St. John's Board of Trade Business News April/May 2016

Business News

APRIL/MAY: 2016

VOLUME 31: #2

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table of contents APRIL/MAY: 2016 VOLUME 31: #2 Business News is a 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 contributions 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.

Interim Editor: Kristann Templeton Printed by: Transcontinental Media Layout: image4 ST. JOHN’S BOARD OF TRADE EXECUTIVE Des Whelan Dorothy Keating Andrea Stack Janis Byrne Kim Keating Kendra MacDonald

Chair Senior Vice-Chair First Vice-Chair Second Vice-Chair Immediate Past Chair Treasurer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Andrew Wadden Jon Drover Lesley Galgay Wilfred J. Zerbe

In this issue . . .

Cover Story..........................................................................................................................................................2 Chair’s Message................................................................................................................................................3 Member Spotlight - Your Space Our Design......................................................................................5 Upcoming Events......................................................................................................................................6 - 9 Point of View................................................................................................................................................... 10 Working For You.............................................................................................................................................12 Bullet Proof Your Business....................................................................................................................... 16 Grow Your Business.....................................................................................................................................18 Member Benefits...........................................................................................................................................24 Ambassadors................................................................................................................................................... 26 On The Job........................................................................................................................................................30 Around the Board................................................................................................................................32 - 34 Member News.......................................................................................................................................36 - 37 New Members.................................................................................................................................................38 Member Profiles............................................................................................................................................. 39 The Economy...................................................................................................................................................40 Feature Editorials Expect Big Things. Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours.........................................................................................13 A Cleaner, Greener Alternative to a Septic System..................................................................................15 Built to Last..................................................................................................................................................... 19 HNL Highlights Tourism Potential...............................................................................................................20 The Season for Snowbirds............................................................................................................................22 Five Things Property and Business Owners Need To Know About Property Tax ................................23 Why Hire a Professional Project Manager.................................................................................................29

Kim Paddon Don-E Coady Marilyn Butland Justin Ladha

STAFF Nancy Healey

Chief Executive Officer

Margie Davis

Account Executive

Wander Palmer Account Executive Rhonda Tulk-Lane Policy & Advocacy Specialist Lori Tobin

Business Affairs Manager

Jackie Bryant-Cumby Member Relations Administrator Brendan Hagerty Labrador & Labour Market Specialist Renee Tizzard-Kearley Manager, Finance & Compliance

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 www.bot.nf.ca

1-877-440-4433

building the future one project at a time Today’s choices have long-term impact

RONA Inc. is a major Canadian retailer and distributor of hardware, building materials and home renovation products. RONA operates a network of corporate and affiliate stores under several different banners and in a number of complementary formats.

Climate change is a major environmental issue. As an environmentally responsible business, RONA strives to limit the energy consumed by distribution and operating activities in its network of corporate stores.

RONA’s key focus is customer experience in its retail stores and its distribution network.

Since the 1990s, RONA has been a leader in sustainable development when it made a commitment to minimize its environmental footprint, in particular by implementing one of the Canadian industry’s first paint recovery programs. This initiative was followed by the adoption of life cycle assessments, a responsible sourcing policy and in-store promotions of environmentally friendly products, just to name a few concrete measures taken to ensure sustainability, and reaffirm a commitment to the environment.

With the collaboration of its corporate, franchise and affiliate retail stores, RONA recovers materials such as cardboard, paper, plastic, wood, glass, metal, gypsum, compost and concrete and ensures proper management of its hazardous waste.

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RONA operates seven corporate stores, one truss manufacturing plant, and an affiliate store in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Other measures implemented in stores include reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For example: • Optimized lighting in stores and distribution centres • Stores have reduced levels of heating in the winter and air conditioning in the summer • Employees are encouraged to adopt more environmentally responsible behaviour • Transportation and delivery routes are designed to limit fuel consumption

In this highly competitive market, RONA was recently recognized by its customers for its services to the region’s contractors. RONA was selected as winner of the Best Supplier Award when the Newfoundland and Labrador residential construction industry gathered to celebrate the best in the industry during the 2015 Building Excellence & Residential Growth (BERG) Awards.

With the support of over 17,000 employees and its business partners, RONA is able to fulfill its mission to provide Canadians with the best products and advice to build and renovate their homes in total confidence. RONA takes concrete measures to reduce the environmental footprint of our products and activities, while simplifying choices for our customers.

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

Chair’s Message Getting the Diagnosis right There has been a lot of talk lately about the size of the public sector at the provincial level and staff salaries at the City of St. John’s.

core public services required to operate our province.

Currently, there are over 46,000 employees in the entire public service. This includes core government departments plus outside boards and agencies such as health authorities and school boards. It is time to look at public structures and how many people they serve in an effort to combine these structures to achieve an optimal delivery per capita.

Let’s be clear, of the 72% of our membership that are small businesses, very few of the owners make these sorts of salaries or carry a bloated workforce to get the job done. While our public sector is excessively large and there is a lot that could be trimmed, the real problem is the effectiveness and productivity of the employees. Let’s strive for the optimal number of people producing the best results.

In addition to all of this, as of March 2015, 37.3% of employees are 50 years of age and older. There are 30.7% under the age of 40. By 2019 just over 9,000 of these employees will be eligible for retirement.

That’s 19 percent of our public sector.

Based on these numbers and the new reality, the government of Newfoundland

The Fraser Institute reported that between 2007- 2011 Newfoundland and Labrador had the highest average provincial and local government employment as a percentage of total

As of March 2015, 37.3% of employees are 50 years of age and older. There are 30.7% under the age of 40. By 2019 just over 9,000 of these employees will be eligible for retirement. and Labrador must execute a Workforce development plan to ensure we have individuals to replace retiring workers in core areas. As well, government must ensure that departments are using the latest technologies and innovation to deliver quality services to taxpayers.

employment of any jurisdiction in North America, at 26% (Karabegović, Gabler, & Veldhuis, 2012).1 While it should be recognized that public services are more spread out and difficult to deliver, the public sector should be right-sized to deliver on the

Province

CHAIR

DES WHELAN I’ve been impressed with leadership in this field from Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine, which has for a long time excelled in distance medicine.

The eHealth Research Unit (eHRU) works with physicians to apply new and emerging technology to health care in Newfoundland and Labrador.

In a Nain, Labrador clinic with no on-site doctor, a dedicated nurse gives a checkup with help from an unconventional hightech assistant, Rosie the Robot. This sort of innovative thinking needs to penetrate

Table 1: spending on Public Sector Employment in excess of the national Average Additional Employees Total Additional Additional Spending on Employees Above the National Employees in the Public Sector Wage Bill per 1,000 Residents Average per 1,000 Government Sector (in Millions) Residents

Newfoundland and Labrador

109

25

13,253

$880

Prince Edward Island

95

11

1,686

$112

Nova Soctia

99

15

14,127

$826

New Brunswick

85

1

834

$58

Total

29,900

$1,886

Source: http://www.aims.ca/site/media/aims/AIMS2014-The%20Size%20and%20Cost%20of%20Atlantic%20Canada’s%20Public%20Sector%20Study%20%28Final%29.pdf.

Year: September 2014.

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NLEC Report

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continued on page 4...

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... continued from page 3 — Chair’s Message

Business will need to make plans for how they see themselves in the next 5-20 years. throughout this province. And the tone comes from the top Productivity is a concern for both the public and private sector. The Conference Board of Canada says our performance is falling. For almost 30 years, Canada has been losing its competitive edge, lagging behind the United States and most OECD countries. Last September we slipped another notch to rank 15th on the World

Economic Forum’s annual list of most competitive countries, down from 9th place in 2009.

This is an important issue for businesses located in Newfoundland and Labrador as they attempt to advance the productivity and competitiveness of the region.

Businesses are experiencing rising costs, increasing competition from

Helping you build a better business.

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We’re committed to helping you find new ways to add value to your business everyday. That’s our policy.

businesses outside the region, lack of availability of skilled labor, and gaps in innovation.

As part of the St. John’s Board of Trade’s resilience initiative, a key pillar of our Strategic Plan, we have identified the need for businesses to be proactive. The past five years have been the best ever for small and medium sized businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador, but the winds of economic fortune are changing and businesses need to shift and be nimble to chase the next opportunities.

Complacency is the biggest concern.

Our research indicates that most small businesses do not have a wellarticulated plan for their future. Too many businesses are too busy every day working in their business instead of on their business.

Business will need to make plans for how they see themselves in the next 5-20 years. They will have to invest in business development activities, export markets, research and development, innovation, productivity improvements, sourcing the right talent. But first they will need to do an assessment of their current business practices.

The St. John’s Board of Trade is developing a resilience initiative entitled Bulletproofing your Business. We are challenging our members to ensure they are resilient.

The Board will be holding a series of luncheons, seminars and lunch and learns on various topics under the Bulletproofing your Business theme including, marketing, human resources, innovation, exporting, visioning and succession planning. Our bimonthly magazine will feature a Bulletproofing your Business article each issue, providing advice from local experts on one of these themes. We will also share, via social media, links to articles on Bulletproofing your Business.

Whether you are in the public or private sectors we need courageous leadership to do what is right, not what is easy.

Getting the best coverage for the best price?

Call Cal to find out. 722-3282 callegrow.com

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We have tremendous challenges ahead of us.

“Your desire to change must be greater than your desire to stay the same,” anonymous.

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT YOUR SPACE OUR DESIGN

gathering client information and desires I then need to translate that into livable, functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. There’s always a fine balance to ensure the client loves the design as well.

