built-chances are they can do it. At Graphic FX, they focus on building relationship not just signs. They value the relationships they have with their clients as it not only supports the team and Graphic FX, but they also enjoy assisting their customers with their marketing ‘production’ needs and watching their customers grow their business. Graphic FX feels that it is important to have a great working relationship with their customers and pride themselves on the great customer’s they have had a pleasure of working with. At Graphic FX, they constantly try to challenge themselves to find better ways to make their products. From ‘new’ led products to utilizing machinery in different ways, they are constantly offering their clients different ways to make their signs stand out. A lot of this innovation starts with the design process. For this reason, they have a four person in house design team to work diligently on their client’s projects. Graphic FX Signworks Inc. 375 Hillside Avenue Victoria, BC 250-382-7446 www.382sign.com

Congratulations! Grahame Strawson Manager, Business Banking

Coast Capital Savings Credit Union 120 – 2945 Jacklin Rd, Victoria, BC

Tel.: 778.679.2839

•

www.coastcapitalsavings.com

wishes for the WellBest done Dan and continued rest of thesuccess team at– Keep up the Houston! - Fromgreat your friends at Grimco work!! - From your “valued” Friends at Grimco -

Trusted Value and Service since 1875

604.415.8360 | www.grimco.ca 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 39

Small Business (Under 50 Employees)

Sponsored By

CityWide Dryer Vent Cleaning CityWide Dryer Vent Cleaning has been in business for only three years, but in that time, each of those years hundreds of homes have benefited from our service. Dryer fires are a leading cause for home fires through out North America with an average of 15,000 fire a year starting from dryers that have not been cleaned or inspected. The company is the one locally in the industry that is licensed by the BC Safety Authority allowing CityWide to work on gas dryers. “ Prevent A Fire, Clean Your Dryer “ is not just the company’s slogan, it is what they do. CityWide Dryer Vent Cleaning 44-1 Adams Place Victoria, BC 250-382-3950 www.citywidedryerventcleaning.com

Hot House Marketing Hot House Marketing has been solving tough business problems for clients for over a decade. As a full-service advertising/marketing agency, their job is to help clients define who they are, focus their energy and resources, and stand out among the competition. The company’s main focus is cause marketing – standing up for the things that really matter in life and making a difference with our strengths and talents – and they do that in many ways. Hot House Marketing 200-2101 Government Street Victoria, BC 250-385-3244 www.hothousemarketing.com

Industry Hair and Body Care Industry Hair & Body Care was founded in October, 2013 by Sam Hubbard as a different take on the existing salon/spa model in Campbell River. The business offers a full service hair salon combined with a spa section which focuses on the specialized body-care treatments in local demand. What makes them unique is the client experience. What works is offering big city expertise with small town concierge service. From staff to clients to vendors, the people of Vancouver Island are the core of the business. They are honoured to find that this approach is working. After their first year of business they came in the top ten for the Premiers Choice Award for all of BC. That was followed up with winning the Campbell River’s Choice Award for Best Salon. Industry Hair and Body Care 975 Shopper’s Row Campbell River, BC 250-830-3330 www.industryspa.com

40 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Category Winner

Sponsored By

Small Business (Under 50 Employees)

Sharecost Rentals & Sales

Sharecost Rentals & Sales (1997) Ltd. is a family-owned business, operating in Nanaimo for the past 18 years, offering equipment & machinery rentals, a sand & gravel yard, as well as a wide range of landscape supply products to the trades and the general public. They carry a large selection of blocks & pavers, natural stone products, landscape fabrics & edgings, as well as irrigation system parts, water feature supplies and artificial turf products. They also carry a wide range of concrete forming supplies. Sharecost Rentals & Sales (1997) Ltd. 1716 Northfield Road Nanaimo, BC 250-758-2401 www.sharecost.ca

Hemp & Company Hemp and Company has been a retail mainstay in downtown Victoria for 16 years. They offer products made from natural textiles. Their specialty is hemp clothing but they carry a great deal of organic cotton, bamboo and other natural fibres. They also sell hemp body care products. Their mandate is to source as locally as possible. Their house brand H&C Naturals is entirely made in Canada. Hemp & Company 1312 Government Street Victoria, BC 250-383-4367 Client: HELIJET / Size: 8.00â&#x20AC;? x 5.25â&#x20AC;? / CMYK / BE Awards Adwww.hempandcompany.com

