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BCHA & TIABC Announce New Strategic

Direction for 2024 Conferences


Dear Hospitality and Tourism Industry Members,

 

The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) and the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) collaborated over the past three years to deliver the BC Tourism and Hospitality Conference during a challenging time for our shared industry. This conference was a testament to our industry's resilience and the power of collaboration. With deep consideration, we have jointly decided to take a new direction and focus our efforts on our respective conferences, while maintaining our strong relationship.

 

We are thrilled to announce our upcoming events—the BCHA Summit in Whistler on May 1-2, 2024, and the TIABC Tourism Industry Conference in Victoria on March 6-7, 2024. Our aim is to provide you with a more targeted and impactful experience that caters specifically to your interests and needs. By focusing on our individual conferences, we can deliver content that addresses your unique challenges and aspirations for the ever-changing landscape in which we operate.

 

We want to express our sincere gratitude for your support and contributions to the success of the BC Tourism and Hospitality Conference. It was a remarkable accomplishment during a time of immense adversity. We are proud of what we achieved together and are excited to build upon that success as we move forward.

 

Rest assured, our commitment to fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and supporting our industry's ecosystem remains unwavering. We will continue to leverage our strong relationship to ensure we collectively thrive.

 

Thank you for your ongoing support and participation. We look forward to welcoming you to our respective conferences in 2024, where we will create new opportunities for growth, innovation, and success.

 

Warm regards,

Ingrid Jarrett, President & CEO, BC Hotel Association

Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of BC

Emerging Social Media Trends | InnFocus Magazine


Discover the power of emerging social media trends and how to effectively leverage them in the latest issue of InnFocus magazine.


With an insightful article dedicated to maximizing your social media presence, this issue is a must-read for hospitality professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve. Explore innovative strategies and practical tips that can elevate your digital marketing efforts and engage your target audience. Dive into the Summer 2023 issue of InnFocus today and unlock the potential of emerging social media trends.


READ NOW

BCHA Launches Next Chapter in Fast Track Your Future Series

BCHA's Fast Track Your Future Education Series is back. Register for FIVE exciting and condensed six-week courses that will transform your team. Mark your calendar every Wednesday at 11am PST (12pm MST) for a dose of practical knowledge and guidance LIVE from the industry's leading experts and trainers.

* Leadership & Best Practices in Housekeeping Sponsored by Eden Textile (September 13-October 18)

* Human Resources Leadership & Best Practices (October 25-November 29)

* Financial Leadership (January 10-February 14)

* Property Operations & Maintenance (February 21-March 27)

* Leadership for Hospitality Professionals (April 3-May 8)

Register for all five courses and enjoy discounted prices.

REGISTER TODAY

BCHF Golf Tournaments | Raising Funds for a Good Cause

The BCHA team and board members joined forces at the BCHF Golf Tournament in Vancouver this week to raise funds for industry members in medical crises. These golf tournaments are crucial fundraising opportunities for the charity, and there is still space available for the Victoria tournament. Support your industry colleagues and make a difference by learning more and donating today. Congratulations to the entire BCHF team and hats off to BCHF Golf Committee Chair, Mike Macleod on a successful event!


LEARN MORE & REGISTER TODAY

TOP STORIES

Advocacy Win | Canada-UK Working Holiday Visa and Expanded Study Opportunities for Temporary Foreign Workers

The Minister of Immigration has unveiled two program changes. First, the Canada-UK Working Holiday Visa Program will undergo significant expansions in 2024. The age eligibility will be extended from 18 to 35, while the duration of stay will increase from 2 to 3 years. Additionally, two new streams, International Co-op and Young Professionals, will be introduced. In another development, temporary foreign workers (TFWs) will now have the opportunity to enroll in full or part-time study programs of any length throughout the validity of their work permits. These changes present valuable opportunities for employers and TFWs alike. Click below to learn more from our partners at HAC.


→ LEARN MORE

Win | Government of Canada Sees Path Forward to Implement Digital Services Tax in 2024

The Government of Canada has decided to proceed with the implementation of the Digital Services Tax in 2024. This step aims to ensure that digital giants in the accommodation industry pay their fair share. The BCHA views this development as an important measure towards creating a more level playing field for all types of accommodation providers. By holding digital platforms accountable, this tax will promote fairness and equity within the industry.