I have worked on over 150 projects, ranging in size and scope, since starting the business in 2005. For example, I transformed an average Calgary-based condo into a spectacular home in only one week, turned a tired 1980’s kitchen into a glamorous masterpiece, and completely reconfigured several spaces and modernized a dated 1980’s home.

In many ways the profession of interior decoration and design chose me. With no experience other than a childhood love of design, I landed my first job as a visual merchandiser at the Bombay Company in Toronto at the age of 19. With on-the-job training, I quickly learned about many aspects of the design world. Most of all, I learned how to effectively deal with people.

consultations and basic room layouts and now specialize in new home construction and renovations. As a business owner I have learned that the design aspect of the business makes up about 50% of the workload; I am my own accountant, secretary and client relations rep. I build rapport with other businesses and we mutually feed off each other.

After moving back to Newfoundland to pursue an Arts degree, I began working at the local Bombay Company and found that regular customers would come back looking for advice on décor and color palettes and sometimes just to chat.

Following convocation in 2004, and still working for the store, a colleague planted a seed that I will forever be grateful for: “Why don’t you start your own decorating business?”

Specializing in transitional design (the marriage of traditional and contemporary) my style translates to a broad range of clients and has a timeless factor. I love the challenge of taking something on paper and turning it into a spectacular home or taking something that seems beyond repair and transforming it into a stunning residence.

A big misconception in the industry is that the interior can’t be both beautiful and functional. Quite the opposite is true.

Now in my eleventh year, the business continues to grow through hard work and determination. I began doing paint color

Kitchen and bathroom designs are my favorite spaces because they are the most challenging and rewarding. After

“It is my goal as a designer to accommodate and transform the clients’ space into a place where they want to spend time!”

VOLUME 31: #2

I’ve enjoyed many successes along the way. I write a column for Home and Cabin magazine and am proud of my featured projects, including a recent cover design challenge with three other local designers. My work has also been featured twice in East Coast Living magazine, and I was pleased to have a design tip segment on the television show, Open House NL. Most recently, Your Space Our Design won the Best of Houzz 2016 award for service from the popular international website, an honour awarded to only 3% of professionals.

What’s in a name? The idea for the name - Your Space Our Design - stems from collaboration. Almost everything in design is a collaborative effort, whether with the client, a cabinet designer, flooring associate, lighting rep. or furniture salesperson. This is how I keep learning and evolving.

“It is my goal as a designer to accommodate and transform the clients’ space into a place where they want to spend time!”

This shines through when I get a glowing review, card, bottle of wine or even a hug from a client. It’s the transformation and the newfound functionality and beauty of the space that keeps business alive.

For more information, contact: Charli Junker style@yourspaceourdesign.com 709-680-0379

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upcoming events St. John’s Board of Trade 101

Canada - Newfoundland and Labrador Job Grant: Up to $10,000 to Train New and Existing Employees

Make the most out of your membership.

Learn about our Affinity programs, networking opportunities, our advocacy work, sponsorships, volunteer opportunities and so much more.

The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Job Grant provides employers throughout the province with support to train and up-skill existing and new employees. Through this partnership employers are supported in connecting the right people with the right skills for their operational needs.

Date: Friday, April 1

and Friday, May 6 Time: 9 – 10 a.m.

Location: Board of Trade Office

34 Harvey Rd., 3rd Floor

Date: Tuesday, April 12 Time: 9 – 10 a.m.

Cost: Included as a benefit of your membership Location: Board of Trade Office

34 Harvey Rd., 3rd Floor

Employers can avail of up to $10,000 in government support per trainee.

In addition, employers decide which individuals to train as well as the type of training required. An employer contribution is required.

Learn more at this informative session.

Speed Networking - It’s back!

This popular, exciting, high impact and structured networking event is one that produces bullet proof results for you and your business.

Guests are encouraged to bring business cards (make sure you bring a lot), any promotional material you would like to pass out and of course any other creative ideas you can come up with to accelerate your network in the business community. Please note

seats are limited and only 1 representative per company.

Date: Thursday, April 14 Time: Registration, Refreshments and Bagels (8 a.m.)

Program and networking (8:3011 a.m.)

Cost: $35+HST member rate

$45+HST non members Location: Clovelly Golf

100 Golf Course Road

40 COMMONWEALTH AVE. MOUNT PEARL No long term commitment necessary

709 747.3850

brenda@image4.ca

1170 TOPSAIL ROAD Mount Pearl, NL A1N 5E8

 Offices from 115 to 450 Sq. Ft.  24/7 Access  Wireless Internet  Office Cleaning  Parking  Utilities (Heat & Light)  Snow Clearing 709 364-FLEX (3539)

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www.thebusinesssuites.ca

www.image4.ca BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

We encourage all members to register online.

Visit our website to register for any of the events listed.

LUNCHEON

Business Mixer

Join the Royal St. John’s Regatta and Atlantic Lottery for a networking and fun filled theme event you do not want to miss. Check our website for upcoming details.

“Shine a light; the evolution of Team Broken Earth”

Out of the earthquake that devastated Port-au-Prince, Haiti, came a movement that has grown from a local idea in St. John’s to a Canada-wide medical relief initiative. And with each new mission, the team grows in members, scope and reach. From education to infrastructure to new horizons, this light is just beginning to shine. Join Dr. Andrew Fury for the story of Team Broken Earth.

Date: Thursday, April 21 Time: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Cost: Included as a benefit of your membership Location: Boathouse Museum

Opportunities North 2016

Date: Wednesday, April 20 Time: 12:30 p.m. – networking

1 p.m. - Luncheon Cost: $45+HST – member

$90+HST – non member Location: Glendenning Golf Course

Historically, businesses in St. John’s have not “looked north”, nor taken advantage of the trade and business opportunities that exist in Labrador and the Arctic.

Because of the amount of interest paid to Labrador, northern Quebec and Nunavut by international companies, the need for businesses in St. John’s to become involved in northern opportunities is urgent and important. Join us to learn more about economic development and practical solutions for succeeding in the north.

Date: Friday, April 29 Time: 8 a.m. – registration/ continental breakfast

8:30 a.m. – morning session

12:30 p.m. – networking

1 p.m. - luncheon Cost: Full Pass (Member) $150+HST Full Pass (Non Member) $199+HST Luncheon Pass (Member) $45+HST; Luncheon Pass (Non Member) $90+HST Location: Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland

Visit our website for complete agenda.

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upcoming events LUNCHEON

“Newfoundland and Labrador: Belonging to the world” Zita Cobb, CEO of Shorefast Foundation and head innkeeper at Fogo Island Inn, will discuss the opportunities and challenges facing our province, focusing particularly on culture and geotourism.

Date: Tuesday, May 3 Time: 12:30 p.m. – networking

1 p.m. - Luncheon Cost: $45+HST – member

$90+HST – non member Location: Delta Hotel St. John’s

Innovation Week I2 Experiences Let’s innovate together! Join us for an experiential and entertaining event. More details to come soon.

Date: Tuesday, May 10 Time: 4:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Cost: Benefit of membership Location: Deloitte Office, 5 Springdale Street, Fortis Place, Suite 1000

SAVE THE DATE The Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships and the St. John’s Board of Trade are proud to present:

P3s: Building Rock-Solid Partnerships With a need for critical public infrastructure and limited government revenues, this event will examine how public-private partnerships can be leveraged to build high quality infrastructure on-time and on budget.

How is value for money assessed?

What are the opportunities for smaller companies? Save May 18th in your calendars and be sure to join us for this timely event. Check our website for more details to come.

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BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

We encourage all members to register online.

Visit our website to register for any of the events listed.

Business Mixer

Avalon Employment Inc. and Ready, Willing and Able invite you to cast your line into the pond this May Two-Four Weekend and see what opportunities you may pull out. Join them for fun, networking and to learn more about inclusive employment.

Date: Thursday, May 19 Time: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Cost: Included as a benefit of your membership Location: Rocket Bakery, The Rocket Room

LUNCHEON

“Bullet Proofing Your Business”

Local business leaders will share lessons they have learned from their years in business here in the province and beyond, and how you apply that knowledge to your business or career now and into the future. Through this unique event, you will have lunch with successful St. John’s business leaders and have the opportunity to ask them about their business experiences and how you can bullet proof your business in 2016.

Date: Wednesday, May 25 Time: Networking – Noon; Luncheon – 12:30 p.m.

Cost: $60+HST members only Location: Holiday Inn St. John’s

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Photo credit: Luther Caverly

Photo credit: Paddy Barry

point of view

What brings you here? “…In this sea-girt isle, Americans will find…a bracing exhilarating air that imparts new vigour to the frame and sends back the smoke-dried denizens of the great cities with the tide of health coursing through their veins, and life made incomparably better worth living…Newfoundland is destined to take a high place, when the accommodation and comforts which travellers require are provided - as unquestionably they will be - at the most desirable places, throughout the island.”

—A Handbook and Tourists Guide by the Rev. M. Harvey, 1894

BY ZITA COBB — Not too much has changed since the Rev. Harvey wrote these words one hundred and twentytwo years ago: Newfoundland and Labrador has yet to take its “high place” in the tourism industry. To allow our tourism industry to reach its full potential, we must build a robust and viable air access system, continue to create the “accommodation and comforts which travellers require,” and further develop key tourism markets.

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Travellers are inspired by wilderness, and we have one of the few unspoiled wildernesses of the world. Travellers are drawn to the sea: a constant reminder of the duality between human possibility and human limits. We have not just any sea, but the wonderfully savage North Atlantic pounding our shores. Our culture is unique – founded in over four centuries of survival by Europeans and much longer by our indigenous peoples. While

ZITA COBB

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

our Canadian cities are key markets for Newfoundland and Labrador tourism, we also have millions of urban people in the northeastern USA on our doorstep.

