Staffing challenges
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November 2013 VICTORIACHAMBER.CA
Staffing:
A Spotlight on Challenges facing the Capital Region BUSINESSMATTERS
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COVER STORY
Preparing for 2014: How to plan for staffing challenges in the Capital Region p.6
CONTENTS 5 Victoria’s Harbour is Bright
Ebb and flow of ongoing changes in the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority.
6 Preparing for Staffing Challenges
Spotlight on challenges facing the Capital Region.
9 Member News
Keep up with what’s happening in The Chamber community.
14 Tips for Managing Your Finances for Rising Interest Rates
Insight into how businesses can prepare for rising interest rates.
16 Celebrating 150 Years of Building Business and Community 17 Calendar of Events 19 When Opportunity Knocks, Will Your Business be Ready? Succession planning for your business and how the GVDA can help.
21 New Members
Studies show that people prefer to do business with Chamber members. Check out who has recently made the decision to join us.
28 Industry Profile
Get connected with Greater Victoria’s tech industry through a tour of Synetic Inc. and interview with Moe Vesal.
30 Advocacy in Action
BC Ferries consultation…again!, Canadian Chamber AGM, proposed national marine conservation area, improving air access for the benefit of the national economy, streamlined visa process, and tourism sales tax rebate.
BUSINESS MATTERS November 2013 Business Matters is a bi-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
Publication Mail Poste-Publications 40005319
Cover photo courtesy of John Yanyshyn, Visions West Photography. www.visionswest.bc.ca
NOMINATE
recognition • promotion • celebration
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS Deadline to Nominate 4:30 p.m. on Monday January 13, 2014
Business awards finalists receive over $10,000 in promotion! NOMINATION INFORMATION SESSION Wednesday, December 4th at 8:00 a.m. Reserve your spot online!
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250.383.7191 victoriachamber.ca
VICTORIA’S HARBOUR IS BRIGHT Victoria’s harbour remains a dynamic and vibrant working harbour,” says Curtis Grad, President and Chief Executive Officer of GVHA. “The harbour serves the broad economic, environmental, and social interests of the region.”
Photo provided by Greater Victoria Harbour Authority.
The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) has seen continuous changes and improvements. Today, the GVHA finds itself in a stable financial position, with opportunities for further development. As the harbour continues to evolve into a spectacular gateway and key economic driver for the region, the GVHA along with its key stakeholders work hard to see their vision come to fruition. GVHA’s story started in 2002 when the government of Canada divested key harbour properties. The not-for-profit corporation was formed to ensure local governance over the deep-sea
terminal at Ogden Point, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the inner harbour marinas. GVHA is accountable to its nine member agencies which include First Nations, municipal and regional governments, the local chamber of commerce, tourism, and other key stakeholders. Its core purpose is the operation and investment in critical working harbour marine infrastructure and harbour-based economic development in order to support the local and regional economy. “GVHA collaborates with harbour partners on management and development opportunities to ensure
To date, Victoria’s harbour progress is marked by improvements at Fisherman’s Wharf, the Steamship Terminal revitalization, and the work to replace the Blue Bridge. Further change is inevitable with the recent announcements of planned water airport divestiture and closure of the Pacific Undersea Gardens. Much work has been done to upgrade GVHA properties over the years. Since 2002, GVHA has invested more than $19.5 million into facility improvement to ensure growing revenues in order to reinvestment back into the facilities. Through GVHA’s structure and mandate, it will continue to work with all stakeholders invested in harbour developments. Collaborating with key players is an essential part of development and GVHA sees it as the only way forward in furthering harbour planning and upgrades. Not fearing change, but embracing it as the way to economic prosperity will ensure Victoria’s harbour remains bright for years to come.
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Preparing for Staffing Challenges
Photo provided by Camosun College AV Services.
The Regional Labour Market Outlook for Vancouver Island forecasts the present shortage in labour supply to continue through 2016. With the current upturn in the local economy over the past year, we can expect a busy 2014. Labour shortages pose challenges to employers when it comes to staffing their business. The current lack of skilled labour in the Capital Region is further complicated by the low unemployment rate, currently at 5.8 per cent. While having one of the lowest unemployment rates in the province is something to be proud of, it also leaves businesses in a difficult situation when it comes to hiring new employees. Employers not only have to deal with a shortage of available skilled labour, but also face additional factors that exacerbate the problem including high turnover, an inexperienced labour pool, and the high cost of living. With all the
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benefits of living in the beautiful Greater Victoria area, we must remain conscious of the high cost of living in Victoria. This is especially true when attracting employees from different regions of B.C. and all across Canada. Businesses may need to look at workers with less experience or reevaluate their labour needs.
shortages. Employers need to become more flexible in a competitive job market. Businesses can expand their sources of labour by reviewing their job placement needs. Updating or combining job descriptions that meet the available skills in the labour market can help. In addition, assessing training options for potential employees may alleviate staffing pressures.
While having one of the lowest unemployment rates in the province is something to be proud of, it also leaves businesses in a difficult situation when it comes to hiring new employees.
Employers can increase successful hiring practices by learning more about the demographics of potential labour available on the market. What are their priorities? What is attractive to them in securing employment? Learning more about what skilled labour values can give employers a better idea of what employees are looking for when they job prospect. Employers can also expand their labour pool by posting jobs more broadly, including industry specific job boards. In addition, businesses can access college and university students by posting jobs with the respective school in order to fill positions. Often co-op students are highly skilled and eager to learn on the job. This also offers a way to directly market open positions to those with the academic background desired.
In many ways, employers will have to change the way they think about hiring and staffing their business to address the issue of labour
Businesses can benefit from having processes in place to address employee turnover. Having staff trained in order to take over positions is one way that businesses can prepare for staff leaving their organizations. Other processes include succession planning, career development and promotion opportunities. Succession planning can assist in business knowledge transfer to other employees or managers. Career development and promotions can provide a clear and consistent path for advancement in your business. A great source of skilled labour is within your own organization. Your current staff already know the organization and are your best source of skilled labour. Frank Bourrée, CEO of Chemistry Consulting, a Victoriabased business and human resources consulting group, offers advice to Victoria businesses that their first priority should be retaining existing staff. “Staffing retention is critical as well as growth opportunities for staff,” says Bourrée. He suggests businesses offer competitive salaries, a good work environment, and appropriate training for existing staff.
Frank Bourrée, CEO of Chemistry Consulting offers advice to Victoria businesses that their first priority should be retaining existing staff. Providing training to your current employees to fill labour gaps can also increase organizational loyalty and foster positive morale. Taking the time to know your staff and their career and development plans may also help in discovering their areas of interest and other skills they may have that can be a great asset to your business. Having defined career development programs within your business can also be an attractive incentive that can potentially increase your competitive advantage amongst other employers.
Photo provided by Camosun College AV Services.
Employee benefits can help you retain employees as well as improve employee morale. Having an attractive benefits package can also attract talent to your business. These benefits can be from the conventional health, dental, and RRSP contributions, to the more creative such as sporting event tickets, parking, and health-club memberships. There are other competitive advantages that businesses can bring to the negotiating table. Employers can be competitive in the labour market by acknowledging lifestyle and transportation needs. Not all these benefits require financial incentives. An accommodating schedule, flex-time, and work-share are some options to look at. Flexible schedules can attract and assist employees with commuting challenges, by providing start times during off-peak traffic times.
