Message from President & CEO, Ingrid Jarrett
Dear Accommodation Community,

The past week has been a busy one for your BC Hotel Association team.

Application intake opened for the Tourism Accommodation and Commercial Recreation Relief Fund, which will provide up to $15 million in grants to alleviate fixed-cost pressures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The grants will support large accommodation providers with over 150 employees through fixed cost relief, financially assist Indigenous accommodators with BC Hydro relief, and aid back country lodges and tourism businesses that have been burdened with lease and land tenure payments throughout the pandemic.
Today's update includes:

  • General Updates
  • More Closure Relief for Businesses Hard Hit by Provincial Restrictions
  • Support for Indigenous Tourism BC
  • Reminder | Provincial Health Orders Extended to February 16th
  • Coquihalla Highway Officially Reopen to Public | DBC Updated Winter Travel Guide
  • STR Market Report | Week of January 2
  • Applications Now Open for Tourism Accommodation and Commercial Recreation Relief Fund | Apply Today
  • GoGreen Tip of the Week!
  • BC Tourism & Hospitality Conference | In Memoriam Tribute
  • Reminder | Federal Resources & Updates
  • Supports Expanded for Flood-affected Residents
  • Don't Forget! Re-Activate COVID-19 Safety Plans
  • Free Training Course Available for Under-Employed Individuals | Share with Your Team Today!
  • Cap U Program Available to Assist in Creating Recruitment Strategy
  • Dine Out Vancouver Festival 20 Anniversary Lottery
  • Action Required | BCHA Billing and Payment Updates
  • New Member Spotlight | Simply Kimberley
  • News - See below!
  • Hot Off the Press
  • Industry Trends and News
  • Tipping Our Hat to Industry!
  • Kicking Horse Mountain Resort's Eagle's Eye Restaurant Named One of USA Today's 10 Best On-Mountain Restaurants!
  • Mark Your Calendars - see below
  • Comment Card | Industry Thoughts & Feedback
  • #ThrowbackThursday | Witness How Far We've Come Since November Mudslides
  • Minister Mark Shares Comments on Indigenous Tourism Resilience
  • Registration Reminder for Free Hotel Operations Training
  • Last Laugh | A Little Something to Make Members Smile
More Closure Relief for Businesses Hard Hit by Provincial Restrictions
Businesses directed by health orders to remain temporarily closed until Feb. 16, 2022 are now eligible for up to $20,000 in total support.

The provincial government announced it is expanding its original four-week temporary-closure grant to eligible businesses that include:
  • bars, nightclubs and lounges that do not serve full meals; and
  • event venues that had to close due to cancellations.

Funding is based on staffing levels at the time of closure. Applications will be accepted until Feb. 28, 2022, or until funds are fully committed, see below.

Businesses that have already applied for a COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant do not need to reapply.


The $4-million extension of the original $10-million grant program complements existing federal government programs, including the Local Lockdown Program and the Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit. 
Support for Indigenous Tourism BC
Indigenous Tourism BC will receive $3.7 million to assist with COVID-19 recovery and help Indigenous tourism fully recover to 2017-18 levels, the provincial government announced yesterday afternoon.
 
The funding will provide Indigenous businesses and communities with access to tourism planning, training and mentoring services. Funds will also provide support for Indigenous businesses in purchasing new digital and online tools, delivering training programs to assist businesses in developing marketable tourism products, and working with interested First Nations to develop and market tourism experiences.
Reminder | Provincial Health Orders Extended to February 16th
This week, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry extended the current Public Health Orders on Gatherings and Events along with the Order on Food & Liquor serving premises. A copy of the current PHO will be available here and a summary of each is detailed below.
 
In a new development, gyms and fitness centres will be allowed to start gradually reopening as of Thursday. Changes include:

  • When gyms reopen, plans must include occupancy limits based on seven square metres per person,
  • Up to a maximum of 25 people per space
  • The vaccine card will still be required to enter.
  • Masks must be worn at all times with the exception of when someone is exercising
NOTE:  have been fielding many calls from industry with specific questions about graduation ceremonies, safety plans, distancing, trade shows and so much more. Please note that when reading the orders and the clear definition – if there is no mention of an event/business meeting, conference restrictions, then it is allowed. Only what isn’t allowed is detailed in the order.

