Your weekly round up of BizNews across Greater Victoria
This Sunday marks the visit of the first cruise ship of the season - the Star Princess is sailing into port after cruising up the coastline from Los Angeles.
Beyond the superficial optics of a floating city off of Ogden Point or higher than usual foot traffic on the sidewalks in the downtown, cruise ships generate an economic impact of close to $100 million dollars annually according to the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA). It also introduces a large populace who likes to travel to the wonders of Greater Victoria. In 2015, that translated into over half a million passengers, with even more forecast for 2016.
In keeping with our position as an international gateway into both the province and the country, GVHA has plans to enhance the facilities at Ogden Point to provide an enhanced experience for our visitors.
GVHA: member since 2003
Odd Interview Questions
Have you ever been asked an odd question in a job interview? Or better yet as the employer have you ever asked any candidate an odd question?
"We are honoured to receive this national award recognizing our efforts as an employer in providing peer to peer reward and recognition programs as well as our extensive health and wellness initiatives. We strive to ensure that all members of our team are recognized every day for the contributions that they make to our ongoing success," said CEO Greg McDougall, founder of Harbour Air and its groups of companies.
As well as being North America's first carbon-neutral airline, Harbour Air and its employees are an essential part of British Columbia's tourism and commuter air transport infrastructure, transporting more than 400,000 passengers every year.
Harbour Air Seaplanes / Westcoast Air / Whistler Air: member since 1993
Spring has sprung and plans for the 2nd annual YYJ Eats are in full bloom. Last year's inaugural event was a huge success (just look at the photos here). The Chamber is gearing up to do it all over again Tues, June 21 at Market Square from 5 to 7 pm.
To become a food or beverage participant click here.
Increases Ahead for Minimum Wage
Jobs Minister Shirley Bond is relooking at the scheduled increase for minimum wage set to change on Sept. 15 from $10.45 to $10.55. The 10 cent increase is tied to BC's Consumer Price Index (CPI) in order to provide surety for employers and employees.
At question is BC's position as the lowest minimum wage in Canada - ranging from $11.25 in Ontario to $10.65 in New Brunswick. 57% of the 94,000 people in the province receiving minimum wage are aged 15 - 24.
Bond plans to announce the new minimum wage this spring. Last year's increase was 20 cents at which time the province tied all future increases to the CPI.
Transit Fare Changes Start April 1
BC Transit will roll out its first fare changes in three years starting this Friday. The regular cash fare will remain at $2.50, but paper transfers, the multi-month Youth Pass and the Youth/Senior (green) tickets will be discontinued.
Paper transfers allowed one-way travel within a 60-minute time period. Now a DayPASS for $5.00 (or by exchanging two tickets), allows unlimited travel for that day. BC Transit is hoping by eliminating the paper transfers, ridership will increase and disputes between passengers and transit operators will decline.
Fraud, vandalism, shoplifting, and other illegal activity can have a real impact on businesses and their bottom line. Join BC Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Morris to learn and discuss the Province's strategy to improve community safety in British Columbia.
Tues, April 12 | 11:30 am-1 pm
Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel & Marina, 146 Kingston St.
Canada ranks No. 2 among 10 countries for cost competitiveness
In a recent study of 10 leading industrial countries, Canada has proven to be the second most competitive market lagging only behind Mexico. Measurements include corporate tax rates, labour, facilities, transportation and lease rates.
Although there have been concerns over the impact of a weakening loonie on the economy, having a low Canadian dollar has actually been "a driver in improving Canada's competitiveness and overall cost advantage," KPMG said.
For more details on the study and the rankings, click here.
KPMG: member since 1962
Social Media Series:
Online Advertising 101 Learn what advertising options can greatly boost your business' online promotions and expand beyond your own networks.
Presenter: Chris Burdge, Co-Founder of Social Media Camp and CEO of bWest Communications Inc.
Tues, April 5 | 2-4 pm
The Chamber
SOLD OUT!
LinkedIn with Viveka von Rosen With over 400 million members worldwide, smart organizations are looking for strategies to help them get the most out of this tool. Register and be entered to win flights for two!
Presenter: Viveka von Rosen, internationally known LinkedIn Expert
Tues, May 3 | 2-4 pm
The Chamber
Holografyx Expands into Latin America
With two new distributors secured in Guatemala and Panama,Holografyx is hoping this will help their expansion into Europe in the next couple of months.
Holografyx creates display cases using animations and effects that allow companies to present their products in a unique and visually pleasing way that grabs consumer's attention. For those lucky enough to attend The Chamber's Auction in November, you were able to view this artful promoting firsthand.
A spectacular night of prestige, entertainment and celebration, the Greater Victoria Business Awards recognizes members in 13 different award categories. Click here to see the finalists.
