Business in Calgary - September 2018

SEPTEMBER 2018 | $3.50 BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

Standing Up FOR SMALL BUSINESS

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DARREN BIEDERMANN, OF SUPREME MEN’S WEAR, ON THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY CONNECTION

B OMA CALGARY NEWS: FALL 2018

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DIRECTORS EDUCATION PROGRAM

CANADA’S LEADING PROGRAM FOR DIRECTORS APPLY BEFORE SEPTEMBER 13, 2018 FOR THE NEXT CALGARY OFFERING OF CANADA’S LEADING PROGRAM FOR DIRECTORS. “Participating in the ICD-Rotman DEP provides more than the initial training and exposure to basic good governance practices. It makes available a network with access to a breadth of experience across a range of organizations from NFP to public companies, crown agencies and private and family corporations. Expectations of the role of the board continue to evolve and the DEP is an invaluable opportunity for discussions on critical emerging issues in governance. It should be a goal of any director to participate, whether experienced or new to the role.”

PATRICIA McLEOD, Q.C., ICD.D CHAIR, CALGARY CO-OP, CALGARY FILM CENTRE DIRECTOR, AIR INUIT, ALBERTA INNOVATES, BEVERAGE CONTAINER MANAGEMENT BOARD, BRADLEY AIR SERVICES

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Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time.

Volume 27 | Number 9

REGULAR COLUMNS

11

Political Correctness One More Time

By Frank Atkins

12

Property Taxes are a Major Pinch Point for Calgary’s Small Business Owners

By Amber Ruddy

14

Olympic Elite at Odds with Alberta Values

By Colin Craig

CONTENTS COVER FEATURE

42

Standing Up for Small Business Darren Biedermann, of Supreme Men’s Wear, On the Importance of Community Connection

By Melanie Darbyshire

ON OUR COVER: ABOVE: DARREN BIEDERMANN, OWNER OF SUPREME MEN’S WEAR. PHOTO SOURCE: BOOKSTRUCKER PHOTOGRAPHY

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Let’s Scrap the Nonsensical Bill C-69 – Before It’s Too Late

By Cody Battershill

18

It’s Important to Examine all Sides in the Energy Debate

By Bill Ross

78 91 113

BOMA Calgary News Fall 2018 Leading Business The Calgary Report

118

Current developments for Calgary Telus Convention Centre, Tourism Calgary, Calgary Economic Development, and Innovate Calgary

Marketing Matters

By David Parker

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STORY TITLE // SECTION

Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time.

Volume 27 | Number 9

74

THIS MONTH’S FEATURES

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CONTENTS COMPANY PROFILES

74 84 99 105 109

Dragon HPCS

Dragon HPCS Offers Unique Panel Solutions

AE Security

Celebrates 35 Years

36

The ABCs of ERM How companies are using enterprise risk managers to do better business

By Rennay Craats

Lack of Preparedness Threatens Canadian Economy Small percentage of business owners have a succession plan in place

48 49

Consumer Choice Corporate Wellness Programs Put Employees First

By Rennay Craats

Diamond Fireplace & Stone

Celebrates 35 Years

8

30

Innovative Building Responding to the intersection of wants and needs

By Colleen Wallace

Jack Carter

Redefining Luxury at Carter Cadillac

Carriage House Inn

Celebrates 50 Years

SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

69 86 97

Optimism in the Oil Patch Service companies starting to see progress, but is it enough?

By Jamie Zachary

Calgary’s Million Dollar Homes Is anyone buying?

By Erlynn Gococo

The Small Business Boom Ninety-six per cent of Alberta businesses are small businesses

By John Hardy

“Connect with me today – about your real estate needs for tomorrow.”

WWW.TANYAEKLUNDGROUP.CA Tanya@tanyaeklundgroup.ca | Direct (403) 863-7434

405 Pinnacle Ridge Place | $1,999,900

(C4183066)

Expansive 2-acre estate home in Pinnacle Ridge with panoramic views of the majestic Rocky Mountains! This home offers over 5,200 sq ft of living space, a total of 3 bedrooms & a fully developed walk-out basement. The main level presents hardwood & slate flooring, 9’ ceilings & an abundance of windows flooding the home with natural light which beautifully showcases the formal dining room, living room with fireplace & recently renovated chef’s kitchen with granite counter tops, huge island with eating bar, plenty of storage space, top of the line appliances & bright breakfast nook. The elegant master retreat is also located on the main level & features a walk-in closet & spa-inspired 5 piece ensuite with dual sinks, freestanding soaker tub & glass enclosed shower.

1515 32 Avenue SW | $1,599,900

(C4196642)

Pride of ownership shows throughout in this McKinley Masters executive built home, which is so rare for the inner city. Situated on a 50’x125’ lot on a beautiful tree-lined street across from South Calgary park, this home is impeccably finished & shows like new. The main floor presents hardwood floors, 10’ ceilings & is flooded with natural light which showcases a living room with soaring ceiling & feature fireplace, gracious formal dining room with custom textured ceiling & chef’s kitchen equipped with granite counter tops, cherry maple cabinets, island/ breakfast bar & stainless steel appliances. An elegant open iron rail staircase leads to the second level which accommodates 2 master retreats, the first featuring lovely views of the park & city, a large walk-in closet & 4 piece ensuite with heated floors, steam shower with rain head & freestanding clawfoot tub.

3600 2 Street SW | $1,650,000

(C4196261)

Revel in unhindered city views from all levels of this home & the substantial west facing roof top patio! This resplendent home by DeJong Design & McIntyre Bills offers over 3,100 sq ft of living space, 3+1 bedrooms & sumptuous surroundings at every turn. The main level presents 10’ ceilings, wide plank engineered hardwood floors & abundance of natural light showcasing a living room with impressive feature fireplace & chef-inspired kitchen finished with quartz counter tops, island/ eating bar, crisp white cabinets & Wolf & Sub-Zero stainless steel appliances & dining area with built-in buffet. The top level is a perfect entertaining space featuring a family room with feature fireplace, built-ins & access to the roof top patio as well as a recreation room complete with wet bar.

2011 29 Avenue SW | $1,599,900

(C4196224)

Situated on a 40’x125’ lot on the most coveted street in South Calgary, 29th Avenue. Full unobstructed city views from the second floor with a commanding nighttime view where you will want to leave the drapes open. Alloy designed home with nothing spared on construction & detail with 3 + 1 bedrooms & 3.5 baths. Large foyer opens to the main floor great room & formal dining room.

Kitchen & living room with rift cut oak cabinets built-in with feature wall, gas fireplace & nook area. Double Sub-Zero fridge/freezer with under-cabinet lighting.

Rare Tahibo hardwood floors throughout the main floor & upper hallway. The master bedroom is spacious with built-ins & a magnificent city view. His & her closets with custom cabinetry & a spa-inspired ensuite with imported Italian tile flooring, steam shower with large bench, trough sink, private water closet, makeup desk & air stream tub.

CALGARY REAL ESTATE “MLS DIAMOND CLUB” REMAX HALL OF FAME

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REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS Colin Craig Frank Atkins David Parker Amber Ruddy Bill Ross Cody Battershill

THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS Melanie Darbyshire Rennay Craats Colleen Wallace Erlynn Gococo

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POLITICAL CORRECTNESS ONE MORE TIME // FRANK ATKINS

Political Correctness One More Time

BY FRANK ATKINS

W

e appear to be evolving to an era where, if historical events are uncomfortable for us, we simply change the past. This is eerily reminiscent of George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984, where the Ministry of Truth essentially concerned itself with lies by rewriting the past. The latest example of this comes from the socialist capital of Canada: Victoria, B.C.. In early August, Victoria City Council voted 7-1 to remove a statue of Sir John A. MacDonald that stood outside of City Hall. This appears to be a part of a larger anti-MacDonald movement all across Canada. Last year in Ontario the Elementary Teachers Federation urged schoolboards to remove MacDonald’s name from public schools.

MacDonald’s sin is that he was the architect of residential schools. I agree that the idea behind residential schools is extraordinarily appalling. However, MacDonald was a smart politician and mostly always had his eyes on the electorate, so he rarely did anything that would not get him votes (aside from his excessive drinking). He was likely not alone in supporting the idea of residential schools. The problem appears to be that the idea of residential schools makes us very uncomfortable today. The left-wing response to this discomfort is to erase history, rather than learning from it.

In response to criticism of removal of the statue, Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps said, “It is about rewriting history, but is not about erasing history.” This is a good example of left wing gobbledygook. Rewriting history would be about opening a dialogue concerning MacDonald’s accomplishments and failures. Removing the statue is erasing MacDonald from our consciousness.

We seem to have forgotten that MacDonald was the driving force behind the creation of Canada from the colonies that existed in 1867. However, like all of us, MacDonald was not

WE SEEM TO HAVE FORGOTTEN THAT MACDONALD WAS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THE CREATION OF CANADA FROM THE COLONIES THAT EXISTED IN 1867. HOWEVER, LIKE ALL OF US, MACDONALD WAS NOT PERFECT. perfect. I have always admired Sir John A. However, as well as the residential school issue, he did what I consider to be some very questionable things. For instance, MacDonald is arguably the father of Canadian political patronage, which costs taxpayers today untold amounts of money. History is full of celebrated individuals whose ideas and policies still haunt us today.

One of the more interesting responses to this rewriting of history came from opposition leader Jason Kenny, who called this move an act of “historical vandalism.” Mr. Kenny pointed out that MacDonald was ahead of his time in calling in 1885 for women to have the right to vote and extended the right to vote to Indigenous people who met certain property conditions. Interestingly, Laurier later removed this right. We do not seem to be condemning Laurier for this.

This whole episode should be another reminder to us that we are moving slowly towards an era where we are being told what to think, moving eerily towards a 1984 world. Apparently thinking for ourselves leads to incorrect conclusions in the eyes of the politically correct police.

George Orwell must be spinning in his grave.

Frank Atkins is a Senior Fellow at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy.

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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PROPERTY TAXES ARE A MAJOR PINCH POINT // AMBER RUDDY

Property Taxes are a Major Pinch Point for Calgary’s Small Business Owners

BY AMBER RUDDY

P

roperty tax increases have small business owners seeing red.

OUT-OF-CONTROL GROWTH IN THE CITY’S OPERATING BUDGET LEADS

According to new analysis by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), 53 per cent of business owners surveyed in Calgary have considered moving their business due to high property tax rates.

TO TAX HIKES, DISPROPORTIONATELY

Does that mean every one of these business owners is packing up shop tomorrow? Absolutely not. What it does mean is that many small business owners are reflecting on whether the reward is worth the risk, and it leaves them wondering if government actually respects the personal sacrifice made to create jobs and contribute to the economy.

EARN A LIVING.

The City of Calgary has been increasing spending faster than population and inflation growth. Out-of-control growth in the City’s operating budget leads to tax hikes, disproportionately on businesses, making it harder for small business owners to earn a living.

During difficult economic times, small business owners want the municipal government to tighten their belts and have the grit to make tough choices. Small business owners are happy to pay their fair share, but business owners don’t believe the value of services received justifies what they pay in taxes. In fact, 88 per cent of small businesses owners disagree with the statement: “Over the past three years, the value-formoney in terms of municipal services I receive and municipal taxes/fees I pay has improved”.

Furthermore, 83 per cent of entrepreneurs disagree that the City of Calgary needs to increase in size (e.g. increase spending/taxes) to keep up with community growth.

Business owners want the municipality to find efficiencies

ON BUSINESSES, MAKING IT HARDER FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS TO

and savings, just like businesses do to remain competitive and stay afloat.

The city is at the beginning of a five-year budgeting cycle, and now is the time to set priorities. Three things the City of Calgary could do to ensure they spend within their means are: stick to core services (such as snow removal, building critical infrastructure, and road maintenance), contract services out to the private sector where possible, and implement a sustainable wage and benefits policy for public sector positions.

For the past several years, the City has been dipping into the fiscal reserve fund to offset tax increases for commercial properties that go above five per cent increases, kicking the can down the road, not addressing the immense burden placed on small business owners beyond the short term.

There is no question that small and medium sized enterprises are the engine of Alberta’s growth. They are the first to hire and the last to let go when it comes to creating private sector jobs. The more governments understand the challenges and hardships of small businesses, the more they can cater public policies to entrepreneurs and create vibrant prosperous cities.

Amber Ruddy is the director of provincial affairs for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business. She can be reached at amber.ruddy@cfib.ca. Follow her on Twitter @aruddy.

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OLYMPIC ELITE AT ODDS WITH ALBERTA VALUES // COLIN CRAIG

Olympic Elite at Odds with Alberta Values

BY COLIN CRAIG

I

f the Princess of Lichtenstein pops by Alberta for the 2026 Olympics, Albertans will be responsible for ensuring she has someone to carry her bags. You see, she’s not merely royalty in Lichtenstein; she’s also an elite member of the International Olympic Committee. As per the Olympics’ contract with host cities, she’ll be entitled to an assistant.

