THE PULSE OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY
FERRIES: ANCHORED TO A DEAL
BUSINESS MATTERS
BEST PLACE TO DO BUSINESS
MAY 2012
WHERE DO YOUR TAX DOLLARS GO?
What you want. Where you want it. ...and all that Jazz. The Hotel Grand Pacific is proud to present Aurora Scott in The Pacific Lounge Enjoy performances every Friday and Saturday evenings from 8 – 11pm. The Pacific Lounge have created some intriguing cocktails and delicious appetizers that will be sure to complete a wonderful evening on the town.
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CONTENTS BUSINESSMATTERS
May 2012
Business Matters is a semi-monthly publication of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce and a key business resource targeted to 2,000 business leaders in our community. The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is a progressive, inclusive and dynamic community leader. It is a supportive resource for business people who wish to learn, grow and create a stronger business and a more robust and sustainable community while respecting people, planet and profit.
To advertise in Business Matters, contact us at: The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce #100 - 852 Fort St. Victoria, BC V8W 1H8 (250) 383-7191 chamber@victoriachamber.ca
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Business Resource
5
Where do your Tax Dollars Go? Breaking apart your contributions to the federal government and how your loonie is spread around.
10
Member News
12
Anchored to a Deal
16
Victoria - The Best Place to Do Business
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Upcoming Events
Keep up with what’s happening in the Chamber community. BC Ferries is caught between a rock and a hard place as they face declining ridership and increasing costs. Victoria stands out as one of the top places to do business in the Pacific Northwest. Don’t miss out on all the opportunities to connect with fellow business people.
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Publication Mail Poste-Publications 40005319
Many people underestimate their capacity for negotiating success. Do you?
Taking the Pulse of the Local Economy
The latest session of the Chamber’s Economic Roundtables highlighted a number of challenges and opportunities for local businesses.
New Members
Studies show that people prefer to do business with Chamber members. Check out who has recently made the decision to join us.
Advocacy in Action We bring important issues to the attention of leaders in a position to effect change. Find out what we are working on now.
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Business Resource Many people underestimate their capacity for negotiating success. Do you? What is a negotiation? Negotiation is intentional communication driven by the desire of each party to maximize their interests and opportunities. Your potential for success is enhanced when you approach any prospective deal with a Negotiation Strategy. What is a Negotiation Strategy? It is a plan designed in anticipation of a negotiation, implemented when a negotiation begins, and modified over time to reflect the progress of a negotiation. Fuelled by information, it is a tool to help maximize and leverage your position over the course of a negotiation.
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Does a Negotiation Strategy guarantee success? Of course not. Come on, you’re reading something written by a lawyer - did you really expect a guaranteed yes? That being said, the contribution of time and attention to a Negotiation Strategy is unlikely to negatively impact your success and is more likely to keep you on track for your best result - whatever that turns out to be. Adopting the immortal words of the Rolling Stones - “You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you just might find - you get what you need.”
the next level? Afford a new lease? You use a Negotiation Strategy. You systematically evaluate what you have to offer and gain and do the same for the other party. You refine these inventories by asking questions and eliciting more information, by seeking objective advice to complement your subjective beliefs, and by sharing your own information strategically in a way that preserves your ethics, credibility and reputation without compromising your chance to secure your best possible result. Part of your Negotiation Strategy must be defining your win. A win is the deal where everyone believes they captured the best possible outcome. Whether you can identify any particular outcome as a win depends on how you have prepared for and conducted a negotiation. What was your approach? Did you unwittingly take a competitive posture where a collaborative approach was your path to success or vice versa? Did your Negotiation Strategy include the best informationsharing tactics for the situation? Or did you play your cards all at once? Have you under- or over-valued relative leverage? Remember David and Goliath... Did you consult a professional about your Negotiation Strategy before starting into the negotiation? Or did you limit your potential before the other side even entered the negotiation? Have you internally land-marked potential outcomes over the course of a negotiation? Or left yourself without any measuring stick to test whether an outcome was actually a “win”?
Developing and applying a Negotiation Strategy forces you to engage in objective analysis of the information required to chart your course through a negotiation. As a negotiation proceeds, each party learns new information. This information is critical for evaluating and reevaluating your goals: you may find that your objective is available for fewer concessions than you were prepared to give; you may find that your objective will come with costs you hadn’t considered; and importantly you may find that a better alternative to your original objective exists. This process engages your critical reasoning and reveals to you - both before and during a negotiation - your own criteria as well as the respective roles, leverage and bargaining power for you and your negotiating partner.
If you define your win, you should also define the flipside. A universal “loss” arises when people fail to capture what they didn’t even know was on the table. Conversely, where two parties fail to strike a deal but have benefited from the experience - is that really a loss? If you design and stick with a Negotiation Strategy you dramatically increase the likelihood of your success and effectively limit your opportunity cost of the pursuit.
How do you - solidify a new business relationship? Take your business to
Danielle C. Topliss, Lawyer, JAWL & BUNDON, Barristers and Solicitors
So, how do you sit now after reading this? Hopefully you have increased your leverage in any future negotiation simply by considering the concept of a Negotiation Strategy. Imagine your greater potential for success!
WHERE DO YOUR TAX DOLLARS GO? June 6th, 2011 was a very average day weather-wise for Greater Victoria: sunny with a high of 14 degrees and everywhere you looked there was a sea of Canucks jerseys still hoping for a Stanley Cup. This Monday was memorable for a different reason though. Whether you knew it or not you had another reason to be hopeful, it was the day that you finished paying your share of tax and started working for yourself. It was Tax Freedom Day in Canada. To be totally honest, if you had felt particularly generous and decided to pay your share of the deficit last year, you would have had to wait for another 12 days, but why add insult to injury.
For 157 days, you had been working hard to earn enough money to pay your taxes. Over such a long time it is entirely reasonable that you would get attached to your money and would want to know where it goes and that it is being put to good use. So where do your federal tax dollars go? We decided to take your hard earned loonie and break down the various uses that the government has for it.
Transfer Payments In federal budget terms “transfer payments” are those payments made to individuals, provincial and territorial governments as well as a number of other organizations. These transfers are, by far and away, the largest portion of your loonie, taking up more than half of your hard-earned dollar. Coming in at 58¢ on the dollar of the federal government budget, or $157.9 billion in total, these transfers run the spectrum from employment insurance, childcare and retirement
payments to individuals, to the transfer payments received by provinces to pay for healthcare, education and other programs. The largest of these payments go to provincial governments, totaling about $53 billion last year. Included in this figure are the “Equalization and Territorial Formula Financing” programs, or equalization payments, which the federal government distributes to help less prosperous provinces and territories provide services, the so-called “have” and “have not” provinces. On a local level, projects like the Johnson Street Bridge received funding from this portion of your federal tax dollar, in part through the federal gas tax program for municipalities. Rounding out the transfer payments category, 14¢ of your tax dollar went to support a number of initiatives across the country including student assistance, regional economic development, the arts, multi-culturalism and amateur sports in your community.
