St. John's Board of Trade Business News Dec. 2013/Jan. 2014 by St. John's Board of Trade

VOLUME 28, NUMBER 11, 0834-2013

DEC 2013 / JAN 2014

contents Business News is a monthly publication of the St. John’s Board of Trade. Reproduction of any material contained in Business News is permitted provided written approval from the St. John’s Board of Trade. Articles and criticisms are invited, but opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily represent those of the St. John’s Board of Trade. We encourage you to support the business leaders whose names and products you see advertised in this issue as well as throughout our entire membership. The Board reserves the right to edit submissions. Editor: Printed by: Layout:

Alisha Morrisey British Group of Companies Roxanne Abbott

ST. JOHN’S BOARD OF TRADE EXECUTIVE Denis Mahoney Chair Sharon Horan Senior Vice-Chair Kim Keating First Vice-Chair Des Whelen Second Vice-Chair Steve Power Immediate Past Chair Paul Janes Secretary-Treasurer

COVER STORY CHAIR’S MESSAGE FEATURES Policy Matters AROUND THE BOARD MEMBERSHIP UPCOMING EVENTS

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS Andrea Stack Andrea Brocklehurst Wayne Bruce Heather Bruce-Veitch Lynn Sullivan Karen McCarthy William Griffin Paddy Phillips

STAFF Nancy Healey Chief Executive Officer Manager of Finance and Compliance Jennifer Chaytor Lori Coleman Business Affairs Manager Margie Davis Executive Sales Director Alisha Morrissey Communication and Advocacy Specialist Rhonda Tulk-Lane Policy and Advocacy Specialist Wanda Palmer Director of Sales and Member Fulfillment Jackie Bryant-Cumby Member Relations Administrator Erika Stockley Mentor for Labrador Northern Opportunities St. John’s Board of Trade 34 Harvey Road P.O. Box 5127 St. John’s, NL A1C 5V5 Canada Tel: (709) 726-2961 Fax: (709) 726-2003 E-mail: mail@bot.nf.ca Website: www.bot.nf.ca

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Air Service is Soaring P assenger volume at St. John’s International Airport (YYT) continues to soar. Last year, close to 1.5 million arriving and departing passengers traveled through YYT, an increase of 6 percent over the previous year. As 2013 draws to a close, our Airport stands in good stead to finish off another year with strong passenger traffic growth. The growth experienced is a reflection of the growth of our region and would not be possible without the increased seat capacity offered by our airline partners. In fact, our Airport has significantly outperformed our Atlantic Canadian Airport counterparts. Since 1999, the airline seat capacity at our Airport has increased by 45 per cent, whereas other Atlantic Canadian airports have experienced a decline.

Enhanced Air Service Offerings With new destinations and increased frequency of flights on existing routes, we have so much to look forward to in 2014. Business travelers will benefit from the additional flights and larger aircraft that will be utilized for some of our top destinations, including Halifax and Toronto. This also bodes well for the recruitment efforts of those companies seeking skilled labour from outside of the province for the development of the megaprojects in our province. As Ireland has been identified by the business community as a source of workers that can be utilized here, we are thrilled with WestJet’s recent announcement of a daily direct service between St. John’s and Dublin from next June to October. Our tourism product continues to attract record numbers of people to our province, while the number of sun destinations offered from our airport continues to grow, providing many of us with a much sought-after reprieve from the cold weather. A Gateway to Growth As the premier transportation gateway to and from the province, St. John’s International Airport is proud to be a part of the boom. We recognize the importance of not only growing with the economy but also ensuring that we do not hinder that growth. It is for this reason that we have embarked on an ambitious

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capital program that will enhance and expand our airport facilities so that we are well positioned to serve the close to 2 million passengers anticipated to travel to and from St. John’s International Airport by 2020. We have recently introduced expanded parking lot facilities as well as a new airport access road, named World Parkway. These are a few of the many enhancements being made to make the airport more accessible and efficient for travelers. The first phase of the Airport Terminal Building expansion will commence this spring and will be finalized by 2017 with resulting benefits that will include more comfortable waiting areas, enhanced washroom facilities, more food outlets and retail options in the Departures Lounge, a larger pre-board screening area, more check-in counters, and additional passenger boarding bridges for a more comfortable enplaning and deplaning experience for passengers. A Bright Future St. John’s International Airport has achieved significant passenger growth over the last few years. With an ever expanding natural resources sector and the increasing popularity of the region as a tourist destination, it is no wonder we have become one of the busiest airports in Canada. Over the next decade, we’ll be investing approximately $200 million into our infrastructure to support the close to 2 million passengers anticipated by 2020. We will also continue to work with our airline partners to ensure the travel needs of our region are being met.

Chair’s message It’s the journey not the destination

travel a lot for work. Whether it’s the drive to Long Harbour, or a quick flight to our Nova Scotia offices, I’m on the go a lot. I fly to other Atlantic provinces around eight to ten times every year. It’s a lot of going if you factor in a flight for a vacation orra long business trip. I’m constantly on the move, but that seems to be part of everyone’s life these days. Driving the kids to karate, that meeting across town, or picking up relatives from the airport; we’re so often thinking about where we need to be next. I talk a lot in this space about where we are goine, metaphorically referring to where our future lies. This time I’m talking about the physical where, and more importantly, the how. Whether its planes, trains or automobiles, the journey is just as important as the destination – especially when it comes to business. We put fuel in our cars and each time it’s the same as topping up the economy. We take for granted that the gas has to be extracted, refined, and delivered to the pump before we can pay the attendant at the counter – how many people were employed in that process? Transportation is the economic enabler for Newfoundland and Labrador. When it comes to transportation of everything from people to food tosappliances, getting something on or off this island means you either have to float or fly. That means we pay a premium for products imported to the island – everything from tangerines to toddler clothing – and it also means we pay a premium to get things off the island like Jumping Bean coffee, Newfoundland Chocolates or pulp and paper products. When you consider the geography of the province, the economic opportunities available in larger business centres, and in rural, natural resource-based industries, it’s obvious that co-ordinated transportation is essential. But after 500 years of living on an island and knowing all these factors, we still haven’t gotten transportation networks right.

Transportation is an important piston in oue economic engine in Newfoundland and Labrador. It’s actually an industry in its own right. This province should be an expert when it comes to transportation, but we still haven’t worked it out. Perhaps because we’ve never had a strategy or a vision? We have had success in recent years. We have more flights today with better connections makine it easier for you and I to get to those off island meetings or to visit family, we’ve seen WestJet fly into the market to help us reach Europe more easily. New Marine Atlantic ships, terminal upgrades, and better scheduling systems have helped to improve that service. We have started building the Category Three landing system at St. John’s airport. Even the new Oceanex ship, Connaigra, has helped that business grow. But is it just me, or do all these things seem to happen in isolation? There are still major challenges not addressed, commuter ferries taken out of service for repairs, newly commissioned ferries similar in size and operations to those that already exist, not to mention morning traffic and the lack of a regional public transportation system. Imagine a strong co-ordinated approach to transportation around this island and Labrador; the possibilities that could come with a strong transportation strategy. We could develop more natural resources, give our workforce more mobility to match skills with opportunities; leverage our geographic location, which naturally links with the U.S., Europe and the arctic. We could even be better stewards of the environment, respond to emergencies more quickly, and provide a public transit system that serves the needs of everyone on the North East Avalon Peninsula, making us all healthier and happier. If the many construction commuters lining the highway each morning shared a bus – how much more productive would we be on that ride? Or if we built a public transportation system that ran throughout the region, could more people

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Chair, Denis Mahoney get to available jobs? Would year round transportation to Europe result in better trade negotiations with oil and gas nations like Norway? How about the eventual expansion of our oil and gas interests in Canada’s North? It’s time to take a birds-eye view of transportation to, from, and within this province. Getting people to and from their workplaces and communities, getting goods and services to the people living here, and being able to efficiently export to global markets could all be achieved with a strategic, co-ordinated approach to transportation in Newfoundland and Labrador. A provincial transportation strategy is absolutely imperative to the people and the businesses that invest in our province. Possibly the main argument for a transportation strategy is this: if we don’t have integrated, efficient and effective transportation links, we’re putting the brakes on our economy.

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behind the boom. Pivot Industries

s the Newfoundland and Labrador economy continues to grow and prosper, the need for skilled labour increases. Pivot Industries is working to provide the right workers for the right jobs, so that opportunities are not missed because of a lack of qualified candidates. As mega projects continue to provide jobs for Newfoundlanders, Pivot is there to make sure smaller companies get the workers they need too.

