HALIFAX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | APRIL 2021 | VOLUME 30 ISSUE 04
MEANINGFUL CHANGES Reflecting on Diversity Month Pg 13
HALIFACT LEADS CLIMATE ROCKET LAUNCHES THE REAL ESTATE MARKET CHANGE ACTIONS BEYOND PRINT IN 2021 Driving emission reduction Taking off into new markets Becoming a ‘bonfire’ Pg 17 Pg 20 Pg 23 ENTER HERE AFFINITY PARTNERS As a member of the Chamber you gain access to many benefit programs that can save you & your company money. You can recover the cost of your membership many times over just by taking advantage of these money and time saving benefits from our Affinity Partners. Find out more here. TABLE OF CONTENTS: 05 Events & Policy We made a conscious decision to look at a 20 rebrand: to drop ‘printing’ from our name and to 06 President’s message become really more of an overall communications Guest writter: Ann Divine company.”— Scott Williams, CEO, Rocket 07 New & Noted 10 Members RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS: in the news HALIFACT LEADS 14 Meaningful changes CLIMATE CHANGE Reflecting on Diversity Month ACTIONS 17 17 HalifACT leads climate change actions Driving emission reduction together 20 Profile: Rocket launches beyond print
20 Board of Directors – Officers Volume 30 • Issue 04 Gavin MacDonald, Cox & Palmer, Chair Mark Sidebottom, Nova Scotia Power, Vice-Chair Business Voice is published 11 times a year for members 23 Trends Margaret Chapman, Narrative Research, Past Chair of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and Metro Halifax’s Richard Butts, Clayton Developments Limited business community. Views expressed in Business Voice The real estate market in 2021 Faten Alshazly, WeUsThem are those of the contributors and individual members, Roger Boutilier, Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS and are not necessarily endorsed by, or are a policy of, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. The Zoom effect Directors Stefanie MacDonald, Halifax Paper Hearts No part of this publication may be reproduced without Michele Peveril, Halifax Port Authority written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been Success during a crisis Brad Proctor, McInnes Cooper made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held Captain (N) A.S. Williams, CD, Maritime Forces Atlantic responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. Caroline Wolfe Stewart, Nova Scotia College of Nursing Please address editorial enquiries Andrew de Freitas, Canadian National Railway 26 Working for you and changes to information to: Christopher Googoo, Ulnooweg Halifax Chamber of Commerce Hon. Joanne Bernard, Easter Seals Nova Scotia 2021 Wonder Women 100-32 Akerley Boulevard David Rideout, MetroWorks Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B3B 1N1 Conference Martha Casey, VOLTA Tel: 902-468-7111 Karim George, InTouch Communications Fax: 902-468-7333 Ann Divine, Ashanti Leadership Planning now for what’s next [email protected] Chris Cowper-Smith, Spring Loaded Technology www.halifaxchamber.com Nova Scotia Provincial Budget Chamber Staff Patrick Sullivan, President and CEO The best made plans Becky Davison, Vice President, Marketing Cover photo credit Kent Roberts, Vice President, Policy Nora Stankovic, Photographer, Canadian Premier League Sandra White, Director of Finance and Administration Emma Menchefski, Communications Manager Instagram: @norastankovic 31 Thank you to our Mina Atia, Communications Coordinator webinar sponsors
4 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 EVENTS & POLICY
For a full and up-to-date list of Chamber events, please visit CHAMBER EVENTS halifaxchamber.com/events
Contact [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities WEBINARS
BUSINESS SUPPORT SERIES: BUSINESS SUPPORT SERIES: BUSINESS SUPPORT SERIES: The Data Behind Shopping Practical Projects for Business Negotiation Training Local Today April 22 April 8 April 13 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM REGISTER HERE REGISTER HERE REGISTER HERE
VIRTUAL EVENTS
Chamber 101 Cindy's Benefits Meeting 2021 VIRTUAL with Patti Dow, ANNUAL GENERAL Member Services Specialist April 13 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM MEETING April 21 REGISTER HERE 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM April 29 REGISTER HERE April 23 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM REGISTER HERE REGISTER HERE
For more info on Chamber policy and advocacy work, please visit POLICY & ADVOCACY halifaxchamber.com/advocacy
Thoughtful Thursdays Over the past eleven months, the Halifax Chamber has been working diligently to ensure our members are up-to-date and aware of the programs, services, and announcements that could impact their business. We have also spent countless hours chatting with members, producing relevant webinar material, and advocating the government for increased supports and common-sense policies. While there is still much work to be done as we begin recovery, we thought this might be a great time to introduce a new series to the Chamber's LinkedIn page: Thoughtful Thursdays.
Our advocacy work is often quite specific, focusing on issues like taxes, transit, and red tape. But now we are providing another platform for more open discussions on trending issues, current events, and business ideas. Check back on Thursdays for a new piece once a month and leave us a comment or send us a message. We would love to get a conversation going in hopes of inspiring a more thoughtful Thursday.
This month's piece is on entrepreneurship. Read here and let us know your thoughts in the comments!
5 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Navigating diversity and inclusion
Driving change and moving forward together
our economic success. However, we are more diverse Board of Directors. They also aware that diversity and inclusion are willing to lend their time, skills and are hard won. Business leaders and knowledge to our organization. This will companies alike must work harder with serve to strengthen the Chamber and clear intentions to increase diversity lend further credibility to the diversity of our membership at the Chamber to and inclusions which we are taking better represent our business and diverse forward in our organization. communities we serve. The work of the Chamber is not in the We have had to take stock and look at hands of a few; we want to capitalize our own policies and practices to make on growing diversity of our city and changes. We know as an organization, we province. We also want to make every are just at the beginning of this journey effort to win over the confidence and trust and seeing real progress will be slow. of those communities who have been This requires everyone to be patient. marginalized and left behind for such a ANN DIVINE Be prepared to listen, learn, share and long time. It is our intention to collaborate FOUNDER & CEO, act with intentions. Every member is with organizations of difference. To responsible to make their contribution if achieve this, businesses will need to be ASHANTI LEADERSHIP we are going to be successful. more open and transparent. We must & PROFESSIONAL cultivate and grow a much more visibly DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Over the past year, we have seen diverse membership that is reflective of examples of collaborative effort and our city. pril is designated as Diversity inclusiveness from diverse businesses, Month and we, at the Halifax government, community and not-for- We want to build a vibrant and robust Chamber of Commerce, want A profit organizations as we sought creative business community where young to acknowledge the importance of this ways to remain in business and thrive. business owners––who are versed in diversity and inclusion and what this Such actions took courageous leadership the knowledge of technological change, means for our Board, staff, members and and passion on the part of everyone agility, adaptability and resiliency––can all our stakeholders. Diversity plays a bringing their authentic voices and join us and share their expertise as we central role in driving economic growth diverse perspectives to the table. This was move forward together. and prosperity for all Canadians. a unique opportunity where we worked in a manner which we have never done Our goal is to be intentional and to I’m Ann Divine, incoming chair of the before. take action that will drive inclusive Halifax Chamber Board of Directors HR conversations, challenge discrimination & Governance Committee, which offers Even though there were significant and remove systemic barriers, which have oversight of the corporate governance challenges during the heart of the crisis, long been a hinderance to progress for issues to ensure the appropriate we can also celebrate the small successes. some. We want our organization to offer processes, structures and information This was evident by the new businesses a safe space where all members can feel necessary to contribute to the success of and new members who joined us, included. This will enable them to unlock the organization. including those who remained members their true potential and drive economic with the Chamber. We are delighted growth, prosperity and sustainability. We acknowledge that 2020 was a to share that, for the first time in our tumultuous year for all of us––having Chamber’s history, we have an even *Quote from Deloitte Canada 175, 2019 experienced the COVID-19 and the brutal murder of George Floyd in May 2020. These two pandemics gave us the opportunity to take an introspective look at our organization and the diverse communities we serve.