M
aximizing illennials
• Millennials want to learn and grow with you • Millennials are tech-savvy multi-taskers • Millennials can be a social media megaphone for your company • Millennials are motivated by more than money • Millennials are mobile • Millennials want to lead
Photo provided by John Yanyshyn, Visions West Photography.
As a way of retaining employees, consider introducing employee benefits or adding to the benefits you already offer your employees. A strong benefits plan can assist in employee retention, reducing turnover.
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What is important for Generation Y Employees? Generation Y (Millennial Generation) currently the youngest working generation is virtually connected, teamoriented, and technologically savvy. Millennial employees are driving changes in human resource practices involving flexibility, transparency, and community.
Tools for recruitment and retention: • Flexibility - This can include flexibility in work locations, schedules, & assignments • Transparency - They want to understand the rationale behind decisions • Community - 90% of Millennials say they want their workplace to be social and fun Source: Society for Human Resource Management
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Finding employees that are the right fit for you and your business is an essential part of the hiring process. Be mindful that finding the “perfect” candidate with all the right qualifications may not be the right person for your organization. Training for newly hired employees can be a useful way to find the skills and people that you need.
Businesses will have to look at attracting employees much like they do in attracting customers. Bourrée also notes that many businesses have had tremendous success with “non-traditional” recruiting methods. These include hiring older workers; hiring youth, which have a 17 per cent unemployment rate; persons with disabilities; and aboriginal workers are all demographics with some of the highest unemployment rates.
For some businesses, labour shortages may be inevitable. In this case, looking into temporary foreign workers as well as immigration may be a potential avenue for your business to find available skilled workers. Many businesses, particularly in Alberta, have had great success with such programs. Looking into this option ahead of time to learn program details, employer requirements, and timeframes, can prepare you for the potential need for temporary foreign workers. In order to minimize the impacts of labour shortage, businesses will have to become competitive in the labour market. Businesses will have to look at attracting employees much like they do in attracting customers. It is a competitive market; however, on other lifestyle fronts Greater Victoria excels. Beautiful landscapes, community pride, and unparalleled harbour views make Greater Victoria an attractive place to live and adds an additional competitive advantage against other locations. Leveraging location and lifestyle preferences combined with your competitive employment offer can give your Greater Victoria-based business the competitive advantage to attract the right talent to our city.
Alice Munro Wins Nobel Prize for Literature Victoria was abuzz with the exciting news that Victoria’s very own Alice Munro had won the Nobel Prize for Literature. Alice and her former husband Jim Munro opened Munro’s Books in 1963. Jim Munro, who still owns the book store, was delighted with the news as customers filled the store shortly after the news broke of her win on October 10th. Alice Munro is the first Canadian-based author to win the prestigious award.
Connect Hearing One of Canada’s Best Employers for Young People The nation’s leading network of hearing-health clinics is now also among Canada’s Top 100 Employers for Young People. Among the considerations for the list are benefits such as tuition assistance, mentorship programs, professional development, and rate of advancement through an organization. Among the Victoria-based company’s policies that helped earn it the honour were initiatives such as: • Support for new moms and dads with parental leave top-up payments
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• Recruitment of new graduates from two academic programs at 13 major hiring locations across Canada • Social events throughout the year, including pizza days and beach volleyball tournaments
Each honoree in the Best for the World series is a Certified B Corporation (B Corp). Certified companies meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency and are required to maintain and improve on established standards regarding worker conditions, the environment and social causes.
With 112 clinics across Canada, Connect Hearing is Canada’s largest network of hearing professionals.
Rugby Canada Hosts IRB Americas Rugby Championship
A registered B Corp since April of this year, Enrollment Resources earned distinction in the Small Business category by scoring in the top 10 percent of all B Corps for positive impact on their workforce. Positive impact is measured by the B Impact Assessment, a comprehensive assessment used by more than 10,000 businesses to gauge impact on their workers, community, and the environment.
Rugby Canada welcomed the 4th Annual IRB Americas Rugby Championships in October. The three day event saw international rugby come back to Westhills Stadium with Canada taking on USA, Uruguay, and Argentina.
Enrollment Resources honoured for “Best for the Worker”
In completing the rigorous B Corp certification process and earning Best for the Worker distinction, ER cofounder and CEO Gregg Meiklejohn said, “Anyone can make a profit. The art of business is in making a profit while leaving your surroundings and those around you in better shape along the way.”
Enrollment Resources (ER), Victoriabased education marketing company, earned the title Best for the Worker this week during the B Corp Best for the World series. The awards were presented by B Lab, a non-profit organization dedicated to using the power of business to solve social and environmental problems.
There’s strength in numbers. Victoria is a great conference destination — work in partnership with the VCC team to showcase your vibrant, beautiful hometown. You can make a big difference by using your connections within your business, volunteer and community networks. Help fill Victoria with delegates who stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, and shop in our stores.
Give us a call — we’ll do the work and make you look good. You will also qualify to win an iPad or iPhone when your lead turns into a conference! Every delegate spends $450+ per day in our community. Help us to identify future business. Brenda Anderson Director of Sales & Marketing Direct: 250.361.1035 PREPARED FOR: VICTORIA CONFERENCE CENTRE PUBLICATION: CHAMBER BUSINESS MATTERS INSERTION DATE: MAY 2013 SIZE: 7.5” X 4.7” PREPARED BY: BRAVO ADVERTISING 250.590.1169 bravoadvertising.ca
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We’re so in the mood for Christmas. Polished service, an award-winning wine list, and a seasonal selection of innovative dishes and table d’hôte menus make The Mark your holiday dining experience to remember. Exclusive privacy for two or private functions up to twenty-six.
10Belleville BUSINESSMATTERS 463 Street, Victoria BC V8V 1X3 | www.hotelgrandpacific.com | 250.380.4478 | Complimentary Parking
Mayfair Centre Marks 50th Anniversary Mayfair Shopping Centre celebrated its 50th anniversary in October with historical exhibits, contests, and a special lounge to pamper shoppers. Mayfair opened its doors in 1963, and was the largest integrated retail complex on Vancouver Island. Today, Mayfair has grown from an open-air mall to an enclosed shopping centre featuring unique retailers to the Island.
Brink Events Hosts Gold Medal Plates: The Road to the Canadian Culinary Championships Brink Events hosted Gold Medal Plates in early November at the Victoria Conference Centre. Gold Medal Plates is the ultimate celebration of Canadian excellence in cuisine, wine, the arts, and athletic achievement. Celebrated in 10 cities across Canada in 2013, Gold Medal Plates features the premier chefs from around the province in a competition to crown gold, silver, and bronze medals. The competition is a fundraiser for Canadian Olympic athletes.
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Brink Events is an award-winning event design agency based out of Victoria. The full-service event company specializes in unique social events and high-end private parties for corporations and individuals taking imaginative concepts and ideas and transforming elegant venues into spectacular social events.
James Bay Tea Room Gets a Makeover Father-and-daughter business partners John and Heather MacPhee, who recently took over the James Bay Tea Room, were busy preparing for its grand opening on October 12th. The pair moved to Victoria in May and took over the business in June. Changes include an updated décor as well as an updated menu.
