When I set up my own tourism consulting business after my time at Tourism Vancouver came to an abrupt end in 2015, I started with a couple of small projects and ultimately took on a larger contract with TIABC.

As a new small business operator, I learned very quickly that aside from fulfilling my commitments to clients, I also needed to focus on running a business which included financial obligations such as taxes, insurance, accounting, legal fees, and other operating expenses. To be fair, the cost to run my little shop was nothing compared to the many tourism operators I consulted with in those early days who were faced with additional fixed cost expenses such as rent, utilities, staff, supplies, and more.

After two years as a sole proprietor, I recognized that virtually all of my time was devoted to TIABC. So I folded Parkside Tourism Consulting and joined the organization as a permanent staff member, shifting some of my focus to running an association which included financial responsibilities such as raising revenues to keep the organization afloat.

After eight years of careful management of resources, TIABC is in a relatively stable financial position. However, the same can’t be said for some of our members…partially due to the pandemic…but also because the cost of doing business in our province has risen exponentially and shows no signs of tapering off.

Earlier this week, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade (GVBoT) released a new policy report, titled “Counting the Costs: Assessing Economic Challenges for Businesses in British Columbia”.

The brief suggests that while BC fared well during the pandemic compared to other provinces in growth and employment, forecasters project that we’ll trail most provinces in real GDP growth this year and next. In fact, over half of businesses (56%) surveyed in Metro Vancouver anticipate an increase in operating expenses in the coming quarter, while more than a third expect a considerable decline in profitability (34%) and cash reserves (26%). It’s likely the same story all over BC.

GVBoT notes that between 2022 and 2024, businesses will have paid a cumulative $6.5 billion in additional costs through a new payroll tax (EHT), carbon tax, corporate income tax, and paid sick leave. This also takes into account two broad-based, positive measures which include removing the PST on non-residential electricity and the reduction of the small business tax rate that cumulatively save businesses money ($873m).

GVBoT also cites other challenges including a 17% increase in the minimum wage (2019– 2023), a new statutory holiday costing $200 million, and a nearly 10% increase in the top personal tax rate. Layer on rising interest rates and inflation, it’s no wonder many businesses are having a difficult time, especially those in tourism that rely on revenue from international visitors, which has fallen short of pre-pandemic numbers.

The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade offers several recommendations to government to ease the financial burden on businesses including reducing the provincial portion of commercial property taxes and increasing the EHT threshold for small and medium-sized businesses. I encourage you to read the report for yourself (included below) to digest and subsequently discuss with TIABC so we can advocate on your behalf for policy changes like the GVBoT is proposing to help businesses survive and thrive.

It should be pointed out that, despite the harsh reality of today’s business climate, tourism remains ripe for opportunities to grow existing businesses or for entrepreneurs to launch new products and services to meet the needs and demands of visitors. Moreover, many tourism operators (depending on the sector) are doing reasonably well in spite of high operating costs. For that matter, I would even consider launching a small tourism business again somewhere down the road but not before careful evaluation on whether the benefits outweigh the challenges. In the meantime, I’ve got an association to run for the foreseeable future.

Walt Judas,

CEO, TIABC

As referenced in the CEO report above, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has completed a thorough assessment on the rising costs of operating a business in British Columbia. GVBoT has also provided several recommendations for government consideration.

TIABC is excited to announce the appointment of Nicole Ford to its Board of Directors, filling a vacancy in the business category.

Nicole is Vice President, Communications, Sustainability and Stakeholder Relations at Rocky Mountaineer. In this role, she is responsible for leading the company’s global integrated communications, stakeholder engagement, and sustainability strategies.

Nicole has more than 20 years of tourism, hospitality, and social impact experience, including several years consulting with non-profit and social enterprise organizations to strengthen operations and grow their business outcomes.

Nicole is a firm believer that tourism is a force for good and can transform communities by nurturing human connections and the understanding that individual choices can drive change. She is committed to demonstrating the value tourism can bring by delivering meaningful and lasting social, environmental, and economic benefits for communities.

TIABC's Board and staff extend a warm welcome to Nicole and look forward to the energy and experience she will bring to our organization.

Nicole joins TIABC Board members Brenda Baptiste, Joanne Burns Millar, Miranda Ji, Sandra Oldfield, Sandra van Steijn, J.J. Belanger, Michael J. Ballingall, Jamie Cox, Dennis Innes, Chris Lewis and Mike Retasket.