As a country, province and city, we know that “Canada’s great diversity is both competitive and a difference-maker for businesses.”* And at the heart, our future success is our ability to draw on diverse perspectives, innovativeness, creativity and thought which are contributors to
6 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 NEWSMAKERS NEW & NOTED We welcome our new Chamber members
ABC & C AUTO INC (902) 706-8413 your success. [email protected] Nancy Foran Brittany Dufour Halifax, NS Halifax, NS caldera.ca RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE (902) 497-1245 (902) 479-1334 - Beverage Sales [email protected] [email protected] esgpartners.ca TRANSPORTATION - Automotive DILIGENT ESTIMATING BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES - Repair/Parts CONSULTING Business Consulting
BIG WAVES Diligent is a business model built with GD MEAT MARKET LTD the unique mission of assisting sub-con- Big Waves supports organizations and Shelley Todd changemakers to address individual tractors in the architectural commercial trades of building construction. We 170 Joseph Zatzman Dr Unit 1 inner obstacles, confront interpersonal Dartmouth, NS challenges, and build skills and imagina- mould in place an estimating department catered to each specific contractor client (902) 488-5586 tion to think and act systemically toward [email protected] we obtain; we can also assist with trade their vision for the future. Leadership SHOPPING & SPECIALTY RETAIL - funding and other services. We are help- development, conflict transformation, Wholesale organizational change, systems thinking ing builders in trust; creating value with and doing. To create a more socially, an experienced team of estimators, to HALIFAX COMPLEMENTARY economically and environmentally just those who have feet on the ground build- HEALTH world, we must think big and follow ing our city of Halifax and Nova Scotia. Daniel Arsenault Anne Marie MacDonald through with big actions. 380 Bedford Highway Halifax, NS Brook Thorndycraft Halifax, NS (782) 414-1097 Halifax, NS (902) 493-3058 [email protected] (647) 218-8303 REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION - [email protected] [email protected] Builders Commercial halifaxchc.ca bigwaves.ca HEALTH CARE - Massage Therapy EDUCATION & PROF. EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS - DEVELOPMENT - Org. Development CHRIS KEEFE HALIFAX WEB SERVICES LTD We are a web development company BNV MEDIA INC. Chris Keefe 6052 Quinpool Rd based in the heart and soul of Kjipuktuk, BNV Media Inc. is a podcast production Halifax, NS Mi’kma’ki (Halifax, Nova Scotia). Our and multimedia company that offers (902) 444-7666 creative and vibrant team of web devel- brands, companies and individuals [email protected] opers and consultants are highly-skilled, full service audio/video production for edwardjones.ca and we are ready to support businesses podcasts and other digital media. BNV FINANCE & INSURANCE - Financial with all their digital transformation Media’s studio is located in the heart of Services needs. We love to work with ambitious downtown Halifax with a beautiful view startups and growing businesses, and of Halifax Harbour. ESG PARTNERS INC. we’re committed to providing affordable Marc Boudreau We help organizations become more web services in our community. 5121 Sackville St Suite 601 resilient, competitive, attract talent Ralph Mabvudza Halifax, NS and capital, and add value back to Halifax, NS (902) 497-4099 (902) 579-3835 [email protected] their communities. With a focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance [email protected] bnvmedia.ca webhfx.ca (ESG) factors, a collaborative approach, COMMUNICATIONS - Podcasting COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY - and the use of globally recognized tools, Web Design CALDERA DISTILLING INC ESG Partners supports the integration of sustainability into business strategy to Jarret Stuart maximize impact and create long-term 65 River John Rd River John, NS value. ESG Partners is here to support
7 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 NEWSMAKERS
INTROHIVE required to empower people to achieve and build up the wonderful reputation of extraordinary results. Halifax with his work. Introhive is an Enterprise Relationship Ange MacCabe John Chiasson Management (ERM) platform designed Hammonds Plains, NS Dartmouth, NS to help business teams strengthen cus- (902) 223-5512 (902) 818-0819 tomer relationships, eliminate manual [email protected] [email protected] CRM data entry and empower sales intuityperformance.com kopano.ca teams with more insights to sell more. BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES - ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA - Mitch Donnelly Business Consulting Promotional Products 1559 Barrington St 200 Halifax, NS JUDITH KAYS - INDIVIDUAL LIBERTY TAX SERVICE (866) 824-5452 MEMBER Liberty Tax is a family owned income- [email protected] Bedford, NS COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY - tax franchise. We have been serving cli- (902) 225-9668 Computer Software ents for 18 years at our Quinpool Road, [email protected] Halifax, location. Open year round for COMMUNICATIONS - INTUITY PERFORMANCE personal to business returns & those Communications (General) in-between. During Covid we request Intuity Performance is the partner that you to pre-book your appointment. elevates individual and team perfor- KOPANO PHOTOGRAPHY Gerri MacVicar mance. For organizations seeking to With a strong focus on building com- 6169 Quinpool Rd invest in their people, we cultivate an munity and helping audiences “be there” Halifax, NS environment for growth, by develop- with 3D technologies, John Chiasson (902) 420-9641 ing unified teams that collaborate to understands the importance of striking a [email protected] achieve organizational success through balance between using the new to show- FINANCE & INSURANCE - Income Whole Person Performance. Our vision case the traditional. John is excited to Tax Service is to create business environments that contribute to the Chamber community recognize soft skills as the foundation MARITIME DIGITAL ART AND DESIGN Sadegh Mahjoob 112 Woodlawn Road, Unit# 213 Dartmouth, NS (902) 448-9062 [email protected] mdad.ca COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY - Digital Imaging
MASSAGE ADDICT - SPRING GARDEN Sandra English 1472 Cathedral Lane Suite 103 Halfiax, NS (902) 407-4040 [email protected] massageaddict.ca/springgarden HEALTH CARE - Health and Wellness
CONTINUED ON PAGE 8...
Are you a new member? To submit your 50-word description for New & Noted, please contact Mandi Bowser, Administrative Assistant at [email protected] or 902-468-7111 within the first six months of membership.
