December 20, 2024

CEO MESSAGE

While cleaning out the crawlspace a few months ago, I discovered postcards from various places that I had sent my then-girlfriend, now wife, while backpacking through Europe. Although it was somewhat amusing to read my chicken scratch from decades ago, I was more interested in the origin of the postcards and the colourful international stamps affixed to each one.

Back in the day, sending postcards to close family and friends from a far-flung destination was common practice even when you knew you'd arrive home before the postcard did.

Today, smartphones and digital technology have nearly rendered postcards obsolete but one can still find them in gift shops throughout BC to appease a certain market segment that appreciates the tradition of a handwritten note to mail to a loved one while on vacation. I doubt that postcard sales are strong at this time of the year but even if they were, any visitor that wanted to mail one home from BC over the last few weeks was stymied by the national postal strike.

Notwithstanding the persistent challenge of trying to find stamps, regular mail and package deliveries were halted when Canada Post employees walked off the job just over a month ago resulting in an estimated $100 million a day in losses to small businesses collectively across the country. Given the size of our province and the reach of Canada Post to rural areas that lack service by other delivery companies, tens of thousands of operators, including many in tourism, experienced the ramifications.

I particularly sympathize with retailers who count on the Christmas season to generate substantial revenues to sustain them through the slower months of January and February. Same goes for charities that rely heavily on year-end donations. By being forced to use other couriers instead of the much cheaper Canada Post, their shipping costs for marketing collateral and goods such as gifts went up considerably during the strike period.

Mercifully, Canada’s Industrial Relations Board stepped in this week and ordered workers, represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), to get back to their jobs and help clear the backlog of bills, letters, parcels, notices, and other packages…even the odd postcard. But why did it take so long for the federal government to initiate an end to the strike at a time when Canada’s economy is teetering, and especially after multiple appeals by business groups for the feds to intervene on behalf of reeling SMEs?

For the record, TIABC supports collective bargaining and prefers disputes to be settled between the respective parties at the bargaining table. However, similar to the strike situations this past summer involving trains and (almost) planes that also impacted businesses, we expected the government to act more quickly in the best interests of all Canadians that rely on Canada Post which, in our view, should be considered an essential service permanently rather than only during situations like the pandemic.

Unfortunately the damage has been done this holiday season considering it will take weeks or maybe months to clear the system and resume normal delivery for customers that depend on Canada Post. Suffice it to say, 2024 will go down as a bad year for labour unrest at the national level.

Although I stopped sending postcards from exotic destinations a long time ago, I still mail hand-written TIABC thank you notes to colleagues around the province. With the strike over for the time being, I placed a few cards in envelopes with colourful Canadian stamps and deposited them in the mailbox this week, hopeful they will arrive by Christmas 2025.

A reminder that at the end of today our office will be closed until January 6th. On behalf of TIABC’s board and staff, I wish you Season’s Greetings, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year. Thank you for your support this year. I look forward to seeing you again soon.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Announcing Our 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference Keynotes & Reminder of Important Deadlines

Get Ready for an Inspiring 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference!

We’re thrilled to share a first look at two exceptional keynote speakers who will set the tone for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference.

Program Development is Underway

We’re hard at work developing the 2025 conference program. Expect programming by our valued partners at Destination BC, Indigenous Tourism BC, and Destination Canada, along with an outstanding selection of breakout sessions that will provide tools & insights, highlight innovations, and spark thought-provoking discussions. Stay tuned for some exciting program announcements early in the new year!

Important Reminders

Award Nominations Close: January 8, 2025 - Celebrate excellence in our industry by nominating a deserving colleague, business, or initiative. Visit our Awards page for more details. 

Early Bird Registration Deadline: January 15, 2025 - Save your spot to take advantage of discounted rates!

BCHA Release 2024 Advocacy Report 

The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) is sharing its 2024 Advocacy Report—a detailed review of the key issues the organization has tackled over the past year and the priorities they are setting for 2025.

From the cost of doing business to the impact of short-term rentals, this summary outlines the progress the BCHA has made and the path forward for advocacy in the year ahead.