Similarly, taxpayers will be responsible for providing Sir Austin Sealy, the Olympic rep from Barbados, with a driver if he decides to pop by Edmonton to take in an Olympic event.

The requirement to provide over 100 Olympic dignitaries with assistants is just one example of how the Olympics have grown into an enormous, elitist event over the years – one that is at odds with the grassroots, common sense culture that is pervasive in Alberta.

To be clear, it doesn’t matter whether you’re living in Calgary or Camrose, Edmonton or Edson, all Alberta taxpayers will be footing the bill for the Olympics through the billions of dollars that the Alberta government and the federal government will have to contribute.

While some readers may have fond memories of the 1988 Olympics, everything has changed since the last time Calgary hosted the Olympics. Today, the Olympics have grown into an enormous, multi-billion dollar sports gala and there’s a lot on the line when it comes to deciding who gets the colossal event... just ask the people of Chicago.

Last fall, Chicagoans learned their city may have lost its bid to host the 2016 Olympics due to Rio de Janeiro’s team allegedly bribing Olympic officials. The head of Rio’s bid was arrested last year after officials discovered 16 gold bars in his Swiss bank account and other evidence.

Calgary’s team would never offer a bribe, but what happens

if another city does and we become the next Chicago? There goes $35 million. Spend a bit of time on Google and you’ll find many other stories of alleged Olympic bribes.

Closer to home, the lavish lifestyle of the Olympic movement has also gripped the Canadian Olympic Committee. In 2015, the Canadian Olympic Committee spent more than $1 million just to celebrate the opening of their new office in Montreal. The same people spent $3 million on the facility’s new boardroom.

Rightly so, one Canadian Olympic athlete decried the pharaoh-like largesse, noting many athletes are “living through difficult financial times.”

In Calgary, proponents of an Olympic bid continue to argue that the Olympic movement has turned over a new leaf, yet, the evidence suggests otherwise. When the media asked how much the CEO of Calgary’s Olympic bid will receive, they were told her contract is confidential, even though she’ll be paid with tax dollars.

In fact, Calgary’s Olympic bid is structured so that it could spend $35 million without taxpayer watchdog groups, as well as the media, being able to investigate what’s going on.

Make no mistake; the Olympics are fun to watch on television, but we just can’t afford the large bill for the event. Our province is recovering from the recent recession, but we’re not out of the woods yet – trade friction with the U.S. is a real threat and lagging investor confidence is a significant problem.

Even if we could afford an Olympic bid, it can’t be ignored that the Olympic elite are cut from a different cloth than the rest of us.

Colin Craig is the Alberta Director for the Canadian Taxpayers Federation

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LET’S SCRAP THE NONSENSICAL BILL C-69 – BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE // CODY BATTERSHILL

Let’s Scrap the Nonsensical Bill C-69 – Before It’s Too Late

BY CODY BATTERSHILL

D

id you know Canada spends about $2.3 billion annually to import oil from Saudi Arabia, while groups like Greenpeace never protest foreign oil tankers on our shores? That’s right – countries with laughable standards for human rights and environmental protection get a free pass from Canadian activists who attack our own industry daily.

THE BILL WOULD HINDER NOT

And now our federal government is contemplating a bill that would further damage Canadian energy companies, employees, contractors and families, while it helps foreign competitors by ensuring Canadian fair trade oil remains virtually landlocked from reaching global markets and higher prices.

SUPPLIES GOODS AND SERVICES TO

The proposed additions within Bill C-69 – including the requirement for “gender-based analysis” – will make it even harder to build a pipeline in our country, even as we’re forced to import oil from regimes who strip human rights from their citizens with impunity.

But we lead the world in human rights, including the rights of women.

JUST THE CANADIAN OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY ON WHICH OUR TAX BASE DEPENDS, BUT ALSO ANY COMPANY OR WORKER ACROSS CANADA THAT CANADA’S ENERGY SECTOR. gain approval. Bill C-69 would only further cripple the sector.

The bill would hinder not just the Canadian oil and gas industry on which our tax base depends, but also any company or worker across Canada that supplies goods and services to Canada’s energy sector. In a brief on the proposal, the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association (CEPA) noted: “It is difficult to imagine that a new major pipeline could be built in Canada” if Bill C-69 passes.

So we’ve launched a petition to tell the Prime Minister that hindering Canada’s energy sector by citing human rights including the rights of women – while his government allows the importation of oil from regimes that ignore those very same rights – hands anti-Canadian energy activists a win, tilts the field toward global competitors from dictatorial regimes, and is simply unacceptable.

Canada leads other energy producers in virtually every major international ranking for protecting people and the planet – from democratic freedom and lack of corruption, to women’s empowerment and employment standards, to access to health and education. Only the virtuous Canadian sector is in the activists’ crosshairs. Bill C-69 would hand them another tool to hurt us and to help our global competitors.

Enough is enough!

After all, the mandatory consultation and review process for these projects is already immense. The new Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project, for example, took three years to

Say ‘no’ to Bill C-69 and the unfair obstacles it places in front of our industry, our employees, contractors, suppliers, families, and country!

Cody Battershill is a Calgary realtor and founder/spokesperson for CanadaAction. ca, a volunteer organization that supports Canadian energy development and the environmental, social and economic benefits that come with it.

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IT’S IMPORTANT TO EXAMINE ALL SIDES IN THE ENERGY DEBATE // BILL ROSS

It’s Important to Examine all Sides in the Energy Debate

BY BILL ROSS

T

he debate about energy development, and protection of the environment, is not new but has recently become more polarized. Canada, and especially Alberta, is blessed with abundant natural resources and development of these resources has yielded great economic benefits, which is always pointed out by the energy sector.

Environmentalists, however, say this poses a threat to the air we breathe and the land we live on. Therefore, they think development should be limited.

Finding common ground between both sides of the debate involves connecting the dots. We must be aware that demand for cheap energy drives the planet’s consumption of just under 100 million barrels of oil a day, but we must also recognize that our energy resources are limited and the wealth they create must be reinvested in the future.

This debate has come to the forefront in recent discussions about pipelines, but the public is largely misinformed about the pipeline issue. In fact, pipelines are the safest and most economical way of moving hydrocarbons to market. While hampering pipeline development will potentially slow the development of Alberta’s oil sands, it is unlikely to have any impact on global demand for oil.

Here is the key. If we really want to lower our carbon emissions, our collective values must change. As consumers, we need to prefer products with a lower carbon footprint.

This involves sacrifice (i.e., giving up our SUVs), or paying more for some energy services that come from renewable sources. The challenge for many people is that the environment does not become an issue until they

are personally impacted. An excellent example? Coastal communities that are now experiencing a rise in water levels.

A pragmatic approach is to reinvest the wealth created by our energy industry, which, by the way, has a proven record in safety, good labour practices, and continuous improvement in reducing its environmental footprint. Norway’s Oil Fund was created with oil revenues invested for the future. This $1-trillion fund is about 20 times the size of Alberta’s Oil Fund and is often cited as a shining example of public policy directed at the future. However, the Norwegian oil industry is largely government owned and it would be difficult to match such a scale in Canada.

For Alberta, and Canada, we should set more modest goals.

It is important for an energy fund built from revenues derived from the energy industry to have independent governance and not to fund other government programs. A carbon tax and, to a lesser extent cap-and-trade programs, are the most pragmatic ways to provide such revenues.

However, the public needs assurance that the funds will be reinvested in long-term projects that benefit the environment.

Today the primary constraint to investment is energy regulation, which has been upset by federal-provincial confrontation. The lack of firm regulatory policy has put off foreign investors, and Canada suffers from this.

What we need is a coherent national policy, based on economic and environmental benefits that are long-term.

This is what will ultimately benefit all Canadians and put us on the right track with the environment.

Bill Ross is a former energy industry executive who leads Vercerta, a consulting practice that specializes in risk management advice for engineering, energy, and telecommunications companies, and for government and regulatory agencies.

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INNOVATIVE BUILDING // URBANOMICS

INNOVATIVE BUILDING RESPONDING TO THE INTERSECTION OF WANTS AND NEEDS

BY COLLEEN WALLACE

T

he home building industry is exciting and invariably action-packed. It is a unique dynamic. The business – and the art and science – of home building is impacted by so many factors, especially in the Calgary area: the recovery, the economy, consumer confidence, homebuyer trends, mortgage rules, land, climate change consciousness, and more.

There is one aspect of home building that is challenging and always a changing constant: innovation in building. From the design; location-location; the streetscapes; energy efficiency; and room layouts to exteriors, and a dazzling choice of options from hardwood, granite, and built-ins; to cabinetry, and high-tech smart homes – these are all components of the innovative strategy of contemporary home building.

“If popular consumer trends reflect the intersection of wants and needs, any discussion about today’s housing climate has to start with affordability,” says Calgary’s Michael Jacobson, director of product development at Homes by AVI, and a BILD Calgary Region member.

“With rising land costs and increasing interest rates, today’s buyer is focused on getting the biggest bang for their home buying buck, to the point where many buyers are forgoing some of the high-end finishes at initial purchase, with the intention of upgrading flooring and countertops at a future date.

“Perhaps as a result of the challenges of affordability, we are seeing increased demand for multi-generational floor plans.

It allows extended families to pool their resources and live

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at the same property, either in separate suites, or in homes with multiple entrances.”

In Calgary, as well as many new home markets throughout Canada, home building innovation is influenced not only by generational factors, but also cultural influences and ethnicity.

According to Marni Chenier, strategic marketing specialist at Avalon Master Builder, and also a BILD Calgary Region member, “We have noticed a big focus on additional bedrooms and bathrooms, particularly in our NE community of Redstone with South Asian, Spanish and Filipino buyers. Our floor plans are designed with function and space in mind, with some offering up to five bedrooms and three and a half baths, perfect for the growing or multigenerational family.”

Although the strategy usually begins at the planning and sketch stages, innovation is a vital part of the home building process through the site plans, blueprints, mechanicals, and the thrill of occupancy.

Of course, trends and aspects of building innovation vary by areas and regions.

“Craftsman, prairie and Tudor elevations are still prevalent styles in our communities,” says Carla Dean, the knowledgeable product development professional at Homes

by Avi, “but we are seeing more urban modern elevations in our suburban streetscapes. “It is a style that incorporates simple rooflines, gabled, flat or single angle roofs, large

INNOVATIVE BUILDING // URBANOMICS

windows, and new detail elements like oversized metal brackets or suspended canopies.”

Experienced professionals like Jacobson point out that land costs and the impact on housing affordability have driven down lot sizes. “There are now more narrow homes innovatively designed with more living space over the garage, creating an almost flush-front, two-storey form facing the street. And this makes sense,” he says, “as most people will sacrifice on yard and lot size before they will sacrifice on home footage.

“Another change over the last five years has been the acceptance of ‘flex’ rooms in spaces which might have previously been devoted to a specific use such as a formal dining rooms or sitting rooms.

These rooms were often only used a few times a year, like when company came over. The spaces are now flexible and not defined so they may be used in different ways – a place for work, play and hobbies.”

There’s home builder consensus that two very contemporary industry and consumer factors are vital aspects of innovative new home building: technology and energy efficiency consciousness. Particularly with notorious seasonal conditions in the Calgary market, innovative (and efficient) features like insulation, heating, air conditioning, and lighting are important.

“Prospective buyers are looking for energy efficient features in their homes, both for environmental and cost saving concerns,” Chenier notes. “Energy efficient homes with superior air quality and things like new and unique

engineered wall systems reduce heat loss and increase energy and cost savings.”

“Smart home technology has exploded in the last few years,” Jacobson notes, “probably in lockstep with the proliferation of smart phones, tablets, and home Wi-Fi, which allow easy connectivity and familiar means of control. When it comes to home security and building systems technology, a sizable number of our new home purchasers are willing to pay to have these features built in to their new home. However,” he adds, “many smart home devices have been designed as after-market products which homebuyers can simply install themselves. As a result, there is no great urgency for buyers to include these items in their new home purchase, and can use them instead as upgrades at a future date.”

When it comes to innovation in home building these days, consumers and builders have plenty of great options.

ABOVE: HOMES BY AVI FEATURE MULTI-GENERATIONAL FLOOR PLANS

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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Cannabis Legalization Presents Some Unknowns Safety in the workplace isn’t a new concept. In fact, it has been and will continue to be a focus of reputable organizations for a long time. However, new horizons are dawning in Canada and on that horizon is a looming unknown in Canadian safety culture: cannabis legalization.

The unknown territory of cannabis is something that Calgary-based company Cannabis Learning Series (CLS) is attempting to tackle head on.

“We’re a safety company first with a focus on addressing issues stemming from impairment, and particularly that of cannabis impairment,” says Jeff Bradshaw, president and CEO of CLS. “Many companies have admitted they’re unprepared to deal with cannabis legalization. This is a huge problem. Our goal is to help them educate, inform, and train their employees so that workplaces can remain safe and healthy across Canada.”

Recent data shows that about one in 10 Canadians would consider themselves to be a cannabis user in the past year.

Based on those numbers, it is likely that there will be very few workplaces unaffected by cannabis legalization.