BUSINESSMATTERS 5
dollars - the Canadian Armed Forces was one of the three. The next category could also give you comfort, with $9.4 billion being spent on public safety and emergency preparedness, including the RCMP, federal prison system and border security. Sadly, the last of the three probably won’t elicit such a warm feeling. At $7.3 billion, the Canada Revenue Agency spent 3¢ of your tax dollar, making sure that they had your loonie in the first place…
Graphic credit: Department of Finance Canada
Government Operating Costs After transfers, government operating costs are the next largest portion of your loonie. Representing 30¢ of every tax dollar, the government funded more than 130 departments, agencies and crown corporations to the tune of
roughly $82 billion in total. Incredibly just under half of that, or 14¢ per tax dollar, went to just three organizations. As citizens of the region, you can take some comfort that one of these organizations is a major contributor to the economic and social fabric of our community. At 8¢ - or $21.3 billion
iscu.com
Putting aside the three we just mentioned, another 12¢ or $33.1 billion, went to fund the government’s other major departments including Public Works, Environment, Health, Fisheries and Oceans, Justice, Industry, Natural Resources, Transportation and Human Resources Canada to name just a few. In your dayto-day life, if you took out a mortgage, listened to CBC radio or are involved in our local tourism sector, you received a benefit from the roughly $10.5 billion or 4¢ of your tax dollar that went to fund organizations like the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Canadian Broadcast Corporation and Canadian Tourism Commission.
Parliament Itself
Introducing Mark deMedeiros, Senior Manager, Business Banking. Mark is here to help your business grow. And he has the service record to prove it.
When you look at the federal budget and where things go, you may be interested to know that one of the “smallest” ($555 million) allocations goes to paying for Parliament itself. Last year between the budgets for MPs, Senators and their staff, as well as facilities and other services, just one quarter of one cent ($0.0025) of your loonie went to funding our public representatives. If you watch question period on TV, it just feels like a lot more.
Interest on the Public Debt Mark has been with Island Savings for 15 years and has extensive experience working with local business owners as a branch manager. Contact your local branch or visit iscu.com/business to learn how Mark and his team of Business Account Managers and Cash Management Specialists can help you.
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Each year the federal government has to pay interest on the debt accumulated that has not been repaid. In case you were wondering, that amount currently sits at approximately $582 billion. That’s billion, with a “B”. How fast is it growing? In the time it
took you to read the previous sentence, we added another 10,000 loonies to the debt. What does that mean in terms of your tax? It means that roughly 11¢ was spent just to pay the interest on this debt. The good news is that our creditors are largely other Canadians, with individual citizens and domestic institutions holding roughly 78% of the outstanding debt. So thanks again for your help in that regard, “we” (and by “we” that includes you too) are totally good for it. As you start biting your nails about the growing debt, know that your wallet is not the only one that the Graphic credit: Department of Finance Canada government removed its hand from on June 6th of last year. The government puts of every revenue dollar, totaling close your 3¢ spent on the CRA to good use, to $20 billion. The government has a raising revenues from a number of number of Crown Corporations who different sources. earn revenue that goes to support the annual federal budget. Representing 12¢ of every dollar of revenue, the Federal Government Revenues goods and services these companies brought in totaled over $28 billion. In the government’s 2010/2011 fiscal year, all those sources – personal tax, corporate tax, federal sales tax, Employment Insurance, Crown Corporation revenue, various other taxes and revenues - resulted in over $237 billion being sent to the federal government coffers.
When does 100¢ not equal your tax dollar? When it’s still not enough… You may recall that June 6th was the day that you finished paying your taxes and started working for your own benefit. Unfortunately, that date didn’t seem to work for the federal government. They would have really
Personal and Corporate Taxes In terms of government revenue, the largest contributor is personal income taxes, raising over $113 billion dollars or 48¢ of every dollar raised. If you’re wondering about our own backyard, the most recent numbers for Greater Victoria show over 220,000 tax filers reporting an average taxable income of just over $44,000. Corporations of all shapes and sizes across the country contributed 13¢ of every dollar raised for a total of over $30 billion.
GST, Employment Insurance Premiums, Crown Revenues and other Excise Taxes Even after being reduced to 5%, everyone’s favorite tax, the GST (aka the federal portion of the HST), contributed over $28 billion to the federal government’s finances last year. Adding further to their tax rolls, a number of other taxes including non-resident withholding taxes, import duties, energy taxes and duties on alcohol and tobacco raised another 8¢
BUSINESSMATTERS 7
appreciated another 12 days worth of your taxes in order to balance their budget, or an additional 14¢ on top of the dollar that you already gave them. Being a concerned citizen, if you had gone around and collected all those dimes and pennies (the additional 14¢) from all the personal and corporate taxpayers from across the country (and the world), you would have probably needed to enlist the help of CN Rail to haul the coins, because added up, that deficit totaled over $33 billion.
Conclusion So now you know where your tax dollar goes, and having read all the places that it does go, you might be reminded of the old saying, “no one spends a dollar as wisely as the person who earned it.” That is why the Chamber works with all orders of government, municipal, province and federal, to make sure that taxes remain as low as possible in the first place, that they balance their budgets and that they provide the best possible value for your hard-earned loonie.
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MEMBER NEWS There’s a New Dean in Town
Solidly Made in Canada
The University of Victoria is pleased to announce Dr. Saul Klein as the new Dean of the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business. Dr. Klein begins his term July 1st taking over from former Dean Ali Dastmalchian. Dastmalchian is one of the business school’s founders and will remain with the faculty. “Dr. Klein has a strong record of academic leadership with a proven ability to establish priorities and develop strategies to achieve goals,” says UVic Vice-President and Provost Reeta Tremblay. “I am positive that with his experience and knowledge the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business will continue to flourish.”
Maximum Furniture warehouse has just introduced Made in BC Solid Wood – custom furniture. Clearly this locally grown, locally built, locally sold option is hitting home with the furniture buying public as it has become their most popular selling furniture item in just 4 weeks. In response to demand, Maximum Furniture has begun offering custom builds.
Both Le Chateau and La Senza will remain in their current positions until ready to reveal their new looks. The Bay Centre will also play host to the only downtown Victoria retail location of Chatters.
You Look Fabulous The Bay Centre is dressing for success and adding to its fashion forward repertoire with the opening of BCBGMAXAZRIA. Overall this year, 12,000 sq. ft. of space in the Bay Centre will be primped and restructured for both new and existing tenants. Le Chateau will be showcasing the new concept store look that is beginning to roll out across Canada. La Senza will be flashing their sense of style in a new location across from BCBGMAXAZRIA.
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Manulife Securities welcomes New Team Member Stephen Whipp Financial at Manulife Securities Incorporated is thrilled to have Annette Quan bring her Financial Advisor and Life Representative talents to their socially-responsible investing practice. Annette is a life-long Victoria native, and has been working in the financial services industry for over 24 years. She marries her professional experience with her passion for making our communities better by focussing on socially responsible investing. Her passion for making communities better extends beyond her practice. Since 1994 Annette has been a member of the Victoria Chinatown Lioness club, an all-female organization that contributes both time and money to community events and services particularly those serving women and children.