8 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 NEWSMAKERS
MTFX FOREIGN EXCHANGE 6155 North St Suite 200 Halifax, NS Halifax, NS (902) 305-8172 MTFX offers 24/7 online global money (902) 453-3511 [email protected] transfers in 150+ countries. Established [email protected] ubuntumedia.com in 1996, MTFX has partnered with over richmondfamilypractice.ca ARTS, CULTURE & 15,000 clients to process cross-border HEALTH CARE - Health Care ENTERTAINMENT - Film/Television payments. With detailed market insight Services, General and our team of FX specialists, we help UNIQUE DESIGN mitigate the risks associated with cur- RTM SECURITY CONSULTING We are a locally founded company rency exposure, make smarter currency LTD aiming to offer an unrivalled selection management decisions and expand At RTM Security Consulting Ltd we are of quality-customized products and your business globally. pleased to provide innovative, practical marketing promotion material designed Albert Edwards and cost-effective security solutions for local businesses at a very affordable 2750 14th Avenue Suite 306 that are based on industry best prac- Markham, ON price. Whether you are a restaurant tices. With experience in the oil and gas, (905) 305-7893 owner ordering cutlery engraved with mining, commercial, retail, sporting, [email protected] your business’s name or logo or a car mtfxgroup.com lodging and entertainment industries, dealer who wants to hand customers FINANCE & INSURANCE - Financial we are confident that we will exceed their new branded car keychain, we are Services your expectations. here for you. Terry Moser Zu Chen READ BETWEEN THE VINES Valley, NS 256 Bedford Hwy (902) 957-5729 Halifax, NS Read Between The Vines is Nova Scotia's [email protected] (902) 664-8886 new monthly subscription box that orbits rtmsecurity.ca [email protected] around owner and operator Emma's love SAFETY & SECURITY - Security u-design.ca of books, wine and chocolate (option of Consulting ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA - local artisanal tea and coffee offered as Promotional Products well). Delivery is available to anywhere SOURCE VIDEO INC. in the HRM, Colchester County, Hants Source Video is a professional filming UPTOWN SALON AND SPA INC. County, and Kings County. studio based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. We Jenny Zinck Emma Bent have been working as cinematographers 5521 Young St Dartmouth, NS for more than five years. We provide a Halifax, NS (902) 817-7662 wide range of videography services for (902) 454-6996 [email protected] [email protected] readbetweenthevines.ca advertisements, real estate, weddings, Uptownchic.ca SHOPPING & SPECIALTY RETAIL - short stories and more. You need a pro- PERSONAL CARE & SERVICES - Spa Gifts fessional film-maker to help you stand out from the crowd. WORK GLOBAL CANADA INC. REAL IMAGING BY CANAVIEW Jiyuan Xu Bedford, NS Serving Canadian Employers since 2012, Real Imaging creates 3D digital dupli- (902) 999-7444 Work Global Canada Inc. provides full cates of spaces large and small. We use [email protected] turn-key labour market solutions to a variety of cameras, including 360, laser sourcevideostudio.com Canadian employers and international scanning, drones, and thermal capture to ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT candidates. We are opening our new deliver highly accurate images and Virtual - Video/Multimedia office location in NS and are excited Reality Tours. With years of photographic to be part of a growing community of experience, we deliver exceptional imag- THE NORTH GROVE businesses supporting the Nova Scotia ery that makes you feel you are there. Anne-Marie McElrone Government in its initiatives to assist Heather Murray 6 Primrose St Unit 115 economic growth in the region. Dartmouth, NS Dartmouth, NS (902) 417-1649 Wanda Young (902) 464-8234 69 Elizabeth Ave [email protected] [email protected] St. John's, NL realimaging.ca thenorthgrove.ca (709) 700-1983 ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA - PROSPECT - Health Care and Social Marketing [email protected] Assistance workglobalcanada.com RICHMOND FAMILY PRACTICE HR, EMPLOYMENT & STAFFING - UBUNTU MEDIA Recruitment Services Steve Tomlin Israel Ekanem
9 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 NEWSMAKERS MEMBERS IN THE NEWS How our members are growing Halifax
ALPHA XPERIENCE ATLANTIC HOSTED ONLINE TOURNAMENT Now here, Alpha Experience Atlantic (A|X|A) hosted its first-everonline tournament, featuring Rocket League on March 23 + March 25. Shaped by the 14-year success of Sports & Entertainment Atlantic as Atlantic Canada’s largest sport and event man- agement enterprise, A|X|A is the region’s newest Esport venture looking to provide Gamers of all genres with a new home grown Esport competition hub.
DIGITAL ADOPTION REMOVES BARRIERS Debbie Adams understands barri- ers to entrepreneurship. As a visually impaired entrepreneur, breaking down those barriers are part of her strategic plan. The Digital Adoption Program has OUTSHINE JOINS GOOGLE'S GROWTH PROGRAM allowed her to level the playing field and Digital marketing and analytics means that Outshine is working increase her export potential in the digi- agency Outshine was hand-selected closely with Google's team on behalf of tal space. Having an in-home recording by Google to join the International clients when expanding their business studio allows her to bring her course Growth Program—an exclusive, invite- overseas. The company also has access Money Mindset: Charging Large With only program for a small number of to specific international training, mar- Confidence to the world. Google partner companies in North ket insights and support from Google's America. Given the growth of Halifax's team of specialists. burgeoning tech community, even amid the pandemic, and the ability of teams to work remotely, it's a demon- stration of our province's success on the global stage. Joining this program
DIGGING INTO SOCIAL ENTERPRISE AT MSVU Mount Saint Vincent University expert panel featuring community Business & Tourism students dug and business leaders: Nick Sharpe, into the world of social enterprise Executive Director, Big Brothers while lending their expertise and Big Sisters of Colchester; Lori creativity to Big Brothers Big Sisters Barker, CEO, Ronald McDonald of Colchester. Dubbed Social House Charities Atlantic; Mary Enterprise for a Day, this annual Gordon, Founder/President, Roots of workshop unique to MSVU gives Empathy; Connie McInnes, CEO, R students an opportunity to learn Studios; and Kate Pepler, Owner, The while problem-solving for local non- Tare Shop. profits. A key part of the event was an
10 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 NEWSMAKERS
FOX HARB'R NAMED BEST RESORT IN ATLANTIC US News & World Report just named Fox Harb'r Resort the best resort in Atlantic Canada, and the 12th best in Canada. U.S. News ranks the best resorts by considering reputation among professional travel experts, guest reviews and hotel class ratings. Since opening in 2000 by Founder Ron Joyce, the resort has a long-standing tradition of setting new benchmarks for excellence in the Canadian resort industry and is com- mitted to continuing this tradition in this new normal.
FINDING A BETTER WAY DURING COVID During COVID, we have found crisis and so focused on vulnerable our sales numbers reducing due areas of the health sector that were to clients' concerns of outsiders in in great need. We started reaching their homes and with so many family out to facilities and hospitals to see members at home, they were able how we could assist. Through this to care for their own loved ones process of lending a hand, we have at home. As a small business, we established great relationships with had to adjust fast to keep our staff other health care organizations to DISTILLERY TAKES HOME employed. Nurse Next Door had help with staffing levels. ANOTHER BIG WIN the resources to help out during a Compass Distillers is no stranger to winning with sixty-four awards already to their name in just over three years of operation. The grain- to-glass distillery took home another big win for Nova Scotia – Best in Class Contemporary Gin for the distillery’s crown jewel, Gin Royal, at the Canadian Artisan Spirits Competition. Compass Distillers also received two Silver medals and five Bronze medals at this year’s competi- tion. The Best In Class Contemporary Gin win for Gin Royal is especially meaningful for the Halifax distillery, who partnered with the Nova Scotia Beekeeper’s Association for this unique gin. One dollar from every bottle sold is donated to the Nova Scotia Beekeepers Association.
11 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 NEWSMAKERS
BACK BRACE NOT LIKE A ‘STRAIGHT JACKET’ LAUNCHES Spring Loaded Technology released Lumbrella, designed to give more motion while wearing a brace for back pain. According to CEO Cowper-Smith, Lumbrella provides spinal decompres- sion while allowing patients to move more freely. Costing about $1,800 to own, the brace is covered by most insurance policies. Medical articles state that working from home is causing bad posture due to prolonged sitting, which causes more back pain. The release of Lumbrella by Spring Loaded comes at a VOLTA LAUNCHES EIGHTH COHORT PROGRAM INTAKE/PITCH very opportune time. COMPETITION Volta, Canada’s East Coast sooner. Fifteen finalists will present NSAR WELCOMES NEW BOARD Innovation Hub, launched their business ideas at the Pitch Event The Nova Scotia Association of applications for the eighth intake on Wednesday, May 19, and up to five REALTORS appointed its new Board of of its Cohort Program. Early-stage companies will be invited to join the Directors. Donna Malone of Exit Realty Atlantic Canadian technology one-year program, which includes Interlake in Bridgewater takes over as startups get to pitch for a shot in the the $25,000 investment. The President from Chris Peters of Royal program, which provides them with investments are provided through LePage Atlantic Dartmouth. Serving mentorship, resources, $25,000 in a microfund co-founded by Volta, as President-Elect is Tammy Hines investment, and more. Every six Innovacorp, BDC Capital, and the of Keller-Williams in New Minas and months, Volta hosts the pitch event Atlantic Canada Opportunities Vice President is Matt Dauphinee from as an intake to the program, to help Agency (ACOA), which began back Domas Realty in Halifax. The Executive early stage, high caliber founders to in 2017. will join a team of eight Regional attract and secure venture capital Directors from around the province to serve its membership of 1,600 REALTORS in Nova Scotia.