Unlike alcohol and other substances, cannabis comes with its own unique impacts on the workplace. For instance, settling the issue of testing and how impairment is determined remains ambiguous. The active ingredient in cannabis known as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) breaks down in the body into molecules called metabolites. These metabolites can be stored in body fat, and can cause positive test results for up to 45 days since the last use. This means a positive drug test may not indicate impairment.

Employers also have the duty to accommodate employees for disabilities and their treatments, which can include medicinal cannabis use – yet another added complication to drug and alcohol policy development. These considerations only scratch the surface of what employers need to acknowledge in updating their drug and alcohol policies.

However, the response from businesses is still split. Leaders are either looking for a solution to proactively deal with the potential issues or choosing to continue business as normal and hope for the best. The reality is, only one thing is certain – there is a huge potential for human resource management issues and lawsuits if changes to the Cannabis Act are ignored completely.

CLS aims to provide a simple, turn-key solution for business leaders across Canada to address the potential for incidents stemming from cannabis and impairment. “We’ve combined the expertise and knowledge of advisors from the health and safety, legal, and medical world along with our own learning and communications development experience to create a complete suite of learning content,” says Eric Atkinson, the lead instructional designer behind the series. “We then coupled that with a pre-packaged communications campaign built around the FIT FOR DUTY concept to further empower employees to make safe decisions a part of their everyday work life. The goal is to provide employers with easy-toimplement content and help them communicate and educate at every level of their organization to ensure a safety culture is maintained, regardless of upcoming changes in the Cannabis Act.” Although being proactive is not always top of mind, making preventative measures are the best way to promote a healthy working environment. CLS has done all the heavy lifting to encourage organizations to take action now, providing the easiest and most cost-effective solution on the market.

ABOVE: JEFF BRADSHAW, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF CLS.

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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Help shape tomorrow’s workforce!

JA Southern Alberta thanks the Economic Futures Council for positioning young people for future success.

With support from the Economic Futures Council, JA Southern Alberta has: • increased program delivery and student reach by 30% • expanded rural programming and reach • developed on-line applications of popular programs • delivered financial literacy programs to Indigenous youth on and off reserves • Partnered with the Calgary Board of Education to build customized semester-long financial literacy programs for students in non-traditional career pathways such as arts and trades • delivered more programs to at-risk and vulnerable youth

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John (in memoriam) & Cheryl Aldred Clive Beddoe David A. Bissett R.A.N. Bonnycastle Robert G. Brawn Wayne Chiu Jim Davidson Jack & Joan Donald N.Murray Edwards John & Lana Geddes * Richard F. Haskayne Wayne Henuset Sam Kolias Hal Kvisle Alvin Libin * Ronald N. Mannix Ronald P. Mathison Jeff McCaig Susan Nelson & Gordon Case David O’Brien Todd Poland * Clayton Riddell * JR Shaw Brian Sidorsky The Stollery Family Guy Turcotte David Werklund (as Chairman of the Werklund Foundation)

* Mac Van Wielingen C.H. Woitas Family

Members of the Economic Futures Council, through their participation and generous financial support are committed to helping youth succeed in a global economy.

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JA Southern Alberta 403.781.2581 jasab.ca/donors/efc

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Qualex-Landmark™ adds exclamation point to Beltline skyline as $110 million condominium tower completes Park Point, the highly-anticipated luxurious highrise residential community by Qualex-Landmark, has officially opened its doors. Located in Calgary’s beltline area, the neighbourhood scored the top spot in “Calgary’s Best Neighbourhoods 2018” report.

The official opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour of the building with Deputy Mayor Evan Woolley, Qualex-Landmark president Mohammed Esfahani, Qualex-Landmark managing director Cyrus Navabi, IBI Group director Martin Bruckner and Axiom Builders senior vice president Mike McDonough.

“With over a quarter of a century of experience in B.C. and Alberta, I can confidently say that Park Point represents Qualex-Landmark’s finest work, inside and out,” says Esfahani. “We owe a tremendous gratitude to Axiom Builders, IBI Group, Trepp Design and Durante Kreuk for their dedication and patience over the last three years.”

The iconic Park Point residential tower marks a new architectural masterpiece in Calgary at its prominent location on the corner of 2nd Street and 12 Avenue SW

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Encor-LeadGeneration-MotionSensorAd-BiEdmCal.indd 1 SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

– a hot spot for exciting urban living right on the historic Central Memorial Park overlooking Memorial Park Library.

Construction began in the fall of 2015 and the development has progressed on schedule, hitting every milestone in its advancement into the Calgary skyline.

Designed by global architectural firm IBI Group, Park Point features 289 one-, two- and three-bedroom homes including live/work town homes. With its black-and-white facade, as cited from the park and downtown, Park Point has a strong and unique vertical architecture which resembles an exclamation point with the podium at its base as the dot.

As the building rises, the floor plate grows to create a stepped effect with a colour-enhancing pattern. From street level, an elegant double-height lobby with a natural stone floor and wall tile surrounds the interior and a distinctive and inviting exterior canopy further adds to the prestige nature of the address.

Located atop the tower podium on the third floor, Park Point hosts an expansive list of indoor and outdoor amenities

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including a Zen terrace, fire pit, barbecue and sun deck. A fully-equipped fitness facility features a Pilates studio, steam room and infrared sauna with change rooms and showers.

Park Point is nestled amongst some of Calgary’s most popular and trendy venues. Residents are within walking distance of restaurants, bars, shopping and iconic locations such as the Saddledome and East Village.

“Our plan for the project has always been to deliver a luxurious residential community that integrates modern living with great amenities and city access to allow residents to create a work, live, play lifestyle,” says Esfahani.

The opening of Park Point is the next step in QualexLandmark’s plans to redefine the downtown Calgary skyline and city lifestyle. Responsible for the construction of more highrise residential communities in the beltline than any other developer, Qualex-Landmark group projects account for almost half a billion in real estate value with over 1,300 homes in the beltline in the last 12 years.

With final homes now selling, an opportunity to join this unique residential community with an unbeatable park-side view and cityscape is still available.

LEFT: QUALEX-LANDMARK™ PRESIDENT MOHAMMED ESFAHANI AND DEPUTY MAYOR EVAN WOOLLEY, COUNCILLOR FOR WARD 8, OFFICIALLY OPENING PARK POINT AND CUTTING THE OPENING RIBBON. SUPPORT BY VIP GUESTS QUALEX-LANDMARK™ MANAGING DIRECTOR CYRUS NAVABI, IBI GROUP DIRECTOR MARTIN BRUCKNER AND AXIOM BUILDERS SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT MIKE MCDONOUGH. PHOTO SOURCE: QUALEX-LANDMARK™

8/13/18 2:15 PM BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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THE ABCS OF ERM // RISK MANAGEMENT

THE ABCS OF ERM

HOW COMPANIES ARE USING ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGERS TO DO BETTER BUSINESS

BY RENNAY CRAATS

W

e are taught to manage risks from the time we are children in order to protect ourselves: look both ways before crossing the road, wear a helmet when you ride your bike, don’t get into a car with strangers.

Organizations take it a step further by employing enterprise risk management strategies to protect their business from negative consequences should corporate risks become a reality.

“The basic idea around risk management is to figure out, based on what your goals and strategic objectives are, what the risks are to achieving them,” says Anne Kleffner, professor of risk management and insurance at the University of Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business.

While it’s mostly larger companies that have dedicated risk management professionals, these duties at smaller companies can be folded into the job descriptions of several different positions, hired out to a risk management consultant, or taken on by an insurance broker to ensure those roles are covered. Regardless of whether it’s a large or small company, a private, non-profit or public entity with an informal or structured department, risk management plays an important role in every business.

“We don’t have a formal risk management framework but still it is intrinsically embedded in the organization through activities and philosophies that enhance quality and patient safety,” says Steen Pedersen, director of EMS quality and patient safety for Alberta Health Services (AHS). “We manage risks in a variety of ways. One of the main ways is

ABOVE: PROFESSOR ANNE KLEFFNER TEACHES RISK MANAGEMENT AT THE U OF C’S HASKAYNE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS.

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SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

by using standardized evidencebased protocols that we take a great deal of time building. Paramedics in Alberta are guided by these standardized protocols for every patient encounter.�

Using a variety of methods such as risk-reporting systems, just-culture philosophies, the complaints and commendations framework, standardized policy, and third-party accreditation, the AHS is able to assess and address risks in order to maximize patient safety and empower staff to do the best job possible. After all, risk tolerance is very low for an organization like AHS, whereas private companies in business to make a profit have a much higher tolerance. Part of a risk manager’s job is to determine the corporate risk-tolerance level and mitigate the risks to fit that allowance.

Identifying tolerance and risk is not a new construct. Risk management has been around since the 1950s when it was predominantly an offshoot of insurance protecting companies from losses resulting from accidents. In the 1970s, companies started incorporating derivatives as risk management tools to protect against uninsurable risks. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, more companies began to introduce risk management models to their corporate structure until the events of 2001 pushed risk management to the forefront. “After 9/11 and the Enron bankruptcy, there was new

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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THE ABCS OF ERM // RISK MANAGEMENT

legislation in the U.S. that also impacted Canadian companies. It changed the expectations for everybody,” says Kleffner. “Since then, companies have gone beyond compliance to figure out how to make risk management work more effectively and be more beneficial.”

Today’s risk managers need a comprehensive understanding of the business in order to help corporate decision-makers identify and understand their risk exposure. Regardless of the level of sophistication or size of the company, risk managers ask the same general questions: what could go wrong, how would the company plan for and prevent it from happening, and what would it do if things did go wrong?

These risks fall into five general categories: compliance, operational, reputational, strategic and financial. Risk managers identify their potential risks in these areas based on the organization’s past experiences, the experiences of similar companies, employee and customer feedback, and industry statistics. This process can generate a huge list of potential risks that can seem impossible to manage. Access databases and software programs allow risk managers to collect, sort, catalogue and code the potential risks in order to more effectively evaluate them.

To get to the core of which risks are most catastrophic, risk managers assess them according to frequency (the probability of the risk happening) and severity (the monetary impact to the company). A heat or risk map helps managers rank risk through a visual representation of which risks pose the greatest threat to a company’s success.

“It’s often a 5x5 grid with a severity scale up one side and frequency scale across the bottom. Green in the bottom left is good, yellow in the middle is in progress and red in the top right is the highest risk,” says Darius Delon, president of Risk Management 101. “Companies determine their tolerance on the heat map and anything over that is what you want to give more attention to.”

Once controls are applied to these inherent risks, the position of the risk on the map could change or disappear completely. For example, the risk of death after jumping out of an airplane is 100 per cent but by adding the control of a parachute that risk drops to around two per cent. The risk went from catastrophic red to negligible green. When risk managers do the same to the other potential risks, the position of the residual risks on the map dictates their risk management strategy.

ABOVE: RISK OR HEAT MAPS SHOW THE RESULTS OF A RISK ASSESSMENT AND HELP COMPANIES SET RISK MANAGEMENT PRIORITIES. PHOTO SOURCE: DARIUS DELON

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A nod to the past A spark for the future Ronald P. Mathison invests in the Haskayne School of Business With his gift of $20 million to the University of Calgary, Ronald P. Mathison is spearheading the funding for a new building, Mathison Hall, at the Haskayne School of Business.

This gift was inspired by a lifelong friendship between Mr. Mathison’s late father, Ken Mathison, and Richard Haskayne, the eminent namesake of the university’s business school.

The new Mathison Hall will be a technology-rich space for learning and working that will serve business students, the university and the Calgary community.

Thank you, Ron Mathison, for your generosity, leadership and vision.

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BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

33

THE ABCS OF ERM // RISK MANAGEMENT

RISKS TO COMPANIES STRATEGIC COMPANY IS UNABLE TO REACH GOALS DUE TO SUCH FACTORS AS TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGES, INCREASED COMPETITION, CHANGE IN CUSTOMER NEEDS, COSTS OF MATERIALS

COMPLIANCE COMPANY ISN’T ADHERING TO ALL THE LAWS AND REGULATIONS THAT APPLY TO ITS BUSINESS

OPERATIONAL UNEXPECTED INABILITY TO OPERATE DAY-TODAY DUE TO SUCH EVENTS AS POWER OUTAGE, ENVIRONMENTAL/WEATHER DISASTER, EMPLOYEE ERROR

FINANCIAL FAILURE TO COLLECT PAYMENT, INCURRING DEBT, UNEXPECTED INTEREST RATE HIKE

REPUTATIONAL LAWSUITS, PRODUCT RECALL, NEGATIVE PUBLICITY, SOCIAL MEDIA CRITICISM

Organizations can’t eliminate risk completely and still do business. The key is to reduce the impact of the risks through mitigation, whether that’s increased training and education for staff, having clear procedures in place, improved product design or even eliminating a high-risk practice or product altogether. Companies can also choose to accept the risk as is, finding it would cost more to mitigate than the risk poses.