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MEMBER NEWS Networking Nets New Partnership It all started at a Chamber monthly mixer. Adam Sullivan, co-owner of Victoria Transmission and Auto Care began talking with Shannon Whissell from The Cridge Transition House struck up a conversation and found a partnership opportunity. “I’m very excited to share the news about a new partnership between The Cridge Transition House for Women and Victoria Transmission and Auto Care, in part because this partnership can be attributed to our Chamber membership,” says Whissell. As part of this partnership, Victoria Transmission is donating a percentage of sales the week of May 28, 2012 to the non-profit organization.
Tourism Victoria with a View Tourism Victoria knows all about picking the best places to go. After touring around the city, they found a
great new place with everything they were looking for including a downtown location. Boxes will be packed and wires will be run over the next month and Rob Gialloreto, President and CEO, has pledged that there will be as little interruption as possible to their business operations. The Visitor Centre on Wharf Street will, as always, remain where it is serving visitors to Victoria. The new space will be smaller but redesigned to create a new collaborative office environment more conducive to teamwork. They hope to be in their fabulous new space in St. Andrew’s Square by mid-June – with an open house planned for the fall.
Comics are for Big Kids too Camosun College is pleased to announce a new eight-month Comics and Graphic Novels certificate program starting in September. This is a one of a kind program in Western Canada, blending drawing, creative writing and publishing. Ken
Steacy, an inductee into the Joe Shuster Awards Hall of Fame, will be crafting this new program with his wife, visual artist Joan Steacy. Visualize your treasured stack of comic books becoming 82 million copies of comic books and graphic novels – that’s $420 million in annual sales and you get a strong picture that there is interest in the area. Full details are online at www.camosun.ca/comics.
Ruffell and Brown celebrates their 25 year anniversary this May. Nigel Brown credits their ongoing success to their team of experienced window covering experts, quick delivery and professional installation. Of course it also doesn’t hurt to have expert seminars that inspire. Their next seminar on May 29th features Sally Morse, TV personality and author, as she talks about the Magic of Three’s in Design.
BUSINESSMATTERS 11
ANCHORED TO A DEAL Imagine as a business, that you were legislated to maintain hours or locations where staff consistently outweighed customers. That not only was your customer demanding pricing well below your cost of doing business, they were getting it, despite your irrefutable numbers. You’re looking at fewer customers and higher costs with few options. That’s the outlook from the offices at BC Ferries Corporation just before sitting down to review their 60 year contract with the province.
The management team at BC Ferries is once again facing some rather major issues in order to steer their ship out of heavy waters. They are projecting a net loss of $19.4 million in fiscal 2012. Less than four years ago, when tourism was high and fuel costs were low, their numbers told a happier tale with $49.9 – $48.8 million in net earnings. Since they can’t manufacture tourists or affect world oil prices, their opportunities for digging out of this rut include changes to user costs, subsidization and service levels.
Service levels are a significant challenge as noted both by BC Ferry Commissioner, Gord Macatee and BC Ferries. “There are numerous times out there during the operational day where we’re sailing with no passengers – or fewer passengers than crew. And during that same time, typically late at night, is often when we’re paying overtime, so it is the worst case scenario highest costs, least revenue,” explains Mike Corrigan, President and CEO of BC Ferries.
“Ferries are in people’s DNA.”
Mike Corrigan, President and CEO
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It doesn’t take much more than a glance at their capacity utilization numbers to recognize where there are opportunities for efficiency. Only 6 routes – about a quarter of all their routes – exceed an average of 50 per cent capacity. It will come as no surprise to those who travel to Vancouver that Swartz Bay/Tsawwassen has the highest capacity utilization, averaging out at just below 80 per cent, with, surprisingly, Mill Bay as the next most efficient route in terms of ridership. On the other side of the scale, ferry service to Haida Gwaii barely crests 20 per cent and Texada Island’s numbers are only just a little higher. Having only a quarter of your routes at over 50 per cent capacity and a third under 40 per cent capacity isn’t sustainable. BC Ferries is trying to infill where possible encouraging commercial customers to utilize the ferries when personal travel is lower. The drop trailer business is growing,
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MARKETPLACE MIXER April 2012
Thank you to our sponsors & exhibitors Academy of Learning Alitis Investment Counsel Inc. Aquamist Carpet Care Ltd. Beach Club Resort Canadian College of Performing Arts Canadian Payroll Association - Pacific Region Certified Management Accountants Society of BC Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites Cooper Financial Integrated Benefit Solutions Delta Victoria - Ocean Pointe Resort & Spa Earth’s Option - Cremation & Burial Services IdeaZone.ca Island Blue Print Co. Ltd. Jack Insurance & Financial Services Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada Maximum Express Courier, Freight & Logistics Maximum Furniture Warehouse Old House Village Hotel & Spa Pacific Coastal Airlines Pikosocial Media Inc.
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BUSINESSMATTERS 13
but is not capable of overcoming only 20 per cent occupancy.
The three major routes connecting Vancouver Island to the Lower Mainland generated 58% of BC Ferries’ revenue. With the remaining revenue coming from the Northern Routes (10%) and other routes (31%). BC Ferries is the third largest car ferry service in the world carrying 21 million passengers per year. They are also one of the largest restaurant operators in BC. Catering and onboard services generates between $77 – 79 million in revenue annually.
To compensate for lower numbers and higher costs, a fare increase of 4 per cent was recently authorized and took effect April 1st. Even prior to this increase, user costs or farebox recovery was quite high with over 80 per cent of the costs coming from BC Ferry riders. Other major ferry corporations range between 50 – 60 per cent such as the Washington State Ferries, CalMac in Scotland and Marine Atlantic. When BC Ferries Corporation was set up in 2003, a conscious decision was made to pass costs along to users. Macatee feels that rate is already high enough and pushing it higher may create a tipping point of resistance from users. Which brings things back to government subsidization and who is paying for what. When you boil the numbers down there are basically two major routes that are paying the way for the remaining routes. Mike Corrigan indicated, “We’ve been talking to government about the fare affordability issue because they haven’t increased their subsidies on the minor routes, which are the only ones that they subsidize, since 2003.”
“Any small business would feel better about doing their part for the environment.” -Lisa and Chris Warke, Owners of Spin Coin Laundry, Sidney
When we learned about the CRD’s program to audit our water consumption, we jumped at the opportunity. Making small changes, like educating our customers on the benefits of using our larger machines and switching to cold water washing for our drop off services, has resulted in both water and energy savings. We’re a small business and we run the business to make a profit, but we’re a family business too. We believe in setting a good example for our kids by being green at work as well as at home. To find out how you can save like Lisa and Chris, visit www.crd.bc.ca/ici www.crd.bc.ca
14 BUSINESSMATTERS
The solutions are clear cut but not simple. Ferry ridership is at a 20 year low and route cuts have to follow. Macatee recommends modest service reductions of 400 sailings a year – about four per cent of the overall sailings. The government either needs to adjust their subsidy model to include annual inflation adjustments or relinquish its control on fare-setting. BC Ferries needs to continue on its current path of keeping costs down, maintaining a stable union environment and generating nonfare related revenue. Despite the ongoing challenges, BC Ferries continues to provide a world-class ferry service that is emulated by other ferry corporations as a model for success. The Chamber will be working closely with BC Ferries and the BC Ferry Commission over the coming months to advocate on behalf of our membership and community to maintain key service while encouraging ongoing fiscal responsibility and transparency from the corporation.
