BizNews
November 24, 2021
Your weekly round up of BizNews from throughout Greater Victoria
Chamber will pay shipping costs for your customers
Supporting your neighbours starts with thinking locally.
“In an effort to help people choose to shop at Greater Victoria retailers this holiday season, The Chamber is putting our money where our mouth is and paying the cost of shipping,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams says. “We all benefit from a strong regional economy and it’s up to each of us to do our part to help with the ongoing recovery.”

Effective immediately, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is encouraging holiday shoppers to choose local. The Chamber will cover the cost of shipping for items purchased from Chamber businesses and delivered by proud Chamber Courier partners.

The last two years have been challenging for retailers, but the forecast is for Canadians to spend more this holiday season. The Retail Council of Canada recently released a survey that shows people are feeling more confident with their finances this year.

Buying online from local retailers is also a good way to support our economic recovery and conserve a little gas by letting someone else do the delivery.

For more information on The Chamber’s Shop #ChamberLocalVicBC campaign, visit our website at victoriachamber.ca and make sure to follow us on social media.

If your business is interested in taking part in this initiative, please email [email protected] right away.
Employees entitled to five paid sick days as of Jan. 1
The provincial government has settled on mandating five paid sick days for workers in BC, starting Jan. 1. The announcement was made today after several rounds of consultation were held this year.

"Chamber members have been clear that no one wants sick employees in the workplace," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams says. "We think five days is much more acceptable than 10 days, and that five days fits with what many businesses are already offering."

The new regulations apply to workers covered by BC's Employment Standards Act, including part-time employees. The permanent rules replace temporary measures introduced in May.
How to help British Columbians affected by flooding
Chamber members are part of a compassionate community and many businesses in Greater Victoria have been asking how they can help people who were severely impacted by recent flooding in BC.

"I've reached out to our colleagues at chambers in Merritt and Abbotsford and other communities dealing with devastating weather events," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams says. "Right now they're still focused on getting through the next few weeks but they're grateful to know other communities are ready to help."

Ways to Help:
Throne Speech contains no surprises and few details
The federal government delivered its Speech from the Throne yesterday. The speech touched on issues of concern for business, such as inflation and disrupted supply chains, but was light on details about how government will address these issues.

The Chamber applauds promises to fight climate change and ongoing support for sectors hardest hit by the pandemic. We'll continue to advocate through our national network for investment in business innovation as well as policies that address the labour shortage affecting employers.
Kick-off the Holiday Season with The Chamber
Help shower our fearless Chair, John Wilson, with a big figurative vat of orange drink and honour his love of sports. Hit a home run with this "sports teamed" reception kicking off the holiday event season by checking off your top prospects.
 
Join us at the Lion’s Den in the Save-On- Foods Memorial Centre wearing your finest sports team gear or colours to show your support and have some fun! Cash bar and hors d'oeuvres provided. This is a 19+ event
Sponsored by:
Thurs., Dec. 2 | 4-6 PM
Lion's Den Restaurant
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard St., Victoria
In keeping with the current PHO for in-person events, all attendees must be fully vaccinated to attend and will be required to show their BC Vaccination Card and valid government issued ID. View COVID-19 Safety Protocols for In-Person Events here.
Business Hall of Fame tickets now available
Honour Greater Victoria's most notable business community leaders
The Chamber Business Hall of Fame, presented by RBC, is pleased to invite you to attend this inaugural red-carpet gala event!
 
This exclusive black-tie event will celebrate 19 Business Hall of Fame inductees and recognize their contributions to the growth and development of our community. This historic event held at the Victoria Conference Centre will be a night to remember with great food, drink and opportunities to connect with Greater Victoria's most influential business stakeholders.
 
Don't delay, much like the annual Business Awards, tickets will go fast.
Presented by:
Thurs., Feb. 3, 2022 | 5-9 PM
Victoria Conference Centre
720 Douglas St., Victoria
International flights return to YYJ starting Nov. 30
When a flight from Seattle touches down next Tuesday at Victoria International Airport, it will mark another milestone in our economic recovery. The plane will be the first with international passengers since the start of the pandemic in 2020.

For the latest requirements for travellers, make sure to check for current updates from the federal government.
Victoria Airport Authority: Member since 1981
Chamber Chats with CEO Bruce Williams
All Aboard with BC Ferries CEO Mark Collins
BC Ferries is one of the largest ferry operations in the world. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been ongoing adjustments to operations, but innovation and progress has been the main focus of this impressive transportation operation. Hear about this and more in our Chamber Chat with BC Ferries CEO Mark Collins.
BC Ferry Services Inc.: Member Since: 1983
Special thanks to our series sponsor:
Nominations now open!
Each week, The Chamber will profile one of the 14 different award categories, encouraging members to nominate a deserving Chamber member.