→ LEARN MORE

BC Introduces Single-Use Plastic Requirements to Enhance Recycling Efforts

The Province of British Columbia has recently updated its regulations to tackle the challenges posed by hard-to-recycle single-use and plastic items. Through the Single-Use and Plastic Waste Prevention Regulation, new requirements have been introduced, covering shopping bags, disposable food service accessories, oxo-degradable plastics, and specific food service packaging materials. These regulations are scheduled to come into effect in December 2023, allowing a six-month period for public and business education, as well as providing businesses with time to deplete their existing inventory. It aligns with federal actions, where the manufacturing and importation of six plastic items were already prohibited in December 2022, with sales bans set to take effect on December 20, 2023.


→ LEARN MORE

RESOURCES

Enhancing Payment Processing: BCHA and SONA Pay Sign 3-Year Partnership Agreement 

We are excited to announce that the BCHA has partnered with SONA Pay as our premier payment processing provider. Recently named Supplier of the Year at the BCHA Awards of Excellence, SONA Pay offers BCHA members exclusive benefits, competitive pricing, and tailored solutions to simplify payment acceptance. Powered by leading payment processors, SONA Pay brings honesty, transparency, and exceptional customer service to the forefront. Upgrade your payment processing capabilities today!


→  LEARN MORE

BC Hotel Occupancy Holds Steady with Slight Decrease

The latest data reveals the performance of the hotel industry in British Columbia for the given week. From Sunday to Thursday, the occupancy rate reached 74.70%, while during the weekend, it climbed to 84.20%. Although showing a marginal decline of 0.40% compared to the same week in 2022, the overall occupancy remains robust. Additionally, average daily rates (ADR) demonstrated a notable increase, reaching $278.19 from Sunday to Thursday and $313.86 during the weekend, representing a growth of 7.40% compared to the previous year. The revenue per available room (RevPAR) also experienced positive momentum, achieving $207.75 from Sunday to Thursday and $264.33 during the weekend, resulting in a 7.00% increase compared to the same week in 2022.


→ SEE REPORT

Q2 Restaurants Canada Outlook Survey

Restaurants Canada is seeking assistance from industry stakeholders to participate in the Q2 Restaurants Canada Outlook Survey. The survey aims to identify and quantify the various challenges impacting the sector, providing crucial data for advocacy with federal and provincial governments. Respondents' input will help emphasize the importance of the foodservice industry and its requirements for government support. The survey, which takes less than 5 minutes to complete, will be open until Wednesday, July 26, 2023.


→ TAKE SURVEY NOW

Resource Spotlight: 2SLGBTQI Terms and Definitions

Egale Canada offers a comprehensive resource that serves as a valuable tool for 2SLGBTQI individuals and communities, service providers, schools, and companies. The recently updated 2SLGBTQI Terms and Definitions resource presents a collection of fundamental definitions for commonly used terms pertaining to gender and attraction diversity. It covers the definitions within the 2SLGBTQI acronym, as well as other terminology related to sexual orientation, romantic attraction, gender identity, and gender expression. Stay informed and gain a deeper understanding by accessing this resource below.


→ VIEW RESOURCE

Virtual Rate Information Sessions: Learn about WorkSafeBC's 2024 Preliminary Assessment Premium Rates

BC employers are invited to attend virtual rate information sessions hosted by WorkSafeBC. These sessions offer an opportunity to learn about the preliminary assessment premium rates for 2024 and discover ways to reduce premiums through promoting a safer and healthier workplace environment while assisting injured workers in their recovery. The sessions will cover important topics such as the financial state of the workers' compensation system, rate and classification changes, and how employers can positively influence their rates by implementing improved health and safety practices. Multiple session dates are available, offering flexibility for participants.