Risk managers also look at transferring the risk to others when possible. Insurance is a solid option to mitigate lowfrequency, high-severity risks while third-party contracts and agreements can be an effective way of transferring the responsibilities associated with certain risks. These controls all bring down the risk map numbers and make risks more manageable for companies.

“An iPad has some sharp edges but if I rounded off the edges and threw it at you, you wouldn’t get cut but the impact from the weight of it might hurt. That’s kind of what you’re doing

with your risk profile. You need to take risks but what you try to do is soften the corners,” says Delon.

Once a risk management plan is in place it requires yearly review to ensure new risks haven’t arisen or recent events haven’t changed the ranking of existing risks.

That’s especially true given the rise in cyberattacks and technologically-based risks that change quickly and often. In order for the process to be effective, there has to be a culture conducive to reporting potential risks and open to spending the time and money necessary on changes to safeguard against them. In the past, risk management teams have been seen as doom-and-gloom downers pushing the worst-case scenario risk management agenda. Companies are now recognizing the importance of risk management strategy in relation to the business’ success, and that risk managers and the interests of the C-suite are two sides of the same coin.

“Risk management needs to be built into everyday business.

Every decision-maker at an organization has to have risk at the back of their mind not only to safeguard the company but also to be aware of the types of risk strategically that they should be looking at,” says Curtis Desiatnyk, manager of insurance and operational risk at Mount Royal University and a director of SARIMS. No matter the industry or size of business, risk management is a key business tool that is critical to a company’s growth and success.

ABOVE: DARIUS DELON IS A CERTIFIED RISK MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL. PHOTO SOURCE: JENNIFER SPACKMAN

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SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

A GREAT MEAL IS GOOD FOR BUSINESS

403-269-1600 www.centini.com LUNCH | DINNER Breakfast & Office Catering by Appointment | Special Events | Offsite Retreats | Private Dining | Private Rooms & Discreet Meetings For professional attention to the details of your event please email events@centini.com or telephone 403-269-1605

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

35

LACK OF PREPAREDNESS THREATENS CANADIAN ECONOMY // SUCCESSION PLANNING

LACK OF PREPAREDNESS THREATENS CANADIAN ECONOMY SMALL PERCENTAGE OF BUSINESS OWNERS HAVE A SUCCESSION PLAN IN PLACE

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// SUCCESSION PLANNING

W

hen restaurant owner Marco Abdi died three years ago, his wife Filomena was thrust into a position she was not prepared to be in – taking over the family’s successful business.

Marco Abdi was the brains and the personality behind the popular La Brezza establishment which has been an iconic food destination in Bridgeland for three decades.

When he was gone, Filomena was lost regarding the family business. No succession planning was ever discussed around the dining room table.

“I didn’t even know where Marco’s bank was,” she says. “I didn’t have any clue about any of it…. Basically I would suggest if you have a family-run business you kind of let your partner know where everything is, where you need to look for stuff and maybe discuss what that person’s wishes are.

“The best thing is to discuss it. Have some sort of strategic plan. If you wish the business to be carried on, then you need to be able to discuss that and just make a plan because if there’s no plan in place it’s really difficult.”

And that’s exactly what Filomena discovered when she inherited the role of taking over the family business. The unexpected and unplanned for succession of leadership was quite stressful. At times, she wondered if she could do it justice and lead the restaurant into the next phase of its future. Or if she simply let go and move on.

“It was a nightmare when I first took over. It was really tough. I walked into the restaurant not knowing anything. I never had anything to do with the restaurant. I had my own career. It would have been nice to know a little bit more about it,” says Filomena, who three years later is on solid ground and is serving the business well.

“I just learned as I went.”

While she hopes other business owners will learn from her experience, reality tells another story.

A CFIB report, Passing on the Business to the Next Generation, found that 51 per cent of current business owners surveyed did not have a succession plan. Only nine per cent had a formal written plan and 40 per cent had an informal plan.

Amber Ruddy, Alberta director for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, says this reality is very troubling because most small business owners are depending on the sale of their business for retirement.

“We are noticing trends. So, for example, with the baby boomers retiring there will be about a trillion dollars in assets exchanging hands,” she says.

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BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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// SUCCESSION PLANNING

A InvItAtIon

Call ahead to book your experience and for VIP parking

403 266 4417

Who

You and the wonderful people you want to share with us.

What

An original men’s fashion presentation.

When

10 - 6 ish Mon - Sat

Where

SUPREME Corner of 4th Avenue & 3rd Street SW Downtown Calgary

Why

Supreme is a catalyst for change, using fashion to connect aware & beauty-filled people who are making a difference.

“THERE’S SO MANY THINGS THAT ONE HAS TO CONSIDER. THAT CAN INCLUDE RISK MANAGEMENT, INSURANCE PLANNING ASSOCIATED WITH THE SALE, TAX PLANNING. IN SOME CASES WHEN THE BUSINESS DOES BUSINESS IN OTHER COUNTRIES, CROSS-BORDER PLANNING.” ~ JAMES MCCREATH “And if you don’t have a plan in place that could prolong the start of your retirement. We saw this during the last recession. Some business owners had to delay retirement by five or six years because they didn’t have somebody in place to take over the business.”

People simply aren’t thinking about their retirement while they’re busy taking care of their business. They don’t want to alert nor have their employees concerned that there could be some changes. So, people think it’s enough to simply have an idea in their head. But in a family business they have to ask those questions. Do the children even want to take over the business? An example is the agribusiness where parents just assume their children are going to be their successors. However, those conversations to confirm that have never taken place.

James McCreath, portfolio manager at BMO Nesbitt Burns, says people could always do a better job in succession planning.

SMWL.CoM 38

ABOVE: JAMES MCCREATH, PORTFOLIO MANAGER AT BMO NESBITT BURNS.

SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

Let’s keep food and yard waste out of the landfill.

The number one priority is doing this well ahead of time. Thinking about it six months out or a year out and trying to execute it can be a bit treacherous.

All businesses and organizations in Calgary are now required to separate food and yard waste from their garbage.

Contact your collection company to set up a food and yard waste program.

Learn more about the bylaw requirements at calgary.ca/businessrecycling

“There’s so many things that one has to consider. That can include risk management, insurance planning associated with the sale, tax planning. In some cases when the business does business in other countries, cross-border planning,” says McCreath.

“So, a more appropriate time frame to get prepared for succession planning is probably closer to three to five years out.”

18-00757252

It’s also important that family members are appropriately involved in the process. This isn’t something you want to spring on the family at Christmas dinner. Family members could be involved very intimately and directly in share ownership or working in the day-to-day operations of the business.

“There are many professionals that obviously are well versed in navigating all of these nuances and I think it’s essential that families involve these professionals that see these issues or concerns on a frequent basis,” says McCreath.

Because there are so many small and medium-sized businesses in Western Canada, often a business owner defaults to a family member or a manager who is already involved in the business, trying to figure out who should be acquiring the business. Sometimes they can

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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LACK OF PREPAREDNESS THREATENS CANADIAN ECONOMY // SUCCESSION PLANNING

THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE SME OWNERS FACE WHEN IT COMES TO SUCCESSION PLANNING IS FINDING THE RIGHT SUCCESSOR OR BUYER. IT WAS CITED BY 56 PER CENT OF SURVEY RESPONDENTS IN THE CFIB REPORT. THE NEXT BIGGEST BARRIER (54 PER CENT) IS BEING ABLE TO MEASURE THE VALUE OF THE BUSINESS FOLLOWED BY FINANCING THE SUCCESSOR (48 PER CENT).

be selling themselves short by not opening up to a broader audience of potential inquirers.

The 2016 Global Family Business Survey, by PwC, found that 31 per cent of business owners cited succession planning within the company as a key challenge over the next five years.

It also discovered that only 18 per cent of Canadian family businesses have developed a comprehensive succession plan that has been both documented and communicated.

Compared with 2014, Canadian family businesses are now more likely to say they would pass on ownership of the business to the next generation but will bring in professional management – 27 per cent compared to 11 per cent.

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LACK OF PREPAREDNESS THREATENS CANADIAN ECONOMY // SUCCESSION PLANNING

And 38 per cent expect to pass on management to the next generation.

All these are important considerations taking into account what’s happening to the Canadian population.

“The implications of the aging demographic trend in Canada, and other developed countries, has been well documented when it comes to pension, health care and other social policy issues,” says the CFIB report Passing on the Business to the Next Generation.

“The phenomenon of thousands of business owners planning to retire and transfer ownership of their businesses will have a major impact on Canada’s economy as a whole. While a massive transfer of business ownership and assets is inevitable, Canada is not quite ready for the change.”

The biggest challenge SME owners face when it comes to succession planning is finding the right successor or buyer. It was cited by 56 per cent of survey respondents in the CFIB report. The next biggest barrier (54 per cent) is being able to measure the value of the business followed by financing the successor (48 per cent).

Why is this such an important issue? Three-quarters of all businesses in Canada employ fewer than five employees and more than half of employed Canadians work for a small or medium-sized business. The SME sector contributes about half of the Canadian economy.

A comprehensive succession plan will help ensure the future financial stability and value of any business.

Any uncertainty in succession planning could have a huge impact on the country’s economy. The CFIB says SMEs represent a significant portion of the Canadian economy which cannot afford to have billions in business assets on the line.

Take Filomena Abdi for example. If she had decided to throw in the towel and not follow in her husband’s footsteps, several jobs would have been gone. Suppliers of restaurant food and supplies would have lost a customer.

Multiply that scenario by thousands of other business owners in the same predicament and you can see how critical this issue has become.

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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STANDING UP FOR SMALL BUSINESS // COVER

Standing Up FOR SMALL BUSINESS

DARREN BIEDERMANN, OF SUPREME MEN’S WEAR, ON THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY CONNECTION

BY MELANIE DARBYSHIRE

A

s the owner and creative director of Supreme Men’s Wear, Calgary’s oldest operating and independent men’s clothing store, Darren Biedermann has a passion for many things. Fashion, people, living in the moment, community – these are just some of the topics he gets excited about.

These days, he’s using his voice (and all its influence) to advocate for something else near and dear to his heart: Calgary’s small businesses. “They tell us if there is an emergency on an airplane to put our own oxygen mask on first,” he analogizes from his studio at Supreme. “We need to recognize and start connecting all the small businesses in town. Make it obvious that we’re here and highlight what benefits we all provide to the community. We provide the public spaces for people to meet and connect.”

It’s that face-to-face connection, he stresses, that Calgary’s small businesses uniquely promote. “We’re living in a world now that appears to be disconnecting people in so many ways,” he laments. “Small businesses open their doors and provide venues for people to connect and create relationships. It is imperative that we support small businesses in the community and society.”

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His own business, located downtown at the corner of 4th Avenue and 3rd Street South West (kitty corner to The Westin Hotel) has, for 70 years, provided a place for Calgarians and other guests to not only connect, but to find great, quality fashions. Originally established as Supreme Tailors in 1948, it was an exclusively custom clothing shop. Biedermann’s parents, Ernie and Margit Biedermann, purchased the business in 1972. They renamed it Supreme Men’s Wear and soon after began providing ready-to-wear clothing.

Biedermann, a proud born and raised Calgarian, started his full-time career at Supreme in 1983, eventually purchasing the business in 1995. He moved it to its current location in 1996.

“We want to use our 70th anniversary milestone to project the importance of small businesses in our community,” he stresses.

“The reality is that small businesses are disappearing like bubbles in a bathtub.” Were they all to all vanish, he warns, few places will be left for people to connect in their communities.

“We’re not going to meet and introduce ourselves in the aisles of Walmart and Costco, or online at Amazon.”

Like much of Calgary’s small business community, Supreme has

STANDING UP FOR SMALL BUSINESS // COVER

ABOVE: DARREN BIEDERMANN, OWNER OF SUPREME MEN’S WEAR. PHOTO SOURCE: BOOKSTRUCKER PHOTOGRAPHY

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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STANDING UP FOR SMALL BUSINESS // COVER

had to adapt to overcome the challenges of another recession.

“Imagine operating a luxury men’s clothing retail store in the heart of downtown,” he implores. “You must have the passion and the heart to ride the highs and lows in this town. We love this city and it’s obvious that Calgary loves Supreme.”

Things are improving now, and Biedermann is optimistic that the worst of the current economic struggle is over.

“Real growth happens in the valleys,” he says. “Everybody is holding their own. We feel very optimistic with all the great smiles and great stories filling our city streets once again.

Calgary as a community is stronger than ever, and when you see how people care and what they are doing, it’s fabulous.

The more we connect, the stronger we become.”

For its part, Supreme has managed to retain its reputation for honesty, credibility, quality, and adaptability for 70 years.

“When I bought the store from my dad, he told me there are no shortcuts, no free lunch,” Biedermann recalls. “He said ‘Every time somebody gives you $100, you’ve got to know in your heart that you’re giving them at least $100 back in value, if not more. They are trusting that you’re investing

in fashion for them the best you can.’ He always stressed to never compromise and to go the extra mile.”