Our Place — Over 1,000 Thanksgiving Meals Served Around 1,000 of Victoria’s most vulnerable citizens gathered around Our Place’s family table for a special Thanksgiving meal on Thursday, October 10th thanks to the generous support of donors, community groups and volunteers.
The festivities included some special guests who rolled up their sleeves to help staff and volunteers dish out a full meal of turkey, potatoes, garden vegetables and all the trimmings.
“Thanksgiving is a special time to be with loved ones. For many of the people we welcome, we’re the closest family they have,” says Don Evans, executive director of Our Place. “We want everyone to feel a sense of belonging and enjoy a great meal.” This year that meal consisted of 1,000 lbs of turkey, 500 lbs of potatoes, 250 lbs of stuffing, 200 lbs of vegetables, 25 gallons of gravy, 55 lbs of cranberry sauce, 125 pumpkin pies and 1,500 cups of coffee. Our Place is a community centre serving Greater Victoria’s most vulnerable: working poor, impoverished elderly, individuals with mental health and physical challenges, and the homeless. In preparation for Christmas, Our Place is seeking volunteers and donations for its Community Christmas Meal on Thursday, December 19th. For more information visit ourplacesociety.com
Don’t stall on cleaning out your catch basins. Catch basins are designed to prevent pollutants and debris from entering our waterways. If they are not regularly maintained they can clog with dirt and debris causing flooding and releasing pollutants into the environment. To find a service provider or for more information, visit www.crd.bc.ca/catchbasin
www.crd.bc.ca
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See more: www.uvic.ca/timeformba
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City Receives Top International Honours The City of Victoria was recognized in October with two awards from the International Downtown Association: a Pinnacle Award for its Heritage Tax Incentive Program and a Merit Award for its Heavenly Lights Project in Chinatown. The awards were presented by the International Downtown Association (IDA) at an award ceremony in New York. “This is great recognition of the City’s work to preserve and celebrate Victoria’s unique downtown,” said Mayor Dean Fortin. “Both projects support downtown vibrancy and strengthen its presence as a destination for residents and visitors.” Victoria received top honours winning a Pinnacle Award for its Heritage Tax Incentive Program; a tax exemption designed to offset seismic upgrading costs for heritage buildings that convert empty or under used upper floors into residential units. The City also received a Merit Award for its Heavenly Lights Project, a partnership with the Downtown Victoria Business Association, and Chinatown community. The project
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includes the recent installation of colourful overhead decorations including two festive dragons, lanterns, and new lighting as part of an effort to further strengthen the presence of Victoria’s Chinatown as a downtown focal point for residents and visitors.
$21 Million Utility Corridor Construction is underway at CFB Esquimalt for a 500-meter underground utility corridor that will eventually carry everything from sewers to communications lines. The project costs are expected to be about $21 million and completion is expected in April 2014. Rick Gudz, site manager for Defence Construction Canada, said today’s investment in the corridor will pay off in huge savings in maintenance costs in the future.
$10,000 from Gord Bamford for Jeneece Place A Canadian country crooner with heart has left a big impact on Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. Gord Bamford was in town on October 8, 2013, to open for Reba McEntire at Save on Foods Memorial Centre. But before show time, he
visited the families at Jeneece Place, a home for families travelling to Victoria for their child’s medical care, which is owned and operated by Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. After meeting Jeneece Edroff, the teen fundraising sensation who helped raise $6.7 million for Jeneece Place, Bamford presented a cheque for $10,000 to support families staying at the house. While on tour, Bamford’s foundation will donate $100,000 to organizations that support children’s health.
Horticulture Centre of the Pacific Opens Couvelier Pavilion The Couvelier Pavilion was officially opened by Horticulture Centre of the Pacific patron the Honourable Judith Guichon Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. This building is a testament to the vision of Mel Couvelier, from his time as mayor of Saanich in the late 70s. This building replaces the old greenhouse that was destroyed by fire in 2011. The pavilion is now a state of the art 2000 sq ft. facility available to host community and educational events at the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific.
Stepping into 2014 with a New Ambrosia! Our refurbished, 3000 sq/ft ballroom features a new wood floor; and we can accommodate up to 200 people for your next holiday party.
Come on out and cut a rug... so to speak. Book your next on-site catered event:
Ambrosia Centre
638 Fisgard Street, Victoria
250 475-1948
www.ambrosiacentre.com office@ambrosiacatering.ca
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Tips for managing your finances for Rising Interest Rates By: Shelly Jensen
While the Canadian economy has weathered many storms in recent years, businesses across the country and on Vancouver Island have continued to perform well. The 2013 BMO Small Business Confidence Report showed that Canadian businesses remain confident in their business prospects and the state of the economy this year, and that British Columbia is leading the way. Business owners here are the most confident in the country about business growth. Of all B.C. business owners surveyed, 69 per cent were positive about the economy, compared to the national average of 62 per cent. Feedback from Victoria business owners indicates that they are, for the most part, cautiously optimistic about the future. We (at BMO) are seeing some of this optimistic nature, as our
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loan advances increased between eight to nine per cent versus last year, which is three times what we would have anticipated based on the fact that our B.C. GDP was forecast at 1.7 per cent. I realize this is BMO talking, and I hope that we’ve outdone our competitors, but I have to think it’s more than just that our team doing a great job, I think this is saying that many of our customers are feeling confidence. Despite this good news, it is important for businesses to remain diligent to the risks they face, as interest rates are likely to rise in 2015.
I recently spoke to Douglas Porter, Chief Economist BMO Capital Markets, about his forecast on rates. In his words, “We’re looking for the Bank of Canada to embark on a slow and cautious tightening cycle in the first quarter of 2015 after more than four years of no change, lifting them half a percentage point by the end of 2015. The risks are skewed to pushing back that call as our U.S. and Canadian growth forecasts have been downgraded consistently over the course of 2013, but barring a madein-Canada economic downturn, the better starting point for Canada clearly makes the case for the Bank to raise interest rates ahead of the U.S. Federal Reserve.”
Here are four items for business owners and managers to consider in a rising interest rate environment: 1. How much flexibility do you have if rates increase? Do a sensitivity analysis: For every half percentage point rate increase on a $250,000 loan (amortized over five years), payments would increase by approximately $60.00 per month. Consider how much of a rate increase you could comfortably manage. 2. If you are planning an investment in machinery, equipment or real estate with financing in 2015, consider the cost benefits of purchasing prior to a potential rate increase. As the economy recovers, you will want to be as productive as possible. Financing costs are at historic lows, meaning now is a good time for many companies to invest in equipment or machinery for their business.
Keep in mind that variable and fixed interest rates do not necessarily move in tandem. Fixed rate moves are motivated by larger global economic and political changes, while variable rates are typically impacted by Canadian influences. Your banker and accountant stand ready to advise business owners on strategic spending and investment decisions that will help boost productivity and expand into new markets, both at home and abroad. Make sure a banker is one of your trusted advisors and discuss any ideas with them early in the planning process, along with your lawyer and accountant, who are excellent resources as you strive to achieve your business goals.