The Big Idea The company’s origin couldn’t be more Canadian – it was born on the back of a napkin in a Tim Horton’s, says founder Kevin Peters, who wrote the initial business plan with a friend. The idea: bring the best workers he can find to Newfoundland, on his payroll, to fill a gap in the construction industry. Peters stresses that he is not a recruiter. “We’re more of a subcontractor. We’re not a competitor; we’re a partner. We provide resources so other companies, like GJ Cahill, can grow.” By keeping the workers on his payroll, Peters is able to stabilize wages, and foster a strong work ethic among his employees.

The Irish Connection From its modest origins, Pivot Industries has grown and now actively brings in talent from Ireland (a natural cultural fit with Newfoundland and Labrador). Peters’ goal is to relocate whole families to the province, providing them with furnished homes, three-months rent, and paid flights. He wants his people to stay for the long-term and make Newfoundland and Labrador their home. So far, his plan is working: an Irish couple was recently married on Signal Hill, solidifying their relationship with their new home, and in another family one son has become the soccer star at his school.

Raising the Game

WE ARE THE

BOOM.

Though bringing in workers from Ireland may seem like a counter-intuitive way to grow Newfound and Labrador’s economy, Peters is quick to point out the benefit: the workers from Ireland arrive with a very strong work ethic that has proven to be contagious on work sites, raising everyone’s standards. The skills they bring are being taught to the locals. Rather than taking jobs from locals, these placements are actually helping to create more jobs on the worksites and in spinoffs to the economy. This combination of traits will only make the province stronger as it grows. “For me, the boom can’t be a bubble, it has to be sustainable. My daughters are three, seven and 13 and I don’t want them to have to go somewhere else to work. I want a culture of people who are hardworking, and appreciate the opportunities. If I can contribute to creating an economy where people don’t have to travel for work, then that’s what I want to do for my daughters.”

Keep business growing in Newfoundland & Labrador.

This is the first in a series of articles celebrating the Boom in Newfoundland and Labrador. The St. John’s Board of Trade has been celebrating the Boom at every opportunity and want you to join the parade. To share your Boom story visit www.betheboom.ca and submit, or contact our offices for more information on how to become a part of the BOOM.

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The value of art

rts and culture strengthen our community and improve quality of life in St. John’s. Beyond showcasing artistic expression and providing entertainment, the arts give us an opportunity to come together with friends and family at an art gallery, a concert or the theatre. As we participate in culture something funny happens: we connect with each other. We build relationships. Culture provides health benefits too. A recent report from Hill Strategies, a Canadian Arts research firm, found that theatre patrons are more likely to be in good health, to know their neighbours and volunteer in their community. In short, arts and culture make St. John’s a more desirable place to live. What you might not know is that the Arts sector is also attracting new investment to St. John’s. In 2014, Oil and Water, Artistic Fraud’s much lauded play based on the inspirational true story of Lanier Phillips, is touring to three major theatres in eastern Canada. Our journey begins in Halifax at The Neptune Theatre, followed by The Grand Theatre in London and Canada’s National Arts Centre in Ottawa. Revenues from these presenting partners will stay in the St. John’s economy and provide employment opportunities to performing artists in our city. In 1942 Lanier Phillips was the only African American to survive the wreck of the naval ship Truxtun off St. Lawrence on the isolated south coast of Newfoundland. Taken to shore, Mr. Phillips was cared for with great generosity and humanity by the people of the community. As the story goes his skin was scrubbed raw by a local woman, Violet Pike, who was mystified as to why the black oil of the wreck would not come off. Growing up in such an isolated area, Mrs. Pike had never seen a person of colour before. As a son of the racially segregated American south, Phillips was blown away by the apparent absence of racism. His encounter with the residents of St. Lawrence had a massive and lasting effect on him, spurring him on to be a well-known civil rights activist in the US, and a fervent supporter of

Newfoundland and Labrador up until his death last year. The story of Lanier Phillips has become one of the great narratives to emerge from our province, and Artistic Fraud of Newfoundland is greatly honoured to continue to share it with the world.

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In case you missed it last time, Oil and Water returns to St. John’s at The Resource Centre for the Arts (LSPU Hall) for one week only, March 13-16. Tickets are available by calling the LSPU Hall, 753-4531 or online at www.rca.nf.ca and www.artisticfraud.com.

a business Case Study

ynn Hindy is a case study in how to survive in business - but not in the way you might think. Yes, she has faced all the usual challenges of starting and operating a small company: financing, staffing, marketing, you name it. Hindy managed to find her footing in all those areas. No, her challenge was a bit tougher than those hurdles: Hindy faced cancer and survived, while being selfemployed. “I really think that everything you are dealt in life is to make you stronger,” said Hindy, who is now healthy and happy and still running her sports and corporate wear outfit, Universal Corporate Wear in the Goulds and Bay Roberts. Hindy started the company 10 years ago. From the get-go, the idea was to keep her customers happy. She had been working as a partner with a couple of other people, but it wasn’t working out. Her first “store front” was a large room at Prince of Wales Arena. “Customer service is 150 per cent to me. That’s why I decided to go on my own,” she recalled. “I had a desk and a couple of samples and basically hoped for the best,” said Hindy. As a single parent of three children, Hindy couldn’t afford to fail. “I knew customer service and had been good to my previous customers. I had called them and asked if I decided to go on my own would they support me and they said yes, wherever you are we will go.” They were true to their word, a testament to how well Hindy had treated them. The rink brought in additional clientele. “I was delighted when I would see the hockey players coming in the afternoon,” said Hindy. “At that time, Avalon Minor Hockey was being run from Prince of Wales Arena. It was a great avenue for me because it really gave me a lot of hockey business. And then a lot of the parents started to use me for their corporate wear and it just kind of evolved.” Now her customers are schools, sport teams, associations, corporate clients,

Lynn Hindy, Universal Corporate Wear

basically anyone who require logos on apparel and even fire-retardant embroidery for those clients who require it. They also have a variety of stock apparel for customers who just want to buy off the shelf. Hindy’s next big step was to invest in embroidering machines for imprinting logos on apparel. Until then, she had been contracting that work out. Rather than install the machines in a cold hockey rink, Hindy figured it would be safer to situate them in a drier, warmer space. “So I decided to open up a second location, here in the Goulds,” said Hindy. “It was a good investment.” “I have five fulltime employees, a couple of part-timers and occasional workers who I can call when I am extremely busy,” Hindy said. “My sister Marie, my son-in-Law Doug Gosse and our embroiderer Wanda Peach are my right-hand people in my Goulds store and Joanne Bishop manages my Bay Roberts store. I would not be able to take care of my customers as good as we do without them. We all do whatever we have to do for our customers, whether it is taking and processing orders, embroidering,

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sewing, heat pressing, no job is too big for us to take on.” Four years ago Hindy learned how important it is to have a good team. Hindy was diagnosed with colon cancer and had to receive an intensive round of chemotherapy. At the same time, she was going through a relationship break-up. Despite all that, her business survived, even prospered. “I didn’t know what I was going to do,” said Hindy, who lost her sister Joanne to cancer. “But I pulled on the inner strength that I’ve always had. I knew that I had to be strong for my children and I had to be strong for my co-workers.” Hindy underwent 12 sessions of chemotherapy. “I got through it with a lot of love and affection from my family and co-workers,” Hindy said. “My daughter Amanda was my rock. She went to my treatments with me and kept me encouraged. She would do my grocery shopping and do my cleaning. She always made sure that I ate.” Even her customers cheered her on. They left cards and well wishes, even plants at the stores for her. “I had customers call me in the night time on my cellphone and say, ‘How are you doing today? How was your last chemo treatment?’ So many of my customers were there for me and they really cared.” Looking back, Hindy can’t help but marvel at how she managed to pull through it all. “It’s my will to survive and succeed and I really, truly believe that no challenge that I have been given is meant to wipe me off my feet, but (instead) make me stronger,” said Hindy. As for business lessons that she has taken away from the experience, Hindy lists a few, among them: “You’re only as good as the team around you, and I have the best team!”

booming business Proud Beginnings

The story of Munn Insurance is, in many ways, the story of our province. It’s a story of humble beginnings, hard work and determination. Built on a foundation of family, Munn Insurance has grown from a small storefront operation to a leading edge company with thousands of customers across the province. A pioneer in the local insurance industry, Munn Insurance is growing right along with the province, staying true to its values while pursuing a forward-thinking vision for the future.