KIDS HELP PHONE'S RECORD DEMAND IN 2020 For over 31 years, Kids Help people reached out to Kids Help Phone has been Canada’s only Phone in 2020 – an exponential 24/7, national e-mental health increase compared to 1.9 million support service for young people. in 2019. With the help of local Kids Help Phone offers professional emergency services, Kids Help counselling, information and Phone conducted over 4,000 active referrals and volunteer-led, text- rescues across Canada in 2020. based support in both English and French. In 2020, Kids Help Are you launching a new business or product? Phone experienced unprecedented Celebrating a new partnership? increases in volume as a result of COVID-19. Over 4.5 million young The Halifax Chamber invites you to share your Members in the News story in Business Voice. Upload your content here: halifaxchamber.com/business-voice *Note: we do not publish event promotions.
12 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 NEWSMAKERS
PAYSTONE AND UNITY VALUES PARTNER TO BRING BUSINESSES A NEW TOOL Unity Values has integrated with Paystone. This innovation in the loyalty space allows businesses to work hand in hand with their customers to create community impact. Businesses now have the ability to make corporate giving a more integrated part of their day-to-day business. The heart of the program is that now businesses can build relationships with each customer by allowing them to choose which charity they would like their loyalty program to support. Contact [email protected] or Omar [email protected] for more info.
EXPANDING NEW LEAF BAKING PROGRAM
After many successful years of our project an absolute success! New annual Christmas Baking program, Leaf is a social enterprise that pro- New Leaf Enterprises tried out vides supported employment, skill Valentine’s Baking and SOLD OUT! development and workplace training For $15, each Valentine Box included opportunities to Nova Scotians with six large and three mini sugar cookies cognitive and/or physical disabilities. wrapped in a beautiful gift box and Baking programs and sales from New WORKSPACE BEDFORD ADDS a Happy Valentine’s Day card. We Leaf Cafe (22 Fielding Avenue) and MEDIA ROOM thank CTV Atlantic and all those who home decor support this pillar pro- Workspace Bedford is setting ordered for their help in making this gram of Easter Seals Nova Scotia. itself apart in the business commu- nity as a remote work destination, with upgraded, onsite tech and the launch of its Media Room. The first of its kind in a co-working space in Atlantic Canada, the Media Room is equipped with everything required for audio and video content creation from a mixer, to professional lights OFFICE INTERIORS RECEIVES AWARD and backdrop, Yeti microphones and cameras. An onsite staff is also avail- Office Interiors received Haworth This distinction is reserved for dealers able to assist with post-production leadership’s award of 2021 Best In Class who operate at the highest performance services, including video editing and status. This distinction is based on levels and are successful in maintaining creation. exceptional performance in market rigorous standards over time, against development, sales, customer satisfac- high-performing peer dealers. Haworth tion, operational excellence and enter- Inc. currently has 650 partners in its prise development. In 2021, Haworth dealership network worldwide. named 23 dealerships as Best In Class.
13 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 COVER STORY MEANINGFUL CHANGES Reflecting on Diversity Month By Mina Atia
he globalization of society has equally greater potential for unity. “We held a number of Zoom calls last allowed us to challenge our way year, following the untimely death Tof thinking and learn new ways of “Looking over the past number of years, of George Floyd, which has led me to approaching centuries-old issues. Our anti-black racism and many other related getting the position and feeling the world stage has drastically shifted from issues show us that we have a lot more need to use our Wanderers platform, not siloed countries to a global community. to do, we have to be more open, we have just for sport but also for a lot of these It’s allowed us to have meaningful to be uncomfortable, and we have to important social justice issues that have conversations to unite, listen, and hold have those difficult conversations,” says been happening,” says Marvin Okello, each other accountable. The Honourable Tony Ince, Minister Ticketing & Member Services Manager, of African Nova Scotian Affairs, and Diversity & Inclusion Officer for the The concept of leading with open and Communications Nova Scotia, and Halifax Wanderers. honest conversation rings true in most, Minister responsible for the Office of if not all, possible situations. It's a Equity and Anti-Racism Initiatives. “We're very diverse ourselves as a strong and respectful way of interacting committee; together we work with the with everyone with whom we cross “And when we talk about diversity and different communities, like the Black paths. There is a lot of division in the inclusion, that is separate from equity Lives Matter movement in the black world these days. Open but difficult and anti-racism,” he says. community, to make sure that we're conversations are not being held––where providing them equitable opportunities people are listening to one another. The Black Lives Matter is one of many and not just content and social media but important initiatives the Halifax solidarity and awareness,” says Okello. We are at a point in time and in history Wanderers are actively prioritizing–– where there's never been a greater others include LGBTQ+, Indigenous and The committee is currently planning potential for division. Yet, there is an feminist topics. on establishing long-term foundations
14 PHOTO CREDIT: NORA STANKOVIC, CANADIAN PREMIER LEAGUE COVER STORY
Just like pulling the band aid off if you're a bit hesitant, dig into seeking out those individuals who can help you truly see and understand the intersectionality within diversity." — Tony Ince, Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs, Communications Nova Scotia, and Minister responsible for the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism Initiatives
through partnerships with various the same way, in one specific sort of lane Moreover, Okello recommends communities in Nova Scotia and outside for the last few decades. businesses to be inclusive and of the province. A committee member including of their staff in these types with a matching background will act as “Only now we can see how true diversity of conversations by allowing them to a representative for the corresponding is benefiting us economically, socially, on provide any feedback on what they would community to better engage and so many other levels,” says Minister Ince. like to see the business involved in. facilitate those partnerships. April is Diversity Month. It’s a time to “Just like pulling the band aid off if you're “Before I went into the public service celebrate differences and similarities. a bit hesitant, dig into seeking out those commission, I always believed that It’s also a time to reflect on practices, individuals who can help you truly see diversity is something we need to address initiatives and programs to celebrate and understand the intersectionality on many levels. And when I say diversity I successes in diversity and inclusion as within diversity,” says Minister Ince. mean true diversity,” says Minister Ince. well as plan to mitigate the gaps. It’s time to hold open and difficult conversations Practicing empathetic and active “That means those with challenges that with those who are willing to listen. listening can transform negative we may not be able to see like LGBTQ+ energy towards effective, positive and issues; diversity means we look at “I think as a first step, it's great to either meaningful change. everything in its entirety.” form a committee or a position that owns that role and the actionable items that “I think Nova Scotia is a good place to use Diversity is at the forefront of our current a business can do to ensure, internally, as an example,” says Okello. “Because as global climate and yet it continues to they are very diverse and celebrating all a community, we've been really tackling be a challenge for many organizations. their different ethnicities and genders a lot of these societal issues, like the HRP The current challenge is that diversity within the organization,” says Okello. repurposing their budget of $600,000 initiatives continue to be accomplished in towards actual programs for diversity.”
15 COVER STORY
Being the loudest voice in the room can feel like the only option, but it’s not necessarily the best way to bring people together. It takes constant effort, trials, time and energy for people to process issues about diversity and take a stand.
“It's important that we're up to date, educated on it and not seeking other people to educate us,” says Okello. “And then after that, it's important that when we see injustice happening, we use our voice as simply as during a meeting when a female co-worker keeps getting interrupted and say ‘hey, I'd like to hear what she has to say.’”
When people are willing to see the person in front of them and listen to them, having meaningful conversations can lead to positive change. Okello says it’s on each of us to learn, grow and challenge ourselves.