Tourism is a growing industry and one that has great potential to create a positive impact in the lives of people, especially in small places around our province. We are particularly well placed to be a world leader in geotourism, a burgeoning sector that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place—its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. We have all the basic ingredients needed to make Newfoundland and Labrador an international star: nature, culture, exceptional hospitality, and a ready market. Now is an opportune time, when our province faces an unprecedented fiscal challenge, to focus our imagination, creativity, and resources on quadrupling our revenues from tourism over the next few years.

If we haven’t been able to take our rightful place in the tourism industry since 1894, what can we do differently to take our rightful place now?

As a start, we must build air access to our province and within our province.

Travellers from the northeastern USA cannot get to us without stopping in another province first – in many cases, they must sleep in another province along the way. Modern travellers take frequent, shorter trips, and ease of air access is critical to their travel decision making.

We need to fix this problem of inadequate air access with great urgency.

Iceland might be worth studying as an example. Iceland is more than 2000 kilometers further from New York

City than we are. Yet Iceland’s tourism industry has been growing over 20% per year over the last 5 years while ours has essentially remained flat. In 2014, nearly one million people visited Iceland (often flying right over us on Icelandair from Toronto or New York City) while our tourist numbers were fractional in comparison. Iceland is not only eating our lunch – it is eating our breakfast and our supper.

We must also continue to develop our world-class tourism products, and endeavor to get the word out in the right markets about these exceptional “accommodations and comforts.” For example, we have relatively good air access to St. John’s from London, UK. We need to invest more in the UK market to grow that segment of our business.

And once we have a viable air link to the northeastern USA, we must get our message out in that market as well.

We need to put our collective heads and resources together to address these issues – these opportunities. We must make plans, big and small. We need immediate short term actions, with long term intent. All sectors- private, public and plural – have a role to play and actions to take.

We must create a brilliant air network, invest in spreading the word about our incredible province to key markets, and continue to build our tourism industry by supporting new and innovative businesses that will draw in a diverse set of visitors. The result? A geotourism industry that will make a meaningful difference to our communities and to growing a more diversified provincial economy.

As Andy Warhol said, “They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.”

• Negotiations • Partnerships • Education & Training • Labour Stability The CLRA is the sole bargaining agent for all unionized employers engaged in the commercial and industrial sector in the construction industry of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Let’s get busy building a path to get here.

Let’s change things ourselves.

Point of View is a new feature where business people express their opinion on issues affecting the business community.

Zita Cobb will be a guest speaker at the Board of Trade luncheon on May 3 VOLUME 31: #2

Construction Labour Relations Association of Newfoundland and Labrador Inc.

t: 709-753-5770 f: 709-753-5771

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working for you Advocacy The Board advocates for business-friendly legislation at the local, provincial and federal levels of government.

We monitor public policy issues so you can focus on your business, not government regulation.

FEDERAL In his first week on the job, Chair Des Whelan and CEO Nancy Healey had the opportunity to visit our nation’s capital to advocate on your behalf.

attendance in February. The Minister challenged business owners not to stand on the sidelines but rather become part of the solution by investing in their companies.

Meetings were held with the Hon. Judy Foote, Minister of Public Service and Procurement and officials from the Department of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour.

The St. John’s Board of Trade’s Provincial Pre-Budget Submission can be found at stjohnsbot.ca.

Chair Des Whelan speaking to local media.

Topics included 1. Strategic infrastructure investments 2. Partnerships with the private sector 3. Immigration as an economic driver Also in January, Chair Des Whelan attended a federal pre-budget round table hosted by MP Nick Whalen. This was followed up with an in person meeting with MP Whalen to discuss strategic infrastructure and the importance of immigration to our Province.

The St. John’s Board of Trade’s Federal Pre-Budget Submission can be found at stjohnsbot.ca.

PROVINCIAL In February our Chair represented our members at one of many provincial prebudget roundtable sessions. He delivered the following messages on your behalf: • Reduce unnecessary spending; • deliver on partnerships with the private sector.

A meeting was also held with executive members of the Board (Dorothy Keating, Andrea Stack and Kendra Macdonald) and Finance Minister Cathy Bennett to discuss the province’s fiscal situation and possible solutions. The focus of the meeting was to stress the need for a competitive tax regime and our province’s demographic situation.

Minister Bennett addressed the Board of Trade with a crowd of over 300 in

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Minister Christopher Mitchelmore and Chair Des Whelan at Chairs inauguration.

MUNICIPAL “This year’s City budget is bad for citizens.

This year’s budget is bad for business. This year’s budget is bad for the City,” stated Chair Des Whelan.

The Board has called on City Hall for immediate tax relief, removal of the new vacancy tax and to curtail spending.

This budget comes with huge consequences - there will be job losses, there will be increases in the cost of food and other items, there will be businesses forced to close their doors.

For more information on how you can bullet proof your business, contact the St. John’s Board of Trade: Tel: 709.726.2961 E-mail: mail@bot.nf.ca Web: www.bot.nf.ca

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

Expect BIG things in the ever-changing world of experiential tourism. In today’s economy, when a dollar is less easily given up, it’s important to keep innovation and adaptability top of mind. How does award winning Iceberg Quest continue to offer a spectacular product that will keep the traveller coming back?

Business or Pleasure?

A bigger airport, a bigger convention centre, a bigger boat. Introducing the Capo de Espera - a brand new, state of the art vessel with capacity for 100 guests and the ability to operate year round. St. John’s is a bucket list destination with high visitor growth. It’s important that tour operators address this growth not only on an infrastructure level, but on an experiential level. Imagine if mid-board meeting you glance starboard just in time to see a mighty humpback thrust itself out of the water in full breach! Operating as a marine adventure and a mobile

Captain Barry Rogers President

venue catering to meetings, events and conventions, the Capo begs the answer to the age-old question - business or pleasure? Why not both!

Perception Is Reality.

We’ve all seen the ads. The clothesline blowing in the wind, the colourful rows of houses, and the pristine coastlines: Newfoundland Tourism has done a bang up job of promoting our island. It’s time to work together as a team to bring our award winning commercials to life. The Iceberg Quest crew is fortunate to have our office housed in the Sheraton Hotel where we to can gaze out our window and straight out The Narrows. Newfoundland’s beauty is literally at our fingertips, and we welcome every opportunity to show it off – not a bad gig if you ask us!

Happy 15th Birthday!

As Iceberg Quest celebrates its 15th year in business, we take time to reflect on our

Carol Anne Hayes VP Sales & Marketing

humble beginnings. Operating solely out of outport Twillingate, we had one vessel with a capacity of 23, often slipping our painter for one or two guests at a time.

From there we’ve grown to two locations: St. John’s, Pier 6 and Twillingate Pier 52, a fleet of five vessels and now the ability to operate year-round. Tour operators, both big and small, have the ability to impact our tourism industry in a major way. Let’s keep refining and tweaking our tourism products and have the world expecting BIG things from our little island.

Step Aboard...

Skipper Rogers and Jolly Shipmate Carol Anne want to invite all BOT members to step aboard and help us celebrate 15 years on the water. Book a tour with Iceberg Quest and mention #IQShindig to receive a 15% discount and an Iceberg Beer. We’re looking forward to having you aboard!

Janelle Hickey Marketing Coordinator Executive Assistant

Box 13995 STN A • Sheraton Hotel • St. John’s A1B 4G8 • 722.1888 • Book@IcebergQuest.com • IcebergQuest.com

VOLUME 31: #2

Book online

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180 Players 18 Holes 1 Day you do not want to miss!

Annual Golf Tournament July 14, 2016 Bally Haly Golf and Country Club

Contact Lori at ltobin@bot.nf.ca today about registration, sponsorship opportunities, prizes or for more information

a cleaner, greener alternative to a septic system the absorption field was a challenge previously. Biofilters can also be retrofitted too and may be the solution if you are experiencing a clogged absorption field or untreated effluent contaminating your garden.

Newfoundland and Labrador is characterised by many isolated properties which don’t have access to municipal services. Up until recently, septic tanks have always been the standard means of handling wastewater from sinks, baths and toilets but Service NL have recently approved an alternate sewage system. So how is it different?

Unlike conventional septic systems, the Clarity Biofilter does not require a large absorption field, meaning the environmental footprint of this system can be reduced by up to 75% (depending on soil conditions). The result: less impact on the natural surroundings, reduced clearcutting, and reduced excavation costs.

The smaller footprint also gives more space for garages, outbuildings and driveways and can be a more flexible system for tricky sized lots which are too small for traditional septic system designs.

Wastewater from the house flows into the biofilter where all the solids settle on the bottom and organic matter begins breaking down. The remaining diluted organic material is then processed over the media where naturally occurring bacteria break it down further.

A UV disinfection system disinfects the wastewater as it leaves the biofilter. At this point the wastewater has been cleaned to a standard that exceeds those required by Service NL. The wastewater then flows into a diffuser which disperses it into the soil.

The good news for lot owners who have had their septic design declined and have been prevented from building their home or cabin, is that this new biofilter system may be the ideal alternative solution. It would be worth talking to your septic designer again and resubmitting your plans, especially if space for

For any septic or wastewater system, it is a legal requirement to submit a septic design created by an approved septic designer to Service NL for approval. The Clarity Biofilter has been approved as an “alternate sewage system” as defined under the province of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Sanitation Regulations so talk to your septic designer about installing a Clarity Biofilter, the cleaner, greener alternative to a septic system or call Jeremy Cummings at 709-221-5100 or visit www.clarityaquatech.ca.