A Dynamic Present

The economic boom has certainly presented Munn Insurance with new opportunities for growth and success. More people than ever are buying homes and vehicles, and making lifestyle investments through the purchase of leisure vehicles - all items that need protecting. But changing lifestyles and a new economic landscape haven’t changed Munn’s original

increased its staff by over forty individuals. commitment to serving communities. Now with 14 offices across the island, Since its beginnings a century ago, Munn Munn’s mission is to stay not only progresInsurance’s mission has been to provide sive, but ahead of the curve. To facilitate quality service, insuring and safeguarding this, the things that Munn has matter most “It’s an exciting time to be in our adopted to customers. the most Munn Insurance industry, in this province right now.” advanced is maintaining John K. Nolan, Munn Insurance President technolothat standard of gies in the excellence, while industry and keeps up to date on the way successfully meeting the challenges of a customers communicate and prefer to do growing economy and customer base. business. This, combined with a corporate Exciting Prospects culture that values continuous employee As for the future, Munn Insurance is development and making a true mark in enthusiastically meeting the province’s communities, ensures that Munn is ready to growth head on, by adapting with the meet the challenges of the future successtimes and maintaining its focus on leading fully - while staying true to its core values the local insurance industry with world of trust, integrity and exceptional service class products and customer care. Having for the people of our province. just celebrated its hundredth employee “As the province grows, we grow,” says milestone, it’s quite evident Munn Nolan. “And we’re happy to be a part of that Insurance is doing just that. Over the past growth, protecting our customers and the five years alone, Munn Insurance has lives they’re building.”

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Supporting Business through INnovation, INsight, INtelligence and INvestment. At the Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development we take great pride in supporting business, industry and our communities each and every day. We also take great pride in our colleagues and this year we get to show off some major awards. Ocean Technology Branch - Winners of The Compass International Award Carolann Pollett - Winner of the The International Alliance for Women World of Difference 100 Award BR&E Team - Winners of the Business Retention and Expansion International Award of Excellence Congratulations to all our colleagues, clients and partners on a successful year. If you have an INnovative idea, are looking for INsight to expand or have a solid business plan that may need INvestment... Get IN touch today.

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Bringing it all together During this year’s municipal election we talked about getting engaged. We know think it’s time to tie the knot. The Provinces new Innovation Lives Here campaign is the perfect match for the Board’s Be the Boom. Together they highlight and celebrate the people behind the business, their knowledge, skill and creativity. If there was ever a time to celebrate our business success and generate awareness that we have to manage this growth it is now. Continue to Be the Boom. innovationlivesherenl.ca betheboom.ca

What are you @?

Notes from around the @ stjohnsbot twitterverse AXIS Career Service @AXISCareers David Haire from CME-NL illustrates waiting times as a key component of wasted productivity @stjohnsbot #b2b pic.twitter.com/Ubd61M4png Darren O’Keefe @newfoundlaw Don’t be fooled by 7% unemployment – a labour shortage is coming: http:// ow.ly/26YCAt @CHBA_NL @stjohnsbot Northern Lights @NL2014Ottawa #FF Thanks to our #NL2014 supporters! @NEIAssoc @Ottawa_Tourism @ITK_CanadaInuit @Winterlude @stjohnsbot Karen Whelan @whelan_karen Looking forward to “Meet your Match” business mixer this evening hosted by the @ stjohnsbot. Should be fun. Karen McCarthy @karenpowermcc On business fam tour with City Councillors. @stjohnsbot Darren O’Keefe@newfoundlaw St. John’s among Canada’s 10 Most Entrepreneurial Cities: http://ow.ly/q5rhb @CHBA_ NL @stjohnsbot Des Whelan @DesWhelan @DaveLaneTweets @stjohnsbot always available to the City of St. John’s to dialogue on solutions and answers.

Graduates from the provinces first Sector Skills Training Program pose for a picture at College of the North Atlantic. This program is a partnership between employers, training providers and the department and is designed to meet the labour needs of specific industry sectors.

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Business Fam Tour In our ongoing quest to raise awareness of the challenges and opportunities in the business community, the St. John’s Board of Trade was pleased to recently host a Business Familiarization Tour introducing several of the members of St. John’s City Council to some of the businesses who interact with them on development matters. The event saw us visit a large developer – Northern Property Management – and a Water Street storefront – Whink – both of whom have faced development challenges in the past. In attendance were council members as well as our municipal affairs committee. The event, which focused on the positive ways we can build a better business climate, was a huge success in launching a dialogue with the city councillors which we hope to continue into the new year.

Think Tank It has been said that the human mind can average 60,000 thoughts per day. It is also estimated that upwards of 70 per cent of those thoughts are negative. However the St Johns Board of Trade has a plan to think positive while tackling challenging issues in 2014. During November over 30 committee members came together to create their action plan for 2014-2015 at the Boards annual Think Tank. Committees discussed hot topics such as fiscal prudence, managed growth, benefits, smart planning and development and member value. Action items from the event will align with the Board’s new Strategic Plan to be unveiled in 2014. Stay tuned in 2014.

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audience discovery & reach

ach week the average person engages in a mixture of online, television, radio, print media. However, a fundamental shift is happening in how people are getting their information; as technology becomes more accessible, easy to use, and populous in the market, users engage increasingly more in an online environment over traditional media. According to the Television Bureau, while the overall weekly hours spent engaged in all media remains stable at around 60 hours per week, all other media are decreasing in popularity, while internet presence is consistently increasing. With a growth rate of 26.2 per cent between 2007 and 2012, online is the place to be.

Online Delivers Results

Display advertising can be targeted for particular users based on demographics such as age groups, gender, and location. It’s even possible to target users who have previously visited your company’s website! Display is most effective for increasing your brand’s reach and online visibility due to the extremely wide audience. Social advertising is one of the most powerful forms as you can target users on a behavioral and psychographic level, due to the information on a users profile and their ‘likes’ or ‘follows.’ You are able to narrow your campaign and have your message displayed to precisely the right people at the right time. Social is most effective for a combined campaign with goals of extending your brand’s reach and online presence, as well as offering a specific sale or promotion to your customers. Search advertising is a powerful form of advertising as it puts your company’s name as a solution to a customer’s specific problem. If a customer searches for words and phrases that you’ve identified as being key to your search campaign, your ad will

show to that customer. Search is the most effective for an established name, with in demand products or services used by a wide variety of customers and consumer types.

Why Ignite Media? Ignite Media is your one-stop shop for online advertising. We amalgamate the process of buying media online across all three key delivery methods; display, social and search. We offer in-depth reporting and detailed analysis on information about your campaigns in real-time and optimize your ad buys to get the greatest ROI possible. We employ modernized methods of programmatic ad buying and real-time bidding, as well as traditional premium direct buys for your campaigns.

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Toby Barnes is an Online Advertising Solutions Veteran, he was previously Head of Operations for an online advertising company based out of the US Virgin Islands, with annual revenues of $40 million, he has been increasing clients’ ROI with campaigns in the US, Europe and Middle East. In Toby’s spare time he volunteers with various community groups, such as The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. To ask Toby a question call 364-8764 or email tbarnes@ignitemediagroup.ca

We’re a colourful destination but sometimes we’re partial to blue.

This is how the world sees us - an exotic destination for meetings and events. The $60 million St. John’s Convention Centre expansion will attract new business to our city. Help us make that happen. You can support the local economy by simply bringing your next meeting or event to St. John’s. We are here to help. Call for complimentary consultation services. Lisa Martin-Davis Sales Manager, Meetings & Conventions lmartindavis@destinationstjohns.com 1.877.739.8899 ext 5

www.destinationstjohns.com

northern lights 2014

Partnership, catalyst behind success of Canada’s premiere Arctic and North showcase by Julianne Philpott

hroughout the past decade, Canada’s North has emerged as a land of new and expanding opportunity, attracting businesses of all sizes, and from all sectors to participate in this growth. Entering or expanding into this unique market requires passion, guidance and expertise. Since 2008, Canada’s No. 1 Arctic and North showcase, the Northern Lights 2014 Conference and Trade Show, has attracted businesses and organizations from across Canada and internationally who are looking to learn more about the many business and partnership opportunities that exist in the North. Managed jointly by the Labrador North Chamber of Commerce (LNCC) in Happy Valley-Goose Bay and the Baffin Regional Chamber of Commerce (BRCC) in Iqaluit, Northern Lights is a business and cultural showcase of Canada’s eastern Arctic and North, particularly the regions of Nunavut, Nunavik, Labrador, and Nunatsiavut. “Northern Lights continues to attract hundreds of participants and high-profile businesspeople from across Canada and abroad because of its comprehensive conference program and trade show,” says Sterling Peyton, Northern Lights co-chair and president of the LNCC. “Canada’s North is a unique region to conduct business and our participants attend to not only learn about the opportunities available, but to learn the necessary steps to partner and capitalize on these opportunities.” The event is taking place from Jan. 29-Feb. 1, 2014 in Ottawa, Ontario at the Ottawa