Shelly Jensen District Vice President, Vancouver Island, BMO Bank of Monteral
...it is important for businesses to remain diligent to the risks they face, as interest rates are likely to rise in 2015. 3. Typically, in a rising interest rate environment, the Canadian dollar also rises, which can affect each business differently. For businesses that export products to the U.S., this is not necessarily good news; however, with the current forecasted gradual nature of the interest rate increases, this increase may not be as painful. 4. Consider locking in your rate on any borrowings you do have while rates are low, or even consider 50 per cent of your loan fixed and the remaining variable to protect against the upside and reduce your risk. For larger loan amounts (over $5 million), consider an interest rate swap agreement which allows you to convert from your variable rate loan into an agreed upon fixed rate. Swaps are contractual agreements where counterparties generally exchange fixed and floating rate interest payments based on a notional amount in a single currency.
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Where emerging business leaders need to be.
It’s Our Birthday and We Can Mingle if We Want To! Save the Date January 9th for the Prodigy Group’s 7th birthday. Email mingles@prodigygroup.ca
publik night club 1318 Broad St.
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5:00 - 7:00 pm
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OCTOBER MARKETPLACE MIXER
Thank you to all of our sponsors and participating exhibitors for making our October Marketplace Mixer a success!
Advanced Listening Systems Beverly Carter Notary Public Canadian College of Performing Arts Canadian Linen & Uniform Service Certified Management Accountants and Chartered Accountants Choices Adoption & Counselling Cooper Financial Integrated Benefit Solutions First Memorial Funeral Services Geoff McLean Personal Real Estate Corp. RE/MAX Camosun Goodlife Fitness Horticulture Centre of the Pacific Investors Group - Chatterton Island Blue Print Co. Ltd. Jack Insurance & Financial Services Kids and Company Limitless Stone Effects Contractors Ltd.
Max Furniture Maximum Express Courier, Freight & Logistics Mighty Oaks Mobile Tile NexGen Hearing - Industrial Pacific Coastal Airlines Patwell Consulting Prodigy Group Public Works and Government Services Canada RBC Financial Group - Commercial Financial Services, V. I. South Rogers Broadcasting - 103.1 Jack FM & The Ocean FM 98.5 Royal Canadian Legion Trafalgar/Pro Patria Branch #292 Ruffell & Brown Interiors Ltd. Serenity Home Care Ltd. SHC Autographx Wheel & Tire
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Showtime Event and Display Steamship Grill and Taphouse Stewart Monumental Works Ltd. est. 1896 Talentcor TD Bank Financial Group The Bay Centre The Parkside Hotel & Spa Times Colonist UC Life Chiropractic Centre Inc. Victoria Box & Paper Ltd. Victoria Cool Aid Society Community Casual Labour Pool Victoria Royals Victoria’s Dental Hygiene Clinic View Royal Casino West Shore U-Lock Mini Storage Ltd. WildPlay Element Parks Wizard Screens and More Victoria
When Opportunity knocks will your business be ready?
Business Owner Getting Older Business Owner Getting Olde
400 350 1900-2000
2001-2012 1900-2000
200 150 90 94 98 02 06 10 14 18 100
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As the average age of the population gets older—so does the business community. 50 With over 18,000 registered businesses in the Capital Region, there4.5is potentially 400 a significant number of business owners looking at retirement. This means there is 0 4.0 350 about to be a “brain drain” in the region—not in the traditional sense (meaning that talented people leave); rather, talented people with and industry 3.5 300 years of experience 1900-2000 2001-2012 knowledge are about to vacate Business Owner Getting Older 3.0 250 those positions of ownershipBusiness and OwnerBusiness Getting Older Owner Getting Older leadership. Succession planning 2.5 200 No. of Business Owners No. of Business Owners allows for this valuable knowledge Age 55+ Age 55+ Business Owner 2.0 150 Getting Older 90 94 98 02 06 10 14 18 to be passed on. 400 4.5 Forecast 4.5 1.5Average 000s 100 400 Business Owner Owner Older Getting Old y/y % chgGetting 350 4.0 Business 350 4.0 4.5 400 Statistics Canada, CIBC The Greater Victoria Development Source: Sourc 1.0 50 300 3.5 300 3.5 1900-2000 2001-2012 Agency (GVDA) gets calls on a 1900-2000 2001-2012 350 4.0 250 3.0 400 4.5 0 5.0 250 3.0 regular basis from business owners 200 2.5 3.5 350 300 4.0 who are looking to sell their 200 2.5 0.0 1900-2000 2001-2012 150 2.0 business. In many cases, these90 94 98 02 06 15010 14 18 2.0 300 250 3.5 3.0 40 100 1.5 94 98 02 06 10 14 18 1900-2000 2001-2012 business owners90are surprised 100 1.5 3.0 250 200 50 1.0 2.5 to learn that the current value of 35 50 1.0 0 5.0 200 2.5 their business is not exactly what No. of Business Owners 2.0 150 0.0 10 14 18 0 90 94 98 02 06 5.0 30 Age 55+their they need to retire. From 150 2.0 1900-2000 1900-2000 2001-2012 2001-2012 90 94 98 02 06 10 14 18 1.5 100 0.0 perspective, they built a reputable 100 1.5 25 company with healthy financials 50 1.0 No. of Business Owners 1.0 50 Source: Statistics Canada, CIBC 20 and good employees—which Age 55+ 0 5.0 No. of Business Owners Age 55+
Associate Member Members of the Victoria community may apply for Associate membership. Monthly dues are $20 plus applicable taxes (Annually: $240 plus applicable taxes)
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Business Owner Getting Older
A quick glance at Greater Victoria’s demographics point to imminent challenges related to business succession in the region. In the 2006 Census, 17.8 per cent of our local population was over age 65 and has grown to 18.4 per cent in 2011. The Victoria Foundation’s recent report, Vital Signs 2013, revealed that one-in-four members of the population would soon be 65 or older.
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Corporate Membership There is no initiation fee and Annual membership dues are only $670 plus applicable taxes. This entitles five members of the company to have signing privileges at the Club throughout the year. Ph: 250-721-7935 | club.uvic.ca
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Source: Statistics Canada, CIBC
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0.0 18 90 94 98 90 02 94 06 98 10 02 14 06 18 0.0 10 14
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No.ofofBusiness Business Owners Owners No. Age55+ 55+ Age
Source: Statistics Canada, CIBC
Source: Statistics Canada, CIBC
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No. of Business No.Owners of Business Owners Age 55+ Age 55+
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is usually true; however, in reality, all of these things—the company’s reputation, sales figures, and employees—are actually relying on the current owner to be successful. The core problem is not adhering to the principle: a business is separate from a business owner. A proper succession plan will help a business owner make a transition away from “working in the business” to “working on the business”—as famed author of the E-Myth, Michael Gerber might say. According to Benjamin Tal of CIBC World Markets, “...in survey after survey, business owners reveal that they are ill-prepared for the inevitable ownership transition that is quickly approaching….the consequence of inaction will be more costly.” Many business owners feel that when they want to retire, they will simply list their business for sale with a real estate
agent. But in reality, business owners need to begin this preparation years in advance whether they plan to sell it or transition it to staff or family members.