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Victoria: Best Place to Do Business Admittedly that sounds like bragging, but we have the numbers to back it up. 2012 saw the release of the next in the series of KPMG’s Competitive Alternatives report studying competitiveness factors in more than 110 cities in 14 countries. Here in the Pacific Northwest, Greater Victoria was cited as being in the top five places in which to do business, separated from first place by only 0.9 of a point. Although the study may not measure how the region’s snow-capped mountains, bike paths and ocean views can positively impact the workforce, their research is intense. The study measures the combined impact of 26 significant cost components that are most likely to vary by location, such as labour, facilities, land, construction, transportation, utilities, and income taxes. The study further refines the data focusing on the cost results by industry. Where Victoria really stands out is in those highly desirable knowledge-based industries. Our cost of doing business in profitable sectors such as digital and biomedical technologies, is the lowest in the Pacific Northwest – something
that has been consistent for the last two surveys. Based on KPMG’s detailed examination of 26 significant business cost components, Victoria outranks other notable cities in this region including Vancouver, San Diego, Seattle and San Francisco. This is an impressive feat when you take into account the fact that the Canadian dollar increased by four per cent between studies.
Beyond the costs and stats, Victoria is growing because everyone wants to live here. Cutting edge companies like Microsoft, Gamehouse and Flock have made the decision that Victoria is the right location choice to grow their business. Who are we to disagree?
Even the Conference Board of Canada is shouting out that Victoria is a great place to do business. Their Metropolitan Outlook report predicts that our 1.7% GDP growth in 2011 will be moving up to 2.3% by 2013. There are strong indicators that Victoria’s economic recovery continues to move forward: •
Employment numbers have grown in every quarter of 2011 and the first quarter of 2012
•
Retail sales are expected to rise by 3 per cent in 2012 – 3 times as fast as the 2011 growth
•
Personal income per capita is above both the Canadian and BC average at $39,300 and is forecast to rise to over $40,000 in 2012
Sasha Angus, Economic Development Officer, Greater Victoria Development Agency
There’s Advice, then there’s Sound Advice! If you are looking for ways to grow your business but you have more competitors and fewer buyers, you need to subscribe to Sound Advice. A FREE weekly 30‐second growth tip emailed right to your inbox. Email us at soundadvice@theq.fm to find out more.
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Divisions of the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group
Local accounting firm supports co-op education L-R: Greg Lewis, Keith Smith and Blake Bedwal
When tax season rolls around each year, Victoria-
based chartered accounting firm Green Horwood & Co LLP knows where to turn for help—Greater Victoria’s co-operative education programs. The Chamber of Commerce member has been hiring Camosun College students for 20 years and University of Victoria co-op students for the past five, with very positive results. As one of several co-op student supervisors at the firm, Keith Smith is also the partner in charge of human resources and hiring. He has seen great advantages to welcoming Camosun and UVic co-op students to the team, especially during the hectic tax season. “Historically, tax season is a busy time, and students come in ready to work,” he says. “But they do more than bring extra hands to the office—they also bring a younger vibe to the company, including more energy and enthusiasm.” Blake Bedwal, a University of Victoria co-op student enrolled in the Bachelor of Commerce program, has only good things to say about his experiences at Green Horwood. This is his third co-op term, and he has enjoyed the unique experience offered by the accounting firm.
says Bedwal. “In this position, I’m responsible for bookkeeping and tax returns, and I’ve been able to get a sense of what it’s like to work in this field. I’ve really enjoyed being able to learn in such a dynamic environment.” Greg Lewis, a Camosun College co-op student pursuing the Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting, was thrilled to secure this work term as his first co-op experience. After working in the hotel and restaurant industry, he has found his job with Green Horwood & Co LLP to be invaluable. “This has been a complete 180 degree turn around for me,” he says. “Not only have I gained practical experience by working with T4s and T5s, but I’ve been able to learn about how different partners and Chartered Accountants communicate, and to understand how the firm works as a whole.” Welcoming co-op students onto the team has helped Green Horwood & Co LLP excel during tax season and beyond, while providing students with outstanding experiential learning—it’s a good fit for everyone. Learn more about Green Horwood & Co LLP at www.greenhorwood.com.
“I’ve taken accounting courses at UVic, but haven’t had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience,”
Contact Greater Victoria’s co-op and career programs to find the right student for your hiring needs.
Co-operative Education and Student Employment www.camosun.ca/cese 250.370.4410
Co-operative Education Program and Career Services www.uvic.ca/coopandcareer/employers http://learninginmotion.uvic.ca 250.721.7628
MAY & JUNE EVENTS QUEEN VICTORIA HOTEL & SUITES
◆ Located steps from the Inner Harbour
and Beacon Hill Park ◆ Standard, One and Two Bedroom Suites, Spa Suites, and Penthouse Suites - All with Balconies ◆ Samuel’s by the Park Restaurant ◆ Complimentary Local Calls, Wireless Internet, and Business Centre ◆ Meeting Room (up to 45 people) ◆ Complimentary Downtown Shuttle Service ◆ Indoor Pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna and Fitness Centre 655 Douglas Street Victoria BC V8V 2P9 1-800-663-7007 Tel 250-386-1312 Fax 250-381-4312 www.qvhotel.com
Tuesday, May 1, 2012 May Members Orientation Breakfast 7:30am – 9:00am Sponsored by: Comfort Hotel & Conference Centre
Wednesday, May 2, 2012 Building Momentum Series – Learning to Speak Banker 10:30am – 12:30pm Sponsored by: KPMG Wednesday, May 9, 2012 Six for Lunch 12:00pm – 1:30pm Members only please Thursday, May 10, 2012 Prodigy Group May Mingle 5:00pm – 7:00pm Members & their guests only please Tuesday, May 15, 2012 Building Momentum Series – Rules & Regulations 10:30am – 12:30pm Sponsored by: KPMG
Thursday, May 17, 2012 May Business Mixer 5:00pm – 7:00pm Hosted by: Union Club of British Columbia, 805 Gordon St. Members & their guests only please Wednesday, May 23, 2012 Business Leaders Series: Mr. David Labistour, CEO, Mountain Equipment Co-op 6:00pm – 7:30pm Presenting Sponsor: United Way of Greater Victoria
Tuesday, May 29, 2012 Annual General Meeting & Mayoral Address 11:30am – 1:30pm Sponsored by: Times Colonist Thursday, May 31, 2012 Building Momentum Series – Keeping Score 8:00am – 10:00pm Sponsored by: KPMG
visit us on the web at www.chinookbusinessbrokers.ca Chinook Business Brokers is a full service Business Brokerage offering businesses for sale on Vancouver Island. We specialize in valuating, packaging, listing and selling existing business opportunities, new business opportunities, and franchise opportunities. Chinook Business Brokers provides comprehensive personal support to our clients through every stage of the transaction. From the initial business valuation, through the due diligence process, to signing the final documents, Chinook Business Brokers offers guidance every step of the way. We create an environment where you can access the information necessary to make decisions, enabling you to maximize your investment and minimize your risk.