Convention Centre, and is expected to attract 1,500 participants and more than 200 exhibits. Event participation has doubled every year since its inception with the 2012 event attracting an impressive 1,200 participants, more than 140 trade show exhibits and nearly 70 visual and performing artists from across the eastern Arctic and North. The four-day event aims to forge stronger business partnerships between northern and southern regions of Canada, and profile the economic development opportunities in the North. Conference sessions include topics like community engagement during high levels of economic development, mining and mineral exploration, northern infrastructure and transportation, financing for northern projects, Arctic ocean technology, oil and gas, tourism, energy, human resources, and Canada’s chairmanship of the Arctic Council. “The Northern Lights conference provides us an amazing opportunity to meet with current and prospective clients,” says Calvin Ash, director of commercial operations for Provincial Airlines. “Everyone you need and want to know regarding doing business in Labrador and in the North is there. Provincial Airlines and Innu Mikun Airlines have had great success in securing business as a result of attending Northern Lights. For us, it’s a must-attend event.” Participation from Newfoundland businesses remains strong as attending

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Northern Lights proves valuable to many businesses that view operating in the North as challenging and costly. “Many businesses have told us that without Northern Lights, it would have been very difficult to connect with businesses in the North,” says Peyton. “The event is regarded as an inexpensive opportunity to get a feel for the landscape and get a better sense of the incredible activity taking place in the region.” The event also includes the highly anticipated Arts and Culture Pavilion that will showcase the unique talents of artists, performers and craftspeople from across the eastern Arctic and North, as well as the Gala and Closing Ceremonies that highlights northern Canada’s unique Aboriginal music, art and heritage. Artists will also create and sell products on-site while performing artists present their talents on the pavilion stage, providing a unique opportunity to interact with some of the most talented artists in the country, and the large multi-sector trade show includes exhibits from all levels of government, not-for-profit organizations, military groups, educational institutions and many others. For more information or to register, please visit the event website at www. northernlightsottawa.com, follow the event on Twitter @NL2014Ottawa or visit the event Facebook page.

another alternative to hire Is your company in need of research expertise?

t John’s companies in need of the latest research expertise need look no further than Mitacs-Accelerate. This national program connects companies with graduate students and university faculty members through short or long-term research projects aimed at addressing a company’s need. During a Mitacs-Accelerate internship, a highly-skilled graduate student or postdoctoral fellow spends approximately half of his or her time onsite with the company - collecting data, interacting with staff and gaining a thorough understanding of the research challenge; the balance of the intern’s time is spent at the university, developing innovative approaches to solve the challenge.

For each four-month internship unit, the company must contribute $7,500. But not to be missed is that Mitacs-Accelerate matches a company’s contribution dollarfor-dollar; a $7,500 investment instantly becomes $15,000. This is made possible through the support of the Government of Canada, the Networks of Centres of Excellence’s Industrial Research and Development Internship program, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Research and Development Corporation of Newfoundland and Labrador. For larger projects, Mitacs-Accelerate Clusters offer a unique solution; these

Business News December 2013 January 2014

involve multiple students, disciplines, universities and company partners and can span several years, maximizing the company’s contribution. Interested companies should visit www. mitacs.ca/accelerate or contact at Niraj Shukla at nshukla@mitacs.ca for more information. Accelerate is administered by Mitacs, a national, not-for-profit research corporation which connects academia and industry through collaborative research projects. For more information, visit www.mitacs.ca.

have you got the courage to act?

By Kathleen Howard

fter 20 years of building my own practice into an award-winning organizational development consultancy, my “courage to act” story continues to unfold. Recently, I joined Ambir, a values-based IT consulting company located here in Atlantic Canada. My mission at Ambir focuses on organizational engagement, integrated system-wide change though leadership development. Recently, Ambir conducted workplace research with public, not-for-profit and private sector leaders in Atlantic Canada, who were asked, “To be the leader you want to be, what do you need most?” The overwhelming response was the need for a time-out. They felt that corporate realities can stifle creativity and narrow perspectives. While leaders know the value of reflective time, many consistently fail at establishing solid practices that unplug the treadmill. “In the tech sector, there’s a natural tendency to tackle issues using hard data and black and white analysis. And at times people skills are characterized as soft, which diminishes their importance,” says Ian Cavanaugh, Ambir CEO. “But in order to create global businesses, we must develop strong leaders who understand and appreciate deeply human and organizational behaviour.” Cultural biases toward the need to please others, the demand to do more with less, the pressures of climbing the corporate ladder, and bad-news headlines can tip us towards a state of fear, diminished confidence, and low energy. There is

a huge cost to corporations when leaders fall into these traps while, at the same time, they are faced with challenges that are becoming increasingly complex in today’s market. How do we explain the benefit of releasing leaders from these traps? And can such a leadership skillset be linked to regional progress? I believe it can. Leadership and peer learning experiences provide an appealing and thoughtprovoking social structure, giving us permission to disrupt and change those negative patterns we have developed. At Ambir, our premise is that individual coaching, when thoughtfully orchestrated in a trusting circle, is extremely powerful and transformational. Leadership learning helps us accept and understand the intersection of our personal and professional lives, and create better balance. Experiential action-learning in the company of others creates a deeper kind of learning; taking inspiration from the real and authentic lives of others, allows us to access our passion (or pain) on deeper levels. It is this new accessibility that creates the fuel to fire our courage … to act. In the company of other amazing leaders, we are finding this recipe for contributing to Atlantic Canadian prosperity, through leadership development and growth, to be very promising indeed.

Kathleen Howard

Kathleen Howard is VP Organizational Performance for Ambir and has 25 years of international consulting experience. Kathleen’s business experience and her Masters in Adult Education from University of Toronto, along with hundreds of training and organizational development projects bring fresh, practical and engaging solutions to her clients. Kathleen is the creator of the award-winning program Courage to Act, a Women’s Leadership Program. Kathleen specializes in both public and corporate leadership development programs, high engagement strategic planning, team and leadership coaching and in-house training programs such as Advanced Facilitation Skills for IT Professionals; Organizational Development Consulting Skills; and, Creating Mindful High Impact Teams.

Ambir is an independent, Atlantic Canadian, values-based solutions company. A leading IT and Management Consulting company, Ambir is also well known in our community for our talented people who are trusted to help our clients meet their business goals through thought leadership, experience and a unique global perspective. Ambir has been recognized nationally as #3 Great Place to Work in Canada (2013) and regionally as #1 Best Place to Work in Atlantic Canada (2007 & 2010). Ambir has operations in Saint John, Fredericton, Moncton, Halifax, St. John’s and Toronto.

Business News December 2013 January 2014

go north - for opportunity

Provincial Airlines soars in Labrador market

ince Provincial Airlines first began its regular scheduled flight services to Goose Bay back in 1990, and to coastal Labrador in 1993, it has been a very rewarding experience. Like many, we had an idea of the potential Labrador held, but to see firsthand the advancements made in Labrador in 20 years is truly outstanding. From the early days of the 1970’s and 80’s doing charter flights in and out of Labrador to launching our scheduled service, Provincial Airlines has been a true believer in the people of Labrador and the business potential in this market. Shortly after our regular flight services were established in Labrador in the early 90’s we formed a strong partnership with the Innu Development Limited Partnership and launched our joint venture, Innu Mikun Airlines, in 1998. Innu Mikun Airlines services the north coast of Labrador and sees its profits flow directly back to the communities by way of investments and employment of a large workforce. It’s these types of strategic partnerships that allow businesses to stay in tune with the needs of the people of Labrador and listen to the needs of local businesses. Together, Provincial Airlines and Innu Mikun Airlines have been continuously enhancing air transportation services to Labrador to assist with

development and growth and this in turn has helped our companies grow by leaps and bounds. Over the years we have seen our services to Labrador grow from regular flight services to Goose Bay to being involved with mega projects such as Voisey’s Bay and Lower Churchill and becoming the leading air transportation provider to mining operations in Labrador and Northern Quebec. We’ve also seen our route network grow from just a handful of destinations in the early days to currently serving 19 destinations throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and the province of Quebec. Each strategic expansion into a new market such as Halifax and Montreal has been done with the businesses and people of Labrador in mind. Making sure that each move not only opens up new opportunities for Provincial Airlines and Innu Mikun Airlines, but also making sure that it increases the competitiveness of Labrador as a globally recognized and accessible place to do business. Labrador is one of the most rewarding markets you can do business in for reasons other than ROI. Through community partnerships and socially responsible efforts Labrador provides a backdrop for

a company and its employees to work together and build a strong sense of community. Provincial Airlines and Innu Mikun Airlines have understood this every step of the way and undertake extensive community initiatives and give back to the community in any way we can. Whether it’s assisting at risk youth engage with organized sports programs, helping to perform community clean up initiatives or simply fundraising for local charities. We strongly encourage any new companies looking to venture into this market to engage with the people of Labrador to not only strengthen the economy, but to strengthen the community throughout all of Labrador. In the years to come who knows what will be in store for Labrador. One can only assume it will consist of more globally recognized businesses seeing Labrador for what it truly is. A place to grow, a place to give back, a place to learn, and most importantly a fantastic place to do business for many years to come. Provincial Airlines and Innu Mikun Airlines are pleased to have been a big part in the growth over the years and are committed to serve the transportation needs of businesses and the people of Labrador well into the future.