With over 18,000 registered businesses in the Capital Region, there is potentially a significant number of business owners looking at retirement. Succession planning is no longer an issue that impacts just the business involved, but an issue potentially
HOW SMART PEOPLE MANAGE THEIR MONEY. THEY DON’T. Making money – and knowing how to manage it – are two profoundly different skills. That’s why at Raymond James, we offer you a financial plan that is as unique as you are. I will take the time
capable of affecting Greater Victoria’s economy as a whole. Business owners themselves are the key to solving this problem. We do not want to lose valuable businesses or valuable business knowledge that goes along with it. To help alleviate this situation, the GVDA is working with investors who are looking at the Greater Victoria market as a place to live and work. We get calls each and every week from people who want to utilize the B.C. Government’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) to move into Canada. Many of these investors are from Asia and they really see Canada as a place full of opportunity, with safe neighbourhoods, clean air, and good schools. The Capital Region should lead the nation in terms of in-bound succession buy-outs. However, we do not. The reason being there are simply not enough businesses for sale that meet the requirements of the PNP program, which is a minimum investment of $200,000. We hope that a push towards succession planning will help address this issue, so retirees are not stuck when they decide to make the transition to retirement. We need you to think about succession. If you are not sure where to start, call the GVDA or meet with a reputable business broker or valuator (there are several listed within The Chamber’s Online Member Directory).
to thoroughly understand your situation before making any recommendations on how to manage your money. Contact me for a complimentary review. Brad Clark, CFP, Financial Advisor Raymond James Ltd. Suite 1000 – 1175 Douglas Street Victoria, BC V8W 2E1 250-405-2410 brad.clark@raymondjames.ca www.bradleyclark.ca Dallas Gislason
Raymond James Ltd., Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund.
20 BUSINESSMATTERS
Economic Development Officer, Greater Victoria Development Agency
NEW MEMBERS: Aug 12th - Oct 20th 791 Technologies
At 791 Technologies we are building a safe and secure world where everyone has immediate access to the most relevant information, products, services and people from anywhere else in the world. (250) 360-6316 791tech.com .
Adventure Provider Inc.
It’s no surprise if you have seen our products/our programs on TV, in your city or when on holiday without ever knowing that we designed those fabulous events for you. Nevertheless we are the “brain and arms” of your products. We are the creatives! (250) 661-0401 www.adventureprovider.com
Arthritis Society, BC & Yukon Division
The Arthritis Society provides leadership and funding for research, advocacy and solutions to improve the quality of life for Canadians affected by arthritis. (250) 519-4001 www.arthritis.ca
Artisan Wine Shop
The store is located in downtown Victoria within easy walking distance of the Fairmont Empress Hotel and the Victoria Inner Harbour. (250) 384-9994 www.artisanwineshop.ca
Atomique Productions Ltd.
Moving You In The Right Direction! We provide full residential & commercial moving services. Reliability is our motto! (250) 418-1669 allarounddelivery.ca
Based in Victoria B.C., Atomique Productions Ltd. is an independent concert promotion house experienced in handling artists and venues of all sizes. (778) 433-4743 www.atomiqueproductions.com
Amelia Artists Inc.
Award Builders Ltd.
All Around Delivery & Relocation
Amelia Artists Inc. manages the global careers of a roster of musicians including Tegan and Sara, Buck 65, and Gold & Youth as well as other development clients. (250) 995-2642 www.ameliaartists.com
Award Builders Ltd. has been providing quality custom construction services for residential homes since 1969 having, in recent years, constructed over 75 new custom and spec homes, as well as numerous renovations in the Victoria area. (250) 361-5359 www.awardbuilders.ca
Balance Home Cleaning
In such a busy day and age, a healthy, balanced lifestyle is what we strive for. At Balance Home Cleaning, we take on the dirty work to allow you more of your valuable time. Our mission is simple: to help people enjoy life through better balance. (250) 479-0055 www.balancehomecleaning.com
Callia Media
We focus on increasing traffic, leads and sales through proven online marketing techniques. (250) 213-2543 www.calliamedia.com
Canadian Linen & Uniform Service
Canadian Linen and Uniform Service is the largest uniform rental and linen supply company in Canada. Canadian Linen alone provides services to more than 80,000 commercial business customers every week. (250) 384-8166 www.canadianlinen.com
Canadian Public Relations Society The Canadian Public Relations SocietyVancouver Island (CPRS-VI) represents a vibrant and growing community of public relations professionals located in Victoria and the Island. (250) 882-1188 www.cprs-vi.org
BUSINESSMATTERS
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NEW MEMBERS: Aug 12th - Oct 20th Cedars at Cobblehill
CrowdPicker
Chongo’s Restaurant
Cut Edge Flooring Inc.
When issues of alchoholism or substance abuse threaten your family or business, Cedars at Cobble Hill are here to assist. (250) 733-2006 www.cedarscobblehill.com Specialties: breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks. reservations, walk-ins welcome. Good for groups. Outdoor seating. (778) 433-4003 www.chongos.ca
Conti Electronics Ltd.
We’re a small firm doing big things; and we’ve been doing it since 1973. We’re a group of audio video installation professionals dedicated to making your business look and sound great. Let us show you how. (250) 884-3744 www.conti.ca
Cora Breakfast and Lunch
Reach your full potential. AccountAbility Plus is your integrated business centre. We offer complete bookkeeping services, management consulting and Vancouver Island’s ONLY customized software training facility.
Receive training in accounting software systems, Sage 50 and Excel courses today!
Cora restaurants are committed to promoting the importance of eating breakfast, and to creating unforgettable food experiences for customers, by providing high-quality products and service in a warm, family atmosphere. (250) 381-2672 www.chezcora.com
CrowdPicker is part of a rapidly growing collection of web applications being launched by application developer Nimble Robot Inc. (250) 813-2460 www.crowdpicker.com Retail of tile, wood and laminate flooring and related installation materials. (250) 896-8453
DECA - Camosun College
Camosun College’s only business club and the only DECA chapter in Western Canada. (250) 857-1896 www.facebook.com/camosundeca
Digalytical Marketing Inc.
Redefining the science of online marketing. Convert visitors into customers, retain customers and get more targeted visitors to your website and your business. (778) 433-4010 www.digalytical.com
Direct Response Media Group
DRMG provides direct mail and integrated marketing services that enable small, medium and large businesses to activate their marketing communications across multiple channels. (250) 634-4501 www.drmg.ca
The Chambers Plan business assisTanCe serviCe (bas) Provides for boTh The business owner and Their emPloyees. for business owners ManageMent ServiceS
Provides up to six hours of Legal, Accounting and Specialized Human Resource services combined, per calendar year.
HuMan reSource coacHing
Confidential telephone coaching helps address a wide range of challenging people issues, including performance management, absenteeism, conflict and difficult behaviour.
for emPloyees
When an employee is consistently absent from work, or underperforming, there is a strong probability a personal issue is the cause. Owners now have the resources available to help employees deal with situations affecting performance, through face-to-face counselling with a trained professional.
bas is a free serviCe builT inTo eaCh Chambers Plan emPloyee benefiT Program. you will inCur no ouT-of-PoCkeT exPenses when aCCessing These serviCes, nor are you required To submiT any Claim forms.
for more information on what the Chambers Plan can do for you, contact us today.
robert Jack | Jack insurance & financial services rob@jackinsurance.ca | Phone: 250.383.9866 | fax: 250.383.6241 #201, 1137 yates street, victoria, bC v8v 3n1
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Dr. Hugo M. van Rooyen Medical Professional Corporation (778) 433-2662
Dryworld Industries
All weather technical compression for cleats. Your feet will never feel wet and cold again without overheating. Enhance your performance. Protect your foundation. Defy the elements. (250) 896-9739 www.dryworldindustries.com
Emerald Day Spa
Emerald Day Spa is committed to providing our clients with a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Forget everyday anxieties as you step into your private treatment room and allow the tranquility to calm your senses. (250) 383-2441 www.emeralddayspa.ca
Farmer Construction Ltd.