Download the BCHA 2024 Advocacy Report HERE.

Caribou Recovery Program Strategy Released   

The Caribou Recovery Program Strategy is comprised of the program’s vision, goals, objectives, and strategies. This document represents the culmination of the organization's successes, challenges faced, and lessons learned over the first five years of the program. TIABC has contributed to this program in years past.

The Four Goals that drive the program actions are:

• Goal 1: Caribou Recovery - Stabilization and recovery of threatened caribou herds through a prioritized approach.
• Goal 2: Inclusive Stewardship - Shared responsibility for caribou recovery.
• Goal 3: Durable Provincial Program - Accountability and transparency support successful caribou recovery implementation.
• Goal 4: Well-Informed Decisions - Multiple knowledge pathways inform caribou recovery and ecosystem health decisions.

Through the Caribou Recovery Program’s collaboration and partnerships with First Nations and other interested parties, we continue to pursue the goal of seeing caribou populations in BC return to self-sustaining levels.

Read more about the Caribou Recovery Program Strategy HERE.

REMINDER | Be Prepared for Emergencies This Winter

Destination BC (DBC) want to remind everyone to be prepared for emergencies this winter with the help of their recently updated Fall/Winter 2024-25 Emergency Messaging Guidance document. This guide outlines official emergency information sources and provides suggested messaging, actions, and other resources produced by the BC Tourism Emergency Management Committee (BCTEMC) for BC tourism businesses to help navigate questions, mitigate visitor concerns, and proactively manage perceptions during emergencies.

Emergencies can impact travel, visitors, and businesses at any time, and potentially influence those who may be planning a trip to our province. During these emergencies, the tourism industry is an important conduit to official information sources for visitors.

Learn more and access the resources HERE.

Accessible Travel at YVR

With the holiday season upon us, YVR is focused on ensuring a seamless travel experience for everyone. Guided by their Beyond Accessibility three-year plan, YVR is co-designing solutions with community and accessibility partners to ensure the airport environment is predictable, stress-free, and enjoyable for people of all abilities.

To learn more about their Curbside Greeting Program, accessible features inside the terminal, information about their enhanced communication and technology, and their commitment to accessibility, VISIT HERE.

ICYMI | CRA GST Break Info Session Recording

If you missed last week's Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) information session on the GST break, watch the recording by clicking the image below.

A Message From go2HR

Facing Substance Use Challenges

Substance use can affect employees and teams across the tourism and hospitality industry. go2HR, is committed to providing resources that promote mental health and psychological safety for BC’s tourism and hospitality workplaces.

The latest People Working Well Safety Talk offers a 5-minute video resource with a PDF guide designed to help workplaces address this critical topic.

Key Takeaways: 

• Why it happens: Understand two key reasons people may turn to substances.
• Spotting the signs: Recognize potential substance overuse in yourself or colleagues.
• Healthy strategies: Discover substance-free ways to recharge and manage stress.
• Accessing support: Learn where to find help for yourself or others in BC’s tourism and hospitality industry.

This resource includes a PDF summary and leadership tools to support team well-being and foster healthier workplace environments.

If your organization needs customized support, connect with one of go2HR's Mental Health & Psychological Safety Consultants for Tourism & Hospitality—we’re here to help.

In Memoriam | Al Raine

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Al Raine, Mayor of Sun Peaks and a prominent figure in the BC tourism industry. The legendary ski coach, political leader, and Whistler Village visionary died Saturday after a battle with ALS.

Alongside his wife, Nancy Greene Raine, Al was instrumental in the development of numerous ski resorts in BC, contributing to the province's reputation as a premier ski destination. Our thoughts and sympathies are with his loved ones, friends, and the Sun Peaks community as they navigate this challenging time. Al's absence will be deeply felt.

A celebration of life is planned in Sun Peaks for January 15th.

Wine Growers BC Seeking CEO

The Wine Growers British Columbia (WGBC) Board is working with Watson Board Advisors in the search for WGBC’s next Chief Executive Officer to build upon a world-class brand and 30-plus-year history of representing and advocating for British Columbia wineries.