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helijet.com | @helijet | helijet | 1.800.665.4354 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 41

Technology

Sponsored By

First Light Technologies First Light Technologies is a privately held company established in 2009 and based in Victoria. First Light designs and manufactures architectural-quality, pedestrian-scale solar powered & high efficiency LED lighting products. Their primary target is the USA, but they have significant installations as close as Sidney and as far away as Saudi Arabia. First Light Technologies 455 Banga Place #104 Victoria, BC 250-590-5774 www.firstlighttechnologies.com

Inuktun Services Founded in 1989, Inuktun Services Ltd. has grown to become the industry’s problem solver and expert in remote controlled robotic transport and delivery of inspection equipment, sensors and tooling through standard product offerings and custom engineering services. The Nanaimo-based company sells its products worldwide through a network of global agents and exclusive distributors. Inuktun Services Ltd. 2569 Kenworth Road, Suite C 250-729-8080 www.inuktun.com

Picture This Today 3D Inc.

‘Picture This’ has developed RE3D technology, enabling real estate clients to ‘walk’ inside 3D replicas of properties listed for sale. They can change wall and floor coverings, and select and arrange 3D models of furnishing products to suit their own taste. The objective is to engage clients, giving them a true sense of the living space and its potential, even before the home is built. This is never-before-seen technology developed here in Victoria, and is designed to be embedded in realty and designer websites. Picture This Today 3D Inc. 4470A Markham Street Victoria, BC 778-432-4990 www.picturethistoday.com

StarFish Medical

Category Winner StarFish Medical is Canada’s leading medical device development company. StarFish was founded and grew in Victoria. It now works on some of the most interesting challenges in medical technology improving health and saving lives throughout the world. StarFish Medical achieved record growth and customer satisfaction in 2015 through vision and planning, systems, and continuous improvement. Their efforts span over 150 Cardiovascular,

Digital Health, IVD, Ophthalmology, Optics, and Ultrasound medical devices. Examples include 3D ultrasound from inside the beating heart, spinal surgery for ALS patients, and platelet analysis using lasers for safer transfusions.

42 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

StarFish Medical 455 Boleskine Road Victoria, BC 250-388-3537 www.starfishmedical.com

Technology

Sponsored By

Exchangenergy Exchangenergy is a HVAC company serving Central Vancouver Island and the surrounding Gulf islands. Exchangenergy supplies, installs, and maintains: Heating, Cooling and air quality systems for any type of building. They do both renovations and new construction. Exchangenergy specializes in heat pump systems, boilers, radiant heating, geothermal and heat recovery. The company truly cares about its customers. The systems they supply and install are meant to last a life time so customers need to be satisfied for decades. All work, and the way the company conduct itself and the business reflects the mission to serve clients long term. The products they produce reflect the finest quality workmanship, and attention to detail. They provide commercial and industrial clients with sound, reliable and consistent systems, so they can focus on their business, and rest easy knowing they will be working in a comfortable environment Exchangenergy 5150 Lee Road Duncan, BC 250-746-9850 www.exchangenergy.ca

First in Quality, First in Service Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading HVAC Representative

Congratulations Exchangenergy! 475 Tennyson Pl. Victoria, BC

Ph: 250.475.1500

Congratulations Exchangenergy on your nomination for Technology Company of the Year

Congratulations Exchangenergy on your continued success on Vancouver Island. We look forward to supporting you in the future. www.emcobc.ca www.facebook.com/EmcoCorp 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 43

Trades

Sponsored By

Aussie Diesel Services Ltd.

Scott Brown is a highly respected, top quality heavy duty mechanic servicing Northern Vancouver Island and surrounding areas. He completed his apprenticeship in Brisbane Australia in 2002 and worked on a number of engines mainly in the marine industry before starting here in Port McNeill in early 2008. He now specializes in Volvo, Cummins, Detroit, Isuzu, Yanmar and most everything in between. Aussie Diesel Services Ltd. 2233-A Mine Road Port McNeill, BC 250-230-1183 www.aussiedieselservices.com

York Machine

York Machine Shop Ltd. (York) was founded by Ron York in the 1980’s. It employed four people when it was purchased by Dennis Cambrey in 1992. The business was mainly focused on servicing local mills, mines, and logging camps by repairing various mechanical components. While working on logging equipment in remote BC locations the company developed some specialized portable machine tools that could be flown into camps to do some of these repairs on site. Today York has 44 employees, and 65% of its business is building and exporting these machines all over the world - in every continent on earth.