Business News December 2013 January 2014

Happy Holidays Mount Pearl Dental Southern Shore Dental Elliott Dental Group Carbonear Dental

It’s not all about the money – is it? C

hallenges to recruit and retain employees are ongoing for members of the BOT. Newfoundland and Labrador expects 70,000 job openings between 2011-2020. Employers are competing in a global economy. What can employers do to come out on top? Maybe it is as simple as a change of heart. According to an article by Geoffrey James, 10 Things Employees Want More Than A Raise - employees want more than money, they want to be treated fairly, feel proud, to have a personal life, to be coached not micromanaged, and the list of non-monetary items goes on. Similarly in a recent study by Baylor University they discovered that by allowing employees to engage in a work-sponsored internal social networking site can improve moral and reduce turnover.

Recruitment and Retention Tips That Do Not Include $ 1. Communication - never assume that your staff know what is in your head, they

don’t. Share information regularly.

2. Make me feel important - Mary Kay Ash use to say that every person wears and

invisible sign around their neck that says “make me feel important”. Provide regular authentic praise to your employees and watch productivity increase.

3. Team environment - encourage employees to work together on projects and

reward the team approach.

4. Flexibility - Create a culture of flexibility in the office. When employees

produce great work reward them with an hour off for family time.

5. Walk the talk - reap the benefits of increased employee happiness

Office Furniture • Reception Areas • Seating Modular Desking • Private Offices • Mobile Storage Call our dedicated sales team today • Randy • Nancy • Kelly • Jill • For All Your Office Furniture Needs. 59 Mews Place, St. John’s, NL, A1A 4N2 • www.ionl.ca • (709) 579-0487 Business News December 2013 January 2014

KEEP BOOMING

Join the parade. Continue business growth. Experience an event that unites business leaders. Build your knowledge and your network at two distinct business events - the annual Outlook Conference and Trade Show. Book your tickets today. Contact Wanda at 726-2961 ext. 9 or email events@bot.nf.ca.

OUTLOOK CONFERENCE

Thursday, Jan. 23, 2014 Delta St. John’s Hotel Harborview

8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The Business Outlook Conference will feature presentations from leading experts on the business trends, opportunities and challenges for your organization in 2014 and beyond. The conference gives you the information you need to sustain the boom and add value to your business today and into the future. Some of our keynote speakers include: • Dawn Desjardins – Assistant Chief Economist, RBC Royal Bank • Don Mills – Chairman & CEO, Corporate Research Associates • Mark Marabito – Executive Chairman, Alderon Iron Ore • Jim Keating – Vice-President, Oil and Gas, Nalcor Energy

Visit us online at www.bot.nf.ca and stay tuned for an updated agenda for this year’s Outlook Conference. For this full day event tickets are $225 (non-member rate) and $175 (with member discount). Contact Wanda Palmer at 726-2961 ext.9 or events@bot.nf.ca to register today!

TRADE SHOW

Thursday Jan. 23, 2014 Delta St. John’s Hotel Main Ballroom and Crush Lobby 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ll s O nl y a c s e l 15 a s ! B y o a 90 o d t h e s left Come down and meet over 90 exhibitors from all industry sectors. in o n Showcase your products and services to the business community and do business with one another.

Booths are more than 80 per cent sold. Secure your booth now. Contact Margie Davis at 726-2961 ext.2 or mdavis@bot.nf.ca to book today! Gold Sponsors

Join the parade. Continue business growth. Experience an event th nites business leaders. Build your knowledge and your network at two distinct business events - t nnual Outlook Conference and Trade Show. Book your tickets today. Contact Wanda at 726-29 xt. 9 or email events@bot.nf.ca.

what you missed...Mark Wafer Do you want your business to make more money? A bold question asked at a recent St. John‘s Board of Trade lunch by Mark Wafer, Tim Horton’s franchisee, and diversity advocate.

he message at the lunch was to think outside the box when hiring to help your business boom. Mark has been hiring outside the box for 20 years, at his seven Tim Horton’s locations in the Toronto area. Mark has hired 90 persons with disabilities over the years. Currently 40 of his 250 staff are persons with disabilities. As Mark says, “It just makes good business sense.” Mark Speaks with authority on the subject of hiring people with disabilities. Mark himself is hearing impaired and experienced his own challenges as a young man maintaining meaningful employment. As an attentive business owner he has collected compelling evidence with regard to how his hiring practices have improved his profit margins. Mark is one of four members of the federal government’s

panel on Marketplace Opportunities for People with Disabilities, the lead champion of the Rotary at Work initiative, a member of Ontario’s Lieutenant Governors Accessibility Team, a founding member of Canada’s National Strategy and an

inaugural member of Ontario’s Champions League. Mark and his wife Valerie are both Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal recipients and their company was awarded the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters innovator of the year award in 2010 for their hiring practices. In a time when labour shortages are affecting all industries, and we are told to expect 70,000 more available jobs in the coming decade Mark is working to correctly inform employers and dispel the common myths and misperceptions associated with hiring people with disabilities. Mark points to several reasons for hiring people with disabilities: good qualifications, innovation, low maintenance and motivation. While nine percent of the population has a trade certificate, 11 percent of the disabled community has a trade certificate. Meaning there is an untapped resource of educated and skilled workers. Persons with disabilities are more likely to find innovative ways to complete daily tasks. This innovation will translate to job tasks and could have a positive impact on company processes. Employers often believe that hiring a person with a disability will require accommodation and therefore be costly. According to the Conference Board of Canada only 20

Business News December 2013 January 2014

per cent require any accommodation at all on the job and the cost for doing so in 65 per cent of cases was between $1 and $500. Persons with disabilities are highly motivated employees. Mark Wafer maintains that “employees who have a disability work 97 per cent safer, have attendance records 86 per cent greater, stay on the job up to five times longer (and) increase morale to the point that nondisabled staff stay longer.” This is where there is significant cost savings to the employer with lower insurance premiums, fewer sick time benefits paid and lower turnover cost. For Mark his annual training costs alone are 44 per cent lower than other franchises. As Mark says, “This is real money on my bottom line,” and he directly attributes it to his diverse hiring practices. Attendees at the board of trade lunch were left asking, “How do I get involved?” Mark acknowledged that he too was unsure of how to support a diverse workplace when he began. He advised employers to be aware of the screening process in place at your organization. Often, without realizing, employers implement application criteria and processes which exclude highly capable employees from the successful candidates. He recognized the integral work done by Avalon Employment Inc. and the Independent Living Resource Centre and so many other similar community groups in place to facilitate employers in their desire to support a diverse work place. He suggested to contact these groups, don’t wait, and start hiring.

FURNITURE FOR YOUR HOME OFFICE OR YOUR CORPORATE OFFICE There’s no denying the stunning beauty of Simply Amish furniture. After all, each distinctive piece is handcrafted in an Amish workshop from only the best kiln-dried hardwoods. But these beauties aren’t just great to look at. Each and every one of over 80 colour and wood choices are hand-finished using only the highest quality stains and protective varnishes. So whether a home office or corporate office, go ahead and make your business look like the success it really is. This is beauty you can work with. Visit our website or call us for your free office furniture catalogue.

193 Kenmount Road, St. John’s, NL (Across from BMW)

Justine Collection Filing Cabinet and Justine Collection L-Shape Desk

Telephone: 709.576.5613 www.simplyamishnl.com

WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO.

around the board ShredGuard Mixer

MEET YOUR MATCH

Thanks to the Newfoundland Chocolate Company family for providing yummy favours to our annual Meet your Match.