A natural networker, the ideal candidate will be a strategic, relationship-oriented leader who understands the nuances of advancing an industry through best-in-class member engagement, programs and advocacy. This is an exciting opportunity for a proven leader with a passion for people, wine and business, and the vision to further empower a vibrant wine-producer community in British Columbia.

Anyone interested in this position should contact Cameron Wilson at cameron@watsoninc.ca or Barb Schimnowsky, CMC, FEA at barb@watsoninc.ca.

Job Opportunity

Destination Events Specialist

Tourism Kamloops is seeking a Destination Events Specialist to be the driving force behind their event tourism, industry events, and destination development initiatives.

As the ultimate team player and community connector, you’ll champion events big and small, build

meaningful relationships with partners, and help take the vibrant region to the next level. You’ll

manage projects with precision, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and bring a sharp eye for

detail to everything you do—all while having a bit of fun along the way!

Learn more about this exciting opportunity and how to apply HERE.

Presented by TIABC and sponsoring partners, the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Awards shine a light on the remarkable achievements that fuel British Columbia’s vibrant tourism industry. We are pleased to announce that nominations are now open. Awards will be presented in 10 categories:

For more information about each award visit the conference website HERE.

If you know a business, organization, or individual who deserves recognition, submit your nomination and help celebrate their outstanding achievements! The nomination deadline is January 8th, 2025. 

QUESTIONS? Email us at info@bctourismconference.ca. 

Destination Canada Appoints Business Events Advisory Committee

Congratulations are in order to two (2) TIABC members - Matt Coyne (President, Cantrav Services Inc.) and Miranda Ji (Executive VP Sales & Business Development, Destination Greater Victoria) who were named to the Destination Canada Business Events Advisory Committee.

The mandate of this advisory committee is to provide strategic advice and counsel to Destination Canada's management and board, on strategic issues. The committee provides input relating to key insights, program opportunities, market strategies, and trends relating to business events.

Learn more HERE.

Destination Canada Wins Smart Meetings' Platinum Choice Award

Destination Canada has also announced they have been selected as a winner of Smart Meetings’ prestigious Platinum Choice Awards for 2024! These awards recognize the top-tier organizations in the meetings industry that have demonstrated exceptional service, innovation, and dedication to excellence. Destination Canada is honoured to receive this recognition of their team’s hard work and commitment to providing outstanding experiences in Canada and beyond.

BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative Receives X. Awards Transformation Award

The BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative was recently selected as the Transformation category winner in Digital Tourism Think Tank’s X. Awards. The selection was made by a panel of judges, noting the collaborative and comprehensive approach that worked to serve the varying needs and requirements related to climate adaptation steps implemented by communities and businesses.

The BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI) is a collaborative stewardship partnership in BC's tourism sector:

‍

• Destination BC: Co-leads development and delivery, promoting sustainable growth and marketing BC as a tourist destination
• Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport: Co-leads development and oversight, setting tourism policies and strategic investment conditions.
• Regional Destination Management Organizations: Provide regional leadership, coordinating destination management and working with local stakeholders.

Learn more about this recognition and the BCTCRI Program HERE.‍

City of North Vancouver Tops List of Canada’s Liveable Cities in 2024

Congratulations to the City of North Vancouver along with neighbouring District of North Vancouver who were jointly named Canada's most liveable city for 2024 by the Globe and Mail newspaper.

This annual list analyzes data from 448 Canadian cities with populations over 10,000 across a number of categories and variables including housing, climate, healthcare, safety, education and public amenities like parks and public spaces. 

North Vancouver (combining City and District) was ranked highly in the community category shaped by high levels of volunteerism, access to community centres and a sense of belonging among residents. The two cities were also noted for key measures of liveability like access to nature, schools and public spaces and amenities like The Shipyards, parks, shopping and recreation facilities. 

Other BC communities also recognized in the top 10 most liveable cities in Canada are Victoria, placing (3rd), Pitt Meadows (8th), and Penticton, (9th).

Destination Greater Victoria Launches Intention Wellness Getaway for 2025

Destination Greater Victoria (DGV) is introducing a new program to help people prioritize their heath and wellness in 2025.