Supreme’s crown jewel is its proprietary brand The Biedermann Collection, a luxury brand predominantly made in Canada. Comprised of shirts, suits, jackets and coats, for the last 15 years, The Biedermann Connection><Collection will expand to include footwear and fashion accessories this fall. It is currently available only at Supreme. “Biedermann translates to ‘honest, upright man,’” he explains, “so it’s the perfect name for a collection created without compromise.”

Biedermann prides himself on the connections he has to produce the level of quality the collection represents. “Our limited production pieces are created to transcend time. You can put on a Biedermann piece that you have enjoyed for years and you will still get compliments on it today.”

He has future plans to set up shirt manufacturing in Calgary.

“We want to do our part in diversifying the economy in Calgary by producing the finest Biedermann collection of shirts right here,” he reveals. “It’s called Biedermann

ABOVE: DARREN BIEDERMANN, OWNER OF SUPREME MEN’S WEAR. PHOTO SOURCE: BOOKSTRUCKER PHOTOGRAPHY

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SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

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STANDING UP FOR SMALL BUSINESS // COVER

Connection><Collection - the whole idea is to connect people through fashion, inspiring conversations.”

The intention is to grow the collection into a global luxury brand, based right here in Calgary. “I’m aligning with the biggest hearts that really care about our community.

It’s diversification and connection for today and future generations.”

He believes Biedermann is poised and ready to become a global luxury brand, the likes of which no one has ever experienced. “Not just because of what it is and the demands on the quality and level at which it’s produced and the energy it holds,” he explains, “but also because of the way it is going to be shared, which is limited in production. It will be something very special.”

The increasing popularity of shopping local has benefited Supreme, which, in addition to its Calgary customers, has loyal clientele from all over Alberta. “We often play the part of good news Samaritans rather than fashion presenter,” Biedermann laughs. “People come into Supreme to feel the vibe and connect. We are not about pressure selling.

We do not have our team on commission. We provide an open and safe door in the community, a kind of oasis from the predictable in many ways. You can come in, have a cappuccino and a visit. Whether you’ve bought anything or not, our intention is that you leave feeling inspired.”

With over 35 years in the fashion industry, Biedermann has seen just about everything. He’s a huge fan of how the fashion industry has opened up and transformed. “People are more educated and aware than ever before,” he says. “It’s not about brand, it’s about style and the story. We have too much stuff in the world, and you can get stuff online. People want to know what makes something special and what sets it apart. There is much more attention towards how you feel in your clothing.”

He’s thrilled with this fresh perspective because, he says, how you feel is how you perform. “Your clothing is your social skin; it’s how you present yourself. It has a direct effect on how you experience life. Comfort now plays a prominent role in fashion decision making.” At Supreme, for example, 90 per cent of the pants offered have a level of stretch and performance to them.

Clients are less focused on brand names and marketing, and more focused on unique pieces that pair with individual taste.

“It’s more about the story, the product, the fit,” Biedermann explains. “It’s the world I always dreamt fashion would be.”

The rules of old – for example, not mixing patterns – have been obliterated. “Today, you can pair a patterned shirt with a different patterned pants, a different patterned tie, and a pocket square,” he says. “Not long ago, few would have the courage to walk out and wear that, but now those are the things that have you bracing for compliments.”

ABOVE: BIEDERMANN SHIRT., SIMPLY THE FINEST FABRICS & CRAFTSMANSHIP. ABSOLUTELY NO COMPROMISE. BIEDERMANN SHOES - HAND MADE IN SPAIN BY VERY TALENTED AN PASSIONATE ARTISANS AT ZAMPIERE PHOTO SOURCE: BOOKSTRUCKER PHOTOGRAPHY

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SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

STANDING UP FOR SMALL BUSINESS // COVER

He describes Supreme’s clients as courageous leaders and quality-minded individuals who select items at Supreme to celebrate life. He’s particularly enamored with the younger generation. “They put time and effort into their presentation. More and more are becoming aware that the magic is wrapped up in the present moment, to live in the here and now and not save their best for a better tomorrow.”

The focus on individuality has also seen Supreme’s custom suiting business flourish. “Supreme started out as purely custom and it’s almost like the pendulum has swung back a degree,” Biedermann reflects. “People are showing up for a custom garment experience because they want something that sets them apart.” Supreme’s custom garment offerings are made in Canada using the finest European fabrics.

Supreme’s community involvement goes beyond the store, with its positive messages at street level, and includes charitable work too. For several years it has partnered with Fresh Start Recovery Centre. Together, their program connects donated clothing with recovering addicts.

Supreme takes in gently used clothing items from clients and the community, which it then repurposes for Fresh Start participants. “It’s really changing lives,” Biedermann marvels. “Having great clothing definitely elevates

confidence. We are very fortunate to have Fresh Start in our community.”

The Supreme team, he continues, is best in class. “We attract the most real, beauty-filled people. They have passion for fashion and they love people too. It’s the perfect blend.”

Forty-six years after they purchased it, Biedermann’s parents still participate in the family business. “My dad comes in once or twice a week to lend a master tailoring hand,” he says with pride. “He loves to be called out front to connect with friends over a cappuccino. He takes in the presentation and comments: ‘You really did it – you created the Rolling Stones of the men’s wear business.

That gentleman standing at that mirror is getting a suit to celebrate his 50th wedding anniversary, and that young fellow there is getting his graduation suit.’ It’s really special what Supreme is sharing and attracting.”

Biedermann’s mother Margit also joins in at Supreme most Fridays to connect with guests, detail and steam shirts, and share her fresh chocolate banana loaf.

Supercharged, passionate, connected and driven to use the fashion industry as a catalyst to keep people connected into the future, Biedermann and Supreme are at the forefront of Calgary’s small business scene. With leadership like this, the future looks good for everyone.

ABOVE: DEAKIN & FRANCIS - WORLD PREMIER CUFFLINK CREATORS SINCE 1786. INSPIRED BY SCANDINAVIAN PIRATES, THESE STERLING SILVER VIKING SKULL CUFFLINKS FEATURE A STUNNING BLACK SPINEL HELMET WITH RUBY EYES SKILLFULLY FITTED INTO A BEARD. PHOTO SOURCE: BOOKSTRUCKER PHOTOGRAPHY

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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Prestige Railings and Stairs Ltd. Prestige Railings and Stairs continues its “rise and run” to the top of the stair and railing industry in Alberta as we once again have received the Consumer Choice Award for Business Excellence in both Calgary and Edmonton. For well over a decade, Prestige has been privileged to receive these awards – a constant reflection of our dedication to quality and a sincere effort to exceed customer expectations – every step of the way.

achieve the goals and visions of each individual customer.

Whether it be a starter home with a feature railing or a commercial property with 10 stories of interior railing that needs retrofitting, Prestige is the only call you need to make.

For well over 25 years, Prestige has been pleased to set the highest standards in the industry and will continue to raise the bar and focus on improving the product and the process. While the customer doesn’t realize it in most cases, Prestige is the only stair and railing company to be a member of the Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada.

Prestige continues to build the highest quality stairs in the industry and we pride ourselves on helping our customers realize their dreams in creating a focal point in their homes with unique designs and extraordinary craftsmanship.

This speaks to the Prestige commitment to constant evaluation and improvement in an industry where we already set the bar for quality. The Company’s vision of being the most respected, reliable and sought after provider of all things stairs and railings to the residential and commercial construction industry, is the focus of everything we do.

While the awards are a nice pat on the back and a huge morale booster, we know the work to improve never stops.

Prestige offers an extensive variety of quality products, all the way from glass stair treads and stainless steel components to spindles featuring Swarovski crystals; from LED accent lighting to interior and exterior spiral stairs.

Prestige continuously works with architects and designers, builders, contractors, and building and home owners to

Consistency, Quality, Craftsmanship Photo by Jean Perron Photography

Come in and talk to us about your project!

48

Our showroom is open from Monday - Friday 8am - 4:30pm | www.prestigerailings.com “We’re passionate about bringing spaces to life. Together with you.”

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2777 Hopewell Place NE Calgary (403) 250-1020 • Toll Free: 1-800-382-8502

403.280.2803

SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

CORPORATE WELLNESS PROGRAMS PUT EMPLOYEES FIRST // CORPORATE HEALTH & WELLNESS

CORPORATE WELLNESS

PROGRAMS PUT EMPLOYEES FIRST

BY RENNAY CRAATS

T

he numbers are discouraging. About 60 per cent of an employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day is spent sitting, more than 65 per cent of employees report having high stress levels, and more than 35 per cent are overweight. Also, 7.5 million Canadians suffer from substance abuse, anxiety, depression, or other mental disorders each year, which translates to 35 million lost work days. Over the past few years, corporations large and small have been taking a closer look at ways in which they can mitigate these statistics and cultivate healthier and more productive staff. At the same time, employees are pursuing a positive work environment that supports their overall mental and physical wellbeing.

ABOVE: FIRED UP FITNESS PROMOTES A HEALTHY WORK ENVIRONMENT BY OFFERING HIGH QUALITY CORPORATE FITNESS CLASSES AT YOUR OFFICE OR A NEARBY OUTDOOR SPACE. PHOTO SOURCE: JOSH GRANT

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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CORPORATE WELLNESS PROGRAMS PUT EMPLOYEES FIRST // CORPORATE HEALTH & WELLNESS

The trend toward offering wellness programs has spread across the country, and these initiatives reflect an emerging corporate culture that fosters employee engagement and health. From companies with 20 employees to multinational corporations with thousands, wellness programs are becoming more and more commonplace.

“The City prioritizes organizational health, safety, and wellness because we want to ensure our employees have optimal health and wellbeing, so they can better serve Calgarians,” says Samantha Kolapak, HR leader, wellness, for the City of Calgary.

This commitment is impressive given that it’s an organization employing more than 14,000 people. Whether employees are working in the community, at city-run facilities, or in City Hall, the City’s employees have access to resources that help them stay healthy in body and mind. The organization holds fitness classes at various locations, offering everything from strength training to yoga. If employees prefer to exercise on their own schedule, they receive a partial reimbursement toward an annual membership at a City of Calgary aquatic and fitness centre or a partner facility. The City also encourages employees to join one of the many Corporate Challenge teams that compete each year, supporting a healthy lifestyle and a fun way to engage with co-workers.

The City’s wellness program offers health screening clinics and mental health support, including counselling and life coaching as part of Employee and Family Assistance Services.

Paired with flexible work options, corporate campaigns and lunch-and-learns addressing the importance of a healthy lifestyle, the City is putting employees’ wellbeing first.

“The benefits of offering these programs and services to employees is greater awareness around health and safety, a healthier workplace, and more engaged and productive employees, all leading to better service to citizens,” Kolapak says.

Corporate wellness programs are geared to promoting healthy choices during and outside work, which in turn boosts productivity and engagement for employees while driving down healthcare costs and absenteeism. These programs can include small initiatives like adding more

healthy foods to a cafeteria, having walking meetings, or implementing standing desks as well as more comprehensive initiatives like coverage for counselling, onsite fitness programs, and supported weight loss challenges. Many companies are also adding onsite change rooms and showers to encourage employees to bike to work or exercise over the lunch hour. HR departments are reporting that these programs are driving health care costs down while improving employee satisfaction, productivity and morale. They are also a key factor in recruiting and retaining employees.

“It’s not a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have. Being able to offer wellness programs for a multi-generational workforce is critical because it’s not one-size-fits-all,” says Karina Rasmussen, managing director and co-founder of Well Street.

Well Street, based in Toronto with practitioners in Calgary and other major Canadian cities, offers corporate health

ABOVE: KARINA RASMUSSEN, CO-FOUNDER OF WELL STREET. PHOTO SOURCE: WWW.BUSINESSPORTRAITS.CA

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SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

“PEOPLE ARE LEARNING NEW SKILLS FOR SELF-CARE—HOW TO EAT BETTER, HOW TO MANAGE STRESS AND UNDERSTAND STRESSORS, AND HOW TO APPLY MINDFULNESS TECHNIQUES SO THEY CAN BE MORE RELAXED, CALM AND HAPPY IN THE PLACE THEY SPEND MOST OF THEIR TIME, WHICH IS THE WORKPLACE.” ~ KARINA RASMUSSEN

and wellness solutions to companies across Canada with its proactive approach to overall wellbeing. Well Street provides organizations with customized strategies that maintain wellness through sessions focusing on stress resilience, mindfulness, fitness, nutrition, and diet.

“Whatever we offer is grounded in that foundational value that it is prevention-based wellness,” Rasmussen says.

“People are learning new skills for self-care—how to eat better, how to manage stress and understand stressors, and how to apply mindfulness techniques so they can be more relaxed, calm and happy in the place they spend most of their time, which is the workplace.”

HR departments contact companies offering the corporate wellness programs that best fit the needs of employees.

For many employees, a major barrier to sticking to a fitness program is time and convenience, so companies make it easy by bringing in an organization like Fired Up Fitness to run a weekly or bi-weekly boot camp or core conditioning class onsite. The benefits of a lunch hour fitness class go well beyond just improved health.