Our friends at the Legion in Pleasantville put off a spectacular event.

Our business mixers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; like this one hosted by ShredGuard and Uptown â&#x20AC;&#x201C; are a great way to make connections, meet prospective clients, and do business afterhours.

Meet your match is the biggest mixer we host each year and was the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

Business News December 2013 January 2014

around the board Lunch and learn Boomers Work connects seasoned professionals and managers with term assignments. We hosted a lunch and learn to help our members find out about the opportunity to hire from this unique pool.

Coffee And Contacts

2 Words. Pillowtop Mattress! Welcome Back to the Greenwood Inn and Suites. All the comfort, convenience and quality youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve come to trust, along with new improvements including pillowtop mattresses and LCD flatscreen televisions in every guestroom. Call to book your reservation today!

greenwoodinn.ca

fT Day Guide Ad.indd 1

Coffee and Contacts with Dan Dillion and the Entrepreneurship Training Program (ETP) was a great way for members to meet prospective employees and to hear about their business ideas.

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Business News December 2013 January 2014 12/16/2011 11:03:02 AM

Past Presidents Lunch

Each year the St. John’s Board of Trade brings together its past presidents to talk about the Board’s priorities and whether they’re living up to the historical and cultural mandate outlined in the creation of the Board. This year’s luncheon was a huge success and will feed into our strategic plan, which will be released early next year. Thanks you to the Murray Premises who hosted this annual event.

Business News December 2013 January 2014

around the board Meet. Connect. Explore.

Each year the St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Board of Trade participates in a reverse trade show with the provinceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Innovation, Business and Rural Development Department and NLOWE to help business people find out how to do business with government. This year, we partnered to really amp up the event, adding a panel, a luncheon speaker, and an afternoon speed networking session. This event was the perfect opportunity to Meet. Connect. Explore.

Business News December 2013 January 2014

25 reasons why Clovelly is good for business. (Not including the first 18.) Reason #19

Reason #24

NINETEEN: ThIs Is NoT a Typo, it’s the name of

WE doN’T MEaN To brag, but our team is the

our restaurant. Not only do we offer delicious comfort food, our talented Chef Matt Evely

best in the business. It’s true – when it comes to planning and executing your corporate

uses the freshest of ingredients to showcase the best of our local flavours. Choose from an

event, our friendly and knowledgeable staff is obsessed with every single detail.

array of appetizers, entrees and desserts that’ll inspire (and satisfy) any client or staff member.

Whether you’re planning a product launch, press conference or celebrating a company milestone, we’ll make it a success. We offer flexible options and spaces: the spacious

Reason #20 60% of busINEss dEals happEN oN ThE golf

gazebo, Nineteen, and our intimate private

CoursE. here, they happen after the main

lounge. Each space can be configured to best showcase your event. did we mention

course. remember reason #19? Not only can you take advantage of Nineteen, take things up a notch with our new private dining menu, including a selection of exquisite wines that’ll impress any type of client and budget.

Reason #21 JoIN ThE Club (without joining the club).

It’s true – you don’t need to be a Clovelly golf member to book a corporate function. sit and discuss strategies by our cozy fireplace in our private lounge. or hold your next conference in our popular restaurant area overlooking the grounds. of course, if you change your mind about joining, our director of golf, Ted stonehouse, is standing by to talk about our corporate golf membership options.

Reason #22 sErvICE To a TEE. apparently, according

to our current members, we’ve nailed the whole customer service thing. so when you book your next corporate event with us, expect nothing but the best service around. Whatever your logistical requirements, leave it to us. special last minute request? We’re on it. besides, you have more important things to worry about, like your business.

Reason #23 loCaTIoN, loCaTIoN, loCaTIoN. did we

mention how amazing Clovelly’s location is for your next corporate event? our beautiful and inspiring setting is the perfect place to hold a brainstorming or strategy session. plus, it’s a unique alternative to a traditional hotel or office space. The added bonus? ample complimentary parking.

the patio and private break-out areas?

Reason #25 ChaNgE Is good for busINEss. Tired of those

rubber chicken dinners? Need to escape the stuffy ‘salon a’ type meeting rooms? Clovelly is the key to helping you get that edge you need in the business world. after an event on our premises, you’ll wonder why you didn’t book earlier. after all, it’s good to change it up every once in a while. NoW ThaT you’rE faMIlIar WITh all of ThE WoNdErful rEasoNs Why ClovElly Is good for busINEss, gIvE us a rINg.

our director of Events and Corporate sales, laura hillier, is eager to help. Contact her at 709-722-9023 or lhillier@clovelly.ca

Business excellence Awards

Board Congratulates its 21th Annual Business Excellence Awards Winners The very best of St. John’s entrepreneurship was celebrated at the sold out, 21st annual St. John’s Board of Trade Business Excellence Awards. “Each of our award winners represent dynamic organizations who have given back to the community in many ways,” says Denis Mahoney, chair of the St. John’s Board of Trade. “I’d like to congratulate them all, and wish them many more years of continued success.” The Business Excellence Awards represent overall achievement across several categories. The recipients have distinguished themselves as achievers at the very highest level during this business year. The recipients of the 2012 St. John’s Board of Trade Business Excellence Awards are: “The strength of the nominations we received indicates the high quality of entrepreneurship in this city,” says Mahoney. “Every one of these businesses started small, and the growth and success they have exhibited is a credit to their hard work and the support of the wider community. It is important that we celebrate that success.” 30

Business News December 2013 January 2014

Community Impact (20+ employees Deloitte LLP

Community Impact (20+ employees) = Deloitte LLP This award recognizes those companies that are continuously involved in helping out the community and whom make outstanding contributions to the community through donations, time, effort and other means.

Workplace Excellence Grant Thornton LLP

Workplace Excellence: Grant Thornton This award recognizes companies who have provided an exceptional work environment through things such as staff development, work and life balance, fair employment, staff appreciation, and much more. Steve Power, Partner at Grant Thornton LLP accepted the Workplace Excellence Award from Michael Goodridge of Johnson Inc.

Community Builder Volunteer of the Year Keith Butler

Community Builder Volunteer of the Year: Keith Butler This award recognizes an individual who is committed and volunteers in the community; one who is seen as a role model not only in the community but as well to their organization and an individual who has made a difference from these contributions. Keith Butler was presented with the award by Sharon Horan, Senior Vice-Chair of the St. John’s Board of Trade. For most of his life Keith has volunteered, donated time, energy and money to make someone’s life a little better and of course to build a stronger community.

Mark Dawe, representing last year’s winners Bennett Group of Companies, presented the award to Brian Brophy, Partner at Deloitte LLP

Business News December 2013 January 2014

Business excellence Awards

Marketing and Promotional Creativity: Hickman Automotive Group This award recognizes the companies who stand out of a crowd; a company that goes above and beyond; one that is original and creative in their marketing and promotion The award was accepted by Bert Hickman, President of the Hickman Automotive Group and presented by last year’s winner Rob Mullowney of the St. John’s IceCaps.

Customer Service and Reliability: Service Master Clean of St. John’s This award recognizes overall achievement or improvement in dedication to customer satisfaction through service, or development of an outstanding product or service. Thomas McCaughey, Owner and General Manager of ServiceMaster Clean of St. John’s was presented with this award by last year’s award winner Lisa Martin Davis, of Destination St. John’s.

Leader in Growth and Sales: Le Boudoir This award recognizes the companies who have met increased demands, whom have differentiated themselves from everyone else and who has had significant growth in their company’s sales. Mona Winter and Nicole Whittle – Co-Owners accepted the award for Le Boudoir. The award was presented by last year’s award winner Dallas Mercer from DMC.

Congratulations to all our winners.

2013 Business Excellence Award Take the Shot Productions Inc.

The winner of the Business Excellence Award was John Vatcher, Allan Hawco, and Perry Chafe of Take the Shot Productions Inc. Take the Shot Productions Inc. has successfully been able to build a creative venture in the province that allows the vibrancy of the province to be showcased on an international platform, which helps boost the economics and tourism interest in our local businesses. The award was presented by Chair of the Board Denis Mahoney and CEO Nancy Healey. Community Impact (under 20 employees) = The Idea Facoty This award recognizes those companies that are continuously involved in helping out the community and whom make outstanding contributions to the community through donations, time, effort and other means.

Des Whelan, Senior Vice-Chair with the Board, presented the award for community impact with fewer than 20 employees to Kevin Casey, Chief Strategy Officer, at The Idea Factory.