Building community since 1951. The Farmer Group is a traditional contractor, not simply a “broker.” We have the knowledge and experience to work co-operatively with an owner’s consultant and architect from project conception to completion. (250) 388-5121 www.farmer-ltd.com
Fired Up! Paint Your Own Ceramics
Create personalized ceramic masterpieces, as gifts or to enjoy yourself. First-timers and accomplished artists alike are both encouraged to come in and learn new techniques,mediums, and share ideas. (250) 818-4543 www.firedupceramics.ca
Q:
What’s missing from your workplace?
Franklin Covey
Enabling greatness. Tools and training to organize your world. www.franklincovey.com
Freedom Scooter Company
The Freedom Scooter Company is a West Coast dream. The winding roads of Vancouver Island should be a part of everyone’s early morning commute. Save money on fuel. Save money on insurance. Give yourself the freedom to go wherever the road takes you. (778) 402-1214 www.thefreedomscooter.co
A:
A co-op student with the skills to speed up your projects.
Freeflow Water Systems
Call us today for a free 7-day trial in your office! (250) 667-8590 www.freeflowwater.ca
Contact us today
to learn how co-op can contribute to your workplace. Work terms normally begin in January, May and September.
STREAMLINE YOUR
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GIFT GIVING WITH THIS CARD It’s a stocking stuffer, a corporate gift, a fabulous prize – you name it. With the holidays coming, why restrict a gift idea to a single store when The Bay Centre gift card can offer so much more?
Co-operative Education and Student Employment www.camosun.ca/cese 250.370.4410
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Co-operative Education Program and Career Services www.uvic.ca/coopandcareer/ employers learninginmotion.uvic.ca 250.721.7628
T H E B AYC E N T R E . C A
BUSINESSMATTERS 23
Taking to the skies with UVic’s Centre for Aerospace Research Tucked away on the edge of the Victoria International Airport grounds is Hangar B, home of the UVic Centre for Aerospace Research (CfAR), a research and development laboratory dedicated to developing commercial unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Working with partners such as Boeing and Meggitt Canada, CfAR designs vehicles for use in areas such as search and rescue, crop surveys, location, and tracking of industrial equipment. Camosun College Mechanical Engineering co-op student, Gord Cooney, spent his spring work term in Hangar B Building testing the UAVs. When ready for testing, the vehicles were loaded into a van and taken to a local farmer’s field to be put through their paces. Gord, having just completed his third work term with CfAR, loved the opportunity to apply the theoretical background he learnt at Camosun in designing and building the aircraft. As a mature student Gord appreciates the need for work experience as a base for getting rewarding work opportunities in the future. CfAR Facilities Manager (and Gord’s boss), Jenner Richards, is a big fan of co-operative education as a low cost, low risk way to bring on more staff with the required knowledge and test their capabilities in the field. Asked if he would recommend co-operative education to others, Jenner quickly responds, “Definitely, quite regularly I do.” BUSINESSMATTERS
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Why not look into hiring a co-op student from Camosun College? Visit the co-op website or call 250-370-4410.
Q: What’s missing
from your workplace?
A:
A co-op student with the skills to speed up your projects. Contact us today to learn how our students can contribute to your workplace. 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
NEW MEMBERS Galaxy Motors
Galaxy Motors is Vancouver Island’s #1 used car dealership in customer satisfaction and second chance financing. 2010 and 2011 Winner of the Best Place to buy a used vehicle! (250) 478-7603 galaxymotors.net
Gina Keegan Counselling
As a registered clinical counselor (RCC) in Victoria, B.C. I work with individuals, couples and groups and teach psycho-educational groups. I am also a mindfulness meditation instructor. (778) 265-8800 ginakeegan.com
Hendrik DeLange (778) 433-1164
Hetherington Industries
Hetherington Industries is the premier environmental service company on Vancouver Island servicing from Victoria to Port Hardy including the Sunshine Coast. (250) 724-5112 www.hetheringtonindustries.com
Hooper Access & Privacy Consulting Ltd. (250) 595-3180 www.hooperconsulting.ca
Horticulture Centre of the Pacific
Jani-King
Ingrid Jarisz Sells Victoria
Janine Henry Enterprises
HCP is a 103-acre public demonstration garden, conservation area, a college and bistro “connecting people to plants” in Victoria, B.C. (250) 479-6162 www.hcp.ca Real estate is my passion; people are my priority! (250) 385-2033 www.ingridjarisz.com
Island Daily Deals Ltd.
Island Daily Deals is an Island-owned and operated group buying website that provides local businesses with an effective, affordable, and guaranteed marketing option that creates a beneficial alternative to traditional forms of marketing. (250) 591-3647 www.islanddailydeals.com
James Bay Tea Room
New owners John & Heather invite you to enjoy breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea in the newly renovated 28 year old James Bay Tea Room and Restaurant. (250) 382-8282 www.jamesbaytearoomandrestaurant.com
Jani-King is trusted by business and industry leaders for commercial cleaning, janitorial services and customer satisfaction. (250) 389-0214 www.janiking.com/vancouverisland/Default.aspx (250) 381-3050
Kensho Coaching
Survive and thrive through revolutionary change. 30 years experience with NASA and personal development enables me to coach your technology team and management to success. (250) 474-0976 www.kenshocoaching.com
Larry Du
(250) 884-0494
Luv Hair Salon
At LUV Hair Salon, we strive to provide the highest levels of quality and customer service. We achieve this by tailoring our services and experiences for each client depending on their individual style, wants and needs. (250) 590-4820 www.luvhairsalon.ca
Marcia McNeil Law (778) 433-6726
Expert Cleaning Service
Same company. Same service. New Name.
Canada's innovation leader providing cleaning services to Victoria and Area
Formerly known as The Placement Group, Talentcor continues to create success by sourcing and placing talent in roles that fit. Our specialties include:
Administrative Professionals Light Industrial Sales & Marketing Customer Service
Human Resources Legal Skilled Trades Procurement
Whether your staffing need is temporary or permanent - or somewhere in between we can help.
Call us today
250.381.3254 1124 Fort St, Victoria, BC
Over 40 Years Experience And Canada’s Largest Janitorial Service Provider
Certified • Experienced • Sustainable Industrial Commercial
talentcor.com
Institutional
Talentcor is a division of Design Group Staffing Inc.
