Candace Laing will become the new President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce on Sept. 1.
Laing has more than two decades of experience as a senior executive with both the private and public sectors. She spent 10 years with Nutrien and its predecessor company, PotashCorp. With Nutrien, her roles included Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer and Vice President of Sustainability and Stakeholder Relations. Laing also has extensive experience with the national chamber. She joined the Canadian Chamber’s board of directors in 2019 and served as Vice-Chair from 2021 to 2022, becoming the elected Chair of the Board of Directors in 2022. “Candace is a next-generation leader with a strong Canadian business background," said Penny Wise, Chair of the CEO Search Committee and Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors. "She has extensive experience making decisions across complex organizations, which will help us build on our existing strengths and meet the challenges facing Canadian businesses and families." Current Chamber President and CEO, Perrin Beatty, officially steps down Aug. 30. Funds announced today will provide on-campus housing for Camosun College students at the Lansdowne campus.
"This is something that The Chamber has long advocated for, and we're happy to see funding finally made available," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. "Building housing for students will open up affordable homes in the community. This is a smart solution to the housing crisis and will help people who face challenges finding a home in our region." The $154.7 million six-storey building is expected to be ready by fall 2027 and will house 423 students in single, studio and quad-unit types. The building will be constructed using mass timber, targeting LEED Platinum Standards. Camosun is contributing $3 million to the project, with the rest of the funding coming from the province. “On-campus housing brings various social, academic and personal benefits, including greater retention rates, while freeing up rental spaces in the surrounding communities,” Camosun College president Lane Trotter said. Did you know that buskers who make downtown Victoria vibrant are regulated by the City of Victoria? Ensuring street performers are talented and entertaining is a great way to encourage people to go downtown, which benefits businesses in the area.
To make sure the plan is working as intended, the city is undergoing a review of its Street Entertainment Bylaw to improve the busking experience. If you've been downtown this summer, you might have noticed buskers in several new locations. By taking part in an online survey, you can share your opinion on the "specific types of busking locations, sound-amplification at specific sites and strategies to enhance busking downtown, as well as the types of busking and related amenities buskers and the public would like to see, such as covered spaces with comfortable seating, accessible parking and food trucks nearby to create a dynamic downtown experience." The survey closes at noon on Aug. 31. ![]() Businesses strongly support the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, but, for some, closing up shop isn't the best way to take action. To help honour the intent of Sept. 30, the Victoria Native Friendship Centre is encouraging organizations to take the Small Business Pledge. The initiative is a way to actively participate in the reconciliation process by either making a donation or contributing a portion of sales to support VNFC's work. "In 2021, we were the first Chamber in Canada to acknowledge the impact that businesspeople had on Indigenous culture and the economy that existed before their arrival," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “As an organization founded in 1863, The Chamber is part of the history of our community. We need to share responsibility for the suppression of Indigenous peoples, and we need to take action now to support reconciliation." Given that 80% of Indigenous Canadians reside in urban areas, Friendship Centres like VNFC play a pivotal role in the well-being of the urban Indigenous population in our region. To take the Small Business Pledge, all you need to do is complete the pledge form. Take the Pledge An initiative that was adopted early by Greater Victoria businesses is now in effect across the province. As of July 15, plastic shopping bags and single-use products are no longer allowed to be offered to customers anywhere in BC.
The province estimates that British Columbians threw out more than 340,000 tonnes of plastic items and packaging in 2019, equal to more than 65 kilograms of plastic waste per person. The region's real estate market appears to have taken a deep breath in June, as overall sales were down 13.4% from May. The numbers reflect seasonal expectations.
"I think this is good news, as the more stable the market is, the more it supports both buyers and sellers," Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Laurie Lidstone said in a media release. "If we continue to see seasonal norms in our market, the upcoming summer months will be slower and quieter than spring was, as consumer priorities shift to vacations and outdoor pursuits. If the pattern continues, we'll likely see an increase in activity as fall nears." There were 3,460 active listings at the end of June, up 3.7 % from May. June's benchmark value in the Victoria Core was $1,295,500 for a single family home and $567,900 for a condo. Greater Victoria's diversified economy plays an important role in helping our region sustain downturns in the global economy. A great example is the tech industry, which thrived during the pandemic and now creates an economic impact of $7.9 billion.