Entrepreneurial Spirit: Take the Shot Productions This award recognizes the best of the best; a company that not only offers new and exciting products/services that meet the market needs but one that will achieve similar (if not greater) success in the future. Kim Sparkes last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award winner in the category of Entrepreneurial Spirit, presented this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award to John Vatcher, Allan Hawco, and Perry Chafe of Take the Shot Productions Inc.

member news

Past chair named Humanitarian of the Year Past chair of the St. John’s Board of Trade, Bruce Templeton has been named humanitarian of the year by the Newfoundland and Labrador Red Cross. Templeton is also well known as a close personal friend of Santa Claus, bringing joy to children as Santa’s assistant for

over 30 years, often stating, “It’s your presence, not presents, that count.” Last year, he penned a Canadian bestseller, The Man in the Red Suit, which describes his most memorable adventures from over 1,000 visits to places like the Janeway Children’s Health & Rehabilitation Centre and the John Howard Society. Proceeds from the book were matched by supporting organizations, raising $90,000 and donated by Templeton and his wife Paula to the Rotary International Polio Plus Fund to purchase 150,000 doses of vaccine for children in countries at risk. The young humanitarian of the year is Ashley Gosse. Gosse has been instrumental in the growth of Sleep Out 120, a campaign that raises awareness on the issue of youth homelessness. Since her involvement began in 2011, over $30,000 has been raised and campaign locations have expanded.

Petroforma makes strategic purchase Petroforma h as announced it is acquiring the Microbiology and Toxicity Lab from Stantec

PROUDLY PRESENTS

The NSO Silver Ball SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1, DELTA ST. JOHN’S HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTRE Champagne Reception Gourmet Dinner Performance by the NSO Silent Auction Dancing to Brian Way & His Large Band

Tickets available by phone 722.4441 $150* each or $1500* for a Table of Ten *A tax receipt will be issued for the charitable portion

Business News December 2013 January 2014

Consulting. Established in 2008, petroforma provides offshore sampling and onshore analytical and field services to the oil & gas, mining, and environmental industries. Stantec’s Microbiology and Toxicity Lab, located on Logy Bay Road, has been operating in St. John’s for 25 years. The combined laboratories will continue to employ over 20 scientists and technical staff and offer a full suite of lab services to regional clients.

Republic Properties approved to build downtown development The Light House Project is a development of Republic Properties Inc. that will see a new hotel and apartments at 83 and 90 Duckworth St. The proposal took about two years to reach city council chambers, and will cost approximately $20 million. In addition to the hotel and apartments, the development will have parking and retail space.

member news Bell to offer expanded service Bell Aliant will be expanding its FibreOP service to five more communities in Newfoundland and Labrador at a cost of $12 million. The technology will be made available to 21,000 homes and businesses in Bay Roberts, Carbonear, Torbay, Portugal CoveSt. Philip’s and Clarenville. This will bring Bell’s reach to approximately 125,000 premises and represents an investment of 50 million since 2011.

Knightsbridge Robertson Surrette is growing Knightsbridge Robertson Surrette (KBRS) is building its ranks in St. John’s with several high-profile hires and promotions. Shane McClafferty, has joined as a Consultant, Heather Peters has joined as a Senior Consultant and Natalie Hand has been promoted to Regional Manager, Contingency Search Division and Director, Business Development. McClafferty was previously the Director

of Business Development – Eastern Canada, for Diamond Global Recruitment Group, while Peters has over 20 years of experience in increasingly responsible roles within human resources, including positions with Aon Canada, Anthony & Associates, and Eastern Health. Hand has been with KBRS for over nine years, in increasingly responsible roles. She has extensive experience in supporting the HR needs of organizations in a wide array of industries, including financial services, technology, oil and gas, and mining. KBRS is Atlantic Canada’s largest human capital consulting firm and employs over 50 professionals, with offices in St. John’s, NL; Halifax, NS; and Moncton, NB.

Teaching with tech conference held College of the North Atlantic in Clarenville hosted the third-annual teaching with technology conference, which brings together 55 instructional designers, developers, faculty, and administrators to talk about teaching, innovation and

technology. The three-day conference sees College of the North Atlantic (CNA) partnering with Memorial University, Marine Institute, and the Centre for Distance Learning & Innovation to create a network of practitioners who focus on continual improvement as they support faculty in their integration of technology in teaching and learning. The 2011 conference focused on initiating connections between individuals who support teachers, instructors and faculty in their use of teaching technologies. The focus this year is continuing to build, enhance and add value to the community as well as share experiences, ideas, and innovations. For the latest information about TWTC and updates on the conference follow them on Twitter @ TeachwithTechNL.

Forward-thinking Starts Here... Management and Professional Development seminars and programs to help advance organizations, employees and leaders. Training Inquiries: Contact Jackie Collins P 709.864.2131 I E jcollins@mun.ca Custom Solutions: Contact Bill Morrissey P 709.864.8965 I E billm@mun.ca

www.mun.ca/gardinercentre Business News December 2013 January 2014

member news Incoming Chair wins innovation award

Congratulations go to Sharon Horan the incoming chair of the St. John’s Board of Trade on winning the Visionary Award at NLOWE’s annual awards gala. In her daily business, Horan owns and operates Fit For Work.

College director awarded honourary title by Chinese institution College of the North Atlantic’s Director of China Projects, Dr. Daniel Wong, has been honoured with the title of Dongchu Scholar by Hubei Polytechnic University in China. The honour is in recognition of the

development of dual-diploma programs between the two institutions and is comparable to emeritus academic status in North America. The college has been operating in co-operation with post-secondary Chinese institutions for the last 13 years. In 2002, the project’s first graduating class of 50 students in China was presented with a diploma in Engineering Technology based on College of the North Atlantic’s curriculum. Currently, more than 1,100 students enroll in CNA certified programs at Hubei Polytechnic University and seven other universities and institutions throughout the country each year. The project has also allowed a number of Chinese faculty members to participate in professional development initiatives at CNA’s Prince Philip Drive campus, where they have explored new technologies and instructional practices. Most recently, College of the North Atlantic developed and finalized a new institutional partnership with Guangdong Ocean University in Guangdong Province, in response to an identified need for diploma programs for local students in that region.

Growing into the Big Land

Grant Thornton has expanded to Gander and Goose Bay with the announcement that Walters Hoffe Chartered Accountants will join the firm effective Dec. 31, 2013. “Our firm-wide focus is on unlocking the potential for growth, and that means both helping our clients and leading by example with our own firm,” says Phil Noble, Executive Partner and CEO, Grant Thornton LLP.

Craig Williams wins big Craig Williams, president and CEO of Future Group Company, has won an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year Award in

the category of “Real Estate/Construction” for the Atlantic Canadian region. “It is nice to bring the hardware home for all Newfoundland and Labrador business people who, in my opinion, can match up against any in the world,” says Williams. Williams began his career in real estate, selling new home construction. After developing strong relationships with local builders and developers, he set to work, creating a network of his own businesses to include land development; excavation and engineering; renovation; and both residential and commercial construction. Today, Future Group boasts 15 companies and approximately 100 employees with over $60 million in annual sales.

Business News December 2013 January 2014

Innovation Lives Here

The province of Newfoundland and Labrador has launched a campaign to highlight the innovativeness of local companies and to reflect the value of the province’s economy. The multi-media campaign includes the stories of several Board of Trade members and the exciting and unique work they’re doing in our province. Our members featured in the campaign include Provincial Airlines, Verafin, Bluedrop, Dynamic Air Shelters and Tata Steel. The campaign will include television commercials and featurettes in Cineplex theatres in St. John’s, Mount Pearl and Corner Brook.

Thank a volunteer today Every day the volunteers within the business community help us serve you better and the province and Bluedrop want you to take advantage of free training programs which can help you become a better volunteer. The provincial government engaged the services of Bluedrop Performance Learning to customize a bundle of eight courses specific to the work and needs of the volunteer and non-profit sector. The courses will be delivered through the SmartForce NL platform. The latest bundle of courses, which are free of charge, can be accessed by logging on to SmartForceNL.ca. Users simply have to create a log in and password, then choose courses they are interested in. Meanwhile, if you would like to volunteer with the St. John’s Board of Trade, visit our website and fill out the “Volunteering with the Board Application.” New committee members will be welcomed in the New Year.

St. John’s Ramada is once again of the Best The Ramada St. John’s today announced that it has been awarded “The Best of 2013” award by Ramada Worldwide, once again ranking it among the top properties in the brand’s 900 hotel portfolio. This marks the third time the hotel has won the prestigious award in the last four years. The Ramada St. John’s is a 79-room hotel offering a restaurant, fitness center, meeting space, business services, and free airport shuttle. Rooms feature flat-screen televisions, plush “WynRest” duvets and air conditioning.