“As individuals, I think it's really important that we just talk the talk and walk the walk,” he says. “What I mean by that is we educate ourselves on an ongoing basis to make sure we're aware of what's happening in our communities– like what happened with the Indigenous Wanderers host a podcast to start The Halifax Chamber, along with the fishermen situation last year. It's not conversations on diversity and inclusion support of its Board of Directors and just BLM; it's not just feminists; it's not in a safe space. “But outside of that, there other business leaders, has been actively just pride, but all of the things that are won't be too much specifically catered to working on diversity and inclusion in the happening in our community on a daily, Diversity Month, because we believe on business community. The Chamber is weekly, monthly basis.” doing that 12 months a year,” says Okello. creating an internal position dedicated to community engagement and outreach. Everyone has their own set of Asked for suggestions and advice to help The position will focus solely on experiences, made up of individual other organizations follow in similar diversity and inclusion by ensuring our factors specific to each person. Nobody footsteps, Okello recommended to underrepresented groups are reflected else is aware of those factors. And each “participate in a network like the Black and engaged in the Halifax business person makes up a system––intricate and Business Initiative’s Boost program.” community. delicate and difficult to change. In partnership with Volta, the Black “We have to be aware and conscious “I'm not one to try to tell individuals what Business Initiative launched a four- of all our unconscious biases because they should do. I can only speak from my month program called Boost. Funded we all have them. And if we put that in experiences, in society, workplaces, and by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities the forefront, I think we can overcome those places where we're interacting with Agency (ACOA) and led by industry our differences,” says Minister Ince. “I one another,” says Minister Ince. experts, Boost supports the growth and had some challenges growing up. And development of Black and Indigenous until I've faced those challenges, those “I can only say that some of my best entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada. The unconscious biases that I had changed memories and best learning moments program runs workshops and skills- me and made me the kind of person that have been from individuals who development sessions to build the I am today.” help educate me, teach me and bring entrepreneurs’ business idea and achieve information about their differences. their professional goals. “It's kind of like the Michael Jackson We could sit together and have the song: Man in the Mirror,” says Minister dialogue, and have a conversation about “We know we couldn't be where we are Ince. “Take a look at yourself.” those differences. That to me was more today without the support of all of those rewarding than a number of things that I great members of our community,” says can put in my life.” Okello. “As a community-focused club, Business Voice reached out to interview the we're always going to be giving back Indigenous community but was unable to In addition to holding Zoom calls to to the community that has given us so get a hold of community representatives to engage community partnerships, the much.” weigh in on the story.
16 RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS
HalifACT leads climate change actions Driving emission reduction together By Mina Atia
VIEW FROM VIOLA DESMOND FERRY PHOTO CREDIT: HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY
ith Earth Day (April 22) around achieving our net-zero targets, we will be plan has engaged people to discuss the corner, the climate crisis doing our part to limit global warming realistic and measurable emission Wis staring us down. It is an to below 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2050; a reduction approaches and a target of urgent, complex and global issue that goal which is supported in the 2015 Paris 75 per cent below 2016 levels by 2030. seems to bounce between the front and Agreement.” This transformational plan aligns the back burner of leadership attention. The municipality’s efforts to shift to a low- low-carbon future we need requires an The targets and actions of the plan carbon economy by 2050. overwhelming amount of changes to our require shared implementation across current society and systems. many organizations in the community. “The plan is informing and guiding the The plan helps communities adapt to development of our Regional Planning The climate action movement in Halifax environmental changes and climate process and land-use by-law updates, and not only needs a plan but a strong hazards by raising awareness and being internal and external stakeholders have commitment on all levels. In response to prepared. It also creates a better future continued to come together to co-create the climate emergency announcement for generations by saving them money, climate solutions,” says Owen. by the Regional Council on January 29, cutting on emissions, preventing loss and 2019, HalifACT sprang into action. strengthening their communities. This The municipality is actively working collaborative process requires efforts towards tackling climate change and HalifACT is one of the most ambitious from both municipal government and preparing to increase the resilience of climate plans in Canada. It was communities. the city’s communities, infrastructure developed with engagement across and environment against possible stakeholders and communities, through “The plan was created using scenario impacts through initiatives including: a lens of equity and inclusion. The modelling of our future greenhouse community-based vulnerability Municipality took on a leadership role by gas emissions and climate impacts, mapping; volunteer-led Joint creating the department. and it provides Halifax with a plan to Emergency Management teams; be resilient and net-zero by 2050,” says Community Mobilization Teams “The plan positions the municipality as Owen. “These goals are achievable, being piloted through the Public Safety a leader in climate action,” says Taylor but it requires us to act swiftly together Office; andfloodplain studies. Owen, Climate Change Specialist, towards this shared goal.” “This includes electrifying the Halifax Regional Municipality. “By Implemented in Spring 2018, the municipality’s fleet and public transit
17 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS
systems, retrofitting buildings, Partnership,” says Owen. improving waste diversion, reducing energy in our water utility, and building Businesses can support the plan by to a net-zero standard,” says Owen. implementing several climate actions. For example, they can transition their “A net-zero climate resilient transport fleet to electric vehicles, municipality will see a shift to electric take advantage of energy efficiency vehicles, supported communities and programs through Efficiency Nova infrastructure that are able to rebound We are willing to Scotia, explore solar electricity and start better and faster from climate hazards thinking about future climate risks to like hurricanes, a shift to a green partner and explore their business operations. economy, and buildings, both built collaboration to advance and retrofitted, that consider climate “We are willing to partner and explore resiliency and our transition to a low the actions in HalifACT collaboration to advance the actions in carbon economy.” as it relates to local HalifACT as it relates to local Halifax Halifax businesses.” businesses,” says Owen. Premier Iain Rankin announced a $19-million investment in rebates to — Taylor Owen, On an individual level, everyone has a encourage Nova Scotians to buy electric Climate Change role to play. Both big and small actions vehicles and make their homes more include: energy efficient. Not even COVID-19 Specialist, Halifax • Signing up for climate change related interruptions or budgetary restrictions Regional Municipality newsletters, webinars and e-courses to can slow the acceleration of the energy help integrate climate solutions into daily efficiency progress. life; • Diving deep into the Climate Atlas of “We are also working to create the Canada; opportunity for partnerships and • Getting children involved in climate discussions on how the larger business conversations; community can be involved in HalifACT • Speaking to a financial advisor about through open forums, such as the clean energy investments; Mayor’s recent Economic Roundtable • Switching to renewables; on the Green Economy with the Halifax • Reducing food waste;
HALIFACT ENGAGEMENT SESSION PHOTO CREDIT: HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY HALIFACT TEAM
18 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS
SOLAR CITY PARTICIPANT HOME WITH NEW SOLAR PANELS PHOTO CREDIT: HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY HALIFACT TEAM