Intention is a wellness getaway program that features the many exceptional products and experiences in Greater Victoria centred around health and wellness. Developed from the ground up and guided by DGV’s dedicated sales and marketing committee, the program will help drive incremental business focused on wellness in the beginning of the year.

Intention runs January 5-19. Participants can tailor an itinerary that is perfect for them

from a collection of health and wellness activities, events, and treatments. The program is more

than a wellness retreat; it’s an opportunity to take part in an engaging speaker series, cooking

classes, guided workouts, unique hotel stays, and more.

Learn more about the getaway program HERE.

A Year-End Message from Wellness BC

A Look Back on 2024 – Looking Ahead to 2025

We love to profile the travel experiences that are inspiring consumers to prioritize self-care! Through the Wellness Travel BC Blog and podcasts, together in 2024 we've explored:

Sustainable Wellness: With eco-conscious resorts leading the way, we've enjoyed guilt-free luxury that nurtures both us and the planet.

Outdoor Adventures: From forest bathing in ancient rainforests to cold plunges on shimmering lakes and the Pacific Ocean, we've reconnected with nature in extraordinary ways.

Cultural Connections: Celebrating Indigenous traditions, exploring gardens and galleries and learning from local communities has enriched our understanding of the deep roots of wellness.

Press Coverage: We're so proud of the vibrant wellness travel community that has blossomed here in BC and Yukon.

Check out the Wellness Travel BC Blog and Wellness Travel BC Podcast to explore the many options inviting you to rest, relax and restore.

Northern Rockies Adventures

Northern Rockies Adventures is the premier BC Fly-In Fishing and Outdoor Adventure company, located at Muncho Lake on the world famous Alaska Highway in Northern BC. Over the last 40 years, the exclusive fly-in fishing and adventure tours family business has attracted guests from all over the world, many of whom have annually returned ever since their first trip. 

Learn more about Northern Rockies Adventures HERE.

Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism newsletter, social channels or on our website? TIABC member testimonials provide visibility and exposure to the tourism industry and a wider audience for your business. Contact Deborah - deborah@tiabc.ca

Become a Member in 2024

Your Membership is Important to Us!

We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC in 2024 to support our important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.

TIABC continues to identify your concerns, raise your voice, champion your needs, and push for support and programs while encouraging policy changes at both the provincial and federal level.

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.

TIAC's Associate Program for TIABC Members

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) continue to offer TIABC members an opportunity to extend their membership. TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.

By visiting this link, you can become a TIAC Associate Member, enjoy access to a range of TIAC benefits and add your voice to National efforts.

Note: If you are already a TIAC associate member, you will receive a renewal notice before your anniversary date. If you are currently a full TIAC member, you already get enhanced advantages. You will continue to enjoy added benefits and savings over and above what is available to associate members, including the TIAC Member Advantage program at Rendez-vous Canada.

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

Early-bird registration is now open for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference. Early-bird rates will be available until January 15, 2025.

Detailed programming including updates on keynote speakers, engaging sessions and networking opportunities will be released soon. Until then, we encourage you to visit the conference website for details on travel, accommodation and conference sponsorship opportunities.

Secure your spot today! This is a must attend event, and we look forward to seeing you in Vancouver next year!

ICYMI | Tourism Digital Academy

The Tourism Digital Academy is a FREE, 8-week digital marketing program for BC tourism businesses who are interested in building their knowledge and skills in digital marketing to an intermediate level.

Designed for business owners or their marketing team members, this comprehensive program is focused on providing practical, actionable guidance to complete your digital marketing plan. From setting your goals, to building a better SEO, website usability, content, email marketing, analytics and more - you'll leave the program with the confidence and knowledge to put that plan into action.

There are two (2) intakes: Jan 21 - March 12 or Jan 29 - March 19

Learn more and register HERE.

Adventure Smart | Free Winter

Webinar Series

Want to further your learning about winter adventures? The crew at BC AdventureSmart runs a winter webinar series featuring subject matter experts. Brush up on trip preparedness, learn about avalanche terrain, pet safety, and much more.