Business Person of the Year honours a business person who:
  • Is the founder, owner, CEO, President or Senior Executive of a company(ies)
  • Exhibits business leadership and vision;
  • Displays a significant commitment to the success of both their business and the region as a whole;
  • Serves as a positive role model or mentor for other business people;
  • Displays a commitment to the community; and
  • Demonstrates leadership and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic
Need some inspiration?
Check out the videos of the 2021 Business Person of the Year finalists below. Thanks to Canadian Tire who is our sponsor for this award in 2022.
Give your 2022 Business Awards application a winning edge!
Join us as we share tips on how to make your business stand out to the judges! This event is for all businesses who have already received a nomination or want to learn more before nominating themselves. 

During this virtual call, we will take a look at the Steps to Nominate a Business, the 2022 Award Application Guide, and the Awards Categories and Judging Criteria to help you successfully complete your award application.  
Tues., Dec. 7 |12-1 PM
Zoom
Use your Chamber Benefits today
Now is the time to take advantage of your health insurance coverage through your Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan.

Before the end of the calendar year, make sure to schedule a visit to your local dentist, chiropractor, massage therapist or acupuncturist to ensure you use the coverage you’re provided. Depending on your plan, your funds may not carry over into 2021.

Rest easy knowing claim payments are directly deposited into your account within 48 hours of being processed, and that you’re supporting local businesses this holiday season.

Interested in learning more? For over 17 years, RDF Group Ltd. has helped Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce members design a Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance plan reflecting the size and requirements of their businesses.
Showcase what your industry has to offer

Find the best talent in your industry with The Chamber’s job board.
When you post your next job, be sure to add your "industry type" to ensure it can be properly sorted and found by the right candidates. The list of industry types is constantly being updated, and can be modified to highlight any industry. Don’t see your industry listed? Send us an email!

Also remember to add a specific category for the job in the position title. From Admin and HR to Marketing and Comms positions, you can see all 14 categories here.

If you have any questions about the job board or need assistance posting, email [email protected].
Member News
Big Wheel Burger celebrates 10 years

Big Wheel Burger is celebrating their 10th anniversary on Nov. 26. To mark the occasion, Big Wheel is hosting a week of daily prize giveaways. Featuring a two-night stay at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, Cineplex gift cards and, of course, Big Wheel Burger swag, you can participate on your Instagram page every day this week for a chance to win.
Big Wheel Burger: Member Since 2020
Big Wheel Burger: Member Since 2020 
Oak Bay Beach Hotel: Member since 2011
Cineplex Odeon Victoria Cinemas: Member since 2014
City of Victoria: Member since 1962
CN donates $100,000 to flood victims

CN Canadian National Railway has donated $100,000 to the BC Red Cross to help relief efforts for victims of flooding. The funds will cover costs to deliver essential goods, provide emotional support to residents and rebuild infrastructure.

CN Canadian National Railway: Member since 2018
Festival of Trees returns to spread joy

From now until Jan. 4, the Festival of Trees is adding holiday cheer to the Bay Centre. Organizations from across Greater Victoria have decorated trees throughout the mall, and shoppers can vote for their favorite tree. All proceeds go to mental health programs at BC Children’s Hospital
Bay Centre: Member since 1990
BC Children’s Hospital Foundation: Member since 2016
BCSCPA supporting flood victims and their pets

To support animals and their owners affected by recent flooding, The BC SPCA is providing free emergency boarding for animals across BC. Along with free crates, food, leashes, collars and other supplies, the organization is also helping with search and rescue efforts for missing pets.

BC SPCA Victoria: Member since 2017
CARE Awards recognizes residential talent

Last week, the 2021 CARE Awards put a spotlight on excellence in residential construction across Vancouver Island. Chamber members were among the winners, including Mike Geric Construction, Abstract Developments, Concert Properties and BC Housing. Awards were given for Advancing Solar Energy Efficiency, Projects of the Year and more.
Mike Geric Construction Ltd: Member since 2017
Mike Geric Construction Ltd: Chamber Champion since 2021
Concert Properties / Capital Park Residences: Member since 2012
BC Housing: Member since 2021
Giving Tuesday at UVic

The University of Victoria is bringing together alumni, community members, faculty, staff and students to participate in Giving Tuesday, Nov. 30. Globally, Giving Tuesday is a celebration of philanthropy that inspires people to give back to causes they are passionate about. Everyone is invited to donate, participate in events and contribute to student-lead initiatives. Funds support research that strengthens communities as well as programs that change lives.
University of Victoria: Member since 1976 
University of Victoria: Chamber Champion since 2020
Getting Greater Victorians back to work

Up to 32 residents of Greater Victoria will get free training and support to re-enter the workforce as part-time service sector workers thanks to Our Place Society. The Community and Employer Partnerships (CEP) project, a BC Government initiative, has allocated $180,000 to Our Place to administer training. Courses include stress management, conflict resolution and budgeting 101.
Our Place Society: Member since 2010
Do you have a success story? We want to hear from you
Member to Member discounts
BC Ferries Connector operated by the Wilson's Group
Heather Ferguson Music
Premium Living Victoria
Signature Merchant Services
Members can post Coupons and Discounts free of charge here.
Welcome to our newest members!