• Buying an electric vehicle; talent from people around the world. • Increasing the resilience of the community to climate hazards; and “We are also engaging with students and • Supporting climate-related financial young professionals to develop solutions disclosure. to local climate challenges through a HalifACT Climate Action Hackathon, “The municipality serves in the best in partnership with Dalhousie’s Shiftkey interest of the public, and residents Labs and the Halifax Innovation can play a role in climate action at the Outpost.” municipal level,” says Owen. “Voicing climate concerns with municipal With over $2 million in savings estimated Councillors is a powerful tool for change. The municipality serves annually, the implementation of this We’ve made a list of climate actions in the best interest of the plan’s third-year project is paramount. that anyone can do.” This reduction in corporate building public, and residents can emission by 15 per cent from the 2018 HalifACT is a platinum sponsor of the play a role in climate levels is equivalent to plating 235,000 2021 Smart Energy Event, taking tree or taking 1,112 vehicles off the road. place virtually from April 20 to 22, 2021. action at the municipal The event explores innovative energy level.” — Taylor Owen, Moreover, 26 solar energy systems–– sources to provide smart energy options Climate Change ranging from solar hot water, hot air for consumers. Speakers, experts and to electric––have been installed on innovators in technologies that are Specialist, Halifax municipality buildings. LED retrofit is transforming the energy landscape Regional Municipality in progress for more than 40 thousand will be at the 17th annual conference to streetlights. network and exchange ideas. “As you can see from HalifACT, there is “We are currently focused on building no one solution to address the climate public awareness and engagement,” crisis in the municipality,” says Owen. says Owen. “Last fall, we hosted a “Instead, there are many actions that TEDxHalifax Global Countdown watch when accomplished together, will help us party on climate action and Halifax’s achieve our goal.”■ response.” This hour-long video of the episode showcases both local and global
19 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 PROFILE
Rocket launches beyond print Taking off into communications and digital marketing By Mina Atia
Pantone Neon 801 Pantone Spot 299 C73 / M18 / Y0 / K0 R0 / G152 / B206 HTML: #09A5DE
pecializing in full-service bringing both the digital and the tactile professionals located in both Halifax and commercial printing, Rocket is environment together,” he says. “They're Fredericton. They value relationships Smore than just a print house. By an extremely powerful marketing tool.” and believe that brainstorming and acquiring Bounty Print in Halifax––with collaboration with like-minded over 40 years in business experience–– “So, we made a conscious decision to look organizations benefit everyone. Fredericton’s Taylor Printing Group at a rebrand: to drop ‘printing’ from our recognized that together they offer many name and to become really more of an “We really work in a collaborative other lesser-known services to their overall communications company.” environment with our clients to clients. determine what their objectives and their Working with a Halifax agency, one of desired outcomes are,” he says. “Then, “We started out 16 years ago here in Rocket’s clients, the company’s new from there, we try to build a campaign Fredericton as the first print start up in branding developed from its working that will help them achieve results.” our industry and in Atlantic Canada in culture. The agency understood where over 25 years,” says Scott Williams, CEO the amalgamation originated from, and “We take our clients' ideas and turn them of Rocket. “A lot of it was controlled from it visualized how the new company wants into reality,” says Williams about Rocket’s Central Canada, so we wanted a company to proceed into the future based on the philosophy. “When it comes to their that was locally running and supported merger of the two companies. marketing and communications needs, the region, and that’s what started Taylor we take a holistic approach.” Printing Group.” “Early on I wasn't totally enamoured with the new name,” says Williams. “Now, I The now-merged teams at Rocket are Having been pigeonholed as strictly can't imagine not having it. The name qualified and well versed in driving print shops, the companies realized they has been received very well; it's still a businesses forward. Leading with needed a rebrand to tell their new story. professional brand but at the same time experience and innovation, they’re it's a lot of fun too.” capable of delivering a multitude of “When we acquired Bounty Print in integrated services such as large format Halifax, we really evolved and embraced Rocket boasts the ‘in good company’ commercial installations, up-to-standard digital by seeing tremendous power in feeling through its vast team of finishing and fulfilment, direct mail for
20 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 PROFILE
client delivery, and more importantly, what we're doing,” he says. “I think we've multichannel marketing. done a pretty good job with that already as we make positive change and help our “Our team is one of the beauties of clients where they need it.” working at Rocket, and they’re even more important to us than our clients!” says “And going forward as a company, we're Williams. going to be able to adjust and look at technology to help us with what's going “I already knew that before the pandemic on globally.” started, and somehow they managed to step up even more over the last 12 months Our team is one of the Dedicated to sustainability, Rocket is in both locations. There's just a real beauties of working at certified through organizations such can-do attitude from the front lines, sales Rocket, and they’re even as Bullfrog, Two Sides and Rainforest and administration right through to when Alliance (FSC® certification) to maintain we ship a job at the back door.” more important to us the company’s accountability to its than our clients!” environmental commitment. Rocket’s new marketing and communications enterprise is a pivot to — Scott Williams, The commitment is to preserve the embrace digital and create a powerful CEO, Rocket environment and act responsibly when multichannel marketing approach to using the resources available, all of which online audiences. Using a new software is reflected inthis video by Bullfrog. for cross-media integration, Rocket provides adaptable data for one-to-one “We continue to build on our team, and marketing. It offers solutions to help we are looking to the future and planning businesses create and manage campaigns for what it's going to look like on the other effectively. side,” says Williams. “I'm excited for our future, and I'm excited about the industry “We can make necessary adjustments, that we're in.”■ react quickly and even be proactive about
CONTRIBUTED
21 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021
TRENDS
The real estate market in 2021 Canada’s red hot housing market becoming a ‘bonfire’
of buyer desperation. Sellers hold the Tactics for those looking to upsize cards and are delaying when they review For those who already own a home, this offers, often several days after the initial market is not as daunting. We recently list date. had a client who sold their two-bedroom condo and obtained $45,000 more than The goal is to get as many buyers they were expecting. They had a lot more through the door as possible to create equity than they imagined and used a the maximum amount of interest. At portion of it to pay off some short-term which point, sellers often review ten or debt like a line of credit or a car loan. more offers and select the one with the This meant they were then able to get best terms and highest price. This is approved for a higher mortgage than happening all across Canada, not just in they thought possible. Their mortgage the HRM. payment is now higher, but their overall monthly debt payments have decreased. Low interest rates and low vacancy You will have to find another home, but if CHRIS PERKINS A recent Reuters article commented you negotiate a longer close on your sale BROKER AND OWNER, on Canada’s red hot housing market and restructure some of your short-term HALIPAD REAL ESTATE INC. becoming a ‘bonfire’. A call by some debt, it will give you the best opportunity [email protected] to implement cooling measures fell on to upgrade. deaf ears. Policymakers feel that due to In the first quarter of 2020, the average COVID-19, the economy is too fragile What’s next? sale price of a single-family home in to increase interest rates. As the cost More than 9,000 people moved to Nova the Halifax Regional Municipality was to borrow remains low, so do vacancy Scotia in 2020. Unless we see a huge $344,644. In 2021, at time of writing, rates in the rental sector. The result influx of inventory, we do not see the that number has skyrocketed to more is an increasing cost to rent which, market changing anytime soon. New than $475,000. This represents a 39.5 per in turn, pushes more people towards construction is not occurring anywhere cent increase. The most significant jump homeownership. near fast enough to satisfy demand. occurred from December to January We have clients who bid on a new build where the average monthly sale price Bully offers two weeks ago and their close date is increased from $426,705 to $468,548. A bully offer is perhaps a buyer’s best November. That is pretty much as quick tactic to obtaining a home in the current as you’ll see at the moment. A home Low inventory is not a new problem. market. By waiting until the offer date being built today won’t be ready until late It was a challenge in March 2020 but, selected by the seller, a buyer opens in 2021 if not early 2022. So those looking since then, the number of homes for themselves to tremendous competition. for accommodation in the meantime sale has fallen by a further 72.8 per cent. The purpose of a bully offer is to give the are going to have to do so in the resale Meanwhile, sales have increased by 18.1 seller an offer so compelling that they market, where there’s not much choice per cent year to date. must think long and hard about it. A either. After vaccinations roll out and bird in the hand is better than two in the Nova Scotia eventually opens its borders, Buyer desperation bush. Offering something to the seller the big question is: Will people leave, or With numbers this bleak, you find a real with minimal conditions and substantial will we see an even greater number flock estate market characterized by bidding financial clout gives you the best to our fantastic little province? We’re wars, bully offers and an overall feeling opportunity to get selected. certainly not going anywhere.