The latest figures were announced last week in a report commissioned by the Victoria Innovation, Advanced Technology and Entrepreneurship Council (VIATEC). The sector has grown by 51% since 2017 and now supports more than 20,000 employees. The report found that lifestyle was the top advantage for being located in Greater Victoria, followed by our climate and short commute times. The biggest challenges facing tech businesses are a lack of affordable housing for staff, our region's high cost of living in general and our limited talent pool. VIATEC started as The Chamber's Advanced Technology subcommittee before becoming its own organization in 1989. BC Hydro has announced new rebates for the installation of rooftop solar and battery-storage systems. The rebates could save homeowners as much as $10,000. The Crown corporation generates energy for 95% of British Columbians.
The Chamber supports Climate Action Leadership, such as the work being done to transition the province to sustainable power sources. BC Hydro is also planning rebates of up to $150,000 for businesses, local governments and others. More details on that plan will be available later this month. Currently, 98% of the power generated for BC's integrated grid comes from clean or renewable resources. A new five-storey building has opened at 953 Balmoral St. with 56 units of supportive housing operated by the Cool Aid Society.
“We are very excited to have partnered with BC Housing to offer 56 brand new units of supportive housing at one of Cool Aid’s original sites,” Cool Aid CEO Elin Bjarnason said in a media release. “The building at 953 Balmoral is beautiful – both inside and out – and we know that people will be thrilled to call it home.” Having homes for people is the cornerstone for safe communities, which enable businesses to create a vibrant, healthy economy that works for everyone. Chamber members have identified housing as an advocacy priority, and we continue to work to support the construction of more homes in our region. We also recognize that people experiencing homelessness often face mental health and addiction challenges and need housing with appropriate care. "It should be common sense that everyone benefits when we invest in helping people to be part of our community and not become street entrenched," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. "Our community partners at Victoria Cool Aid Society and BC Housing are doing some heavy lifting that will make life better for all of us." Work is getting underway on the redevelopment of Belleville Terminal, with Phase 1 Wharf Modifications starting at the Steamship Building’s water lot.
A barge with a crane derrick is on site, and work will take place from 7am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and potentially weekends depending on scheduling. However, no work will occur over long-weekends, and should be completed by the end of August. "Potential impacts from this work include noise from the removal of existing pilings and installation of new pilings as well as the visual impact of the crane derrick within the inner harbour," states a memo about the project from the BC Ministry of Transportation and Projects. The Chamber advocated for two decades to gather support for the modernization of this important international gateway that greets thousands of travellers every year. "It's great to see the project finally underway and we know the temporary disruption will be worth having a 21st century facility in place," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. You can stay updated on the Belleville Terminal Redevelopment Project by visiting the project website. Summer is officially underway, which means it's time to express our gratitude for living in the best place on earth. Greater Victoria is amazing throughout the year, but summer means every weekend has something to celebrate.
With the Canada Day long-weekend approaching, The Chamber is celebrating our New to Canada Program. Read more about this initiative in our BizNews story below. Today's issue also includes Member News about how Rifflandia and the City of Victoria are hosting a big Canada Day celebration. Leading up to July 1, you can enjoy JazzFest, courtesy of the Victoria Jazz Society. "Let's support our local businesses, whether that's going out on the town, enjoying a community event or spending time with family and friends at the beach or a backyard barbecue," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. Happy Canada Day Victoria! The Chamber will be closed on Monday, July 1st. Your next online purchase, ride share, meal delivery, or vacation could soon cost even more if the Digital Service Tax is implemented.
That's the message from the Canadian Chamber as it lobbies the federal government to not pass the DST without significant changes. The proposal will tax revenue earned by large foreign and domestic businesses on online services, including marketplaces, advertising, and social media — but its effects will be felt by consumers in the form of higher prices for products and services that rely on digital platforms. "For example, your online purchases, takeout after a long work week, or your long weekend cottage rental could cost more starting in 2024," the Canadian Chamber said. "And the warning isn’t without foundation — France’s DST caused an estimated 2-3% price increase in services for consumers." If the DST is passed, it will take effect later this year. However, because it is a retroactive tax, it will apply to revenue earned by businesses in 2022 and 2023 as well. "That’s like having the CRA send you a letter telling you to review your last two years of tax filings and pay more now for a tax that didn’t exist back then," the Canadian Chamber said. Air travel is vital for business and essential for our region's visitor economy. To make sure our region's airport continues to overachieve, the Victoria Airport Authority is conducting a survey to check-in with stakeholders.