The biofilter itself is designed to be more environmentally friendly, having undergone six years of rigorous testing for Newfoundland and Labrador’s unique conditions. In most cases, wastewater from the Clarity Biofilter exceeded required standards even before the wastewater had reached the absorption field, which simply acts as a diffuser to attenuate the treated effluent into the subsurface soil. The effluent is already sufficiently clean to eliminate soil contamination and undesirable odours.

So how does the Clarity biofilter clean the effluent to such a high standard without the use of a leach field? The key is using naturally efficient filtering processes.

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bullet proof your business The Path Forward You need to ask yourself: can we simplify things? Can we do things smarter? Can we be more efficient? And can we do all these things without compromising the value proposition that we offer to our clients?

ENGAGE your team.

MAP it out.

TALK it out.

DALLAS MERCER

And do it with a sense of URGENCY.

When faced with tough economic times like we’re seeing today, business owners have two options – they can either keep moving down the same path and hope it passes quickly, or they can make a change. As a business owner who has been working with clients across Canada for over fourteen years, I can tell you that the first option isn’t advisable for the success of your company.

When I first incorporated Dallas Mercer Consulting (DMC) in 2002, the economy wasn’t great. So I’ve been here before and I know not to panic. I’ve seen many ups and downs over the years, and I can tell you that the best thing you can do to weather the storm is to step back from your business and re-evaluate your practices inside and out.

Innu (709) 364-3900 solutions@dmconsulting.ca www.dmconsulting.ca

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Look inside your own company and make what we call ‘mini Uber-like moves’. These are small, disruptive changes that tweak your business model on a smaller scale. It’s an evolution not a revolution, but it sends a clear message to your team to break away from business as usual. This is a strategy we’ve taken quite seriously at DMC. We’ve found ways to expand beyond our original service offering to fill gaps in the industry and it’s helped us to build stronger relationships with our clients. That’s how we’ve grown from solely offering disability management, to now providing industrial hygiene services, safety consulting, safety training, and ergonomic assessments.

Simultaneously, we’ve been investing in ourselves, our value proposition, and our future.

The second piece of advice is to ‘get out there’. Everyone in your organization should be thinking as sales people. While you are out there, do your own informal research. You can do it without spending a penny by just talking to people. Speak to leaders of other businesses, speak to mentors, speak to your customers, be relentless at asking questions – focus the conversation away from the negativity of the day and toward finding opportunities for your business to grow.

Among these opportunities may be partnerships. Through powerful partnerships, such as the ones we’ve built with Innu DMC in Labrador, and with Ingenium Training & Consulting based in Ireland, we’ve been able to push the local and global presence of our brand. You need to think beyond your own borders, wherever they may be. We live in NL, but we can do business anywhere.

Finally, spread your risk. By not depending solely on the success of just one industry, you can build a solid foundation of clients. This is one of our core principles at DMC, and has been since the beginning.

This type of thinking has led DMC to the business it is today – a solid team of the best disability managers, industrial hygiene specialists, and safety service providers in all of Canada. But that’s not what will set us apart in the future. It is our goal to be recognized for providing vital support for our clients, pushing our vision beyond the borders of our business, and disrupting the industry. And while some business owners would see this as the perfect time to throw in the towel and walk away, we see this as just another opportunity to challenge the status quo.

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

Still deciding on a place to vacation this year?

Why not join 40 members of The St. John’s Board of Trade as they Explore the Imperial Cities – featuring Prague, Vienna & Budapest – this Fall. Bring your spouse, your friend or travel solo with us and enjoy 11 glorious days with 14 meals included for $4,182 based on double occupancy.

Imperial Cities October 24 to November 3, 2016 For more information, contact Wanda, wpalmer@bot.nf.ca or call 726-2961, ext. 9 VOLUME 31: #2

For more information contact:

Joanne Cross LeGrow’s Travel Terrace in the Square (709) 758-6788 jcross@legrowstravel.ca

I 17

grow your business Networking: A love hate relationship Who will I talk to? Where will I stand? Do I eat? Do I drink? Do I even go?

The daunting task of putting on a suit, fixing your smile and walking into what feels like the most stressful situation ever is not easy. Networking is commonly referred to as talking with the crowd, getting to know people with similar interests and goals. Nothing to it, right?

Not the case!

Networking is stressful, hard, but necessary.

Many of us are naturals at chatting, smiling and creating conversation. We can balance a bacon wrapped scallop and a glass of wine while shaking someone’s hand, all while making it look effortless.

In reality the majority of us probably avoid the scallop and wine and even the conversation.

Networking has increasingly become essential in the business world. Attending events is promoted and encouraged because you never know where you will meet your next customer. According to Lou Alder, author of, “The Essential Guide for Hiring & Getting Hired”, you are more than likely going to find your next superstar employee at a networking event as 85% of jobs are filled via networking. Networking events also create the opportunity to unwind, relax and get

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together with old friends, new friends and future friends.

Michael Bellemore of PwC Australia lists 5 essential Tips and Tricks: 1. Hold your drink in your left hand. No one likes shaking a wet right hand.

2. When shaking someone’s hand, keep it firm without attempting to break their hand.

3. If there are nametags for the event, put it on the right side of your chest. When you shake hands with someone to meet them, your name will naturally present itself to them.

4. If there’s free food and drinks, exercise some self-restraint. The more food you’re eating, the less you have time to engage in conversation (and the more chance you have of looking like a slob). If you’re hungry on the way to the event, grab a snack beforehand. The same goes for drinks. By all means, have a drink or two, but don’t overdo it.

5. Probably the most important: every event meet 3 people.

Brendan Hagerty is Labrador and Labour Market Specialist with the St. John’s Board of Trade. Got a labour market question or a particular topic you want covered? Contact Brendan at bhagerty@bot.nf.ca

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

built to last Competitiveness and the NL Construction Industry Much has been written about the crisis our province is facing. The downturn of oil prices has had a dramatic impact on our economy, with many predicting ‘the worst is yet to come.’ Few industries in the province have reaped more reward from the rise of the energy sector in Newfoundland and Labrador than construction. As billions upon billions were invested into our tiny province, we leapt to meet the demands for skilled labour in order to capitalize on a truly generational opportunity.

Times were good. The construction industry proclaimed that their greatest challenge was finding skilled employees to complete all of the work that was on deck. Our chests swelled with pride as we heard stories of Albertans rotating to Newfoundland and Labrador to work on our projects.

As we all know, the boom turned into a whimper and many were left wondering what had happened. Billions of capital projects had been completed, but so much of it left our province to enter the accounts of national and international firms who reaped the bulk of the rewards. These firms didn’t merely content themselves with work on the megaprojects which dotted our pine clad hills. No, instead they began to compete for the infrastructure projects which previously were dominated by wellknown, established, NL companies. Most frightening was that they were not only competing for this work, but they were winning. A lot.

Bound by numerous trade agreements, our government stood by, unable to do

anything but award tender after tender to firms that were not based in NL. As the boom became a distant echo, local construction firms began to feel the pinch.

Some lamented the impossibility of local firms being successful on bids for huge projects. Some tenders seemed written with large national firms in mind. Our first reaction was normal and human: we complained! We shouted to the heavens about the injustice of things and how unfair it was that these companies from elsewhere were winning all ‘our’ work.

Now comes the hard part. In a place where we take great comfort in the familiar,

In a place where we take great comfort in the familiar, where tradition is celebrated as a core element of our culture, we sometimes struggle with change. where tradition is celebrated as a core element of our culture, we sometimes struggle with change. In business, change is most often a result of some cataclysm, forced upon a market by external forces beyond the control of governments, corporations, and citizens alike. The NL construction industry has endured a number of well-documented boom/ bust cycles. Anyone who withstood the downturn in the 90s after the collapse of the cod fishery can attest to just how bad things can get. But during these times of struggle we have no choice but to look deep inside and take stock. Are we as good as we think we are? Are we truly losing these competitions because of external forces? Or have we fallen victim to complacency brought on by the

boom, where the biggest challenge was not survival, but rather how to juggle the mountains of work which we had at our fingertips?

Change is never easy. Some companies embrace it like sailors on deck during a storm. Others huddle in the corner, miserable and wet, anxiously waiting for the storm to clear. Our industry is sailing into a storm. Our choices are limited.

The comfort of the status quo, doing things the way we have always done them, will only guarantee our failure as an industry. Forcing ourselves to take an honest inventory of how our competitors are better than we are is the first step in forging a modern, resilient industry that can weather any storm. Making the search for a better way to do business something we do in good times as well as bad times is key. Sharing knowledge, debating ideas, and pursuing a higher level of productivity is the only path forward. I refuse to sit by and do nothing. I know other industry professionals feel the same way. We can do anything if we work together.

Terry Hussey is the Chief Executive Officer of Vigilant Management, an Owner’s Project Management firm based in Paradise, NL. Phone: 709-782-5950 Email: terry@vigilantmanagement.ca Web: www.vigilantmanagement.ca

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HNL highlights tourism potential Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador’s 2016 Annual Conference and Trade Show was held from March 1-3 at the Delta St. John’s Hotel and Conference Centre and by all accounts, it was a resounding success which highlighted the tremendous potential of tourism to sustainably drive economic diversity across NL while preserving our unique culture and heritage!

Featuring a revamped trade show and internationally renowned speakers, presenters and panelists, the event offered delegates exclusive opportunities to learn, network, and engage with tourism leaders and stakeholders who can help them meet business needs for future growth and

development. Covering topics ranging from marketing to culinary tourism to operating within new fiscal realities, as well as an address from the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Minister of Small Business and Tourism, the program ensured delegates left with the tools, tips and knowledge to ensure the continued advancement and success of the provincial tourism industry.