Category Winner

York Machine Shop Ltd., 1641 17th Avenue, Campbell River, BC 250-287-7716 www.yorkmachine.com

RBC Royal Bank RBC is proud to be a key sponsor of the Business Examiner’s 2016 Business Excellence Awards. This wonderful event celebrates our best and brightest businesses across Vancouver Island, and we at RBC want to congratulate all the nominees and Award winners for this very well deserved recognition. Entrepreneurship is a powerful force that drives innovation, productivity, job creation and economic growth. Here on Vancouver Island, more and more people are becoming entrepreneurs. The desire to create and grow a business, large or small, requires a combination of character, talent, vision, energy, timing and good advice. Successful entrepreneurs know that good practical information and advice can make a big difference in running a successful business. Your RBC Account Manager is your busi44 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

BE Award Gold Sponsor ness partner and advocate, providing solutions to meet your business needs, and help your business to achieve its fullest potential. Your RBC Account Manager will: • Understand your company’s goals and vision for the future • Share their in-depth industry-specific knowledge and experience • Deliver products, technology and services to help your business save money, seize opportunities and reduce risk • Be your Go-To Financial Partner, working closely with your lawyer, accountant, RBC specialists, and other key partners Contact your RBC branch. Let’s make your Someday happen.™ Congratulations to all those nominees and winners at the 2016 Business Excellence Awards.

Forestry/Wood Products

Sponsored By

Canadian Bavarian Millwork & Lumber Ltd. Canadian Bavarian Millwork & Lumber is a family owned and operated business that has built a reputation for quality and service since its inception in 1982. 34 years ago the Company began as a small European style wood window and custom kitchen producer and has since specialized in high-end custom millwork, manufactured lumber and architectural products serving local markets (Vancouver Island, Gulf Islands, Whistler, Greater Vancouver), national markets, as well as international markets including the US, Europe and South America. Canadian Bavarian Millwork & Lumber Ltd. 9370 Smiley Road Chemainus, BC 250-246-2888 www.canbav.ca

Category Winner

Live Edge Design Inc. Congratulations to Live Edge Design on their nomination as a finalist for a 2016 Business Excellence Award. Best of success into the future. Live Edge salvages trees and turns them into contemporary west coast “art” furniture for residences, restaurants and hotels including chains like Four Seasons and Hilton as well as local independants like Tigh-na-Mara and Pacific Sands. The company values integrity above profit and sustainability over growth. Live Edge is proud to create 25 times as many jobs per cubic meter of wood as the industry average, while using wood that would mostly be destined for firewood. They achieve this by being innovative in design and providing exceptional service. In 2015 Live Edge co-sponsored the “oneTree Exhibit” with the Robert Bateman Foundation, in which they salvaged a big maple, recruited 42 artisans and made a huge variety of furniture, sculpture, turnings, carvings and musical instruments which are now on display at the Robert Bateman Gallery in Victoria. Live Edge Design Inc. 5195 Mearns Road Duncan, BC 250-748-0763 www.liveedgedesign.com

Manufacturer of quality Pallets, Crates and Veneer Lath. Fully ISPM 15, IPPC certified for manufacturing export quality Pallets and Crates

4555 Hillbank Rd. Duncan, BC V9L 6M2

(250)746-5200 • qbox@telus.net

www.qualitybox.ca Serving Southern Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland for over 50 years, we offer excellent service and top quality construction of our products. Our company is built on great service. You have our word on it. 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 45

Business of the Year (Over 50 Employees)

Sponsored By

Gas ‘n Go/General Stores

Congratulations with your Gas ’N Go / General Stores & Markets business operations!