23 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 TRENDS
The Zoom effect Feeling confident
People are tired of staring at a version of themselves, on these virtual platforms, that they don’t recognize, they want to get a better glow, to look less tired, less angry and more like their DEBORAH HART approachable self." MN, NP, CEO & FOUNDER, FIRST IMPRESSIONS REJUVENATION CLINIC our shoulders drop and that’s how we produced ‘remedies’ often don’t work HALIFAX@ end up going about our day, shoulders because they don’t take into account FIRSTIMPRESSIONSCLINIC.CA down, slumped and tired. This negative your unique aging processes or health feedback loop, when we look tired, angry, histories. What people really need is to With so many meetings and events now sad or saggy wears us down and can take work with a licensed and experienced going virtual we are seeing ourselves a toll on our confidence. healthcare provider who can help them from a new perspective. What once had choose the right treatment for their us around boardroom tables or in event On the other end of the spectrum, we health and goals and work with them to arenas looking at our colleagues, clients, wake up feeling tired and drag ourselves naturally restore their vitality and beauty. or educators from across the room, now into gear, catch a glimpse in the mirror has us engaging with each other across and see wow, not looking too bad, not People are tired of staring at a version of a screen via Zoom or other conferencing looking tired, skin may even have a glow; themselves, on these virtual platforms, platforms. our shoulders go back, posture improves, that they don’t recognize, they want to chin comes up and that’s how we go get a better glow, to look less tired, less This also has us looking back at ourselves about our day, confident. angry and more like their approachable on screen, the view that is usually self. reserved for those in front of us. Now more than ever, we are spending extended periods of time on Zoom or Done correctly, in the right hands, the This new perspective has us questioning virtual platforms; now, not only do we right treatment will leave you looking how we look. It leaves us wondering, are just catch a glimpse of our ourselves refreshed, rejuvenated, like you’ve not we giving off the vibe we intend? Are we in the mirror but we are looking back even visited a clinic. What we’ve found is appearing approachable and confident or at ourselves on a virtual platform, that it’s therapeutic to know we’re taking are we looking tired and angry? Are we sometimes for hours at a time. care of ourselves. You’re not vain, you’re exuding the vitality we feel on the inside aware! or do we think we’re looking older than This visualization of ourselves can we really are? increase the focus on our appearance Being aware, we can use these same which often takes a toll on our platforms to give ourselves positive It used to be that we would walk by the relationship with our body and this lack feedback; we can look less tired, less mirror in the morning getting the first of confidence and vitality can bleed into angry, less sad and less saggy and when impressions of ourselves for the day. other areas of our lives. we do, we present ourselves to the world What we find is that some nights even with unshakable confidence, naturally though we slept well, we see ourselves The real problem is everyone ages looking and feeling good. in the mirror and realize we look tired; differently and over-the-counter, mass
24 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 TRENDS
Success during a crisis Exploring four leadership insights from Nova Scotia businesses
to succeed, which is why it’s critical well as healthcare professionals and to revisit policies and processes to government. facilitate agility. Encouraging an agile mindset is important. One organization, Invest in technology, early At a Grant Thornton roundtable earlier this for instance, made agility part of its Reconceptualizing the organization month, finalists of the 2021 Halifax Business performance reviews. in a digital world was top of mind for Awards gathered to discuss the impacts of the these leaders. The accelerated shift pandemic, the challenges they encountered Businesses had to get creative to keep to e-commerce for one business for and how they moved forward with resilience. sales flowing, particularly during instance, expanded sales by over 50 per lockdowns, when customers couldn’t cent. For some, it was shifting to the work Difficult times often reveal strength of shop in person. Leaders recognized that, from home environment and ensuring the character, and Nova Scotians are no first and foremost, customers wanted to team had what they needed to continue to exception. During the global pandemic, feel safe. So offering contactless pickup, serve customers. communities across the province reducing lineups by serving customers displayed resilience as people came in different areas of the store and even The path forward together to support local businesses and launching outdoor pop-up service kiosks It’s clear from these business leaders that each other. Halifax saw its population ensured they can still serve customers, Nova Scotians are not only adaptable and grow—and add more jobs than it lost. As while meeting their changing needs. agile when it comes to supporting the a result, the province is well-positioned to local economy. They can also compete recover post pandemic. Communicate openly and honestly on the global stage. Most importantly, When everything shifted online, involving the community in the path That’s not to say it’s been an easy ride for establishing trust among clients and staff forward is a strategy any region of any the region’s local businesses. The varied became even more important. Open size can leverage and benefit from. And group of attendees at the roundtable— and honest communication became at Grant Thornton, we’re excited to see which included representatives from paramount. Many leaders chose to the province continue to make a positive different non-profits and industries: transparently communicate everything, mark on the world. If you’re looking to from retail and professional services from operational challenges to increasing discuss ways your business can become to technology, pharmaceutical and costs, and it’s important to voice those more resilient, reach out to us. specialty trades—each brought a unique changes early. This approach allowed them to continue sales and effectively set Katrina Beach perspective. However, they all agreed that Partner, Assurance a positive post-COVID future starts with their team and customer expectations. T +1 902 491 7730 a unified business community—one that [email protected] exchanges ideas and works together to Collaborate with your community It can be easy to feel like you’re all alone Heath Moore move the Canadian economy forward. Managing Partner, Nova Scotia when battling tough economic times. But, T + 1 902 491 7750 Members of the group shared their in these instances, external resources can [email protected] be invaluable to help. This can involve experiences and through this discussion, Jillian Murray four consistent leadership approaches partnering with industry associations, Partner, Transactions emerged that helped them not only adapt which can help you stay on top of new T +1 902 491 7745 but succeed. training requirements, public health [email protected] guidelines or job safety requirements. Leah White Remain agile Partner, Risk and Forensics In times of turmoil, businesses need For non-profits, it can mean collaborating T + 1 902 491 7718 [email protected] the ability to act quickly if they hope with members of the community as
25 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 WORKING FOR YOU
VIRTUAL WONDER WOMEN THANK YOU! CONFERENCE FEBRUARY 19, 2021 he 5th Halifax Chamber Wonder TWomen conference provided a new engaging virtual experience for the 400+ attendees. The lineup of speakers from all different industries and backgrounds challenged the audience to live their authentic lives, support each other, and called out the inequalities highlighted by the pandemic. Thank you to everyone for a memorable day. "The moment anyone stands in their power, others can’t help but notice.” SUPERHERO SPONSOR:
CHAMPION SPONSORS:
LIVESTREAM PARTNER:
PRINT GRAND PRIZE SPONSOR: SPONSOR:
Pantone Neon 801 Pantone Spot 299 C73 / M18 / Y0 / K0 R0 / G152 / B206 HTML: #09A5DE
BUSINESSAPRIL 2021 VOICE 1 WORKING FOR YOU
Planning now for what’s next The ability to launch a rapid response and make informed decisions
Over the past year, Halifax Partnership’s SmartBusiness team has supported over 830 Halifax businesses in dealing with the impacts of COVID-19 and reopening and operating safely."