The grand finale of the event, the Tourism Excellence Awards Gala, celebrated the achievements of the industry’s most innovative and talented individuals.

For more information on Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador, visit www.hnl.ca

L-R: Craig Foley, CEO, Hospitality NL; Hon. Bardish Chagger, P.C., M.P., Minister of Small Business and Tourism; Dion Finlay, Vice-Chair, Hospitality NL; and Kelly Finlay, Leaside Group

579-0909 20

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BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

Corporate

SPONSORSHIP

Distinguish your company with the most prestigious business organization in Newfoundland & Labrador.

GOLD CORPORATE SPONSOR (July 2016 - June 2018)

• Mid-level of Corporate Sponsorship • Receives high level exposure at signature events • Official Corporate Sponsors of Business Development Summit • Sponsorship opportunity of a hole at Annual Golf Tournament • Advertising and other complimentary deliverables • Two year secured commitment & exclusivity of industry at this level • Space is limited to 10 Gold Sponsors

• P rofile your brand and get noticed • Consider becoming either a

Deadline to submit the Expression of interest is June 30th, 2016

www.stjohnsbot.ca VOLUME 31: #2

SILVER CORPORATE SPONSOR (July 2016 - June 2017)

• Entry level of Sponsorship • Logo presence at all luncheons, mixers and lunch and Learns • Advertising and other complimentary deliverables • One year secured commitment & exclusivity of industry at this level • Space limited to 10 Silver Sponsors To secure your spot as an enviable St. John’s Board of Trade Sponsor or for more details on the benefits of each level contact:

Margie Davis mdavis@bot.nf.ca 709-726-2961, ext.2

Wanda Palmer wpalmer@bot.nf.ca 709-726-2961, ext.9

34 Harvey Road, 3rd Floor, P.O. Box 5127, St. John’s, Newfoundland A1C 5V5 Phone: (709) 726-2961 • Fax (709) 726-2003 • E-mail: mail@bot.nf.ca

I 21

the season for snowbirds For many, escaping the snow can mean several months in a sunny US state such as Florida or Arizona.

A citizen or resident of the US is taxed on worldwide income – all income from all sources – in much the same way a Canadian resident is taxed in Canada.

However, a nonresident may be taxed only on US source income. Individuals, who are not US citizens, are generally treated as nonresidents of the US unless they meet one of two residency tests.

Building beyond since 1953.

The ‘lawful permanent resident test’ or the ‘substantial presence test’.

In most cases for snowbirds the second test is the most important. Under the substantial presence test, you will be considered a US tax resident if: • You are a foreign citizen who is present in the US for at least 31 days during the current calendar year; and • The sum of the number of the days you are present in the US in the current year, plus one-third of the days you were present in the US in the prior year, plus one-sixth of the days you were present in the US in the year before that, is at least 183 days.

Meeting the substantial presence test results in being fully taxable in the US during the year and the requirement to file a US tax return. However, snowbirds may qualify for the ‘closer connection to a foreign country’ exception where they are present in the US less than 183 days in the current year and maintain a tax home and close ties with another country.

To claim this exception though, a closer connection form must be filed with the IRS on an annual basis.

These rules would apply in a similar way to travelers to the US for any reason, not just snowbirds.

In addition to the income tax considerations of travel to the US, snowbird’s may risk losing access to social benefits including employment insurance, old age security, health-care and child tax benefit programs.

Janice Connors is a Senior Manager at KPMG and leads the US tax practice in St. John’s, NL.

What began as a small, family-owned electrical company has grown into one of the largest multi-disciplinary construction companies in Canada. More than 60 years later, with operations from Newfoundland to Alberta, and partnerships with global industry leaders, our family values still run deep.

Janice can be reached at jconnors@kpmg.ca or 733-5007

Building beyond.

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BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

five things property and business owners need to know about property tax With property tax issues front and centre in recent weeks, here are five things the business community should be aware of.

Tax Increases We have all heard the concerns for businesses and homeowners regarding the recent property assessments. Tax increases for residential properties are estimated at 11.7 per cent and 21.2 per cent for commercial properties. With the current challenging economic climate, these substantive tax increases will significantly affect some ratepayers. We recommend having your assessment reviewed by a professional appraiser or real estate professional to ensure it is fair.

In most cases the assessments are fair; however, they can advise if you should appeal your assessment for 2017, as each year can be appealed.

Current Taxing System Misses the Mark Our current property tax system estimates the market value of a property once every three years. With a base date of January 1, 2014, the height of the real estate market was used to value properties. In 2016, businesses are adjusting to a challenging economic reality yet their properties were valued at the height of the market. In most other provinces, for example Nova Scotia, the assessments are completed every year, thus reducing the large property value/ tax increases. For this reason, we strongly recommend an annual reassessment be implemented in this province.

Vacancy Allowance The City of St. John’s is discussing the removal of the Property Tax Vacancy Allowance in 2018. It has been suggested that the city’s motive for this is to

encourage vacant buildings in the city to be sold, renovated or leased. Removing the program does not affect these properties, as owners who leave their buildings vacant are currently being fully taxed. Removing this program will adversely affect commercial property owners who are actively trying to lease their properties. We believe the removal of this program will have a negative impact on the amount of development in St. John’s.

Denying Your Right to Appeal The city has denied the appeals of many commercial taxpayers. The Assessment Act states the following, “...a person who refuses to permit an assessor or a commissioner to enter a real property or provide information under this Act shall not be entitled to appeal an assessment of real property under this Act.” A Property Questionnaire was sent to many property owners/management companies in early 2014 requesting rental and other information regarding the property. Many property owners failed to realize that this document was required to be completed and could be the basis for a denial of an appeal. The city has indicated that if this questionnaire is completed and returned to the city before the notices are mailed for 2017, an appeal could be filed, if necessary.

Commercial Tenants need to be informed As a commercial tenant, the tax burden is passed along to you as a percentage

MICHAEL KIRKLAND of space you occupy. As such, you must ensure the overall property assessment of the building is fair and ensure your landlord has had the assessed value professionally reviewed. You should not accept the tax bill being passed along to you unless you have asked your landlord if they have had it reviewed and/or appealed the building’s assessment.

Michael Kirkland BBA, AACI, P. App. is an accredited Real Estate Appraiser/ Advisor since 2001. He is a partner in Kirkland, Balsom and Associates, a part of the Atlantic Realty Advisors group. Mr. Kirkland can be contacted at info@kba.ca.

Real Estate Advisors & Appraisers

Helping you make better real estate decisions for over 35 years Jerry Kirkland AACI Bill Balsom AACI Mike Kirkland BBA, AACI John Bishop CRA Mike Warr BBA, AIC-Candidate Kim Flood Diane Butt

kba.ca

VOLUME 31: #2

709.738.1000

Members of

ATLANTIC REALTY ADVISORS

www.ara.ca

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Member Benefits Accredited nationally with distinction, the St. John’s Board of Trade is a non-partisan, business advocacy organization that is the principal voice of business for 900 members in the St. John’s area. Our mission is to improve the local business climate and enhance members’ ability to do business through advocacy and member service.

Check out some of the privileges, benefits and discounts available to you.

Esso Business & Fleet Card Program

Members of the St. John’s Board of Trade receive a $0.035 per litre fuel discount off the retail posted pump price purchased in Canada at ESSO-branded service stations.

First Call

For just pennies per employee per day, members can have access to full scale Human Resource services and expertise, including legal consultation.

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Chambers of Commerce Group RRSP Program Chamber of Commerce Group Insurance Plan

Through Board of Trade membership, you can access the Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan. Designed with small business in mind, this program offers insurance benefits at premiere rates normally secured by larger corporations. Small businesses can obtain extended health benefits, regular dental, life insurance, and accidental death and dismemberment coverage, all at highly competitive rates.

St. John’s Board of Trade membership provides access to the Chambers of Commerce Group RRSP program. There are no administrative or annual fees, no minimum number of employees required and no company minimum annual investment required. Employer contribution limits start as low as $50 a month. This nationally pooled program is tailor-made for small business, providing access to Group RRSPs that are normally reserved for larger corporations.

First Data Purolator

Helping you meet the challenges of day to day business. Offering a static, tiered discounting program starting at 25% off courier services that provides flexibility for the diverse needs of your membership while supporting acquisition and retention initiatives.

The St. John’s Board of Trade has partnered with First Data Canada, a leader in the payments industry, to help your business sell more and save more. All members are provided exclusive low rates on merchant services, low credit and debit card processing costs, e-commerce tools, mobile payment apps, and a user-friendly online reporting tool to support and grow your business.

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

Johnson Preferred

Canadian Chamber of Commerce members and their employees can take advantage of Johnson Inc.’s preferred service home and auto MEDOC® Travel Insurance Plans.

UPS

Take advantage of some of the most competitive rates available on shipping services with the UPS Members Benefit Program Small Package Services: • 30% off shipments within Canada • 30% off shipments to the US • 30% off shipments to worldwide destinations • 25% off imports into Canada Freight Services: savings start at 75% off on heavyweight • 20% off brokerage entry preparation fees • 10% off printing, packaging, mailbox rentals

VOLUME 31: #2

Promote your business to our members As a member of the St. John’s Board of Trade there are many ways to promote and showcase your business. These opportunities can help develop your personal and professional growth. Network with fellow Board of Trade members, share your expertise at a lunch n’ learn, advertise in our monthly publication, Business News magazine, or become a Board of Trade sponsor.