Wishing you all the best for your continued success in the New Year

www.fabris-law.com

www.fabris-law.com • 250-753-6661

46 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Sponsored By

Business of the Year (Over 50 Employees)

General Stores & Gas ’N Go Petroleum The General Stores & Gas N Go Petroleum is a convenience and gas station chain on Vancouver Island and was started in 1991. They provide service in the central Vancouver Island area with locations in Gold River, Tofino and Quadra Island. They offer a full line of convenience store items plus a lot of grocery store items as well as a few of our locations offer liquor and full service Deli’s. They are 100% Vancouver Island owned and operated. At the beginning of 2015 the company had 290 employees and they currently have 310. New innovations for 2015 were we implemented F’Real milkshake machines and updated to chip technology at the pumps. They plan on expanding to other communities on Vancouver Island. Business has increased over the last year 17% due to good customer service and acquisitions of new stores. The company has grown due to updating pumps and tanks to state of the art tanks and monitoring of products by the latest technology. They are always updating equipment and staying up to date on industry. General Stores & Gas ‘N Go Petroleum 106 Fry Street Nanaimo, BC 250-753-2540 www.omnifoods.com

ns o i t l Co s u f o from all tc u D at Old

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 47

Business of the Year (Over 50 Employees) Harbour Air Group

48 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Sponsored By

Business of the Year (Over 50 Employees)

Harbour Air Group Harbour Air Seaplanes was founded in 1982 by three forwardlooking pilots, who saw an opportunity on Canada’s Pacific Coast to create an airline to service the British Columbia forest industry. The charter operation started with two floatplanes out of the Vancouver Harbour. Today, with over 50 aircraft, the Harbour Air Group is the world’s largest all-seaplane company and North America’s first carbon neutral airline, servicing around 400,000 passengers each year. Along with its subsidiaries Westcoast Air, Whistler Air and SaltSpring Air, Harbour Air offers daily scheduled service flights between Vancouver, Victoria, Richmond, Nanaimo, Pitt Meadows, Comox, Sechelt, Whistler and the Gulf Islands. Harbour Air also provides scenic flights and tour packages, private charters and a cargo express service. Harbour Air also offers its guests numerous value-added options for their comfort and convenience. These include complimentary shuttle service, free parking, valet and car rental services, Smart Car rental, complimentary beverage and snacks, internet access, newspapers, and a competitive loyalty program. Harbour Air is passionate about creating outstanding experiences and over the years it has retained incredible talent and created a dedicated team whose customer service continues to exceed guests’ expectations. What makes Harbour Air stands out is its culture and understanding of its guests’ needs.

WWW.VHFC.CA

What can customers expect? Smiling faces, ‘yes, we can’ attitude, the little things like complimentary coffee, snacks, newspaper and above all on-time performance. Through its pro-active work, core values of Safety, Integrity, Service and Team Spirit, and effective strategies, Harbour Air has successfully attained a prominent place in the airline and tourism industry and gained the continued support of the Vancouver Island community. Harbour Air Group 1000 Wharf Street Victoria, BC 250-384-2215 Unit 1A 90 Front Street Nanaimo, BC 250-714-0900 www.harbourair.com

Category Winner

Congratulations to Harbour Air being named a Finalist!

Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre congratulates Harbour Air for being QDPHG D ʒ QDOLVW IRU WKH 9DQFRXYHU ,VODQG %XVLQHVV ([FHOOHQFH $ZDUGV

16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 49

Business of the Year (Over 50 Employees)

Sponsored By

Mid Island Co-op

Mid Island Co-op has been in business since 1959 and was created by local citizens as an alternative way to provide themselves with goods and services. It currently has more than 51,000 member owners throughout a territory that spans from Lake Cowichan to Qualicum Beach. Mid Island Co-op currently has 14 Gas Bar/Convenience Store locations, five Commercial Cardlocks, Home Heating Fuel delivery service as well as a number of commercial and residential lease spaces. All profits stay in the communities it serves through re-investment in the Co-op, equity and cash back allocations to member-owners and through annual contributions made to many community organizations and local youth community sports groups. In 2014 Mid Island Co-op members earned a combination of $3.17 million in equity and cash back based on their previous years purchases. Mid Island Consumer Services Co-operative 103-2517 Bowen Road Nanaimo, BC 250-729-8400 www.midislandcoop.com

Wilson’s Transportation Ltd. For over 35 years, Wilson’s Transportation has been a locally owned and operated business and is Vancouver Island’s largest charter transportation company. It now has 140 vehicles in its fleet and has grown the business to go beyond chartering and renting buses to include the YYJ Airport Shuttle contract, the Ogden Point Cruise Shuttle contract, Sightseeing Victoria whose primary products are under the world renowned Gray Line banner and an eight bay full service garage with contracts such as the BC Transit refit program. The company is considered Vancouver Island’s largest charter bus company and in the top three in all of British Columbia. Wilson’s Transportation offers charters and rentals for all types of groups and events from small elite tours to large conferences. Wilson’s Transportation Ltd. 4196 Glanford Avenue, Victoria, BC 250-475-3235 www.wilsonstransportation.com