We encourage anyone with questions to reach out to questions@bcha.com and we will be happy to assist.
Coquihalla Highway Officially
Reopen to Public | DBC Updated Winter Travel Guide
On Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022, the Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5) reopened to regular vehicle traffic between Hope and Merritt!

The provincial government made the announcement noting that temporary repairs are in place while permanent repairs are planned for damaged sections. Drivers should expect travel-pattern changes and reduced speed limits.

Additional Updates:

  • On Highway 99 between Pemberton and Lillooet current weight restrictions will be lifted on Jan. 19 as well. It is recommended that only experienced winter drivers use this route.
  • Highway 1 between Kanaka Bar and Hope remains closed, but the highway is expected to reopen to all vehicle traffic before the end of January.

DBC Winter Travel Guide
To help industry navigate winter travel questions among the latest entry requirements and road closures, Destination BC has created a new Winter Travel Guide (updated January 18). The document provides key messaging, information and infographics, and resources for BC’s tourism industry as it relates to travel to and within BC this Winter. Topics include travel routes, trip planning, transportation, visitor servicing, health protocols, entry requirements, and proof of vaccination requirements for various activities and businesses. The document will be updated as needed, as the situation evolves.
STR Market Report | Week of January 2
Domestic Overnight Visitors Week Ending January 2 Highlights  
  • Average Domestic Overnight Visitation to BC for Week 52 (Dec 27, 2021 - Jan 02, 2022) is up 34.5% compared to the same week in 2019 and all regions saw an increase in mobile movement when comparing Week 51 (Dec 20 - 26, 2021) to Week 52 (Dec 27, 2021 - Jan 02, 2022)
  • While it appears that the week ending Dec 26, 2021 was quite down compared to the same week in 2019, and the following week quite a bit higher, it is important to note that the days that the holidays fell on vary each year and can result in different travel movement
  • If we compare the total volume of visitors to and within BC during the two final weeks of the year, in 2019 it was approximately 1M and in 2021 it was approximately 900K which is a difference of -10%
  • Important to note that this is not reflected in hotel occupancy, which continues to be down compared to 2019, as it includes visiting friends and relatives and stays at vacation rentals.
Applications Now Open for Tourism Accommodation and Commercial Recreation Relief Fund | Apply Today
In a press release distributed on Friday, January 14 by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, it was announced that eligible accommodation providers and tourism operators will now have access to grants to alleviate fixed cost pressures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As much as $15 million will be provided through the Tourism Accommodation and Commercial Recreation Relief Fund through three streams:
  • one for B.C.-owned large accommodation providers employing more than 150 people;
  • the second for Indigenous-owned large accommodation properties employing more than 100 people and located on reserve;
  • and the third for tenure and BC Parks permit holders that operate as tourism businesses.

Intake is now open and will remain open until February 14th at 11:59pm. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted so do apply as soon as possible.
GoGreen Tip of the Week!
Sign up for a complimentary GoGreen analysis with our BCHA Energy Analyst, Dylan Tomlin!
BC Tourism & Hospitality
Conference | In Memoriam Tribute
Over recent years, many have experienced the pain that comes with loss as we've been forced to say goodbye to some of our most beloved colleagues and industry friends. The absence has been felt across our sector, and due to restrictions on gatherings and events caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us have not been able to celebrate their lives and achievements as we once would have.
 
At this year's BC Tourism & Hospitality Conference, we will be paying our respects through an "In Memoriam" slideshow tribute that honours all of those who have passed since we last met in person. We need your help to ensure that each of our industry friends are included.

How to Submit:
  • Please send direct submissions to info@bctourismandhospitalityconference.com
  • In your submissions, please detail the individual's:
  • First and last name
  • Title and company from their latest role
  • An image or headshot

We will be accepting submissions until Friday, February 11th. 
Reminder | Federal Resources & Updates
Applications are now open for the Tourism and Hospitality Recovery Program.
Here is the list of programs available for application:
  1. Tourism and Hospitality Recovery Program
  2. Canada Recovery Hiring Program
  3. Hardest-Hit Business Recovery Program
  4. Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit
  5. Local Lockdown Program

Please note, if you applied for the Tourism & Hospitality Recovery Program (THRP) for period 22 (October 24 to November 20, 2021), you may have been affected by an error in the calculation spreadsheet for wage and hiring support, which erroneously showed they were ineligible for the THRP when they may have been eligible. More information here.