Here are some ways to promote your business: • Become a presenting partner at a luncheon • Submit a guest editorial in Business News magazine • Become a Board of Trade volunteer • Consider showcasing your business on the cover of Business News magazine or including an advertisement or insert • Take part in our business mixers, or host one yourself • And so much more!

Whether your budget is big or small, we have an opportunity for you to promote your business. To learn more about these exciting opportunities contact at 726-2961 or email mail@bot.nf.ca.

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Ambassadors Friendly competition ignites between sister hotels As the Marriott family in St. John’s grows, a little friendly rivalry between their uptown and downtown hotels, including their sales managers was in order!

The Delta in the downtown core of the city recently came under the Marriott banner. Uptown, on Kenmount, is the Fairfield Inn & Suites. Both are beautiful establishments offering the best in comfort, service and hospitality, and accommodate business meetings or events in any part of the city or surrounding areas. Clients can use and earn their reward points at either location.

Tim Peterson, sales manager at The Delta, believes clients would relate to his property more, touting downtown as the heart of the city.

Laurie Short-Cahill, sales manager at The Fairfield Inn & Suites, however, feels confident clients will favour the convenient uptown accommodations.

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Let’s meet these competitors: Laurie has a warm and inviting personality, and takes pleasure in showing potential clients all that her hotel offers.

Though new to the industry, she is not new to sales. She boasts 11 years of sales experience, and prior to her position at

the Fairfield Inn & Suites she was a multimedia consultant with TC Media.

Laurie is a supermom to a beautiful three-year-old girl. She is a passionate committee member/chaperone for Miss Achievement NL; an instructor for Junior Achievement; a St. John’s BOT ambassador;

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

Q and A with Laurie and Tim What do you bring to the table when working with your clients?

Laurie: Trust, building relationships, experience and understanding the client’s business so I can focus on their needs.

Tim: What she said … just kidding. I pride myself on making the client feel like you’re working for them rather than selling them something.

What is the biggest challenge for the industry in 2016?

Laurie: The economy. Hands are deep in pockets with the oil and gas downturn. Thinking creatively and adding value to clients is key.

and Spring into Spring Cleaning cofounder (clothing drive for Iris Kirby House).

Tim is a veteran in the industry, and brings plenty of goods to the table for his clients.

He has seven years’ experience in the hotel and hospitality arena, and potential clients can expect a professional, friendly and warm greeting.

This busy dad of two — with another on the way — is originally from Montreal.

He was formerly an events co-ordinator for two years with Bombardier Business Aircraft; worked in both Ireland/Italy; and studied international business at Memorial University. He is also a St. John’s BOT ambassador.

VOLUME 31: #2

Tim: Definitely the economy, but I’m an optimist, and with the American dollar the way it is we’re hopeful that many Canadians will look to St. John’s for their summer vacations this year!

What is your favourite ice-cream?

Laurie: Vanilla with caramel sauce.

Tim: Vanilla with Crème de Menthe on it!

Local businesses are so important and strengthening partnerships with these businesses is what both sales managers excel at.

As ambassadors for the St. John’s Board of Trade, they look forward to working with their peers, which they consider a privilege and a great opportunity, to meet like-minded people and professionals.

When you see them at the next event around the city, stop by and say hello!

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why hire a professional project manager

By Steve Matthews, Principal and Bill Ryan, Senior Project Manager, Colliers Project Leaders

When we tell people we work for a professional project management company, they often look at us with puzzlement and then ask a barrage of questions.

Why would someone hire a professional project manager?

Wouldn’t they have those resources on staff? Wouldn’t it just add more cost to the project?

There’s a reason why towns, cities, corporations, institutions and governments at all levels across the country use professional PMs to lead their building and infrastructure projects: they are accountable. They are accountable to their clients, stakeholders and taxpayers to ensure their projects are done right – and are delivered on budget and on schedule. There’s nothing like a public building or bridge that’s gone over budget and beyond schedule to cause public outcry and negative headlines.

Many organizations do have their own in-house professional PMs because they recognize that successful projects don’t happen by accident. Successful projects are the consequence of the right expertise and proven processes applied from the very start of your project planning, through the design, tendering, construction and close-out. For instance, our PMs are Project Management Professional (PMP) certified, and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accredited. Our proprietary quality management system is ISO 9001 registered. Our tools and processes reduce risk, and bring certainly to the project’s time, cost and quality outcomes.

Why would organizations with their own in-house professional PMs hire us?

Sometimes the project is just so big that they don’t have enough resources.

This is where our experts blend in seamlessly and become part of the client’s team. Sometimes the project is just so specialized that they don’t have the

VOLUME 31: #2

specific skill-set in house. Clients tap into our capacity and expertise -- for major capital consulting and project leadership -- to ensure the successful delivery of their building and infrastructure projects.

Also, the more complex the project, the more professionals you will hire in different disciplines. We act directly on behalf of clients – independent of architects, design engineers and contractors – to protect our clients’ interests. Our Get it Right Solution™ ensures we get the project ready, get it built and get it performing so investors, owners and occupants are certain of success.

Will hiring a professional PM firm cost more?

It’s all about managing risk. Building and infrastructure projects have become increasingly complex. Errors and delays can cost you far more than hiring the professionals who will ensure your project is done right and meets the needs of your stakeholders.

Colliers Project Leaders (formerly MHPM Project Managers Inc.) has been around since 1989. We have successfully delivered over 8,000 public- and privatesector projects throughout Canada and the Middle East. Over 80% of our business is from repeat customers. Our excellent results and service have resulted in a Net Promoter Score® of 75 – stronger than many highly respected global brands such as Apple.

STEVE MATTHEWS

The St. John’s International Airport Authority is a perfect example of how Colliers Project Leaders helped lead a very complex project to success. Despite the highly specialized nature of the new $37-million runway renewal and landing system project, we worked hand in hand with our client to complete the project on budget -- and three months ahead of schedule. To see what success looks like, check out this video https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=MA1acgGxDH4 from the St. John’s Airport Authority.

To find out more about Colliers Project Leaders and why you should hire a professional project manager, visit our website www.mhpm.com.

BILL RYAN

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on the job

OPPORTUNITIES

NOR H

LEARN • PLAN • CONNECT

2016

Title Sponsor

Grow your business in the North Connect with Industry experts Learn about Northern Opportunities Aboriginal Partnerships Future Infrastructure Projects

APRIL 29, 2016 The Sheraton - Hotel Newfoundland 8:30 am - 2:00 pm

FEATURING Hon. Yvonne Jones, Government of Canada Senator Bill Rompkey Clint Davis, Nunatsiavut Group of Companies Peter Woodward, Woodward Group of Companies Bailey Church, KPMG Andy Turnbull, Nunacor Dallas Mercer, Dallas Mercer Consulting Doug Letto, Doug Letto Consulting Memorial University Labrador North Chamber of Commerce

Supported by

On April 29th the St. John’s Board of Trade will host a conference that will concentrate on economic development and practical solutions for succeeding in the north.

CONTACT:

LUNCHEON KEYNOTE

Brendan Hagerty Labrador and Arctic Mentor St. John’s Board of Trade T: 726-2961 ext. 116 BHagerty@bot.nf.ca

MEMBER: $150 (full pass) NON-MEMBER: $199 Limited space register soon.

Speakers subject to change.

Tom Paddon - Baffinland

The principal voice of the business community

Your Chamber membership now includes your own HR Manager Canada’s Small Business owners can’t be expected to know and understand all the laws contained within the Employment Standards Act (ESA)….but they are held accountable, legally, to be compliant with all of them.

At FirstCall we are committed to helping you ensure that your company is compliant with all labour regulations. You will receive your own dedicated HR Manager who will oversee your employment related activity.

Employment Contracts

The first thing we do is implement an Employment Contract for existing employees and any new hires. Employee Contracts ensure that your Termination and Severance Policies are consistent with the Employment Standards Act and protect you from wrongful dismissal claims.

Employee Manuals With your Chamber membership, you will be provided the full services of your own FirstCall HR Manager for 30 days, free of charge. If, at the end of that period, you wish to retain your FirstCall services, discounted monthly rates are available to all Chamber Members.

We ensure that every employment relationship is properly documented, allowing you to terminate employment (if necessary) and protect you from legal situations.

We ensure that your company has the required Health and Safety program to reduce or eliminate charges and costly fines under the Health and Safety Act enforced by the Ministry of Labour (MOL).

HRe Cloud

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VOLUME 31: #2

I 31

around the board

The Insurance Bureau of Cana da (IBC) was th Inaugural rece e sponsor of th ption on Febr uary 19 at the e Chair’s Pictured is ne Johnson Geo wly minted Ch Center. ai r Des Whelan Manager of G with Amanda overnment Re Dean, lations, IBC.

d Dallas M di O’Keefe an Ju h, as N a m Em ption.

Inaugural Rece

ercer of DMC

et t addresses inister Cathy Benn M ce an Fin l cia Provin February 17, on at the Delta on he nc lu ut -o ld so a 2016.

at the Chair’s

Bill Budg ell luncheon of Grant Thornto , introdu n ces Finan , presenting par tne ce Ministe r Cathy B r at our ennett.

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BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

Senior Vice Ch air Dorothy Ke ating takes th Best of Stewar e oath of Offi t McKelvey. ce from Erin

Second Vice Ch

air Andrea Stac

VOLUME 31: #2

k chats with ne

w Director Don

E Coady.