For a free, no obligation Courtesy Business Valuation please contact Keith MacKenzie, CBB at (250) 710-3265 or email kmackenzie@chinookbusinessbrokers.ca
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MAY & JUNE EVENTS Tuesday, June 12, 2012 Six for Lunch 12:00pm – 1:30 pm Members only please Thursday, June 14, 2012 Building Momentum Series – Marketing for Success 8:00am – 10:00pm Sponsored by: KPMG Thursday, June 14, 2012 Prodigy Group April Mingle 5:00pm – 7:00pm Members & their guests only please
DROWNING IN UNEXPECTED EXPENSES?
Tuesday, June 19, 2012 Victoria Chamber & Tourism Victoria Golf Tournament 10:30am – 6:30pm Hosted by: Olympic View Golf Course, 643 Latoria Rd. Thursday, June 21, 2012 June Business Mixer 5:00pm – 7:00pm Members & their guests only please
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BUSINESSMATTERS 19
Economic Roundtables Taking the Pulse of the Local Economy In an effort to provide our members with a better understanding of the nuances of our local economy, The Chamber holds Economic Roundtables with local businesses and economic stakeholders. They are invited to talk about what is happening in our region’s economy and share insights into sector challenges and opportunities. Conversation centers on current conditions, the steps being taken to continue growing and how they are positioning themselves to take advantage of better times to come.
Banking
Victorians, like most Canadians, have been hoarding their cash since 2008 while economic instability swirled around. During that time, very few people took out loans, instead stockpiling their money away and creating an imbalance between the loan book and the deposit book for many institutions. Some institutions were seeing the deposits side of their business nearly double the loans side, a ratio that is normally quite close. This trend is starting to reverse as Victorians are easing up on the hoarding of their cash and beginning to take out loans.
Since the fall, loan requests have been growing in the 5 to 10 per cent range and the banking industry is forecasting a good year. Loan rules are still being stringently applied, but the message was clear, the banking industry is open for business and looking to loan money.
Technology
In a word – growth. Many of the firms have been seeing double-digit growth annually for the last few years. This trend did slow down but didn’t falter despite the strength of the Canadian dollar. Clients for this sector are North America-wide or international for the most part, creating a positive flow of money into our local economy. This sector has a high value for Victoria, employing desirable staff at better than average wages with minimal waste by-products creating a positive ripple effect across the region. The challenges they are regularly facing relate to finding both the right staff and sufficient staff to grow their business.
Development
The real estate market was deeply impacted by the HST. The recent unveiling of a series of HST relief
measures for home buyers is starting to make a difference in sales. The units that are selling are considered to be at the lower end of the scale while the higher-end homes are moving very slowly. In Victoria, there seems to be a trend towards relative downsizing people moving out of their million dollar properties and into $700,000 homes. Developers considering new opportunities are finding that loans are being stringently reviewed and aggressive targets of pre-sales of between 70 to 75 per cent are mandated as a minimum. Regional differences are creating both challenges and opportunities beyond the typical location argument. The development approval process in Langford can take as few as 3 months whereas in Victoria the process may take as long as 2 years but allows for increased density.
Tourism
The tourism industry is susceptible to many outside influences beyond their control from the horrendous price of gas to something as simple as a flu outbreak. Many of the larger hotels in town, such as the Coast Victoria Harbourside and Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort, are taking this slower period as an opportunity to upgrade and renovate in anticipation of a resurgence in tourism forecast for 2014. The other bright spot is the reemergence of Tourism BC. In its former heydays as a crown corporation it was seen as an industry leader, able to drive significant tourism dollars with minimal budgets. There is bated breath across the sector as everyone waits to see what the new Tourism BC will be able to do.
Transportation - Air
1.5 million people dash across the carpets at Victoria Airport each year. This is slightly down - around one per cent – but compared to the numbers at other regional airports, relatively flat numbers is a positive. Westjet regional service is looking at expansion that could bring about better service to Kelowna as well as new service to Prince George and Vancouver. The next likely opportunity for Westjet expansion includes service to LA. Diversification and expansion are the key drivers for the airport. Construction at the airport includes the new Sobey’s warehouse and some light industrial companies with each new tenant providing supplemental revenue for their new landlord, the Victoria Airport Authority.
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Evolution HR Services HR Services to support business goals. 20+ years experience in technology, financial services, fortune 500 companies and many countries. 250.208.4605 kathy@evolutionhrservices.com Regus The world’s largest provider of workspace solutions; offering furnished office space, meeting rooms, business lounges, video conferencing, reception facilities, phone messaging and many other services. 778.410.5000 elizabeth.backman@regus.com www.regus.ca This Guy Contracting Services Ltd. We do small renovations, fences, decks, odd jobs and take on challenges. Estimates are always free. Why would you want to hire THAT GUY when THIS GUY can do it cheaper. 778.678.8588 thisguyltd@shaw.ca www.facebook.com/thisguyltd2008 Nurse Next Door - Esquimalt & Western Communities It’s about caring, not just healthcare. Our goal isn’t simply to provide care, but to get you healthy and happy again. Let us ensure the details are taken care of so you can breathe a sigh of relief. Our approach to caring is different. And we’re proud of it. 250.590.6141 esquimalt@nursenextdoor.com www.nursenextdoor.com
Dress Me Up Organic Dress Me Up Organic is a small independent toy company. We specialize in the manufacturing of handmade organic soft toys, eco-teethers and baby linens. 250.590.4670 jen@dressmeuporganic.com www.dressmeuporganic.com Dog Nation Dog Nation is a novel and original mobile hot dog grill with a unique multicultural approach, offering gourmet hotdogs from around the world. 250.882.8224 inquiries@hotdognation.ca www.hotdognation.ca Wizard of Paws Grooming At Wizard of Paws Grooming, we strive to provide the most positive experience possible for you and your pet. Chemical free, kennel free facility. Some of the best grooming prices in Victoria. 250.590.5171 pawwizard@live.com www.victoriadoggrooming.com Tatiana Kostour - Violinist Performing at different events, corporate and private functions. String faculty member at Victoria Conservatory of Music. Private violin and piano instructions.250.508.9409 info@tatianakostour.com www.tatianakostour.com
NEW MEMBERS
Franklin Templeton Investments Franklin Templeton Investments delivers an extensive array of investment solutions from one global platform, offering products under the Franklin, Templeton, Mutual Series, Bissett and Fiduciary brands. 250.588.7288 jhelm@franklintempleton.ca www.franklintempleton.ca
Seeker Solutions We create software to extract relevant information from unstructured natural language documents. The objective is to make the growing volume of available data useful to decision makers. 250.483.4129 robyn.quinn@seekersolutions.com www.seekersolutions.com
TD Canada Trust
It’s our business to understand and help build your business We offer businesses a range of innovative, specialized products and services. Our specially trained and dedicated Small Business Advisors are committed to helping you by providing: • Insightful advice and innovative financial solutions • Flexible products and services • Branches open longer* to suit your busy schedule
Contact us today to discover how we can make your business banking easier. Bruce Read Area Manager, Business Banking 1080 Douglas St. Victoria 250-507-1067 bruce.read@td.com
Banking can be this comfortable *On average versus any other Canadian Bank. Individual branch hours may vary. ® / The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank or a wholly-owned subsidiary, in Canada and/or other countries.