Employees from different departments get to know each other during the classes, and in some cases, they have created successful project teams that otherwise may not have formed. The fitness classes also offer a break,

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BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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CORPORATE WELLNESS PROGRAMS PUT EMPLOYEES FIRST // CORPORATE HEALTH & WELLNESS

Customized programs are important for a group to have a positive outcome. When it comes to nutrition and fat loss, a plan unique to each individual in a group seems impossible until HR includes an organization like Slimwell in their wellness program. Slimwell is a medically prescribed and supported accelerated fat loss program. The program is focused on educating your employees on nutrition while they lose fat as quickly as a half-pound to a pound of pure fat loss per day.

“We ensure that your muscle and your healthy tissue is protected while we promote fat loss exclusively while empowering our clients with nutritional data unique and relevant to them.” says Melissa D’Souza, CEO of Slimwell.

both mental and physical, at the half-way point of the day.

Employees get their heart rates up and the blood flowing after sitting at a desk for hours, making them more focused and productive for the afternoon. By having classes onsite, employees can complete their workouts during work hours, leaving their off-time free for family. While not all employees take part in the offered programs, there is still a significant company-wide benefit.

“Research shows that companies that offer wellness programs make employees feel like a more appreciated and valued member of the team even if they aren’t actually participating in the program,” says Lauren Whitfield, owner of Fired Up Fitness.

For those not comfortable with or interested in onsite exercise, Fired Up also offers lunch-and-learn sessions covering the basics of fitness and nutrition, how to keep fit while on the road, changing bad habits, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Whitfield tailors topics based on the needs of the group of employees.

Slimwell’s corporate programs provide individual assessments, tailoring the program to each person’s unique needs, but they aren’t on their own. Employee’s are connected with a SlimCoach in real-time daily to provide support throughout program including maintenance support. During that time, Slimwell helps clients clean up their diet, performs a food sensitivity test to see what foods to avoid, offers daily coaching and creates a personalized health action plan to keep the weight off, all guided by a holistic nutritional consultant.

Slimwell offers employee seminars and support through a phone app, which allows companies to invite all employees to take part and get healthy regardless of where they are located. Additionally, Slimwell clients have reported more confidence, energy, and even being taken off of medication for conditions including diabetes and overactive thyroid.

“Now you’ve got an engaged and supported employee. It’s truly transformative.” says D’Souza.

Corporate wellness programs are exactly that: transformative. Today’s corporations strive to support employees to be healthy, happy, and productive at work. Whether it’s quit-smoking programs, weight loss challenges, exercise classes, or mental health support, more and more companies are making corporate wellness programs a priority.

ABOVE: MELISSA FERNANDES AND LUCY MRAKAWA.

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SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

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Modern French chateau See inside for more information

AD GOES HERE Locally owned and operated since 1948

BEARSPAW | $4,900,000 SPRINGBANK | $2,465,000

85

ROS E WOOD DRIVE SW

Modern French Chateau - With a total of 9,051 sf of living space, located on 2 acres, you are transported to the French countryside. With fountains, patios, courtyards, and sprawling green lawns there is plenty of space to enjoy the exquisite mountain views and prairie sky. The classic design of this home is evident starting in the grand foyer, moving into the chef inspired kitchen, where you will be happy to host friends and family. A formal dining room and living room sit just off the kitchen, ideal for entertaining, while the kitchen opens to the breakfast nook and family room.

Upstairs, the master retreat features a sitting area and incredible ensuite. The second bedroom has its own ensuite, while the other 2 bedrooms share a Jack & Jill ensuite. The basement is reminiscent of an English tavern, with stone details, a bar, and room for billiards and poker. A theatre room and fitness room complete this entertainment oasis.

No detail has been missed in this remarkable home inspired by European elegance.

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our experience is your advantage

SPRINGBANK HILL | $349,000

#13

2 7 S P R I N G B O R O U G H B O U L E VA R D S W

College Gate Condo - This home is all about convenience with an outstanding location across from a coffee shop, drug store, and sushi bar. In addition, you are just steps from Ambrose University, and a short walk to Westside Recreation Centre, the 69th street C-Train station, and a number of desirable schools in the area. Everything you need is just outside your front door. With Brownstone inspired curb appeal you enter into the main floors common living space where the living room with corner gas fireplace leads into the dining area and the bright, white kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The back door leads out to a charming, southwest facing deck, which is the perfect spot to enjoy sunny afternoons. The basement level is home to the master bedroom with walk-in closet and three piece ensuite, as well as two additional bedrooms and a four piece bathroom. Truly an outstanding location with plenty of amenities within walking distance and quick access to the rest of the city by car, train, or bus.

GARRISON GREEN | $519,000

62

CO U T U R E C R E S C E N T S W

Eye catching character! This is the perfect starter home for a couple or young family. A wonderful location surrounded by parks and playgrounds, close to Mount Royal University, and with easy access to downtown and the rest of the city, the whole family will love living in Garrison Green. A beautiful front porch welcomes you into the home where the open concept main floor begins in the living room with a cozy fireplace and picturesque window.

Opening out to the living space is the kitchenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s granite bar, perfect for entertaining. The kitchen also offers stainless steel appliances and plenty of storage. A dining area and 4 piece bathroom complete the main level, while out the back door a patio and lawn are ready to be enjoyed. Upstairs features the master bedroom, a second bedroom, and a 4 piece bathroom. The developed basement offers more space for a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playroom or additional entertaining space. This home offers all the conveniences of urban living with a touch of the historic charm of the area.

SPRUCE CLIFF | $529,000

#2401

7 7 S P R U C E P L AC E S W

City view from the top! Enjoy colourful sunrises in the morning and twinkling city lights at night. This incredible two storey unit offers unparalleled views of the city skyline from the floor to ceiling windows throughout, as well as from each of the balconies on either level. The open floor plan of the main floor begins with a modern kitchen featuring stainless steel appliances, granite counters, and an island. A space for a dining room table separates the kitchen from the living room open to the loft space above. A corner fireplace and access to the main floor balcony completes the living room. The bedroom and four piece bathroom on this level make this an ideal floorplan for roommates. Upstairs, is the master bedroom with full ensuite and access out to the second private balcony. Finally, the flexible loft space can easily be used as an office or a second living space. In addition to all the features inside your unit, you are just a quick walk to the C-Train and only a short drive into downtown.

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our experience is your advantage

BELTLINE | $559,000

#630

72 0 - T H I R T E E N T H AV E N U E S W

Refined living in the exclusive enclave of “The Estate” is yours to enjoy in this expansive 2 bedroom + den suite offering 2066 SF of beautifully appointed living space featuring new hardwood flooring & commercial grade carpeting, updated lighting, flat ceilings, cove mouldings, built-ins cabinetry (in living room & in den), french doors, renovated kitchen with centre island, granite countertops & stainless steel appliances and a large master suite w/ wooden shutters, big walk-in closet (w/ built-in organizers) & updated 5-pc ensuite bathroom with luxurious, heated tile flooring. There’s ample space to entertain: Spacious living room opens to dining area & is flanked on either side by french doors opening to a private den & family room adjoining the kitchen. Ideal for those who appreciate privacy (there are only 3 suites on this flr) & elegant surroundings this grand building offers 24-hour concierge, saltwater pool, huge outdoor entertaining area, newly renovated gym & direct access to Ranchman’s Club.

DISCOVERY RIDGE | $650,000

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D I S CO V E R Y R I D G E G A R D E N S S W

Parkland Panorama! Take in the views of the rolling hills and meadow parkland throughout the changing seasons from this welcoming property. Beyond the back gate you’ll find direct access to the extensive park and trails of Discovery Ridge. Imagine watching the little ones bike or play in the green space right behind your home. Take a short stroll to the nearby pond and waterfall or explore picturesque Griffith Woods. The private backyard, large brick patio and raised deck offer ample space to enjoy the outdoors or entertain friends. But the desirable parklike location and yard are not the only reasons to see this home. The main floor is open and bright with large windows and maple hardwood floors. Envision gathering the family around the kitchen island for casual meals. Hang out or watch TV in the spacious upstairs bonus room. Stay cozy in the lower level recreation room with the electric floor heating in the winter.

GARRISON GREEN | $659,000

5538

HENWOOD STREET SW

Sophistication in Garrison Green! Conveniently located in the community this home offers easy access to Glenmore/ Crowchild Trail, Mount Royal University, parks & playgrounds and shopping and dining nearby in Westhills. Step into the sun soaked living room, make your way past the charming fireplace and curved staircase to the second level, and into the kitchen and dining area. The open kitchen comes complete with granite counters, an island, and stainless appliances making this space functional for the everyday hustle and bustle of a busy family, and a perfect space for weekend gatherings. French doors lead out to the patio, low maintenance yard, and garage. Upstairs, the bonus room could be transformed into an office or cozy family room. From here enter into the master bedroom with a 5 piece ensuite and a walk-in closet. A second bedroom, also with a walk-in closet, and 4 piece bathroom complete the second level. The unfinished basement offers separate side walk-up access, a unique feature of this home.

samcorea

viviennehuisman

chrisfullerton

403 880 8811

403 689 8722

403 669 7353

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CURRIE BARRACKS | $739,000

116

V I C TO R I A C R O S S B O U L E VA R D S W

Executive living in Currie Barracks Brownstone! Welcome to this New York inspired home looking out onto Victoria Cross Park from large windows throughout. Entertain friends and family in your large dining room with your culinary creations made in the open kitchen featuring French door refrigerator, gas cooktop, granite counters and island. On warm summer evenings the brick patio in your private yard provides another venue for entertaining al fresco. Take time for yourself in the bonus room upstairs. Design this space to fit your needs as a media room or home office. Then retire to your secluded master bedroom loft on the top floor where you can dive into a novel in a cozy chair near the dormer windows or draw a spa-like bath in the soaker tub. The Master suite also features vaulted ceilings, dual vanities in the master bath and a walk in closet. When you aren’t enjoying the luxuries of your home take advantage of nearby parks, green spaces and the many amenities of developing Marda Loop.

KILLARNEY | $750,000

3015

T W E N T Y- S I X T H S T R E E T S W

Coveted Killarney - Located in a fantastic community this home is surrounded by schools, parks, tennis courts, and baseball diamonds making it a wonderful spot for a family who enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle. The front room can be a spacious office, playroom, or sitting area, with French doors for privacy. While the kitchen features stainless steel appliances, including a gas cooktop, as well as a large island perfect for prepping dinner or hosting friends to mingle over tapas. The dining area offers a spot to gather for Sunday supper or as a homework hub after school.

The living room with gas fireplace overlooks the lovely back yard. Upstairs, you will find the master bedroom with ensuite featuring heated floor, soaker tub, and dual sink vanity. An additional 2 bedrooms, 4 piece bathroom, and a laundry room complete the upper level. The fully finished basement provides more space for your family or visiting guests, with a fourth bedroom, bathroom, and a large family room with wet bar.

DISCOVERY RIDGE | $759,000

234

D I S CO V E R Y P L AC E S W

Nature at your doorstep - A lovely corner lot on a cul-de-sac in nature filled Discovery Ridge. With bike and walking trails throughout the community and into Griffith Woods Park it’s hard to believe you are still within city limits. In addition to the lush surroundings, the backyard backs onto a tree lined walking path for extra privacy. Enter the main floor where you’re greeted by a front sitting room and vaulted ceiling to the second level. Continue past the office and into the living room with modern corner fireplace. This space offers an open plan flowing into the breakfast nook and kitchen, which is fully equipped with stainless steel appliances including gas stove. From here open the back door onto your sunny deck. Upstairs, the master suite is a relaxing retreat with a spa inspired ensuite. Two more bedrooms and a bathroom complete this level. Finally, the fully developed walkout level provides additional living space, a fourth bedroom, and a bathroom. Welcome to your park like retreat in the city

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our experience is your advantage

BEARSPAW LOTT CREEK| GROVE $4,900,000 | $995,000

29

LOT T C R E E K V I E W

Lock & leave villa with golf course views Incredible vistas of Elbow Springs Golf Course can be enjoyed from almost anywhere in this fantastic walk-out bungalow. The open main floor features vaulted ceiling and cathedral windows in the living room that spread light across the whole space. The spacious kitchen features a large granite island, pantry with access to the laundry/mud room, and flows seamlessly into the dining area and living room. Experience the serenity of the secluded southwest facing balcony overlooking an expansive water feature. The main floor master suite features yet another spectacular view and includes a luxurious ensuite with two vanities separated by a soaker tub. An office with functional built-ins completes the main floor. The lower walk-out level features even more living space for you to enjoy. An inviting family room, games area, wet bar, as well as a private patio make up the entertaining space downstairs. Two more bedrooms, a bathroom, and a hobby room complete this level.

samcorea

viviennehuisman

chrisfullerton

403 880 8811

403 689 8722

403 669 7353

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SPRINGBANK HILL | $899,000

133

SPRINGBOROUGH GREEN SW

Backyard retreat backing onto the school! Just beyond the trellis gate of this fantastic pie lot is Griffith Woods School, which makes this home perfect for your family. The large landscaped yard is a true show stopper, with trees and shrubs offering privacy and allowing you to enjoy the deck and patio without disruption. Family friendly features of this 2 storey home include an office just off the living room where homework can be done, a second floor bonus room which is perfect for a play room, and parents will appreciate the mudroom entrance from the garage and the laundry room with sink. In addition, the bright main floor features space for both entertaining and relaxing, with the kitchen, living room and dining area all in one large open space. The upper level features a lovely master suite with walk-in closet and 4 piece ensuite, 2 additional bedrooms, and a 4 piece bath. The basement offers a family room, a fourth bedroom, and bathroom for even more space to accommodate the whole family.