Erin Best (l from Solicitor ce ffi O of th king the oa Des Whelan ta t McKelvey. onsor, Stewar sp d Board’s Gol

) of the

attended both in person and Express Entr y workshop was well currently being utilized by via Periscope, a live streaming app event; download Periscope the Board of Trade. Don’t miss an k Global Canada; Rhonda Wor today. Pictured: James Rosario, ip and Immigration ensh Citiz , ency Tulk Lane, BoT; Sean Mor k Consulting.

Canada; David Maher, White Roc

I 33

around the board

tal with of Seafair Capi Anne Whelan r challenged ke n la ea he sp W st Gue Keating. hy ot or Catch D r ai complacent.

Senior Vice Ch ment not to be rn ve a go t.c d bo an business ww.stjohns our website: w her speech on

Samantha Wils on and Kelly-A nn Meadus of Roxanne Dow Seafair Capita ney of NL Cred l with it Union at th e Anne Whela n luncheon.

Kelly Mansell of Rocket Bake ry discusses th tax bill has ha e impact that d on her busine the hi sses as membe associations look on. rs of several bu gh city siness the oups meets at of business gr et n dg io it bu al ’s co hn A s unite: City of St. Jo e th of ct pa Business Group e im e to discuss th Board of Trad on business .

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BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

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Member News Fairfield Inn and Suites St. John’s Newfoundland receives three awards Fairfield Inn and Suites St. John’s Newfoundland has received three impressive industry awards, giving guests the peace of mind that they are in for an outstanding stay.

Distinguished among over 800,000 properties listed on Booking.com, the Fairfield Inn and Suites Hotel near YYT airport received from its guests a score deserving of a 2015 Guest Review Award for delivering the best guest experience.

Guests most often cited a thoughtful staff that goes the extra mile as the biggest contributor to the hotel’s standout performance. Hotels.com has also recognized the Fairfield Inn and Suites St. John’s Newfoundland with a 2015 Certificate of Excellence, earning a 4-outof-5 score for guest satisfaction.

Furthermor, TripAdvisor has honored the Fairfield Inn and Suites with a 2015 GreenLeaders Award, making it one of the most eco-friendly St. John’s accommodations in Newfoundland.

Awarded to hotels that make a positive environmental impact, properties must apply to TripAdvisor’s GreenLeaders program, an act that requires inspiring accountability from the start. The hotel’s commitment to green practices like widespread recycling -- from aluminum cans to old floors and mattresses, using energy efficient light bulbs, and tracking energy use in rooms and making automatic adjustments to conserve energy, providing water efficient restrooms and baths, using 100% biodegradable toiletries, and safely and responsibly disposing of waste, has earned Fairfield Inn and Suites St. John’s Newfoundland a Silver Level GreenLeaders distinction. Any environmentally-conscious modern traveler can feel proud staying with Fairfield Inn and Suites.

Holiday Inn Express and Suites opens in St. John’s Holiday Inn Express and Suites St. John’s Airport opened its doors in February.

Located on 5 Navigator Avenue, adjacent to St. John’s International Airport, the new-

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build 120-room hotel features an indoor pool, 24-hour fitness and business centre, as well as 1,800 square feet of meeting space that can comfortably accommodate 115 people.

General Manager, Greg Ivany, said, “The Holiday Inn Express brand is a great fit for the St. John’s area. Guests will know they are in for an enjoyable stay the moment they arrive at the airport and see the recognizable Holiday Inn Express sign. We look forward to providing our guests with the unmatched comfort and convenience that comes with staying at a Holiday Inn Express hotel.”

Tech Startup with Memorial University roots announces Chinese partnership Agile Sensor Technologies Inc., a local startup company with strong ties to Memorial University, has announced a strategic partnership with Gaitech International Limited of Shanghai, China to help bring its homegrown technology to the world market.

Agile is currently a client of the Genesis Centre, Memorial’s business incubator for technology-based ventures with high-growth potential. The company develops robotics technologies for the industrial automation and aerospace and defence markets. The partnership with Gaitech includes a strategic investment in Agile and an agreement to co-develop new products for distribution in the global robotics market.

“We’re very excited about this new partnership,” said Brian Terry, president and CEO, Agile. “Gaitech’s investment enables us to accelerate growth and launch our technology into international markets. Our collaboration with Gaitech on product development will result not only in new products, but also in rapid knowledge transfer for our team.”

Agile and Gaitech have already started plans for their first joint project, to produce a plug-and-play development platform for robot makers, which will allow companies to simplify robot development and change the way they design and manufacture products.

“We plan to invest locally and expand our sales and engineering teams, with the goal of accelerating sales of our motor control system and launching our flight stabilization system, smart camera and patented sensor aiming devices,” said Mr. Terry. “These products will change the way companies develop their robots to include our highly reliable, fast and dynamic components.”

BDC Capitals adds to St. John’s team Brian Whiteway has recently been added to the St. John’s office of BDC Capital as Director, Growth & Transition Capital.

Brian comes to BDC with 20-plus years of experience in financial accounting, corporate strategy, operations, mergers and acquisitions and quality management.

Brian previously worked with BDC from 1998-2000.

Brian will work with BDC clients on financing solutions to pursue growth opportunities, make an acquisition, or undertake a change of ownership. The use of mezzanine, cash flow and quasi-equity financing structures allows companies to raise capital without diluting ownership.

BDC Newfoundland and Labrador employs 46 staff in three business centres dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs with loans, investments and consulting services.

CNA and Petroforma honored as Employers of Distinction College of the North Atlantic (CNA) and Petroforma Laboratories were named Employers of Distinction on February 29 by the Newfoundland and Labrador Employers Council (NLEC). Petroforma was honored in the small and mediumsized category while CNA won for larger employers.

“We are honored to be presented with this award and want to thank the NLEC for recognizing the concerted effort that College of the North Atlantic and its employees put into offering world-class training opportunities to residents of this province,” said CNA President and CEO, Ann Marie Vaughan.

“I think it’s really exciting,” said Petroforma president and CEO Michael

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

Member News Hanrahan. “We really respect the Newfoundland and Labrador Employers Council, the competition is really heavy and it’s a great honour for a small Newfoundland and Labrador company.”

The nomination for the award includes judging in five categories: Workplace & Atmosphere, Health & Safety Practices, Community Presence, Productivity & Innovation and Corporate Responsibility.

Members honored with Oil Industry Achievement Awards The Newfoundland and Labrador Oil & Gas Industries Association (Noia) honoured Robert S. Crosbie of Crosbie Group Ltd. and Dr. Richard Wright of Nalcor Energy (Oil & Gas) at its 2016 Industry Achievement Awards Luncheon on February 25.

Rob Crosbie, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Crosbie Group Limited (CGL), received the Outstanding Contribution Award which recognizes exemplary individuals who have influenced the development of the local oil & gas industry and who have demonstrated qualities of vision, integrity and leadership through their work and lives.

“I really appreciate the honor of being named for this prestigious award. There are so many hard working and successful

people involved in our oil & gas industry - one never expects to be the one being recognized,” said Mr. Crosbie.

Dr. Richard Wright, Nalcor Energy’s Manager of Exploration, was also honoured, receiving the Rising Star Award to recognize the talents of an impressive individual who is 40 years old or younger and has made remarkable strides in their role in the local oil & gas industry.

“Being recognized by Noia as the 2016 Rising Star Award recipient is an honour.

There are so many well-deserving individuals doing great things and making a difference in our local oil and gas industry – it is truly humbling to be recognized in this way,” said Dr. Wright. “This award is a testament to the important work – finding new oil and gas resources for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador – being carried out by the highly technical and capable people I get to work with at Nalcor each and every day.”

Guildfords wins Rock Award Guildfords (2005) Inc. has received the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association’s Provincial Safety Award. Newfoundland and Labrador branch manager, Kevin McEvoy, accepted the 2016 Rock Award at the NLCA’s Chairperson’s Ball and Annual Awards Gala in Corner Brook on February 6.

The awards program was instituted in 2009 as a means to recognize industry leaders in the areas of: Provincial Safety, Membership Recognition, General Contractor Excellence, Subcontractor Excellence, Supplier Excellence, Leadership Excellence and Community Leadership, as well as a Hall of Fame award.

Tiffany Village Retirement Residence Partnership Raises Funds for Cancer Patients and their Families Tiffany Village Retirement Residence Partnership has raised $10,000 in support of the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation. The monies were raised from the proceeds of two Breakfast at Tiffany’s events held in 2015, along with the Annual Staff Jeans Day Program for the past calendar year. Since 2012, Tiffany Village has raised approximately $113,000 in cash donations and in-kind support to the foundation.

“Tiffany Village has an employee culture which fosters philanthropy and we are so pleased to donate these monies to Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation as everyone can relate in some way or another to how cancer affects the lives of others. This is quite an accomplishment for our team and one which should be shared to encourage other teams to do the same” says Andrea Avery, Vice President Operations & Human Resources.