BUSINESSMATTERS 21
NEW MEMBERS Your Pet Pals Our focus is pet health and we carry only the highest quality food. We specialize in alternative treatments, homeopathic remedies, herbs & nutritional supplements. 250.360.1322 lori@yourpetpals.com www.yourpetpals.com Salon Label Inc. Salon and Beauty Industry specialists in brand creation and product development. Full research, development and consulting services including small to medium scale manufacturing. 250.590.7999 james@salonlabel.com www.salonlabel.com
Camargue Investments/ Properties Inc. Member of the Denux Group, a family based group of companies with real estate holdings on Vancouver Island, Calgary, Montreal and Montpellier France. 250.686.4746 robin@groupedenux.com www.groupedenux.com St. John Ambulance St. John Ambulance is the only safety advocate providing First Aid solutions anytime, anywhere – your one-stop shop for first aid training, kits, supplies and publications. 250.388.5505 cmcphee@bc.sja.ca www.sja.ca/bc
UC Life Chiropractic Centre Inc. Upper cervical, a discipline of chiropractic focussing on finding & correcting the root cause of chronic conditions. Restoring the natural healing potential. 250.386.5433 drtayal@uclife.ca www.uclife.ca Outshine Salon & Spa Is an integrated beauty centre, services we provide are skin solutions, esthetics, hair, body treatments and now featuring weight loss using the ‘Ideal Protein’ method. 250.383.5598 kepoole@telus.net www.outshinesalonandspa.com Creative Juices Award winning communicator, strategist and brand builder. Assists in all aspects of marketing from strategy to conceptualization and implementation. 250.508.1409 bradfelt@creativejuices.ca www.creativejuices.ca Ribbon - The Gift of Choice ‘Ribbon’ Gift Collections provide you with a simple, cost-effective solution to show your appreciation of employees and customers. For recognition? Ribbon – The Gift of Choice. 250.812.3561 dharsent@shaw.ca www.myribbongift.ca 4 Refuel We increase your productivity and save labour dollars by providing on site diesel refueling to company fleets, construction fleets, construction sites, marine and home heating. Servicing Victoria and Duncan. 250.893.0810 vi4refuel@shaw.ca www.4refuel.com Purolator 778.229.1579 jlinden@purolator.com www.purolator.com Life on Purpose I help businessmen and professionals find the answers and solutions they are looking for in business and life so they can have the success, satisfaction and happiness they want! 250.889.0988 shane@lifeopc.com www.lifeopc.com Art Department Design A quality graphic design studio offering clients all the benefits of a full service agency for a fraction of the price. 25 years experience. Traditional art techniques or integration into the electronic world. 250.381.4290 victora@artdepartmentdesign.com www.artdepartmentdesign.com DesignHouse Salon Our salon community will be focussed on achieving a supportive and mutually beneficial environment of wellness for inner and outer beauty. Hair.Spa.Health. 250.516.1485 chantellepasychny@gmail.com www.designhousesalon.com SureWork Solutions Ltd. Affordable live in homecare for seniors, disabled, and nanny care for children. One caregiver for one client. 250.361.2028 ben@sureworksolutions.com www.sureworksolutions.com
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NEW MEMBERS
Nirvana Pet Resort Inc. Cat and dog grooming by profesional groomer. 2200 sq. ft. area for large dog daycare, seperate small dog daycare. Boarding for dogs and cats. 250.380.7795 nirvana_pet@live.ca www.nirvanapetresort.weebly.com
Locate Your Soulmate Matchmaking Ltd. A Professional Matchmaking company based in Victoria, BC. We offer singles a safe, off-line, and highly personalized approach to finding love. 250.418.0982 info@locateyoursoulmate.com www.locateyoursoulmate.com
Uniqua Spa Uniqua Spa offers a stunning waterfront experience beyond your wildest dreams. Our treatments include massage, facials, manicures, pedicures, make-up application & tinting and waxing. We nourish your mind, body and spirit. 250.478.1763 info@uniquaspa.com www.uniquaspa.com
Instruction Professionals Instruction Professionals is a leader in designing, developing, and delivering training. We have built long lasting client relationships by offering the best educational designers and training professionals available in Canada. 778.677.0344 jlenardon@instruction-pros.com www.instruction-pros.com
Bosley's Pet Food Plus- Royal Oak 250.744.1125 brunoroti@hotmail.com www.bosleys.com
Tofino Vacation Rentals Inc. Tofino’s premier provider of vacation rentals offers a portfolio of privately owned beachfront and oceanfront homes, cabins and condos. 1.250.725.2779 leahmcdiarmid@shaw.ca www.tofinovr.com
Stevenson Doell We specialize in Personal Injury and Family Law matters, but also handle Wills, Estates, Corporate and Conveyancing of real estate, as well as Criminal matters. 250.388.7881 inge@stevensondoell.com www.stevensondoell.com Saanichton Massage Therapy We offer 34 years of combined Massage Therapy experience for our clients' healthcare needs utilizing Deep Tissue Therapy, Cranial Sacral Therapy and Pregnancy Massage Therapy. 250.652.5740 saanichtonmassagetherapy@gmail.com Action Talent Sports Management Action Talent Sports Management – partnering corporations, who recognize the value of sponsorship, with Canadian high-performance Olympic, World Cup and X-Games athletes. 604.696.6296 connie@actiontalent.ca www.actionsportsmanagement.ca
Island Montessori House Society / School Island Montessori is an inclusive, integrated and nurturing preschool, kindergarten and grade 1/2 program. We are located in a lovely rural setting. 250.592.4411 imhs@telus.net www.islandmontessori.com
West Bay Auto Sales 778.433.5511 sean@siguyscomputers.com Chinook Business Brokers Chinook Business Brokers is a full service brokerage offering businesses for sale on Vancouver Island. We evaluate, package, list and sell existing businesses, new businesses, and franchises. 250.812.0089 kmackenzie@chinookbusinessbrokers.ca www.chinookbusinessbrokers.ca Maple Leaf School of Ballet We offer ballet students the opportunity to be instructed by a past professional dancer in a gothic revival setting usually only enjoyed in a European environment. 250.514.5021 karen-lorene@hotmail.com