→ REGISTER HERE

TRENDING

IN THE NEWS


Quebec Officially Passes Short-Term Rental Platform Legislation


New Hwy 4 closures 'devastating' for businesses on Vancouver Island's west coast: tourism leader


Civic Hotel, Autograph Collection Raises the Bar with Automated Digital Signage Technology

B.C.’s Indigenous tourism sector is thriving – but not everyone is benefitting


British Columbia's record-breaking wildfire season, by the numbers


Wildfire closure of Highway 4 cost Tofino, Ucluelet $44M in lost tourism revenue: chamber


Work on Highway 4 and Detour Routing to Commence


Weekly Global Hotel Performance Trends from STR: 2-8 July 2023

TALK OF THE TOWN


#ICYMI | HAC Releases Hotel Workforce Growth Strategy and Hotel Workforce Action Plan


6 Reasons Why You Need an AI Response Generator to Reply to Guest Reviews - By Catalina Brinza


The Potential of GPT Models for the Travel Industry - By Rudy Daniello


Minister of Tourism wraps up inspiring cross-Canada tour to share new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy with tourism businesses and partners


DoorDash to Provide $10,000 Grants to

Disaster-ravaged Restaurants


The Path to Direct Bookings: Harnessing the Potential of Loyalty Programs


Short-term Trips, Cannabis Tourism and Other Trends Stand out in Latest MMGY Global Survey


Organizations are leaving disabled workers behind in their DEI efforts—here’s how they can do better

AT A GLANCE

Preparing and Responding to Challenging Guest Interactions |  July 19 at 12pm

Register

BCHF Victoria Golf Tournament
August 23, 2023 | Victoria

SPARK: BC Hotel & Liquor Conference

October 16 & 18, 2023 | Anvil Centre, New Westminster

Save the Date | Learn More

ALLIED MEMBERS

CONNECTING MEMBERS WITH TRUSTED VENDORS

Enjoy a Minimum 15% Discount on Operto Guest Technologies Services

Operto Guest Technologies is a world-leading hospitality automation platform for the hotel, short-term rental, and multifamily industries. Operto’s simple, affordable suite of technology solutions deliver an exceptional end-to-end guest experience, while driving operational efficiencies and higher revenues. The front desk process becomes completely reimagined, allowing staff to focus on delivering hospitality over transactional tasks. For more information contact Nicola Graham, Partner Marketing Manager at nicola.graham@operto.com or 778-870-5504.



→ LEARN MORE

Exclusive Pricing and Much More with Takasa Lifestyle Company Inc.

Takasa is a British Columbia Benefit Company, based in Vancouver, and one of the first Canadian company to have their bed and bath linens certified for both GOTS organic and Fairtrade Cotton. Takasa bedding, towels, robes, and accessories are crafted with the highest standards of sustainability, while delivering superior comfort and durability for your guests and facility. Takasa’s product lifecycle is measured from seed to final delivery and they can provide you with environmental footprint and carbon offset data for ESG reporting and WELL Certification. Additionally, BCHA members get exclusive pricing, one-on-one support, and free consultation. For more information contact Kuljit Rakhra at ose@takasa.co or 866-282-5272.


LEARN MORE

Hytera: Two-Way Radio Communications

Engineered to meet the specific needs of hotels, Hytera's PTT radios offer numerous advantages. 

Experience instant and reliable communication at the touch of a button, enabling seamless coordination between staff members across various departments. Swiftly address guest requests, streamline housekeeping operations, and optimize guest services, resulting in heightened guest satisfaction. Elevate your hotel's efficiency and guest experiences with Hytera PTT two-way radios. For more information contact the Hytera Canada team at info@hytera.ca or 905-305-7545.


→ LEARN MORE

HERE'S TO YOU!

HAVE NEWS TO SHARE? EMAIL KELSEY@BCHA.COM

Congratulations to IT Partners on Channel Futures MSP 501 Recognition

The BCHA congratulates Allied Members, IT Partners, for being recognized as one of the world's premier IT-managed service providers in the 2023 Channel Futures MSP 501 rankings. IT Partners' top rankings in Western Canada, Canada, and 52nd position worldwide highlight their commitment to service excellence and innovation. As the sole Canadian hotel-focused MSP on the list, IT Partners' dedication to customer success and transformative solutions is commendable. Congratulations to the entire IT Partners team on this prestigious achievement!

LAST LAUGH

THE BCHA INDUSTRY UPDATE IS PRESENTED BY
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