Do you support the idea of a province-wide (open) campfire ban between the months of May and October to help mitigate wildfires in British Columbia? YES or NO

TIABC's One Minute Monitor (OMM) is a short survey deployed as necessary to help us better understand members' views on pressing issues, and to help inform policy development and prioritize advocacy activities.

TIABC Chair J.J. Belanger was a guest of CBC's "On The Coast" with host Belle Puri on May 22nd and provided an update on how BC's tourism operators are fairing to date, and the impact BC's ferry service has on travellers.

Listen to the interview HERE.

In an interview with the Vancouver Sun's Glenda Luymes earlier this week, Co-chairs of the Adventure Tourism Coalition, Scott Ellis and Kathy MacRae, expressed their concern that BC tourism operators are struggling today due to conflicts arising over the limited land base and backcountry land use.

They noted there is poor communication among provincial ministries with different mandates — including forestry, mining, tourism and environment and it is significantly impacting operators, leading some to consider quitting their business.

They also noted that several small operators are struggling to secure financing because their tenure renewal applications were delayed or curtailed. Tenure applications made under BC's adventure tourism policy are decided by the forests ministry, which is also responsible for logging tenures. Tenure applications made under BC's adventure tourism policy are decided by the forests ministry, which is also responsible for logging tenures. Mining tenures fall under the mines ministry, while ski resort applications are considered through the mountain resorts branch of BC's Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport.

The Coalition is asking for clarity, certainty and an understanding of who the sector should be having conversations with.

Read the full interview HERE.

Hear from Rachela Pollock of Acera Insurance, a commercial insurance broker that specializes in outdoor recreation & adventure tourism. Rachela will discuss ways to have your insurance policy work better for you.

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Join us to learn about how presenting your tourism business or association in the best light to underwriters can make all the difference on your premiums, along with insurance tips & tricks, understanding current market trends, and how claims have impacted the tourism industry as a whole. You won't want to miss this informative session.

Date: Tuesday, May 30

Time: 12:00 (Noon) - 1:00 pm via ZOOM

The consultation for Budget 2024 is now open, and residents, sector associations and other stakeholders throughout the province are encouraged to share ideas about how the provincial government can help create a stronger future for everyone through next year’s budget. Budget 2023 reflects what the BC government heard from people last year.

The consultation is led by the all-party Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services. Each year, the committee holds a province-wide consultation about the next provincial budget and presents a final report with recommendations to the legislative assembly reflecting their recommendations.

Constituents can participate by completing the written submission form. The budget consultation closes June 16th at 2pm.

This week has marked the eighth annual Canadian RVing and Camping Week.

Hosted by the Canadian Camping and RV Council representing Provincial Campground Owners Association, RVDA of Canada, and the Canadian RV Association, this week-long event is to say thank you to the patrons and invite others to take up camping.

The value of camping to the economy and the well being of people has also been recognized by the Province of British Columbia who issued a proclamation to proclaim May 23 – 28, 2023 “RVing and Camping Week”.

The proclamation mentions that the RVing and Camping industries play an important role in the health of British Columbia’s tourism sector and are projected to contribute more than $800 million to British Columbia’s GDP in 2023. As well, an estimated 2 million people, most of whom are Canadians, will enjoy RVing and camping in British Columbia in the next 2 years.

Also this week, the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) reminded everyone of their commitment to ensuring that people continue to experience the joys of camping and RVing in a responsible and sustainable way and is once again urging everyone to follow and practice the Camper’s Code. 

Learn more about the Camper's Code HERE.

The go2HR team is expanding, and they are currently seeking to fill two exiting job positions.

1. HR Specialist - Interior Region: go2HR is looking for an individual to support the outreach of their HR services to tourism employers in the Thompson Okanagan and Kootenay Rockies regions.

2. Workplace Mental Health Coach - go2HR is looking for an individual to support and outreach their mental health programs to tourism and hospitality employers.

If any of these opportunities interest you, visit HERE to learn what it's like to work at go2HR, and apply today! You can find the links to the job postings at the bottom of the Career page.

TIABC, along with our tourism and hospitality partners go2hr, and Destination BC, have collaborated to conduct a survey about the status of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) efforts of tourism and hospitality businesses around the province.

This DEIA survey is one initiative that supports the BC tourism industry’s continued learning journey as we collectively reflect on how we might better authentically represent communities in BC, understand how others encounter the world, and ensure tourism experiences are safe, accessible, and inclusive for everyone.