Canadian Custom Cleaners To provide an affordable, efficient & worry free custom solution designed to meet all your cleaning needs. We provide an industry leading cleaning team & unsurpassed service. 250.800.0922 jneill@teamccc.ca www.teamccc.ca
Greg Sheres Inc. Greg Sheres Inc. manufactures all types of furniture and fixtures for commercial and residential applications. We provide design, production, and installation at highly competitive prices.250.858.6867 gsheres@sheres.com www.sheres.com
Adventure Travel Company 250.405.5880 victoria@atcadventure.com www.atcadventure.com
Chrisal Canada Ltd. CHRISAL Canada Ltd. has acquired a breakthrough technology for cleaning all types of facilities from healthcare to commercial and institutions to agriculture. 250.519.0244 johnedwards@chrisal.ca www.chrisal.ca
Shelley Quinte, Labour & Employment Law Experienced management-side labour, employment and human rights lawyer, providing advice and representation in all aspects of the employment relationship, from pre-emptive planning to litigation. 250.213.2400 shelley@shelleyquinte.com www.shelleyquinte.com
Sweet Beginnings North America's leading wedding consulting, event planning and decor rental firm. 250.885.6040 sweetbeginningsvictoria@shaw.ca www.asweetbeginning.com
UpanUp Studios UpanUp provides cutting edge digital communications for leading companies & organizations. Our offerings include web application, websites, mobile solutions, web marketing campaigns and digital creative. 250.590.1721 peterk@upanupstudios.com www.upanupstudios.com
Maurice Properties Ltd. As of October 1st 2012, Maurice Properties Ltd. focuses on Strata Property Management. 250.634.8144 pmaurice@shaw.ca Fan Tan Entertainment Inc. Fantan Group specializes in the management and execution of large-scale, outdoor sports and music productions, custom-designed conferences and festivals for both live and television audiences. 250.414.0006 ext.201 melissa.legge@fantangroup.com www.fantangroup.com
Island Photobooth Proud to be Vancouver Island's original Photobooth rental company. We create the ultimate party favor and entertainment service for special occasions. 250.897.9109 blair@islandphotobooth.com www.islandphotobooth.com Pikosocial Media Inc. Pikosocial works with clients to define their marketing strategy. We then develop class leading campaigns and execute tactics, across relevant channels that deliver results. 778.677.0050 jude@pikosocial.com www.pikosocial.com
The real people behind computer support
www.tecnet.ca Work from virtually anywhere and on almost any device. From Office 365 mobile work force solutions to full computer and systems management and with over 37 years of experience Tecnet has an innovative service solution to keep your computers and systems running at peak performance keeping your staff effective and productive. For more information call 250-475-6066 ext 3 or email sales@tecnet.ca
BUSINESSMATTERS 23
NEW MEMBERS Your G RE EN
The Soap Exchange The Soap Exchange can help your business store aner reduce your waste management cle ER and removal costs and cleaning product costs, while providing environmentally-sensitive, 100% biodegradable products. 250.475.0033 cleanguy@pacificcoast.net www.victoriasoapexchange.com
Recruitment with great taste! Staffing professionals who go the extra mile to match the right candidate with the right employer.
Call us today 250.381.3254 Main Floor, 1124 Fort Street Victoria, BC www.pgstaff.com New Look. New Site. Check us out online.
Tactix Leadership Inc. TACTIX Leadership Inc. assists you to improve the capacity of your Association or organization, large or small. We provide guidance to Association leaders to develop and implement transformational strategy. We facilitate TACTIX Leadership Inc. stakeholder and Association Excellence special interest group engagements. 250.382.3437 pservos@tactixleadership.com www.tactixleadership.com www.tactixleadership.com
Anna's Hair Design 250.361.2662 annashairdesign@hotmail.com The UPS Store The UPS Store supports small business by offering a one-stop shop for digital printing, copying, mail box rentals, packing, worldwide shipping services & much more. 250.380.7023 store116@theupsstore.ca www.theupsstore.ca/116 Nova Beauty Nova has served the Beauty industry for over twenty years and has never lost sight of the importance of extending our service far beyond the products we represent. 250.382.3636 darren@novabeauty.com www.novabeauty.com
devEdge Internet Marketing Helping businesses find new customers and clients from online sources. Guaranteed to TACTIX Leadership Inc. assists you to improve the capacity of your create a positive ROI. Association or organization, large or small. Earth's Option- Cremation & Burial Services We use ethical, proven, The principle consultant of the company, Paul Servos, has three What makes us different? We come to you, we and measurable Internet decades of demonstrated success leading Associations facing serious specialize in “Green” Burial ,weinare marketing challenges a widenot rangecorporate of governance structures and lines oftechniques. business. Paul has walked many miles in your shoes and can quickly owned, and we will do everything we 250.516.4327 assess the situation you face. can to exceed your expectations. kevin@devedge.ca We provide guidance to Association leaders to www.devedge-internet-marketing.com develop and 778.440.8500 earthsoption@shaw.ca implement transformational strategy. www.earthsoption.com Daksha's Gourmet Spices We freshly grind our spices to Flowers by Anthony manufacture 10 delicious curry Boutique floral shop dedicated to providing blends, Chai Latté and Chai superior, creatively styled arrangements. We are Spice which are all gluten free, committed to your absolute no salt added and no MSG. satisfaction and are privileged 778.426.1441 to service the corporate daksha@spicesgourmet.com client with above and beyond www.spicesgourmet.com service. 250.383.5116 cathy.compagna@gmail.com www.flowersbyanthonybc.com
Save The Date! For the Prodigy Group’s Mentorship Mingle With esteemed guest speaker Mr. Terry Farmer - Founder and Chairman Accent Inns, Governors’ Lifetime Achievement Award Winner. RSVP to mingles@prodigygroup.ca
may 10
5:00-7:00 pm
Thank You to Our Amazing Race Sponsors!