Educational Retail
For more information:
www.bee-clean.com Victoria Office: 526 Comerford Victoria B.C. phone:250-381-7566 fax:250-381-7570
THE CONTRACTORS’ CHOICE
BUSINESSMATTERS 25
NEW MEMBERS: Aug 12th - Oct 20th Murphy Broadcasting
Murphy Broadcasting owner Rick Murphy built his first station in Parker, Arizona at the age of 26. Over the next decades, Rick put over 20 radio stations on the air, employing hundreds and serving hundreds of thousands of people. (928) 855-1051 www.murphybroadcasting.com
mandatory hearing tests and services right at your job site. (250) 590-6569 www.nexgenhearing.com
youths and children from all walks of life living with a wide range of special needs. (250) 216-1983 www.osanis.ca
Niche Magazine
Pacific Telephone
NICHE magazine embraces the elements of the good life - where we live, how we live and how good we look getting it all done in a modern world. (250) 595-7870 www.nichemagazine.ca
NexGen Hearing - Industrial
Osanis Consulting
To provide annual hearing tests to employees who are exposed to hazardous noise. Our new state-of-the-art mobile testing unit enables us to perform all WCB
A lifelong commitment and close to 30 years of practical experience have allowed me the gracious fortune of helping men, women,
H O LID AY DAILY SPECIALS TO SATISFY! MONDAY · Pacific Cod & Chips: $3 off (All Day) · $2 Sliders* (2pm until late)
CHEER
TURKEY OR HAM? HOW ABOUT STEAK AND LOBSTER!
Passion Sports
Passion Sports is ambitious athletic apparel. Created for athletes who possess an “I work harder” state of mind, we strive to embody & promote the raw emotion, inspiration, & ambition required in one’s journey to achieve. (250) 590-8114 www.passionsports.ca
PayVida
At PayVida, we believe accepting payments should be simple for businesses and people alike. We are a leading financial technology company helping businesses - both big and small - to accept credit and debit card payments. (250) 418-5612 www.payvida.ca
Publik Night Club
TUESDAY · Sirloin Steak Sandwich: $3 off (All Day) · Toonie Tacos* (min. order of 2 - 2pm until late)
Publik is Victoria’s newest nightclub, venue, and experience creator. It features the westcoast’s top young DJ’s as well as live artists & bands. Open Thursday-Saturday, 10:00pm-2:00am. Opened by the public, for the Publik. (250) 589-8564 www.publik.ca
WEDNESDAY · Pasta Day: 3 specialty pasta’s: $12 (All Day) · 49¢ wing night* (order in quantities of 10 - 2pm until late)
Roast Carvery
THURSDAY · Sticky Wicket Burger: $3 off (All Day) · $7 Pizza Night* (2pm until late) · Prime Rib Dinner (4-10pm)
Roast is a casual, quick-serve rotisserie centered to-go business. Our meat centric menu offers roasted meats to either purchase by weight or to enjoy immediately on a sandwich. (250) 891-3215 www.roastcarvery.com
FRIDAY · Chicken Clubhouse Sandwich: $3 off (until 2 pm) · Prime Rib Dinner (4-10pm)
Royal Jubilee Denture Clinic
Experience the difference that details make. We are a service-oriented business that guarantees your satisfaction & the perfect fit. (250) 592-8338 www.royaljubileedentureclinic.com
SATURDAY · Breakfast menu (until 2:30 pm) · Prime Rib Dinner (4-10pm) SUNDAY · Breakfast menu (until 2:30pm) · Wicket Nachos* half Price (2pm – close)
SeaChange Massage Therapy
Allow our registered massage therapist to create a seachange in your health and wellbeing. Call today for your appointment. (250) 857-1327
* with purchase of beverage, some restrictions apply
THE STICKY WICKET PUB
AT THE STRATHCONA HOTEL 919 DOUGLAS STREET www.strathconhotel.com
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We can answer all your questions regarding the top cell phones available in today’s market. Our friendly style & continuing after-sales training and support ensure our customers feel great about coming into PacTel & recommending us. (250) 384-3155 www.pacifictelephone.ca
SHC Autographx Wheel & Tire
Wheels, tires, suspension, window tint and film, detailing and body kits to take your car from special to spectacular. (250) 360-2209 www.shcwheels.com
NEW MEMBERS Steamship Grill and Taphouse
The Steamship Grill & Taphouse will capture the glamour and heritage of the Steamship Terminal, while incorporating the fun and adventure of the era of steamship travel in its food decor and atmosphere. www.steamshipterminal.com/stgrill.php
needs? We like to call it the Verity advantage. We go far beyond the ordinary to give individualized, highly personalized care to our clients. (250) 216-4181 www.verityhealth.ca
Victoria Highlanders
Taken4Granted is a business consultancy specializing in grant writing, marketing strategy, business development and economic development. (250) 741-6207 www.t4gbiz.com
Victoria Highlanders FC is a Canadian soccer club in the United Soccer Leagues (USL) Premier Development League (PDL) and Pacific Coast Soccer League (PCSL). Get your tickets now! (250) 590-8432 www.victoriahighlandersfc.com
Tool Tech Distributors Inc.
Victoria Taxi
Taken4Granted
(778) 351-4510
Traduction W Translation Inc
Traduction W Translation is a translation microenterprise that offers certified French to English translation and editing services founded on the strength of 10+ years corporate, legal, insurance and government experience in B.C. and Quebec. (250) 634-6801 www.wtranslation.ca
Unisource
Industry leaders in supply chain management, Unisource offers a comprehensive suite of strategic solutions and innovative products to help businesses grow. (250) 818-8351 www.unisource.ca
Verity Health Resources Inc.
ZDI Online
Our focus is on providing quality software integration solutions & associated services to Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industries. We are experts with leading construction cost planning and management related software packages. (778) 265-2061 www.zdionline.com
When you are in Victoria, “Think Victoria!” Victoria Taxi has been serving the needs of Victorians since 1970. (250) 383-7111 www.victoriataxi.com
Wizard Screens and More Victoria Wizard has been specializing in the manufacturing of high quality home improvement products for over 10 years and is centrally located in Burnaby, B.C. (250) 384-8931 www.wizardscreens.com
Xavier Walker Photography
Photography is a part of my life, as is breathing, eating and sleeping. I love black & white’s, portraits, festivals, events and shooting anything music. (250) 516-7746 www.xavierwalkerphotography.com
Why choose Verity for your home care
Times Colonist’s Jason Scriven running his booth at the October Marketplace Mixer at Save on Foods Memorial Centre.
More Than Ink on Paper,
IT’S ABOUT YOU For Over 30 Years.
Proud printers of
THE CHAMBER BUSINESS MATTERS Chamber Board Chair Darlene Hollstein planting trees at the Chamber’s 150th Anniversary Tree Planting Ceremony.
Chamber Ambassadors Laurie McDonald and Trevor Lines greeting guests at the October Marketplace Mixer.
Hillside Printing 3050 Nanaimo Street 250-386-5542 • www.hillsideprinting.com
BUSINESSMATTERS 27
INDUSTRY PROFILE:
Synetic inc. Synetic Inc. opened its doors to the Greater Victoria Development Agency and The Chamber in September, giving members a chance to learn about how to save the world one terabyte at a time. Founder, President and Technical Manager Moe Vesal led the tour, taking attendees through how his team delivers efficient global data storage products and data protection solutions.