As a reminder, last week changes to the federal government’s Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) program were announced, extending a repayment deadline for CEBA loans from Dec. 31, 2022, to Dec. 31, 2023, for all eligible borrowers in good standing.
Supports Expanded for
Flood-affected Residents
People receiving Emergency Support Services due to this fall’s flooding will receive personalized supports delivered by the Canadian Red Cross, the provincial government announced today.

Starting on Feb. 1 the federal and provincial governments will provide customized recovery support that includes interim housing and basic needs assistance. A Red Cross case manager will help households access assistance from existing government programs and develop a plan for recovery that can access additional funds to repair or rebuild their primary residences or to relocate to a new community.

The Red Cross is reaching out to those currently receiving Emergency Support Services and those who have indicated they would like to discuss recovery supports.
Don't Forget! PHO Order Requires Employers to Re-Activate
COVID-19 Safety Plans
On January 7, 2022, the provincial health officer announced an order requiring employers to re-activate their COVID-19 Safety Plans. WorkSafeBC has updated guidance and recommendations outlined on our resource page.

This replaces the previous requirement for employers to have communicable disease prevention plans in their workplaces. To learn more visit our BCHA COVID-19 Safety Plan resource page.
Resources for Job Seekers, Workers, and Businesses from Tourism and Hospitality Emergency Recovery
As tourism and hospitality businesses kick start their operations, retaining skilled employees, and attracting new workers will be critical to their success. The Tourism and Hospitality Emergency Recovery project is developing tools and resources to help operators respond to this enormous challenge.
 
Tools include:
  1. Free self-guided training guides for employees
  2. Labour force survey results
  3. Resource listings for individuals and businesses
Cap U Program Available to Assist in Creating Recruitment Strategy
In this difficult labour shortage, Capilano University School of Tourism Students are available to help develop business recruitment strategies. The Human Resources class will be working with tourism businesses to create a comprehensive recruitment strategy throughout the month of February.
 
After an initial consultation with the manager, students will analyze your needs and assess opportunities to help you attract a larger pool of candidates. In their report, students will design recruitment policies, audit current practices, and create recommendations on employer branding.
 
They will recommend recruitment sources and present a digital strategy, helping you take a broader talent management approach. They will present their findings to your team via zoom and prepare a comprehensive report. The time commitment for employers is 1-2 hours of virtual meetings. There is no cost to participate.
 
Email Joanna Jagger at joannajagger@capilanou.ca for more information.
Free Training Course Available for Under-Employed Individuals | Share
with Your Team Today!
The BCHA has partnered with the Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society (PICS) and Western Community College to offer a 23 week “Hotel Operations Services Skills Training Program”.

This program is designed to train 30 candidates who are currently unemployed or under employed in the Metro Vancouver area and deliver them to industry trained and ready to work. The training is fully funded and will focus on readying the candidate for meaningful work in the hotel industry.

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PROGRAM?
Join us Friday January 21st at 11am PST for an information and Q&A session with BCHA and Western Community College.

REGISTRATION:
 
RECRUITMENT
  • For hotels who may be interested in candidate recruitment during the final phase of the 23 week program, please contact Alison Langford at alison@bcha.com
Dine Out Vancouver Festival 20
Anniversary Lottery
The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) is pleased to announce an online lottery held in conjunction with the 2022 Dine Out Vancouver Festival. 13 lottery prizes feature top local food, wine, and accommodation, as well as events and entertainment. 
 
Tickets are available online until January 30th, 2022, https://darelle.com/pp/bcor1g/nrelease in the following packages:
  • 1 for $5
  • 3 for $10
  • 8 for $20
  • 25 for $50
 
Prizes draw will take place at 12 noon on February 1. The event’s gaming license number is 131440.

The BCHF thanks the local businesses that generously donated the fantastic lottery prizes. Proceeds from the lottery will support the BCHF’s charitable work, which includes providing financial assistance to hospitality workers in financial crisis due to extraordinary health conditions experienced by themselves or a family member, as well as administering a scholarship program to foster the development of the next generation of hospitality industry workers and leaders.
 
Partial proceeds of this lottery will be allocated to the BCHF Scholarship program and will be awarded to a student focused on tourism and hospitality.
Action Required | BCHA Billing
and Payment Updates
This is a friendly reminder that the BCHA is encouraging all members to update their billing and profile information in order to receive the most up-to-date information and stay current on opportunities within the sector.

The process is simple and can be done here.