The survey consists of a variety of statements along 12 critical variables, and can be saved to complete in multiple sessions. Responses are confidential, and will help the airport's team better understand how to serve the community. Inflation rose 2.9% on a year-over-year basis in May, up from a 2.7% rise in April.
The increase came as a surprise for many economists who are watching for the Consumer Price Index to return to the 2% target, which the Bank of Canada considers to be sustainable inflation. Statistics Canada said May's increase was caused by higher prices for services, specifically cellular services, rent and air fares. "The increase in services inflation is not helpful, especially as wage growth is elevated. The risk of a strong rebound in the housing market hasn’t materialized yet, but slowing shelter inflation is welcome news," Canadian Chamber Senior Economist Andrew DiCapua said. "Our consumer spending tracker is showing growth presenting a risk that demand is more robust. Odds of a cut in July are lower and still depend on whether the economy is weaker than the Bank’s recent forecast. Governing Council continues to be heavily data dependent, and this reversal will support their restrictive bias. The Bank will want to take a slow and measured approach, especially with inflation accelerating." The Consumer Price Index for June will be released on July 16, ahead of the next interest rate decision on July 24. A new Chamber initiative that will formally launch in August is already helping make Greater Victoria a great community.
The New to Canada Program aims to empower newcomer business owners in our region. To qualify, business owners must hold a valid business license and have been in Canada for three or less years. Black Press recently reached out to The Chamber to ask about the program and interview one of the first participants. Alejandra Chacon Gallardo is from Mexico and founded Regenerative Futures Consulting Corp. in Greater Victoria because she believes Canada is at the forefront of climate action leadership. Gallardo connected with The Chamber, and recognized the value of being a member. “If there is a possibility of helping you, (The Chamber) will be there,” Gallardo told Black Press. “It’s nice that they are building community.” The New to Canada program includes two years of membership with The Chamber and is designed to help newcomers successfully integrate into the business community in Greater Victoria. This program is funded through sponsorship from Air Canada, the Victoria Airport Authority, the Victoria Foundation, and Western Design + Build. "Currently, we are making a few more connections to prepare for a promotional campaign to raise wider awareness of the program," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. "Watch for our official launch and more coverage in August." Feeling safe at home and at work is a fundamental requirement for good business and great community. The Chamber supports initiatives such as two recent announcements about investments in housing and support programs to help people reintegrate into society.
Access Hub for Street Community The City of Victoria has agreed to provide up to $1.8 million for the operations of a new access hub facility at 2155 Dowler Pl. that reduces the risk and impacts of homelessness. Funds come from the Financial Stability Reserve, which can be used in situations related to public safety. The 5,264 square-foot property will include community space for people to have immediate access to supports aimed at breaking the cycle of homelessness. The property will be fenced and security will be on site to address any impacts on neighbouring properties Transitional Housing for Fresh Start On Tuesday, the province announced plans for 28 transitional homes with supports for people leaving the correctional system. Located at 736 Princess Ave., the six-storey building will be owned and operated by the John Howard Society of Victoria, which is dedicated to helping people with programs and services focused on employment, housing, mentorship and restorative justice. The building will be the John Howard Society’s new headquarters. The upper floors of the building will have 28 studio apartments, each with a private washroom and kitchenette. The District of Oak Bay is among nine Island municipalities that are getting grants from the provincial government to help streamline their housing approval processes.
In fall 2023, the province made legislative changes to try and reduce red tape at the municipal level. Better planning and improved zoning rules are part of the process. The province also developed a reporting schedule to track progress to getting houses built. All local governments must complete an interim housing needs report by Jan. 1, and then municipalities must update their official community plans and zoning bylaws by Dec. 31, 2025. Canada's economy made a significant shift last month when the Bank of Canada dropped its interest rate for the first time in four years. Now the Bank's governor is saying he and his central bank peers are navigating a new world.
"We’ve also learned some lessons from the post-pandemic inflation, and we will take these to heart," Tiff Macklem told the International Economic Forum of the Americas on June 12. "But the challenges of the future are rarely the same as those of the past. Supply shocks are more likely in the future. New technologies not only have the potential to increase prosperity but also to disrupt. Interest rates may be easing in many economies, but global interest rates are unlikely to return to pre-pandemic levels. The new normal won’t be the old normal. And if we’re not going back, we’ll all need to adjust." Macklem said supply-side economics, inflation as a common enemy and public trust in the banking system are the biggest lessons learned from the past four years. The Bank's next interest rate announcement is set for July 24. The International Credentials Recognition Act comes into effect July 1, requiring regulatory bodies to reduce red tape in 29 professions and make it easier for qualified professionals to have credentials recognized, no matter where they were trained.