A huge THANK YOU to our generous sponsors for helping to make the Prodigy Group’s 2012 Amazing Race a great success! Academy of Learning Bosley’s Pet Food Plus Canoe Club 9ONE9 Cedarwood Productions
24 BUSINESSMATTERS
Executive House Hotel Grant Thornton Maximum Express Maximum Furniture Warehouse
Party Guy Tech Guys The Bay Centre Victoria Athletic Club
NEW MEMBERS Freedom 55 Financial Through our financial security advisors, Freedom 55 Financial, a division of London Life Insurance Company, offers Canadians financial security advice and planning. www.freedom55financial.com 250.475.1100 x403 chris.johnstone@f55f.com www.chrisjohnstone.ca
Cooper Financial Tracking Benefit Trends for Employees Benefits & Individual Insurance Products for over 30 years. We offer Cost - Effective planning solutions for Businesses & Individuals with innovative knowledge & skill. 250.475.0557 ext.105 stephanie@cooperfinancial.ca www.cooperfinancial.ca
Vancouver Island Conference Centre Experience the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Vancouver Island’s newest and most exciting meeting and events venue located in downtown Nanaimo, BC. 250.244.4050 dboleszczuk@viconference.com www.viconference.com
Victoria Home Staging Inc. Sell fast for higher price shorter period of time! Real estate agent and certified homestager with staging team! Unique, proven, integrity beyond. Call today. 250.857.6666 cathy@cathytravis.ca www.victoriahomestaginginc.com
Quills Promotional Products We specialize in reproducing Corporate, Logos, Fine Art, Native Art, etc. onto over 300,000 promotional items. We have a standardized lowest price across Canada with 3500 professional suppliers. 250.727.6777 q777@quillstees.com www.quillspromotionalproducts.com
Social Media Camp Social Media Camp brings together the brightest social media minds in North America for 2 days (June 8-9, 2012) of social media exploration, sharing & teaching, with a large dash of networking. 250.508.7761 chris@socialmediacamp.ca www.socialmediacamp.ca
It’s simple. Hire a student. See results. It’s simple. Hire a student. See results.
Co-op students have the skills and energy to help your workplace excel.
Contact us today
to hire a student. Work terms normally begin in January, May and September.
Co-operative Education and Student Employment www.camosun.ca/cese 250.370.4410
Co-operative Education Program and Career Services www.uvic.ca/coopandcareer/ employers learninginmotion.uvic.ca 250.721.7628
BUSINESSMATTERS 25
ADVOCACY IN ACTION The Victoria Chamber works to have a constructive influence on public policy on a variety of issues that support our members and a healthy, free enterprise system. In regular meetings with MLAs, MPs and Ministers, the Chamber lobbies government, and in recent months, has been particularly successful in having our policies adopted as government legislation. Chamber Call for Sustainable City Budgets Supported by Two Reports The Chamber agreed with a City of Victoria report highlighting the need to manage municipal finances in a more sustainable way, but is concerned that continually slashing capital budgets and reserves will only make things worse in the future. For some time now tax hikes have been far in excess of the GDP, average wage increases or any other economic indicators available. Most businesses
and residents have had to adjust the way they operate in the current environment, finding ways to do more with less. The Chamber recognizes the tough economic conditions the region has faced and believes that there needs to be a stronger emphasis on controlling spending by all municipalities. As part of the Chamber’s ongoing advocacy efforts Chamber staff worked with a consultant retained by the City of Victoria to review the City’s property tax structure and its impact on the business community. The consultant’s report highlighted the Chamber’s concerns about the overall level of spending and recommended that the portion supported by the business community be reduced over the next three years.
Chamber Call for BC Transit Tax Relief Supported The Chamber advocated for, and was encouraged by, the recent news that BC Transit will not be asking for a property tax increase and has indicated that they will lower the business tax ratio from 5:1 to 4.85:1. Over the past year the Victoria Chamber has
called for local governments and organizations like BC Transit to hold the line on property taxes. We are glad that they have recognized the pressures that residential and business taxpayers are under and chosen not to add to that burden. Our ongoing “Our Vibrant Community” campaign focuses on the pillars of affordability, accountability, transparency and collaboration. Minimizing budgetary and property tax increases is the first pillar in the initiative. We support the goals of public transportation and the principles of sustainability, and continue to call for the formation of a regional transportation authority.
Chamber Meets with Federal Cabinet Ministers Moore and Duncan Following on the Chamber’s federal budget submission, the day after the recent federal budget the Chamber hosted a breakfast with federal Minister John Duncan to discuss the budget with regional economic stakeholders. The federal budget reinforced the Chamber’s call for balanced budgets and included over $100 million for upgrades to the Esquimalt Graving Dock, an important economic asset for the region. In meetings with Minister James Moore, the Chamber discussed other important regional assets, including recent funding for the E&N rail line. Also discussed were changes to the federal tax code to support workforce housing and the need for reforms to federal immigration programs to allow local businesses to attract and retain the workers they need.
Sasha Angus, Manager of Policy and Government Affairs at the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, with Federal Cabinet Minister James Moore at the Chamber luncheon on April 17, 2012.
26 BUSINESSMATTERS
Your Community.
Your
WE BUILD STRONG KIDS, STRONG FAMILIES AND STRONG COMMUNITIES YMCA-YWCA Greater Victoria • 851 Broughton Street, Victoria • Ph: 250-386-7511 • www.victoriay.com
CELEBRATE
Greater Victoria Business Awards 2012
Governors’ Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Mr. Terry Farmer, Founder & Co-Chairman, Accent Inns
Terry Farmer has what’s known around Accent Inns as the “sparkle factor.” That indefinable characteristic that energizes and inspires those around him, coupled with the drive to simply get the job done. What makes it notable is his generosity in sharing his talents through extensive community activism over the last few decades. His efforts with the Victoria, BC and Canadian Chambers of Commerce saw him catapulting through the ranks as director then president. He was one of the founding members of Tourism Victoria and once again, not content to follow, his vision placed him in the guiding role of Chair. His work with a wide variety of sports organizations
and charities over these last few decades – including the Commonwealth Games, Greater Victoria Hospital Society and Pacifica Housing - are a road map to Victoria’s communal spirit. His guidance and verve have not only benefitted associations, charities and boards, but Terry’s work as a mentor has also inspired on an individual level. “Our society depends on our young people, but we have to encourage them in their efforts. We also have to encourage our young people to get involved and give back. Join community organizations, give back to our society.” Terry counsels wisely.
Business Leadership Bee-Clean Building Maintenance Runner-up: Richmond Property Group Ltd.
Innovation VicPD Runner-up: Synergy Enterprises
New Business The London Chef Runner-up: Nurse Next Door - Esquimalt & Western Communities
Employer of the Year UNIT4 Business Software Runner-up: Tourism Victoria
Business of the Year (1-10 Employees) Lûxe Home Interiors Runner-up: Sector Learning Solutions
Sustainable Business Practice Monk Office Runner-up: Heritage Office Furnishings Victoria Ltd.
Business of the Year (11-25 Employees) Cairnview Mechanical Ltd. Runner-up: Smart Dolphins IT Solutions Inc.
Business Person of the Year Shelagh Rinald, Rinald Tax Advisory Inc. Runner-up: Deirdre Campbell, Tartan Group
Business of the Year (26-75 Employees) Root Cellar Village Green Grocer Ltd. Runner-up: CHEK News
Young Entrepreneur Richard Van Leeuwen, Academy of Learning Runner-up: Rachel Paish, Passion and Performance
Business of the Year (76+ Employees) Harbour Air Ltd. Runner-up: Connect Hearing Outstanding Customer Service Bath Fitter Runner-up: Pets West Ltd.
OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS:
COURIER, FREIGHT & LOGISTICS
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL 2012 FINALISTS!
Employee of the Year Rowena Hendriks, Carlton House of Oak Bay Runner-up: Amanda Broad, City Green Solutions Society