In a nutshell: We are pioneers and innovators. The company mission is to bring a new approach to data storage management and provide advanced solutions to our clients worldwide. # of Employees: 5 - 6 Industry Sector: Technology Sector Area of Town: Saanich (and the world) Primary Product/Service: Innovative data protection solutions, from custombuilt servers, enterprise grade SANs to SMB RAID1 products How would you describe Synetic Inc. in 30 words or less? Synetic is a data protection management company that works globally to deliver technology
TD Canada Trust
Running a small business is hard enough We can help Owning a small business can be as demanding as it is rewarding. We understand how busy you are, and we want to help. • Easy credit application and fast response • Business account packages tailored to meet the needs of your business • Convenient access in-branch by ABM, phone or web • Professional and personable banking advice
Brian Gordon Area Manager, Business Banking 250-507-7025 brian.gordon@td.com
®/
28 BUSINESSMATTERS
What is the best part about doing business in Greater Victoria? Although most of our clients are not in Victoria, we have our business here because we like the city. We like the lifestyle, people, the kindness, the help and support we get from the community and from the other businesses. The people who live here don’t seem to appreciate the wonders of this city as much as those who have lived elsewhere. We’ve had lots of opportunities and offers to move the company elsewhere, but we choose to live and work in Victoria. What is the best thing Synetic Inc. is doing for Greater Victoria? Roughly 90 per cent of Synetic’s work is by its very nature green and energy/power saving. We work hard to encourage businesses globally to reduce excess power consumption by implementing innovative solutions. Most businesses don’t need 20 servers - one server can do the job utilizing virtualization technology. Buying more hardware isn’t always a solution, it may be an expensive band-aid. The irony of this is we are encouraging people to buy less equipment from us and leverage their existing infrastructure. We do not want to profit by creating pollution. We want our business to profit from providing healthy, efficient, intelligent solutions. We are humbled and amazed by our charity of choice, Watoto Canada. We provide support for their organization locally and internationally, even going so far as sending members of our team to Africa to help. One day we opened our doors and were serenaded by the cherubic voices of their children’s choir. Amazing!
1070 Douglas Street, Suite 440 Victoria, BC
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.
solutions, from hardware to complete implementations.
M00580 (0212)
INDUSTRY PROFILE:
What is it like working at Synetic Inc.? We get to talk to people from all over the world. Some of us even travel to places you would never have imagined, but we make these connections and then create a relationship with them. It is very exciting and fulfilling being able to deliver technology that we take for granted to places with infrastructure lagging by 10+ years. It may take incredibly long hours to reworking solutions to even that playing field, but it’s worth it knowing you’ve made a phenomenal difference. We are like a technology ER, we fix critical issues for clients around the world, often providing that crucial missing piece to enable retrieval of terabytes of data, the loss of which would cripple a company.
We try to sell our clients only what they need and that’s why we have customers like the US Department of Energy, Milan’s transportation system, etc. We don’t sell a product, we sell a solution. We are a knowledge-based company. We are very proud of how we are seen by our clients, and our reputation for excellence world-wide. We work with new members of the team and we take them beyond classroom theory and teach them realworld skills - taking them from being an expense to being an asset to the bottom-line Are there any other fun facts about Synetic Inc. we should know about?
Systems technicians are notorious for not eating well. When we have our morning sessions to brainstorm plans and solutions, I sit and peel fruit for our staff to make sure they are eating healthy. We’ve been known to go so far as to feed them home-made soup when it looks like they might be getting sick! Working in R&D and all the fun stuff at Synetic has to be earned. New staff must be trained for three years before moving into the R&D environment.
Visit The Chamber website for more details or to register for the next industry tour. www.victoriachamber.ca/events
What are three things few people know about Synetic Inc.? We actually stop and spend 20 minutes a day to just talk about non-work subjects, politics, life, and things that interest the staff and are important to them. We treat them like a family because their wellbeing is our wellbeing too. Some of the projects/products that we work on can take thousands of emails and hundreds of hours of bug testing, working with manufacturers to hone the final product into something that truly works for the customer. We ship worldwide and compete with the largest companies in the field. We’re also exclusive distributor for several manufacturers in North America. In our work with less-advantaged countries, we encourage the use of technology as part of connecting and educating their people. We believe strongly that a well-educated population is best equipped to evaluate the options and opportunities and make the decisions that will provide a positive future What is Synetic Inc. proudest of? Our integrity and business ethics. We are known as that kind of company.
The Employment Program of BC (WorkBC) includes many services and programs dedicated to assisting employers. Let us help you! For further info contact Garth 250.708.2462 g.yoneda@gthiringsolutions.ca www.gthiringsolutions.ca The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.
BUSINESSMATTERS 29
Advocacy in action
There was debate on the convention floor regarding the removal of the following policy recommendation which reads: “Not grant Parks Canada the authority to control the routing of marine and aircraft traffic passing through the area if the Marine Conservation area is enacted.” Members of the legal community spoke to this recommendation and supported its inclusion. After rigorous debate, the policy was passed without amendment. Additional policies of particular relevance to our members are listed below:
Photo provided by Tourism Victoria
BC Ferries Consultation ….Again! On October 7th, the Victoria Chamber started a letter writing campaign addressing concerns regarding the Ministry of Transportation initiating more consultation on BC Ferries services. Having just completed a consultation process over service, which has yet to produce results, The Chamber feels that more needs to be done before going back to the public. In a previous letter to the Minister of Transportation Todd Stone, the Chamber asked for the Ministry of Transportation to develop a costsavings plan to be presented to the public. The Chamber also expressed
concerns that continued consultation without proposing solutions has led to frustration for affected coastal communities. Please join The Chamber’s efforts by sending your own letter to the minister. The letter writing campaign can be found on our homepage at www.victoriachamber.ca.
Canadian Chamber AGM In September, the Victoria Chamber along with many chambers from across Canada attended the annual Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM. At this year’s AGM in Kelowna, BC, the Victoria Chamber’s policy on the Proposed National Marine Conservation Area received national support.
CEDAR HILL golf course
NOW BOOKING CHRISTMAS PARTIES! Flexible seasonal menus starting from only $32 Waived room rental for Chamber Members ($500 value) Free parking and close to downtown Need any more reasons to book? We don’t think so. Call now to reserve your party.
30 BUSINESSMATTERS
Improving Air Access for the Benefit of the National Economy Air access is vital to connect Canadian businesses with the rest of the world. Providing transportation to visitors as well as transporting export and imported products is an important part of the national economy. Improving air access policies in Canada will significantly increase economic opportunities across the nation. Increasing Canada’s connectivity would open Canadian business up to new markets. In addition, allowing more carriers to operate in Canada will also improve competitive prices for Canada as a destination. Recommendations of this policy include Open Skies agreements, bilateral agreements, national aviation strategy, and recognition of aviation in supporting Canadian trade objectives.
Streamlined Visa Process The Chamber supports a streamlined visa process for people visiting Canada. A predictable process that can give tourists and tour operators from emerging markets such as Mexico, Brazil, China, and India a greater confidence in visa processing that will not hinder or potentially result in cancellations of tourism-based trips. Improvements can be made with continued security checks, as well as an online system for approving individuals that meet the government’s criteria. Other recommendations include appropriately staffed Canadian embassies during high demand periods.
Tourism Sales Tax Rebate This policy is intended to simplify the sales tax rebate process to motivate non-resident tour operators and meeting planners to sell Canada abroad. The Chamber supports an elimination or simplification of the sales tax rebate for non-resident tour operators. The recommended actions include a return to point-of-sales rebates or simplifying the process, which are intended to motivate non-resident tour operators and meeting planners to sell Canada.
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