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VOLUME 31: #2

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I 37

New Members Goodlife Fitness

Mustang Sally’s Flaming Skillet

Allcoast Insurance

Jonathan Hodder, Corporate Account Manager 350 Torbay Road St. John’s, NL A1A 4E1 P: 709-727-0174 jhodder@goodlifefitness.com

Kyle Hickey, Director Niraj Shukla, Consultant 203 Water Street St. John’s, NL A1C 1B4 P: 709-221-9300 info@flamingskillet.com

William Hickey, President 101-251 empire Avenue St. John’s, NL A1C 3H9 P: 709-753-8825 F: 709-753-9811 bhickey@allcoastinsurance.ca

Avail HR Services

Integrated Occupational Health Services (IOHS)

New Victorian Homes

Linda Hudson, Owner/Operator 26 Tillers Trail Brigus Junction, NL A0B 1G0 P: 709- 691-3458 linda@availhr.com

Data Wiring Solutions Patricia-Yetman Tucker Chris Slaney 1170 Topsail Road St. John’s, NL A1N 5E8 P: 709-722-1229 ptucker@dwsglobal.com

Design Smith Andrew Smith, President P.O. Box 781 Stn ‘C’ St. John’s, NL A1C 5L7 P: 74-09-746-1345 designsmithnl@gmail.com

Cora Breakfast & Lunch Dewayne Fry, Owner 80 Kenmount Road St. John’s, NL A1B 3R1 P: 709-738-5555 Dewayne_fry@nl.rogers.com

Holden’s Transport Limited Laura Holden, Controller 255 Brookfield Road St. John’s, NL A1E 6J6 709-368-3539 709-747-9890 lholden@holdenstransport.com

Beaver Tails Nfld.

Lauren Mills and Max Staubitzer 55 White Rose Drive, # 203 St. John’s, NL A1A 5G9 P: 709- 771-1990 Lauren.beavertailsnl@gmail.com beavertailsnl@gmail.com

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Jane Simmons, President/Occupational Therapy 27 Austin Street St. John’s NL A1B 4C3 P: 709-722-9675 F: 709-722-9677 jsimmons@iohs.nf.net

Best Version Media Mark Burford, Publisher 30 Alice Drive St. John’s, NL A1B 4N8 P: 709-765-8896 Markburford.bvm@gmail.com

ITZ Focus Solutions Inc. Daphne MacNeil, CEO 32 Westminster Drive Mount Pearl, NL A1N 4P2 P: 709-682-1745 daphnemacneil@itzsolutions.com

Pharmacists Association of Newfoundland Labrador Glenda Power, CEO 85 Thorburn Road Suite 203 St. John’s, NL A1B 3M2 P: 709-753-7881 gpower@panl.net

Deacon Investments Ltd. Andrew MacDonald, Vice President & General Manager 301 -7 Plank Road St. John’s, NL A1E 1H3 P: 709-753-9226 F: 709-753-0102 andrew@deaconinvestments.ca

Ian Sullivan, General Manager 55 White Rose Drive Suite 203 St. John’s, NL A1A 5G9 P: 709-738-7000 Ian@newvictorianhomes.net

thegreenrock.ca~habits for your habitat Kim Todd, Founder/President 24 Conway Crescent St. John’s, NL A1A 2A9 P: 709-682-3955 kat@thequickbrownfox.ca

Restaurant Association of Newfoundland Labrador Nancy Brace, Executive Director PO Box 5451 Station C 14 Brownrigg Pl. St. John’s, NL A1C 5W4 P: 709-765-8483 admin@ranl.ca

SULIS Subsea Corporation Adam Gobi, President/CEO 17 Dundee Avenue, Unit 4 Mt. Pearl, NL A1N 4R6 P: 709-745-5080 gobi@sulissubsea.com

Royal LePage Vision-Martin Byrne Real Estate Professional 175 Hamlyn Road St. John’s, NL A1E 5Z7 P: 709-693-6463 martinbyrne@nlhouses.com

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

Member Profiles

Clarity Biofilters The cleaner, greener alternative to a septic system Newfoundland and Labrador is characterised by many isolated properties which don’t have access to municipal services. Soil in the area is often rocky and unsuitable for traditional septic tanks. Using our Biofilter means

Cabco Communications Group provides technology products and services to Newfoundland businesses.

- Drilled Wells, Dug Wells and Pump Systems - Water Filtration Systems - Septic Tanks - Design - Installation - Servicing Inspection - Repairs

Since 1980, Cabco has grown to become the Region’s most trusted communications integrator with a full range of solutions from pole top to desktop, including: • Document Solutions (Multifunction Copiers & Printers) • Telephone Systems (VoIP, Digital) • Cabling (voice and data, fibre optic) • WiFi Systems • Security Systems (CCTV, Access Controls) • Video Conferencing (cloud and roombased).

Tel: 709 221 5100 Email: info@clarityaquatech.ca Web: Clarityaquatech.ca

Tel: 709 753 8353 Toll Free: 1 800 675 4025 Web: cabco.ca

• 75% less drainage field • No contamination • Lower excavation costs • No expensive leach field repairs • No clear cutting

Holden’s Transport is one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s leading providers of crane and transportation services. A locally owned and operated business with 30 years in operation, Holden’s Transport prides itself on being safe, dependable and experienced in every aspect of the job. Crane rentals ranging from 17 to 275-ton capacity are available as well as various tractor trailer combinations. Its heavy equipment recovery service is known for its safe and speedy response guaranteed in emergency situations. Located in St. John’s, service is provided across Newfoundland and Labrador and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

255 Brookfield Road, St. John’s, NL Tel: 709 368 3539 Fax: 709 747 9890 Email: info@holdenstransport.com Web: holdenstransport.com

VOLUME 31: #2

Sooley Designs is a Fashion Studio and Showroom in St. John’s, Newfoundland, owned by designer Megan Sooley.

Sooley and her team design and handmake unique & innovative garments with impeccable fit and flattering styles. Each garment is produced in-house: from draping and pattern drafting, to cutting, sewing and finishing.

Sooley Designs believes it can put St. John’s on the map as a destination for Fashion in Canada - Already boasting international clients and followers, who travel to visit the studio and have the Sooley experience first hand. Sooley Designs is rooted in art and innovation, and while the organization maintains a successful and sustainable business model, it continues to thrive on creative development and inspiration.

72 Harbour Drive, St. John’s NL A1C 1B1 Tel: 738-7872 Email: info@sooleydesigns.com Facebook: facebook.com/sooleydesigns Web: sooleydesigns.com

Eat. Energize. That’s the Freshii motto.

The aim is to provide fresh and nutritious meal choices that energize people on the go! Emphasizing the foods you should eat more of and less on those you should avoid, Freshii provides meals and snacks that help you live your best life. Think: fiber-rich, slow-burning carbs, essential fats and lean proteins. The menu includes custom-made green wraps, salads, quinoa bowls, fresh pressed juices and so much more!

Come in to see us at 673 Topsail Road, in between Pipers and the Jungle Jim’s Plaza next to Massage Addict. Catering is available and online ordering at www.freshii.com Tel: 709 682 1714 Email: michelle@freshii.com Web: freshii.com Twitter: @freshii

We’ve moved!! Now located at 464 Torbay Rd, Floor Source and Cabinet Source Design Center is open 7 days a week so that we can accommodate your schedule. Whether you are building new or renovating your current home, designers are always on hand to help with the overwhelming decisions when it comes to selecting your flooring and designing your dream kitchen. Check out our new web site for before and after pictures of recent projects and flooring options. All products are Cooper approved! Beautiful flooring and cabinets for everyday living!

464 Torbay Rd, St. John’s NL Tel: 709 754 2271 Fax: 709 754 2269 Email: dmcorcoran@floor-source.com Web: floor-source.com Facebook: facebook.com/floorsourceinc

I 39

the economy Newfoundland & Labrador

FLASH SHEET

Percent Change

Current Month

Same Month Last Year

NL

Canada

Thousands

528.2

528.9

-0.1%

0.9%

Thousands

230.4

237.8

-3.1%

0.7%

Percent

14.4

11.5

2.9

0.6

All-Items (January, 2016)

129.2

126.2

2.4%

2.0%

Food (January, 2016)

146.7

140.4

4.5%

4.0%

Energy (January, 2016)

141.2

142.1

-0.6%

-0.4%

All-Items excluding Food and Energy (January, 2016)

122.3

119.6

2.3%

1.8%

Tonnes

1,751,900 p

1,229,364

42.5%

-1.0%

$ Thousands

823,562 p

825,163

-0.2%

2.8%

Number

1,882

2,314

-18.7%

-2.0%

Number

488 p

553

-11.8%

5.2%

Number

1,697 p

2,119

-19.9%

3.3%

Dollars

310,704

315,393

-1.5%

--

Barrels

6,563,985 p

6,816,908

-3.7%

--

POPULATION: (Estimated as of October 1, 2015) LABOUR: Employed, Adjusted (January, 2016) Unemployment Rate, Adjusted (January, 2016) CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (2002 = 100):

VOLUME OF IRON ORE PRODUCTION: (November, 2015) RETAIL TRADE (NAICS): Unadjusted for Seasonal variation (December, 2015 NEW MOTOR VEHICLE SALES: (December, 2015) HOUSING: Housing Starts, All Areas (4thQuarter, 2015) (January - December, 2015) Median House Price - Bungalows, St. John’s (4 Quarter, 2015) th

1

OIL PRODUCTION: (December, 2015)

1 As of October 2015, major enhancements have been made to Royal LePage’s House Price Survey program. One major change is the Survey is now reporting median prices wheras previously average prices were reported. For more information contact the Newfoundland and Labrador Statistics Agency.

Source: Economics and Statistics Branch (Newfoundland and Labrador Statistics Agency), Department of Finance

LOCAL PROFESSIONALS, SERVING LOCAL BUSINESSES We believe delivering exceptional client service is the foundation of being a trusted advisor. Our team of professionals consists of local residents who are committed to providing clients with practice advice and insight, tailored to their unique priorities and ambitions.

People who know, know BDO.SM Boyde Clarke FCPA, FCA bclarke@bdo.ca

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Steve Belanger FCPA, FCA sbelanger@bdo.ca

Assurance | Accounting | Tax | Advisory 709 579 2161 www.bdo.ca

BUSINESS NEWS APRIL/MAY: 2016

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