Sign up to watch them live or view the recordings. This incredible organization, run by the BC Search & Rescue Association, is celebrating 20 years in 2024!

View the complete webinar series HERE.

Workshop | Climate Resilience, Governance

and CDMOs

This new workshop delivered by Destination BC will provide details of the Community Destination Stewardship Initiative. The one-hour, virtual workshop will focus on government partnerships within the context of climate resilience in the tourism industry, exploring the critical importance of provincial, regional, and municipal partnerships to enhance climate resilience strategies.

Date: January 22, 2025

Time: 10:00 am (PST)

Learn more and register HERE.

Webinar | Losing Ground: The Definitive Workforce Update

Join Tourism HR Canada for this “state of the union”-style presentation that will explore pressing workforce challenges, including persistent labour shortages, declining competitiveness, and the shifting policies shaping the industry’s future. Featuring comprehensive workforce projections, actionable recommendations, and a review of programs designed to address these issues, this event will emphasize the urgency of collaboration and cohesion across the sector.

Date: January 22, 2025

Time: 10:00 am - Noon (PST)

Whether you’re an employer, educator, industry association leader, destination marketer, HR professional, or government representative, this session offers indispensable insights to inform your strategies and drive meaningful change.

Learn more and register HERE.

Exploring the VCM Sustainability Toolkit

This webinar is designed for VCM communities and tourism businesses to explore practical ways to utilize the sustainability toolkit. It’s a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding and drive sustainable practices.

Date: January 23, 2025

Time: 10:00 - 11:00 am (PST)

Learn more and register HERE.

SOS Coalition Announces

"Communities Driving Change" Forum

With crime, violence and street disorder plaguing communities large and small across British Columbia, BC’s Save Our Streets coalition (SOS) will hold a day-long “Communities Driving Change” Forum.

Date: January 23, 2025

Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Vancouver

The Forum will explore solutions to these issues with community and business leaders, subject experts and political leaders.

The Forum, will feature moderated panel discussions, keynote expert speakers, and opportunities for virtual community participation from around the province. Topics to include judicial reform and resources, policing, addictions and mental illnesses, and the role of housing as components of the solution.

Note: If you have registered for the previous date of September 12th, 2024 and the date doesn't work for yoru schedule, please reach out and your registration will be cancelled.

Read the official news release and learn more about the SOS initiative HERE.

Registration Now Open

The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria.

Day of Impact: January 26, 2025

Dates of Conference: January 27-29, 2025

Early-bird registration is now open. Visit HERE.

Save The Date | SPARK!

BC Liquor and Cannabis Conference

ABLE BC is excited to announce the return of SPARK! Join in on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre for BC's premier liquor and cannabis conference. 

Date: March 5, 2025

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, Vancouver

The highly anticipated third annual SPARK conference returns revamped and revived with a focus on liquor primaries, private liquor stores, and now private cannabis stores!

Get pumped for a full day of advocacy updates, networking with like-minded business owners, and learning from industry experts in the liquor and cannabis fields. Stay tuned for more details, including registration, early bird pricing, sponsorship opportunities, and programming.

Learn more HERE.

Flourish 2025

Flourish is Vancouver Community College (VCC) Foundation's annual fundraising experience. It’s an opportunity to come together to support their students as they change their lives through the power of real learning and hands-on education.

Join in for an evening of food and wine, and help the community thrive.

Date: March 5, 2025

Time: 7pm - 10pm

Location: VCC Broadway Campus, 1120 E. 7th Ave., Vancouver

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Mark Your Calendars — BCHA Summit

The 2025 BCHA Summit is returning to Vancouver!

Date: April 22-23, 2025

Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver. 

Stay tuned here for more information on the program, featured speakers, nominations for the Awards of Excellence, and soon-to-be announced registration details.

Visit the conference website and learn more HERE.

Save the Date | BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference

Join us in Nanaimo to explore this vibrant urban centre found on the east side of beautiful Vancouver Island, located on the traditional territories of the Coast

Salish Peoples - Snuneymuxw, Snaw-naw-as, and Stz'uminus.

Date: June 3-5, 2025

Location: Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Nanaimo

More information and registration to be available soon!