Please share this opportunity with your network(s) and help the survey team reach over 19,000 tourism and hospitality businesses, and various industry partners, across the province.

Congratulations are in order to Destination Canada who is the proud recipient of the 2023 IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award, which recognizes its longstanding commitment to reducing our environmental impact.

The award pays homage to our Canadian Business Event Sustainability Plan, a first-of-its-kind program aimed at improving the economic, socio-cultural and environmental sustainability practices of business events hosted in Canada.

Read the full announcement HERE.

The BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) has launched its 2023/24 Super Camping BC Directory.

The publication can be viewed in the digital flip-book version, or one can go to the App store and download the SCBC "app to go". App users can receive notifications throughout the year to keep up-to-date on happenings.

Starting next month, the printed guide can be picked up at British Columbia Visitor Centres.

There are over 200 listings to help you with your camping, RVing and lodging plans. #SuperCampingBC

View the digital flipbook HERE.

Learn more about the Super Camping BC app HERE.

Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is excited to announce they have partnered with the Edmonton International Airport (YEG), Indigenous Tourism Alberta, and Spectacular Northwest Territories for the 2nd annual Connect-with-Canada Trip Giveaway.

This year the winner will be immersed in indigenous culture and tours in the Edmonton area before heading north to Yellowknife.

Learn more and enter to win HERE.

Coastal Wilderness Adventures is based in Campbell River.

Their local Vancouver Island and Campbell River fishing guides are versed in all methods of fishing, and will instruct you in one of the many productive ways to catch fish in the province. Their location is also midway to the most productive fishing waters on Vancouver Island, including Gold River, Nootka Sound & Stuart Island. You can fish for Pacific Salmon, Steelhead & Trout in the hottest spots, at the best times.

Learn more about Coastal Wilderness Adventures HERE.

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

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

Your support and engagement is vital to ensuring businesses, DMO's and sectors are united and speaking with one voice on issues that impact BC's tourism industry.

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

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) are happy to announce an exceptional offer to TIABC members! Effective now, TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.

TIAC is the national voice for the travel and tourism sector and acts on behalf of Canadian tourism businesses promoting and supporting policies, programs, and activities that will benefit the sector’s growth, development, and prosperity.

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

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

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information or visit our website HERE.

The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) is hosting its 2023 Auction in the month of May. The auction will be supporting Care Camps in Canada.

Care Camps are founded by campground owners and help kids with cancer get to experience the healing power of the outdoors by sending them to specialized oncology camps.

Donations can be made through the auction by visiting the website linked below, up until May 31st.

If you would like to donate a gift card or a gift certificate for the auction, please email Darlene@bclca.com or call 604-908-5594.

Visit the website for more information HERE.

The New Inclusive Economy (NIE) is hosting a series of business-to-business conversations intended to share research project findings with employers throughout BC.

Throughout the month of June, employers can attend free in-person workshops in a business-to-business roadshow hosted in 10 communities to learn about becoming more inclusive. Workshops will be held in Surrey, Vancouver, Prince George, Smithers, Terrace, Kelowna, Cranbrook, Fort St. John, Victoria and Powell River.

Learn more and register for these free and accessible events HERE.

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is pleased to offer sustainability training, workshops and support completely FREE to industry. Made possible with the generous support of the Government of Canada through the Tourism Relief Fund, TIAC has secured the services of experts in the field to deliver a valuable program.

The program will be offered in cohorts, supporting participants to go deeper in sustainability and receive guidance on how to align with the UN SDGs and find practical actions to make tourism a force for good. This is a great learning and networking opportunity, with offerings including:

Space is limited, so sign up today!

Vancouver 13th Annual Tournament

July 17 - Westwood Plateau

Victoria 9th Annual Tournament

August 23 - Olympic View

If you want to become a sponsor for any (or all) tournaments, contact Samantha at samantha@sasparilla.ca our Event Manager or Mike Macleod, Golf Committee Chair at mike@bcha.com

A world-class conference that connects international buyers with Canadian sellers of tourism products, this year’s Quebec City event will bring together approximately 1,700 tourism business leaders for more than 30,000 one-on-one appointments, experienced-based luncheons, exclusive breakfasts, and engaging networking opportunities. Get your brand in front of an audience with influence at RVC2023!

Dates: May 30-June 2

Location: Quebec City

Learn more and register HERE.

This year’s AGM and Conference theme is Focusing Forward… Together.