ASPEN WOODS | $1,047,000

85

A SPEN SUMMIT DRIVE SW

Spectacular family home! This stunning home is perfect for your family. Just a short walk or drive to the shops and restaurants of Aspen Landing makes running errands or meeting friends easier than ever. The main floor flows from the front foyer, past the office, into the living room and dining area. Across from the living room is the modern white kitchen with butler pantry. Doors lead out to the tiered deck and private, west facing backyard. Parents will love the mud room which features lockers and drawers for easy storage. Upstairs begins with the secluded master suite. This luxurious space features an ensuite with separate vanities, a soaker tub, and rain shower. Two additional bedrooms, a 5 piece bathroom, a bonus room, and the laundry room complete this level. The basement is setup for entertaining and out of town guests. The games room comes equipped with a full wet bar and tons of counter space for serving snacks and drinks. The large guest bedroom and three piece bathroom finish off this level.

RICHMOND | $1,099,000

2105

NINETEENTH STREET SW

Stunning renovation, worthy of a spread in Style at Home magazine! The jewel of Knob Hill, this ultra-chic two storey is perched on the ridge with city views and a gorgeous, low-maintenance “secret garden” featuring a waterfall, extensive perennial plantings, and a large deck. Truly your own secluded oasis. Inside you’ll find extensive updates throughout including high-end appliances in the kitchen, custom window coverings, fireplace feature wall, along with extensive built-ins. The formal dining room has a dramatic light fixture and stunning city views. Upstairs you’ll find two bedrooms including the wonderful master suite with fireplace, sitting room, amazing closet, and spa bathroom. On the lower level additional living space includes gym, a third bedroom, and a bathroom with steam shower.

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BEARSPAW | $1,250,000 HILLHURST $4,900,000 - $1,350,000

NEST

4 2 6 , 4 2 8 O R 4 3 0 11 T H S T R E E T N W

Three units to choose from, offering luxury in the heart of Kensington! this incredible, architecturally designed new executive tri-plex features outstanding, high-end fixtures & fittings, spectacular interior design (by Monica Stevens Interior Design) and a location second to none, perfect for those who appreciate walkability/ pedestrian friendly living it is set on a quiet, treelined street just steps away from trendy shops & restaurants, Riley Park, c-train & Bow River. Walk/ bike to nearby SAIT, Jubilee auditorium for a concert, ballet or opera or to downtown from this inner city retreat with bedrooms (2 master suites) & 4 bathrooms, rooftop deck, city views & developed basement. Showcasing exceptional finishes thruout if offers: Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances, Empire kitchen & bath millwork, Ann Sacks designer backsplash, Caesarstone counters, site-finished white oak hardwood, European plumbing fixtures, 10â&#x20AC;? baseboards, 9 & 10â&#x20AC;&#x2122; ceilings, Legrand electrical outlets, ICF party-walls & foundation, heated garage & basement floor.

samcorea

viviennehuisman

chrisfullerton

403 880 8811

403 689 8722

403 669 7353

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BEARSPAW || $1,750,000 ROSEDALE $4,900,000

1422

CRESCENT ROAD NW

Sought after Rosedale – Inner city living just outside your door with the C-Train just a short walk away, and the trendy shops and restaurants in Kensington nearby. The main floor offers unobstructed openness with a dramatic staircase at its’ centre. The kitchen is perfect for anyone who enjoys creating culinary masterpieces, featuring chef inspired appliances including a gas cooktop, pot filler, warming drawer, and speed oven. Outside the low maintenance yard and concrete patio is an ideal space to enjoy the summer weather, while in the winter months the detached heated triple car garage is a welcome feature. Upstairs the bright master suite with city view comes with a gorgeous ensuite featuring a steam shower. Two additional bedrooms, a bathroom, an office, and a laundry room complete the top floor. The possibilities are endless for the basement’s open family room area with a full bar, as well as two more bedrooms (one with its own ensuite), and an additional bathroom.

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WILDWOOD | $1,450,000

455

WILDWOOOD DRIVE SW

Backs Edworthy Park! Your chance to live on the most coveted cul-de-sac of idyllic Wildwood. Located deep in the heart of the community, at the quiet tip of Wildwood Drive, this fully renovated bungalow provides direct access to the park from the back gate of the huge, west facing, pie-shaped yard. Mature landscaping, a huge deck, and a patio are additional highlights of the secluded backyard, one of the largest in the community. The impressively sized kitchen features granite counters, hardwood and a backsplash of glass and marble. The master suite includes a walk in closet and ensuite with soaker tub; rare finds in houses in this district. Downstairs is a fully developed recreation room with a stone faced fireplace separating a flex space perfect for a workout area or office.Enthusiasts of 1950s homes will adore the charming neighbourhood and thoughtful updates. Live moments from the downtown core while enjoying Edworthy Park at your doorstep.

WEST SPRINGS | $1,475,000

82

W E N T W O R T H T E R R AC E S W

Tremendous south facing backyard oasis - Sitting on a huge lot (0.3 acres) this custom built, 3,104 sf home is perfectly situated within walking distance to the West Springs shopping and dining district, as well as elementary and junior high schools. The main floor begins with a spacious living room with built in cabinets and a fireplace; while the fully equipped kitchen offers extensive storage, a large pantry, stainless steel appliances including a wine fridge, and a versatile tiered island. A dining area surrounded by windows leads out to a cheery sunroom overlooking the stunningly landscaped backyard featuring an expansive patio and a charming gazebo. An oversized 3 car garage completes the main level. Upstairs offers a master bedroom including an ensuite and walk-in closet, 3 additional bedrooms, and a 4 piece bathroom. The fully finished basement has large windows throughout allowing plenty of light into the family room with bar, and fifth bedroom. A remarkable home with an even more breathtaking yard!

DISCOVERY RIDGE | $1,750,000

52

D I S CO V E R Y VA L L E Y CO V E S W

Mountain Retreat in the City! Escape to this elegant sanctuary in the gated enclave of “The Cove” in Discovery Ridge. Surrounded by a protected, no-cut woodland and Griffiths Woods Park this exquisite bungalow is inspired by the majesty of the Rockies. Wood beams, hardwood floors, stone fireplaces, travertine, slate, and hammered copper accents can be found throughout. The heart of the home is the large living room, and adjacent dining room both with stunning forest views and access to a covered deck warmed by a wood burning fireplace. The classic kitchen is smartly laid out with top of the line appliances and gorgeous cabinetry. A massive walk thru pantry, laundry room and mudroom make staying organized easy. There’s space enough for a sitting area in the master bedroom, and there will be no dispute over storage in the master ensuite and closet. An impressive lower walk out level is ideal for entertaining and includes a bar and dedicated wine cellar as well as three additional bedrooms. Welcome home!

samcorea

viviennehuisman

chrisfullerton

403 880 8811

403 689 8722

403 669 7353

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BEARSPAW| $2,595,000 BEL-AIRE | $4,900,000

1423

B E V E R LE Y PL AC E S W

Rare in Bel-Aire! Nestled along the ridge of the Glenmore Reservoir, perfectly situated at the tip of a secluded cul-de-sac lies this beautifully landscaped, one-of-a-kind half acre property. The completely overhauled grounds include a massive limestone patio, grand tiered lawns, a playground area and bonfire pit all surrounded by breathtaking perennial gardens and towering spruce trees. In 2014, in preparation for an addition, the original home was substantially updated with wide plank white oak hardwood and stainless steel appliances as well as new plumbing fixtures, crystal door knobs, trendy cabinet hardware and current light fixtures.

A killer walk-in-closet off the master bedroom was created to include glass front shoe cabinets and the master bathroom was outfitted with Cararra marble tiles. This is an ideal opportunity to enlarge or rework the existing house or build your dream home on one of the largest parcels of land in this prestigious neighbourhood. The possibilities are endless.

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BEARSPAW ELBOW PARK | $4,900,000 | $2,995,000

703

T H I RT Y- S E C O N D AV E N U E S W

One of a kind opportunity in Elbow Park! The initial builder of this 1920s craftsman home wisely combined 4 oversized lots to create a large private space for a growing family. Since then, this historic home has been lovingly maintained, thoughtfully updated and completely renovated for today’s modern family. Beyond the sanctuary of 13,000+ sf of lush landscaping and secluded outdoor living areas you’ll find an ideal home for lovers of vintage details like eyebrow dormers, wide painted trim, French doors, and elegant fireplaces. The classic white kitchen with 48” Wolf double range, Subzero fridge and marble counters is perfectly designed as are the newly refurbished, subway tiled bathrooms.

There’s lots of room in the spacious main floor living room, family room, office and sunroom. As well, the lower level includes a media room, playroom, wine room, two extra bedrooms, workshop and storage area. For those looking for a beautifully designed traditional home with pedigree, this is it.

samcorea

viviennehuisman

chrisfullerton

403 880 8811

403 689 8722

403 669 7353

salespartner

salespartner

teamleader

SAM COREA | TEAM LEADER | 403 870 8811 | SAM@SAMCOREA.COM

Sam has successfully sold thousands of homes over the last 25 years.

He enjoys the art of negotiating and is very good at it. His passion for marketing real estate sets him apart. His expertise and experience are unparalleled and he has been recognized with many awards.

Routinely, he impresses people with his freakishly photographic memory of the homes he has sold. He also has an incredibly high vertical jump, a skill he put to use as a high school pole-vaulter.

VIVIENNE HUISMAN | INNER CITY SALES PARTNER | 403 689 8722 | VIVIENNE@SAMCOREA.COM

Vivienne’s enthusiastic and friendly nature make it easy for her to get to know her clients and understand their real estate requirements. She listens keenly then advocates for her clientele. She gets tremendous satisfaction from finding the right solution for buyers by expertly guiding them through their options. In her spare time you can find her enjoying the outdoors. Skiing and après skiing are favourite pastimes, but not necessarily in that order.

CHRIS FULLERTON | WESTHILLS SALES PARTNER | 403 669 7353 | CHRIS@SAMCOREA.COM

In addition to being a master pianist, Chris has used the last 13 years to become a master at finding buyers their perfect real estate match. His commitment to customer service is evident upon first introductions.

He is patient, determined and devoted to his clientele. Because of his big hearted, amiable personality, he often strikes up long lasting friendships with his clients who repeatedly turn to him for his skill, judgement and prowess when buying or selling. In his free time you can find him with his young family, on the golf course…..or both!

ANGELA CANALES | SR. MORTGAGE EXPERT | 403 796 7742 | ANGELA@403MORTGAGES.COM

Angela loves life to the fullest! She looks for the light in any dark tunnel and a “yes” in every mortgage transaction. With over a decade of experience she is able to pair you with the perfect product for your financial well being just like a rubix cube. Angela’s mission to ensure each and every client understands just how much the mortgage will cost them over the term and thereafter. Mortgages are like vehicles.

She will take you through the test drive educating you with the features that make that machine move to its highest efficiency rate.

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OPTIMISM IN THE OIL PATCH // OIL & GAS

OPTIMISM IN THE OIL PATCH SERVICE COMPANIES STARTING TO SEE PROGRESS, BUT IS IT ENOUGH?

BY JAMIE ZACHARY

I

ggy Domagalski sees a light at the end of the tunnel. He just believes it’ll take some time to get there.

The CEO of Calgary-headquartered Tundra Process Solutions says recent bright spots in Alberta’s oil patch has many like him in the industry’s service sector optimistic for the first time since oil prices plummeted more than three years ago.

While the differential between West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and Western Canadian Select (WCS) is still significant and will hamper ongoing development in the province, he also believes decision makers are getting used to the new pricing reality and are willing to start spending again.

“At this pricing, I believe people will start to build more,” says Domagalski, whose company provides industrial controls, equipment and support to industries such as oil and gas, mining, pulp and paper, and power.

“The Trans Mountain Pipeline will get built, Keystone is getting finished up, and then there’s the Enbridge Line 3 replacement project. Those three projects alone will add 1.5 million barrels of capacity to the market on a four-million Canada-wide base.

“It seems like over the past six months that Canada is starting to appreciate the oil and gas industry more so

than it once did. There seems to be a positive sentiment.”

Tundra vice-president of marketing Blaine Barnes agrees that some things have changed. For example, the work is different – more maintenance, less project work.

ABOVE: IGGY DOMAGALSKI, CEO OF TUNDRA PROCESS SOLUTIONS.