A major change is eliminating the catch-22 that required someone to have work experience in Canada even though they couldn’t work in Canada because of the lack of Canadian work experience. The professions include engineers, social workers, veterinarians, paramedics, early childhood educators, teachers, biologists, land surveyors, architects and more. "The Chamber continues to call for changes to credentials to allow more trained professionals to do the work they have been trained to do," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. "We need a skilled labour force and these changes make sense." A full-house enjoyed lunch today at the Sandman Hotel Victoria while listening to Conservative Party of BC leader John Rustad explain how he would change the province if elected.
Rustad offered his thoughts on the economy, public safety and other issues, often weaving in small-town stories from rural constituents. "Some people really liked what Mr. Rustad had to say, some learned about his policy ideas for the first time, but every attendee who was there came with an open mind and respect for our democratic process," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said about the event. "I want to thank everyone who has attended our Leading to Election events. We have a role as the Voice of Business to give our members a chance to hear first-hand from the people running for election this October." The first Leading to Election event was held in April with Premier David Eby, leader of the BC NDP. On June 6, The Chamber hosted Kevin Falcon — the leader of the Official Opposition and leader of the BC United Party. Our fourth event will feature the leader of the BC Green Party in September. Pay equity is one of the keys to unlocking productivity in our workforce, and vital for helping employers find and keep workers.
In 2023, British Columbia introduced the Pay Transparency Act to formalize a system for employers to ensure employee compensation was not being influenced by gender. Women in BC earn 17% less than men, based on median hourly wages. The disparity is higher for Indigenous, racialized and newcomer women. The province recently launched an online reporting tool for BC employers to prepare pay transparency reports, which are a legal requirement. By Nov. 1, all B.C. employers with 1,000 or more employees are required to prepare and post reports about their gender-pay gaps. The requirement has been introduced in stages to give employers time to prepare.
Drawing on data from Statistics Canada and pay transparency reports posted by employers last year, the province's first annual report provides an overview of the gender pay gap in BC by sector, employment type and intersectional identities. There has been no shortage of intrigue on the campaign trail leading up to the October provincial election.
Last week, The Chamber hosted Kevin Falcon — the leader of the Official Opposition and leader of the BC United Party. About 80 Chamber members were treated to a firsthand account from Falcon about his plan to form government, despite trailing in the polls. Falcon said voters haven't given their full attention to the election yet, and will prove that they want a centrist party. However, the business community remains concerned that the BC United Party's pro-business platform will compete for votes with the Conservative Party of BC. Chamber members have a chance to make up their own minds by reserving a seat at our next Leading to Election Luncheon on June 19 with BC Conservative leader John Rustad. "Please send us your questions and I will add them to the list for what is promising to be a dynamic Q&A session with Mr. Rustad," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. Questions can be sent to [email protected]. The Chamber hosted the first Leading to Election event in April with Premier David Eby, leader of the BC NDP. Our fourth event will feature the leader of the BC Green Party in September. There are two stories being told about downtown Victoria, says a new analysis released this morning by the Downtown Victoria Business Association.
With 5% more business licences issued, and tourism and industry thriving, the DVBA's 2024 Annual Report says the numbers show the region's downtown is enjoying economic growth. However, there is also a growing sense of unease — a survey found almost 20% of businesses believe downtown is failing. "That is the highest percentage since we began surveying members," the DVBA report states. "It is alarming." More than two thirds of all people who patronize downtown come from within Greater Victoria, which means that the entire region has a role to play in the narrative of this important neighbourhood. "The Chamber strongly supports downtown and the work of the DVBA and the City of Victoria to make the area vibrant and safe," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. "We are a regional chamber but we will continue to call on all levels of government to invest in the infrastructure and services needed in downtown Victoria." A new tower that will create a notable landmark for people entering Greater Victoria's core has been approved by District of Saanich council.
The 24-storey apartment building will house 318 rental units on the corner of Carey Road and Ravine Way. A residential building on the site was part of the original proposal for Uptown. The new building will also include commercial space and cycling amenities. Saanch has a long-range vision for transforming the neighbourhood into a central hub that will become the heart of the municipality. The Business Expectations Index has moved into positive territory for the first time in a year. The index rose 2.7 points in the second quarter of 2024 from the first quarter, led by an improved outlook for sales.
Some of the key findings include:
|
Categories
All
|