Over the course of two days, public sector, private sector and Indigenous leaders will inspire us, challenge us to think outside-the-box and take steps to work together and chart a path to a future where businesses prosper, British Columbians thrive and communities flourish.

Date: May 31-June 2

Location: Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa, Whistler

Registration is now open! View the program and register HERE.

We are pleased to announce the dates for the next annual BCAC Conference. It will take place in Prince George, ("Base camp to the North" and home to YXS) at the "Courtyard by Marriott" hotel.

More information including conference theme, draft agenda, list of speakers, as well as hotel and travel partner recommendations is available HERE.

Questions or Sponsorships? Ask Dave!

The Art of Leadership Women focuses on the topics and trends most critical to leaders. This unique one-day conference features a riveting collection of world leaders, business icons, academics, and bestselling authors who inspire action.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn improved ways of leveraging their value, elevating their skills, and developing the strategies required to take their leadership and their organizations to the next level. This conference is not just for women, but for anyone who wants to champion change on behalf of women.

Date: June 6

Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Sport Events Congress, the largest annual gathering of everyone connected to the over $7.4 billion sport tourism industry in Canada, is a 3-day interactive and educational event. SEC23 has been designed to help facilitate the recovery of sport hosting. The SEC23 program is interactive, educational, offers opportunities for business-to-business networking, and evening social events

Date: June 6th - 8th

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel & Vancouver Airport Marriott Hotel, Richmond

Learn more and register HERE.

WORTH Presents "She's On The Tee"

 Golf Tournament

WORTH Association has partnered with GolfBC for a night of golf and networking for women of recreation, tourism and hospitality. Join She's on the Tee in Kelowna, where ladies take the spotlight on the green.

Connect with like-minded women, learn from PGA instructors, and enjoy a relaxed evening of improving your skills.

Your ticket includes:

Date: June 15

Time: 6-8PM

Location: Gallagher’s Canyon Golf Club, Practice Facility

Price: $55 per person plus tax

Find your tickets HERE.

BC's Family Fishing Weekend is an annual celebration of fishing that coincides with the Father’s Day weekend each year. In 2023, the three-day event falls on June 16th to 18th. This is a great chance to get together with family and friends, and try fishing! There are community events held around the province, with family-friendly fishing activities and education.

DYK - you can fish for free during the Father’s Day weekend and right through the third weekend in June (including the immediately preceding Friday). The provincial government waives the requirement for residents of Canada – individuals who have lived in Canada for the preceding 12 months – to buy or carry a non-tidal (freshwater) basic fishing licence. The federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, which manages fishing in tidal waters, also offers the opportunity to go saltwater fishing for free.

Check out the map of events on BC Family Fishing and learn more HERE.

Future Borders Coalition (FBC) members are invited to the Annual General Meeting and Air-Cruise Intermodal Roundtable event in Vancouver.

Date: June 22

Time: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, SFU

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The roundtable picks up from where we left off in Ottawa in April, with a specific emphasis on Cruise to Air transfers and planning for FIFA World Cup 2026. The event is hybrid, so if you can’t make it in-person, please register to attend virtually.

Learn more and register HERE.

The 21st Annual Coast Hotels Shuhachi Naito Golf Classic will take place and will begin with a 12:00 Noon shotgun start in a Texas Scramble format. Last year, the tournament raised $80,000.00 for designated charities.

Date: July 13

Location: Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club, Delta

The two beneficiaries this year are once again the ALS Society of BC and the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre. Due to the success of this event, more than 50% of this year's playing spots have already been pre-sold.

Learn more and register HERE.

The Abbotsford International Airshow has grown to become one of the Fraser Valley’s largest and most exciting annual events.

Dates: Aug. 11, 12 & 13

Location: Abbotsford International Airport

Early Bird Tickets on Sale Now! Early Bird ticket access is EXCLUSIVE to Airshow Insiders.

Learn more about the event performers and event attractions HERE.

The BCRFA BC Restaurant Hall of Fame is returning. The BC dining scene is recognized across the country as industry and trend leading. Gather to celebrate the individuals and businesses whose vision, creativity and unbelievable hard work made this possible by inducting them into the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame.

Date: October 23

Location: Italian Culture Club, Vancouver

Tickets to attend the Inductee Evening are now on sale and are available HERE.

Drop us a line at info@tiabc.ca.

TIABC recognizes that our members, stakeholders and staff occupy the ceded, unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play on the lands that our Indigenous friends and First Nations ancestors honour and care for.