Group’s residential building business by offering the Deer Park brand as a high-end builder and renovator. In addition, the highly successful design centre will now be available to Future Group’s Skymark Homes brand. The centre offers a unique process to simplify new home buying and renovations. Design Build Custom Home Centre boasts over 3,000 square feet of showroom space -- it’s truly a one-stop shop for selecting every detail that goes into finishing a home, from flooring and paint to kitchens and light fixtures.

Collision Clinic gives back for 10th consecutive year The management and staff of Collision Clinic will proudly present a fully reconditioned 2012 Ford Focus to an individual again this holiday season. This is the 10th consecutive year Collision Clinic will present a car just prior to the holidays through their annual Enriching Lives Car Giveaway program. Each year, applications are accepted throughout the month of November and applicants are asked to describe how reliable transportation will help to improve their daily lives. Auto Parts Network donates the damaged vehicle with replacement parts. Also, funding is provided for the first year of vehicle insurance. The vehicle is restored to pre-accident condition by Collision Clinic technicians, who donate their evenings and weekends, along with their precision reconstruction expertise. “This is not a contest,” said Sharon Wells, General Manager, Collision Clinic. “This is an initiative to provide safe and reliable transportation to someone who is unable to acquire their own vehicle at this time. The applicant will have to demonstrate how the lack of reliable transportation is holding them back economically, and affecting the quality of life for their family.” The recipient of the vehicle will be presented with the car on Dec. 18. Future Group acquires Deer Park

Homes

Future Group has added Deer Park Homes and their Design Build Custom Home Centre to their diverse group of companies. The acquisition strengthens Future

Business News December 2013 January 2014

industry news St. John’s is Booming The 2013 Communities in Boom report by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business shows that St. John’s is one of the most entrepreneurial cities in Canada. The cities are those in which there’s an environment for business to thrive, according to the report. The study compared cities according to concentration of entrepreneurs, high rate of business start-ups and municipal taxes. Calgary took the top spot, but St. John’s made the list at No. 9 with a score of 58 out of 100. “Other indicators are not as obvious, like the level of business optimism and supportive local government. Notice we have no hundreds on the board,” said CFIB Vice-President and Chief Economist Ted Mallett. “These cities are leading the way, but even they can stand to improve in one area or another.

Board pleased with CETA agreement in principle The St. John’s Board of Trade was present at the announcement of the province’s benefits as a result of the federal agreement in principle with the European Union. The Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) will open markets in the EU for local products and services, including locally caught and processed fish

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products. Nancy Healey, CEO of the Board of Trade was on hand to offer comments and congratulations at the announcement and spoke to the media about the opportunities available to local business as a result of removing trade barriers including tariffs. The province announced several days after that a $400-million investment in the fisihing industry – for reaserch and development, marketing and infrastructure among other things – was being cost-shared by the provincial and federal governments to bolster the impact of the CETA agreement.

Office vacancy rates stable The overall office market vacancy rate in St. John’s remained at 4.8 per cent in the third quarter of 2013, according to Cushman & Wakefield Atlantic. For Class A buildings the vacancy rate was 0.7 per cent. The downtown overall office vacancy rate increased to 3.5 per cent from 2.8 per cent last quarter as vacancies opened up in two downtown buildings. The overall third quarter Gross Asking Rent per square foot was $32.50 for office space, an increase of 7.9 per cent over the third quarter of 2012.

We’re buying more online The value of orders placed online by Canadians reached $18.9 billion in 2012, up 24 per cent from 2010 when the last Internet use and e-commerce survey was conducted. More than half of Internet users (56 per cent) ordered goods or services

THE GREAT ST. JOHN’S RACETHE TELY TEN T he Pete r L e w is Galle r y is s e llin g L im ite d e d it io n pr ints o f Pete r L e w is ’ " Te ly Ten" Pa int in g!

Rural Palette Peter Lewis Solo Exhibition Friday, December 6th, 2013 Opening Reception 6:30pm - 9:00pm Peter Lewis Gallery - 5 Church Hill

www.peterlewisgallery.com

Business News December 2013 January 2014

online in 2012, up from 51 per cent in 2010. Approximately a quarter of retailers are selling items online either through online auction sites or other means. This data matches with Deliotte’s annual holiday retail outlook which, shows that online shopping will likely increase this year. The report shows most Canadians plan to spend as much as they did last year in Christmas shopping, which usually means they’ll spend slightly more. As a result, Deliotte forecast a two per cent to 2.5 per cent rise in retail sales this holiday season. The report forecasts that crossborder shopping may decrease and there’s growing demand for retailers to offer an omnichannel experience to today’s shopper.

2013 Another Positive Tourism Season for Newfoundland and Labrador Numbers show this province’s tourism industry continues to see increased growth. Non-resident visits were up 2.1 per cent this year and occupancy rates reached 53.2 per cent – up 1.6 per cent over last year’s levels. Visitor Information Centres reported more than 117,500 visitors for the period ending September 2013, representing an increase of 3.6 per cent over last year’s statistics. Visits to NewfoundlandLabrador.com are up 24 per cent over last year. Website visits for 2013 have now exceeded 1.6 million, and visits to tourism operator sites on NewfoundlandLabrador.com have increased by almost 30 per cent. Youtube views also increased from approximately 361,000 to close to 1.4 million. Tourism spending reached $1 billion for the first time in 2011, putting the province ahead of schedule for achieving the Vision 2020 goal of $1.6 billion in spending. The Cruise Association of Newfoundland and Labrador also recently announced their numbers, showing a total of 64 port calls to 23 Newfoundland and Labrador ports by 16 cruise operators with 20 ships. There were 41,376 passengers and 20,444 crew, for a total of 61,820 visits.

member profiles

Eighty-seven per cent of Canadians are likely to be personally affected by a major illness like cancer, heart disease, or diabetes in their lifetime. Our health profoundly impacts every facet of our lives: at work, at home, and in the community. And it is a key driver of business success, affecting employee morale, job performance, productivity, absenteeism, and benefits expense. As a partnership of 16 of Canada’s most recognized health charities, Healthpartners delivers simple, tailored workplace giving campaigns that personally engage your employees and help create a healthier, more productive workplace. Funds raised reduce the impact of major diseases while improving the health of your employees and their families, your business, your customers and communities.

North America’s number one company focused on customs brokerage and compliance, Livingston International also offers trade consulting, global trade management, TradeSphere® global trade automation software and international freight forwarding solutions. With 3,200 employees at more than 125 locations around the world, Livingston helps our clients manage their customs, trade and shipping needs from end-to-end. To learn more about Livingston and how we can help your business grow faster, smarter, further – visit us online at www.livingstonintl. com, e-mail us at solutions@livingstonintl.com or call us at 1-800-837-1063.

Serving 1.5 million passengers annually and growing, we are proud to operate this key transportation facility of behalf of our vibrant community.

Business News December 2013 January 2014

upcoming events january 2014 Business Mixer

Luncheon – “TSMC: New Iron Ore Producer in Labrador”

Y R A U J AN

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is stylish and comfortable, offering everything you need at a great value! Join them and the Board of Trade as they host an evening of networking. We look forward to seeing you there! Date: Thurs., Jan. 9 Time: 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm Cost: Included as a benefit of your membership Location: Fairfield Inn & Suites, 199 Kenmount Rd.

Join Mr. Rajesh Sharma, CEO and Managing Director of Tata Steel Minerals Canada Limited for lunch as he speaks to the St. John’s Board of Trade. Date: Time: Cost: Location:

Tues., Jan. 28 12:30 pm – networking 1 pm - luncheon $42.50+HST member discount $85+HST non member Holiday Inn, 180 Portugal Cove Rd.

To register for these events please contact Wanda Palmer at events@bot.nf.ca or 726-2961 ext. 9

On location. In the know. Since 2000, our team has been rooted right here in Newfoundland and Labrador where we understand the challenges facing the local business community. From coaching and leadership development to career transition support, we offer our clients the vast resources of an international firm tailored to fit local realities. We are Atlantic Canada’s largest human resources consulting and recruitment firm, in the know and on the grow. Join us in welcoming the newest member to our team – Heather Peters, Senior Consultant.

Ada Shave Senior Consultant Lloyd Powell Partner Heather Peters Senior Consultant

Meet Heather at www.kbrs.ca/HeatherPeters | 1.709.722.6890

Business News December 2013 January 2014

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