Peninsula Co-op Peninsula Co-op is a Vancouver Island based co-operative with its core business in grocery, petroleum and convenience stores. With 15 gas stations, a grocery store, home heating division and card lock located between Sidney and Duncan, they employ over 300 part and full-time employees. Operating locally since 1977, Peninsula Co-op is entirely owned by members who share in its financial success through an annual rebate program. Peninsula Co-op also proudly share its profits with surrounding communities. Peninsula Co-op made a number of changes and significant upgrades throughout 2015. These changes have enabled them to improve the quality and convenience of service they offer as well as its ability to provide a greater selection of products to customers. Peninsula Co-op 2132 Keating X Road Saanichton, BC 250-544-2950 www.peninsulaco-op.com

50 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

Sponsored By

Business of the Year (Over 50 Employees)

Nanaimo Port Authority The Port was created in 1961 as the Nanaimo Harbour Commission and continued as the Nanaimo Port Authority (NPA) on July 1, 1999 under the Canada Marine Act as one of 18 Port Authorities across Canada, to promote and support the National, Regional and local economy.

larger and smaller vessels within our downtown core are Pioneer Waterfront Plaza Shops and Parking, Seaplane Terminal, Walking/ Fishing Pier and Harbourside Walkway, The Port also administers several commercial, residential and recreational lease areas within port boundaries.

As a Federal agency the Port administers, controls, manages and protects the navigation and safety of the Nanaimo Harbour limits. The Nanaimo Port Authority must remain financially self-sufficient, without subsidy from any level of government and strives to be competitive and continue its role as a catalyst for improvement of the economy of Nanaimo and Vancouver Island.

The Port also acts as a facilitator in initiating and supporting ideas and events which stimulate economic growth for the community and Central Vancouver Island.

Major Port facilities include deep sea terminals and barge facilities at the Nanaimo Assembly Wharf and Duke Point Terminal, the Cruise Dock and Passenger Terminal with Heliport. Marina services for

Nanaimo Port Authority 100 Port Drive Nanaimo, BC 250-753-4146 www.npa.ca

A Proud Partner of Nanaimo Port Authority www.westernforest.com 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards 51

Bruce Williams, Master of Ceremonies We’re very pleased to have Bruce Williams, Community & Client Relations Manager for CTV Vancouver Island, serve as Master of Ceremonies for the 16th Annual Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards.

North Island Wildlife Recovery Association, and the Nanaimo Child Development Centre. He is a better-than-average cook, and will attempt any home repair or renovation project himself before hiring someone to do it right. Bruce participates in countless fundraising golf tournaments each year, therefore should be a much better golfer.

Bruce is fond of saying “I may have lived the better part of my life in Ontario, but I have lived the best part of my life on Vancouver Island.” Since 2001, Bruce has been loving life on Vancouver Island, and he shares the reasons for it every week on CTV News and CFAX 1070. His culinary curiosity is the perfect match for his weekly segment, “Foodie Fridays,” a chance for Bruce to get into the kitchens and cabinets of some of Vancouver Island’s tastiest places. Bruce is also the host of Café Victoria on CFAX 1070, heard Monday to Friday 12:15-1PM, and Saturdays 3-4PM.

Bruce Williams

Bruce is the Community Campaign Chair of the Greater Victoria United Way, and volunteers his time with a number of organizations including the Vancouver Island University Foundation Board, the BCSPCA, the Greater Victoria Development Agency, Leadership Victoria, many island Chambers of Commerce, Tourism Vancouver Island, the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance,

AWARDS • 2013 Outstanding Volunteer Award from Vancouver Island University • 2013 Tourism Vancouver Island “MVP” • 2012 Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal • 2012 Leadership Victoria Rotary Community Award • 2010 BC Toastmasters Leadership and Communication Award • 2010 Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce Sterling Awards’ Citizen of the Year • Named one of the Top 20 Influencers on Vancouver Island by Douglas Magazine • Named one of the region’s 20 Most Powerful People by The Nanaimo Daily News EDUCATION • English Literature - Brock University (St. Catharines, ON)

Wishing the Pheasant Hill Homes team all the best for continued success!

52 16th Annual Business Excellence Awards

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