The BCHA has also switched to automated billing. If you have not already done so, please complete the attached credit card form and submit to Member Services Coordinator, Samantha Glennie at samantha@bcha.com or directly at 604-443-4757.

We look forward to supporting you with your questions and greatly appreciate your efforts to update your profile. 
New Member Spotlight | Simply Kimberley
Welcome Simply Kimberley to the BC Hotel Association!

Simply Kimberley is a boutique tourism and transportation company that focuses on golf and ski packages with accommodation in their company-owned lodging. The Simply Kimberley team is well-known for providing Kimberley's finest crafted vacations. Visit them today!
Industry News & Quick Links
BCHA | INN THE NEWS

B.C. Tourism Operators, Hotels, Lodges Can Apply for COVID-19 Grants
BC Hotel Association President and CEO, Ingrid Jarrett, spoke to CityNews1130 surrounding the recent funding announcement that has been created to support large accommodation providers. See full article here.

HOT OFF THE PRESS

The leading sector trade association, UKHospitality, has today heralded today’s announcement of the return to Plan A as a key milestone on the road to recovery for the sector. Read more
 
INDUSTRY TRENDS AND QUICKLINKS

Marriott International is partnering with robotics and architecture startup Ori as part of the hotel giant’s new Marriott Design Lab, an R&D lab for the hotel industry. Read more
 
Pushed Back at Height of Pandemic, Hotel Renovations Now Face Supply Chain Delays - CoStar Hotel owners and operators must cope with higher material and construction costs and longer lead times deliveries when renovating properties. Read more

Companies will be able to self-enrol online and start benefitting from preferential rates more quickly. Read more
Through a new partnership with Guild Education, Hilton will provide its team members with a best-in-class continuing education platform to help them pursue and attain their educational dreams. Read more
Tipping Our Hat to Industry
Have news to share? Email kelsey@bcha.com
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort's Eagle's Eye Restaurant Named One of USA Today's 10 Best On-Mountain Restaurants!

To find the best on-mountain restaurants for 2021, a panel of USA Today experts selected 20 nominees, then readers voted for the 10 best!

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort's Eagle's Eye Restaurant was one of two Canadian restaurants named and the only BC-based operator to nab the honour.

Congratulations!
Mark Your Calendars
May 8, 2022 – May 11, 2022

IMPACT is a collaborative national dialogue on innovation. The dream to create a legacy for sustainable and regenerative tourism in Canada is stronger than ever, and your voices are needed.
 
Join in on a national conversation on sustainable tourism, as delegates and speakers explore and compare models for tourism recovery. Hear from some of the most creative and innovative experts in the business and address our new reality of higher expectations, for and of visitors.
 
How to Bring Clarity and Coherence to Your Team - Aligning Strategy, Leadership, and Focus
Friday, January 21, 2022 1:00PM - 2:30PM
Hosted by: Small Business BC
 
Learn how to develop an effective team perfectly aligned with your company’s vision and goals so they can clearly and proactively solve the right business problems with maximum impact.
 
What Will You Learn?
  • Develop a clear vision that guides you and your team’s decision-making
  • Lead with respect and concern for all team members that demonstrates appropriate compassion
  • Deliver results and enhance the strengths of your team members to achieve key objectives
  • Focus your team’s energy and time on the right tasks
To access the webinar free of charge, register online using coupon code DBC3034.
Destination Canada Industry Webinar - Tourism's Big Shift
Tuesday, Feb 1, 2022 10:00 AM PST
Hosted by: Destination Canada

Destination Canada is hosting a webinar to discuss the findings of our latest report, Tourism’s Big Shift: Key Trends Shaping the Future of Canada’s Tourism Industry. We will cover key trends that will have the largest impact in the next one to three years and explore the implications and opportunities for small and medium-sized tourism businesses.

Save the Date! | BC Tourism & Hospitality Conference, March 9-11, 2022

Join us for the 2022 BC Tourism & Hospitality Conference as we 'Kickstart the Comeback' and gather in-person to learn, tackle issues, forge new relationships, and work toward resiliency in the face of one of the hardest years in our sector's history.
 

Stay tuned for further updates coming soon!
Comment Card
#ThrowbackThursday | Witness How Far We've Come Since November Mudslides
Minister Mark Shares Comments on Indigenous Tourism Resilience
Registration Reminder for Free Hotel Operations Training
Last Laugh
Thank you Brian Rohl for submitting this week's Last Laugh!