WENDY LUTHER PRESIDENT & CEO, HALIFAX PARTNERSHIP between, surviving, pivoting and it’s a pandemic, a natural disaster or an scratching their heads over what to do economic downturn. In 2019, no one anticipated or was next. prepared for a pandemic. And yet here we This starts by taking a look at your are, just over a year later. So, what could Even businesses experiencing growth business as it stands now and identifying your business have done to prepare for because of the pandemic have been risks, such as over reliance on a single this crisis? confronted with the serious problems of supplier or client and mitigation meeting supply with demand. strategies. With this information in hand, With the hands-on experience of the you can develop emergency response COVID-19 pandemic so far, how is your In a disaster, companies – large and and management plans to increase the organization or business protecting small – don’t have the luxury of time. The likelihood your business can continue itself against the next wave, the next ability to launch a rapid response and operating, survive and perhaps even virus variant, the next disaster or the make informed decisions comes from thrive. next unexpected opportunity that could planning ahead. If there is a fundamental disrupt your operations? takeaway to be learned from COVID, it This free toolkit is designed as a do-it- is this. yourself resource and is available on I wish I could tell you there is one easy the Partnership’s website. It includes magic bullet to safeguard against risks Over the past year, Halifax Partnership’s webinars with business experts and and disasters. There isn’t. SmartBusiness team has supported over leaders, guides, templates and risk- 830 Halifax businesses in dealing with assessment resources. It covers key topics Industries and businesses have been the impacts of COVID-19 and reopening such as operations, human resources, affected in different and distinct ways and operating safely. technology, sales and marketing. It also by this pandemic. Restaurants, retailers, provides tests and measurements to hotels and entertainment businesses We’re also helping businesses prepare monitor plan effectiveness and employee have been slammed with lockdowns, now for what’s next. This is why Halifax engagement. while online food delivery platforms, Partnership has developed the Business video conferencing tools and gardening Recovery and Continuity Toolkit, in So, don’t wait for the next crisis. Now’s centres have boomed. partnership with our Investor KPMG, to the time to future-proof your business. help small and medium size businesses Many businesses are somewhere in plan for continuity in a crisis, whether
27 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 WORKING FOR YOU
Nova Scotia Provincial Budget Missing the support promised for economic recovery
governments and none of that money was Yet in a budget with $1 Billion in aimed at economic recovery. new “infrastructure and innovation” The PR lead up to the budget suggested spending and $859 million in increased the province was in good shape departmental expenses, of which financially even while projecting a deficit, $771 million is allocated to Health with four good years of balanced budgets and Wellness, Community Services KENT ROBERTS behind us, a great credit rating and our and Education and Early Childhood VICE PRESIDENT, POLICY, debt being refinanced at record low rates. Development, this budget provides HALIFAX CHAMBER OF virtually no new money or supports for COMMERCE So, what would 2021/22 budget hold for the businesses most impacted by the businesses in Nova Scotia? As just about pandemic. In fact, the budget allocation With economic development in mind, the safest place to live and work in the for the only department tasked with and as advocates for Nova Scotia world, we certainly hoped we would see a economic development (IEG) and the businesses––having seen firsthand budget that incentivized a quick recovery Crowns that enable that work declined by the impact the pandemic has had on for all businesses, but particularly helped $23 million. all businesses but particularly the our hospitality and tourism sector recover hospitality and tourism industry––the from a dismal 2020 and get us back on While the Finance Minister and his Halifax Chamber of Commerce watched track to the $2.5 billion tourism delivered senior staff used phrases like “Invest in anxiously and hopefully as Finance in 2019. Recovery”, “An economy where Business Minister Kousoulis delivered the 2021/22 can Grow”, and the premier says “Small provincial budget last Thursday, March It started well, with “no new taxes and business is the backbone of the economy” 25. fees”, theoretically keeping more money they are going to have to do a lot more in the pockets of consumers to support for small businesses that continue to We knew the provinces finances had local businesses. The Government also struggle to survive. For businesses that been hit hard in 2020 as revenues were set a new target to reduce government’s were forced to close or were impacted down and the cost of COVID response regulatory burden on business by by lockdowns and ongoing restrictions, pushed expenses 571 million dollars over $10 million in 2021, while increasing having a budget that invests another budget. That trend was likely to continue resources in the Office of Regulatory $771+ million on non-economic measures in 2021/22 and it did. But how much of the Affairs and Service Effectiveness. They is not putting the focus on economic pandemic cost was linked to supporting also committed a further $1 million to recovery that is needed or promised. our local economy? While the province continue to support businesses in rapidly allocated $100M to support Nova Scotia adopting digital tools and innovations. What will it take for government to step businesses in 2020, that money came The province also committed $1.5 million up and provide the support they are from the 2019/2020 budget year. In for the first year of a new five-year promising? The Halifax Chamber of fact, total NS provincial supports for Aquaculture Expansion Strategy and Commerce will continue to advocate on businesses and citizens in 2020 was only $1.3 million to support the Nova Scotia behalf of our members and the business four per cent of the total support dollars Quality Wine Strategy. community, to ensure their voice is heard provided by the Federal and Provincial and understood. We are in your corner!
28 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 WORKING FOR YOU The best made plans Developing Halifax’s first plan for sustainable tourism growth CONTRIBUTED CONTENT
Michele McKenzie, a business consultant the impact of COVID-19 against the and the principal owner of McKenzie overarching goals in the ITMP, the plan Business Strategies, described it as “the was finally presented to Council on worst time to launch a plan, and the best February 23, 2021. It was unanimously time to have one.” accepted by Halifax Council with the overall vision to help Halifax become As one of the consultants commissioned widely recognized as the favourite city in by Discover Halifax in 2019 to lead the Canada. development of the plan, along with Group ATN and Twenty31, McKenzie “We’re really proud of Halifax’s had long envisioned a plan like this for Integrated Tourism Master Plan, and the the region. She has established herself work that went into this,” said Jefferson. as a tourism expert serving as Deputy “We believe part of the reason why the Minister for Tourism Nova Scotia, plan held up so well, even when tested by and former President and CEO of the a pandemic, is because we established Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC), the right guiding principles early on and now known as Destination Canada. never wavered from these.”
“For a long time, the need for such an From a business perspective, the master overarching approach to tourism has plan’s guiding principles are relatable felt like a missing piece to me,” said and transferrable. It provides a solid McKenzie. It was important to get it right, foundation that unites more than 30 even if it meant waiting a little longer. partners in shared values that maps a clear picture of where the destination is After taking the time to consider going.
hey say timing is everything. And, in March 2020, as Discover THalifax was preparing to release the region’s first tourism master plan, the timing could not have been any better, and it could not have been any worse.
Of course, March 15, 2020, was when Nova Scotia’s least-wanted guest, COVID-19, arrived in the province. Like many other destinations around the world, the provincial economy came to a grinding halt with the tourism industry being among the hardest hit sectors. Instead of releasing a master plan for sustainable and managed tourism growth, Discover Halifax, the non-profit sales and marketing organization for the region had to hit pause.
“It seems surreal to think back to that time period, for a number of reasons,” said Ross Jefferson, Discover Halifax’s President and CEO. “We had taken a community-first approach to develop the plan and we were excited to share it with our partners, stakeholders and the community. Instead, we had to focus on the immediate response to the pandemic and the recovery effort for the region.” 29 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 WORKING FOR YOU
Community-first: The plan was For key partners, like the Halifax Key findings from Halifax’s ITMP: developed using a community-first Partnership, the guiding principles • Discover Halifax hosted 32 engagement approach. It reflects the values and provided a clear and shared path sessions to develop the ITMP. More than diversity of the region and recognize forward. It meant that the tourism 300 people participated in these sessions, the social and environmental impacts of master plan clearly linked to its own work and there were over 250 survey responses. tourism on our communities. and ambitious goals like helping the • Based on the research and consultation municipality grow the region’s GDP to there are six key findings that could help Inclusive Growth: Like a strong- $30 billion by 2031, a goal established in Halifax maximize future benefits from business strategy, the ITMP takes a Halifax’s Economic Growth Plan. tourism, including: competitive lens to decision making, 1. Leisure travel demand is expected and pursues inclusive growth for all 210+ “Halifax’s Integrated Tourism Master to recover post-pandemic. Tourism is communities in the region. Plan provides a foundation for jobs and expected to re-establish itself as one inclusive, sustainable growth, which is of the fastest growing industries in the Consider impacts to the rest of vital as we recover from the economic world. Nova Scotia: In a typical year, Halifax impacts of COVID-19 and plan for 2. Halifax has the potential to be widely welcomes 5.3 million overnight stays the longer-term,” says Wendy Luther, recognized as the favourite city in which represents 54 per cent of the President & CEO, Halifax Partnership. Canada. provincial tourism. The plan recognizes “Collaborating with partners like 3. Halifax should maximize its full that decisions made for Halifax as a Discover Halifax to grow our city has potential for year-round visitation. tourism destination can impact the rest never been more important, and we’re 4. If we make Halifax an even better of the Province and the Atlantic region looking forward to working closely destination for visitors, residents will and provide due consideration of these together to achieve Halifax’s economic also benefit. impacts. goals in the months and years ahead.” 5. Halifax’s greatest assets are its people, and the unique combination of Leverage collaboration: The tourism To learn more about Halifax’s five-year rural and urban experiences. industry includes many different sectors. ITMP, visit discoverhalifaxdmo.com. 6. Discover Halifax stakeholders are Developing a master plan had to be eager to partner and collaborate under done with consideration to the broader clear leadership. tourism ecosystem, including at the local, regional, and national level.
30 BUSINESS VOICE – APRIL 2021 THANK YOU. Our members continue to lead the way. They share insights, knowledge and expertise to support businesses. We continue hosting webinars with field experts to keep you informed and provide an outlet where your questions could be answered. Thank you to the following orgnizations for actively participating and reaching out to keep the business community up to date and prepared.
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