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

69

OPTIMISM IN THE OIL PATCH // OIL & GAS

“COMPANIES ARE STILL PRETTY HARD PRESSED TO JUSTIFY ADDING COSTS. THERE ARE SOME CASES WHERE THEY ARE ADDING EQUIPMENT, BUT IT’S MORE A CASE OF ‘WE NEED TO HAVE IT’ VERSUS ‘NICE TO HAVE IT.’” ~ TOM WHALEN “They’re more interested in things like optimization – how can we get more with what we have,” he says. “They’re looking to Tundra to help provide them with a solution that they can put on top of a well to produce more gas or more oil.

“The pump that’s in the ground has been the same for a long time, but the way we control it, the way we gather that data and what we do with it, that’s what’s increasingly efficiencies. We’re not re-inventing the wheel. We’re just making it spin faster.”

Service companies are also being asked to absorb more risk – something Tundra is happy to accept.

“We’ve got things like increased warranties,” says Barnes.

“But we’re also saying, ‘give us more opportunities to work with you and we can help mitigate the risk of things like surplus equipment and help ensure the products you have are the products suited for your operation.’”

Despite some bright spots, Petroleum Services Association of Canada (PSAC) president and CEO Tom Whalen says many oil and gas services companies are still in survival mode.

“The quality of their margins is not improving,” says Whalen, whose association represents the service, supply, and manufacturing sectors within the upstream petroleum industry.

“It’s marginally better than it was, but we’re not seeing the same improvements as E&P companies.”

Calgary-based Trican Well Services, for example, reported a 105 per cent increase in consolidated revenues in the first

quarter of 2018 compared with the previous year. Yet, the publicly traded company still suffered a net loss from continuing operations for the quarter of $28.4 million compared to a net loss of $48.9 million in the first quarter of 2017.

“In terms of actually having money to put back into the business, they just don’t have it,” says Whalen.

“Companies are still pretty hard pressed to justify adding costs. There are some cases where they are adding equipment, but it’s more a case of ‘we need to have it’ versus ‘nice to have it.’

“For any of our service companies in Canada to be healthy, they have to be able to get something incrementally over cost recovery. Quite frankly, they’re not getting very much, if any.”

Earlier this year, PSAC lowered its forecast for drilling activity in 2018 by 500 wells, or 6 per cent, to 7,400 across Canada. While it acknowledged the oil field sector was marginally busier than it was the year prior, the “disconnect and volatility” of the differential between WTI and WCS pricing and shift from gas to oil well drilling means “our services sector is far from healthy.”

ABOVE: TOM WHALEN, PRESIDENT AND CEO, PETROLEUM SERVICES ASSOCIATION OF CANADA.

70

SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

WHY LEAVE CALGARY

TO TALK ABOUT ENERGY? Josef Schachter

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OPTIMISM IN THE OIL PATCH // OIL & GAS

It cited staff reduction adjustments of 5 to 15 per cent, compared with 40 to 60 per cent from 2015-2016.

PSAC’s forecast called for 3,800 new wells in Alberta, down from 4,000 in the original forecast. In Saskatchewan, the organization expects 2,840 wells to be drilled compared to 2,930.

By comparison, PSAC now expects 32 per cent less wells to be drilled in British Columbia from its original forecast – 500 instead of 730 new drills. By year’s end, PSAC forecasts 110 less wells will be drilled in that province compared with 2017 – “representing more than $850 million in capital that won’t be spent in British Columbia this year.”

“If we had to predict what the rest of the year is going to look like, it’s going to be very flat to last year,” adds Whalen.

“When we first did our projections in the fall of 2017, we were projecting a double-digit increase. Now, we’ve been slowly coming off those projections.”

Meanwhile, a separate report released in mid-July is suggesting Alberta-bred companies looking to make their next move might fare better south of the border.

Titled Going Global, the reports ranks the United States as number one out of 15 countries around the world with opportunities for Canadian oilfield service expansion.

“The United States is a suitable market for smaller, first time exporters, or larger companies with limited or no export experience, but with products or services in demand in the American market,” says the report, which involved the Alberta government, PSAC and Export Development Canada.

Some companies are already making the move. Precision Drilling Corp. has shifted rigs and crews from Alberta’s Deep Basin to the Marcellus shale play in Pennsylvania, while Citadel Drilling Inc. has relocated some of its operations to the Permian Basin in midland Texas.

In PSAC’s recent annual member survey, 10 per cent of companies say they are considering markets outside Canada for the first time due to constraints domestically, and 14 per cent are considering exiting Canada altogether.

“It’s alarming. We would not have gotten those responses even in the worst periods of 2015-2016,” says Whalen, pointing to Oklahoma, Wyoming, and Texas as new landing spots for many of these companies. “People were hunkering down at that time and were loyal and willing to stick it out.

What we’re seeing now is some fatigue in the notion of riding it out.”

In Tundra’s case, the company expanded to the Permian Basin in 2012 when it purchased SSI Manufacturing, a subsidiary that specializes in innovative surface mounted artificial lift systems for oil and gas producers. According to Domagalski, the move was motivated by demand in the region for these types of rod lift systems, not because the company had lost faith in the Alberta market.

“We get a lot of demand from clients down there, so we decided to open up shop,” he says, noting that in addition to its home base in Calgary, Tundra also operates in Edmonton and recently added a seven-person team to Grand Prairie.

“But overall, we’re still really optimistic about the oil and gas industry here in Western Canada.”

ABOVE: THE TEAM AT TUNDRA. PHOTO SOURCE: TUNDRA PROCESS SOLUTIONS

72

SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

McMillan LLP is pleased to welcome Cameron Schepp and Paul Barbeau to the Calgary office. Joining our nationally established securities and capital markets group, Cameron and Paul bring extensive experience in corporate finance, mergers & acquisitions, corporate governance and securities regulation.

With excellent knowledge of the Alberta market, they look forward to providing legal services to current and future clients.

Cameron F. Schepp Partner, Securities & Capital Markets

Adam C. Maerov Office Management Partner, Calgary

Paul D. Barbeau Partner, Securities & Capital Markets

McMillan LLP | Vancouver | Calgary | Toronto | Ottawa | MontrĂŠal | Hong Kong | mcmillan.ca

Custom double wide panel being laid out by Rey Maranan (Shop Foreman).

Dragon HPCS Offers Unique Panel Solutions

by Rennay Craats

I

ndustrial equipment supplier Dragon HPCS was born out of necessity. In 2014 when the oil prices plummeted, companies had to find ways to cut costs without cutting corners. Companies across the sector were faced with the task of slashing their prices in order to attract and retain clients.

“We found ourselves making the same panels over and over again, so we said ‘why don’t we make a panel shop and have standardized drawings?’” says David Van Tighem, Manager at Dragon HPCS. “Our answer to the oil and gas crash was to use a Henry Ford model, where everything is done and ready to go and all we have to do is pop in the electronics.”

The concept of pre-engineered products was developed over the next few years and in 2017, Dragon established a single panel shop to produce standardized products. It partnered with the best in the business as part of Rockwell Automation’s single-source vendor OEM program with stock provided by distributor Westburne Canada.

In a short time, word spread about Dragon’s product lines and the small shop expanded its client base to include a variety of large and small oil and gas companies.

Dragon has earned a reputation by providing high quality and service for all of its products. It has automation solutions for every industry segment with its control panels (CP Series), junction boxes (Smart JB Series), lighting and motor units (LM series) and rotating equipment (RE Series).

The LM Series is used for automating building lighting and exhaust fans and can easily be integrated with the CP Series control panel, while the RE Series is ideal for rotating equipment for small, medium, and large horse power applications or panel retrofits.

The CP Series, ideal for supporting oil batteries, storage compressor stations, and processing facilities, can maintain up to 300 input/output (I/O) standalone and up to 10,000 I/O when combined

Dragon HPCS

with other CPs and Smart JBs. The Smart JB Series, designed for process building I/O terminations and remote I/O panel and junction box replacements, enables users to connect more than 100 boxes with a single controller.

Typical systems have a hundred wires running back to the main building, but Dragon’s innovative design runs wires into ethernet adaptors and connects to the processor using a single ethernet cord.

“These can be pre-configured and you can do the testing in the building. Then it goes out to site and you run one ethernet cable. No field testing needed,” says Van Tighem.

This innovation saves clients money, not only on engineering costs because the system is prefabricated, but also on the cost and time to have electricians pulling wires on site and testing the connections for each box.

David Van Tighem – General Manager of Dragon HPCS.

“Everything has its place in the market and at a certain point with an I/O density, the Smart JBs are very competitive and on the mark, and will save in wiring and equipment costs in the field,” says Dragon client Scott Barraclough, project manager for Tri Alta Projects Inc. Dragon’s products eliminate redundancy in the field and give clients peace of mind knowing the system will perform well. “We’re confident enough, seeing as this is a battery, that we even hardwired our Emergency Shutdown Systems back to the CP panel. We were confident that the network was robust enough to handle that,” Barraclough says.

Standard LM Series Panel: Exterior view

Clients appreciate the quality and recognize the value of buying from Dragon. Using standardized designs saves clients around 40 per cent, and Dragon saves companies even more by always having parts in stock. Units can ship to clients in about a week instead of the eight-week lead time of custom panel shops, so clients are up and running faster.

Also, all of Dragon’s products are UL rated and undergo rigorous QA/QC testing before going out. With Van Tighem’s training as an Electrical Engineering Technologist, he is proficient in programming able to produce AutoCAD drawings and customize products, and also perform Factory Acceptance Testing. Every team member is Rockwell Automation certified and as part of the OEM agreement. Dragon has access to the entire

Pre-assembled wiring harnesses to facilitate change orders in a timely manner

Dragon HPCS

Rockwell Automation toolkit of hardware products and software to ensure the highest quality products possible.

The units exceed expectations. As an OEM partner, all of Dragon products are supported by Rockwell Automation, incorporating that company’s goldstandard components into each design. This global manufacturer is proud to partner with Dragon to offer a unique solution for the oil and gas industry.

Dragon Standardized Panels: Lighting and Motor Series (Left), Smart JB (Right).

“It’s a great opportunity for us to jointly enter new markets and gain share with new customers that we haven’t been involved with in the past,” says Jeffrey Hearn, Western Canada OEM team lead for Rockwell Automation. “The design is innovative in that it is based on plug-and-play components where everything is locked together and integrates very quickly and easily, allowing it to be cost competitive in the marketplace.”

For the past year, Rockwell Automation and Dragon have been engaged in an OEM partner program that involves product branding and joint marketing. This has created new market access that the company has not penetrated in the past. Their partnership with Dragon has proven particularly successful. Dragon’s cost-cutting design and business model, paired with the best components in the industry, gives clients an incredible automation option.

Rows of Smart JB’s in line for fabrication.

Standard CP Series Panel: Built with Allen-Bradley CompactLogix PLC and Marshalling terminals.

Good partnerships are key for success, and Dragon has enjoyed the benefits of aligning with Rockwell Automation and Westburne Canada to grow the company. Westburne helps ensure that Dragon can fulfil its promise of always being in stock; Dragon has two months’ worth of inventory on its shelves and Westburne has another four months’ stock to guarantee the turnaround remains fast. The longterm relationship between Rockwell Automation and Westburne was strong before Dragon was established, and this has helped the panel shop quickly become a contender in the marketplace.

“With Dragon coming in as an entity in 2014, it made for a very potent opportunity, a combination of people and companies to really make a difference in the oil and gas market,” says Dave Henderson, manager of oil and gas for Westburne.

“To have a coordinated message with that market is very powerful and will allow us to leverage each other’s strengths to gain share of that customer’s budget for those types of solutions.”

Dragon HPCS

Keiren O’Brien (Applications Specialist) performing routine QAQC on pre-assembled panel.

In today’s market, where every penny counts and competition is fierce, potential clients are asking questions about whom a company partners with before signing on. They want to ensure all companies involved are reputable, provide quality products, and stand by their work. Dragon’s alliance with Rockwell Automation and Westburne shows clients that the Dragon brand is backed and supported by the best.

Dragon HPCS continues to evolve as it moves forward with plans to build onto its product lines with the introduction of standardized MCC sections and pump-off controllers along with smart technologies that allow clients to maximize their connectivity from the palms of their hands.

“The solutions Dragon is providing are laying the foundation of that future technology and future innovations in the oil and gas industry,” says Hearn.

Dragon HPCS is looking forward to expansion, growth, and continued partnerships to serve clients throughout Canada and the United States. To that end, it has dedicated salesperson Robert Ward based out of Houston promoting the products in the United States, and Rob Forbes out of Calgary representing the company’s interests in Canada.

“We want our name to grow bigger and bigger. We want to start dominating the Denver and Houston areas,” says Van Tighem.

Dragon is well on its way. On top of its existing products, the next two quarters will see a pump jack controller and standardized power solution added to the panel offerings. With world-class solutions and quality products, Dragon HPCS has blazed a trail in the industry to become a go-to shop for Oil & Gas automation.

es bu ne REXEL GROUP

#6, 3650 – 19 Street NE Calgary, AB T2E 6V2 Canada Phone: 403-453-5655 | Email: info@dragonhpcs.com www.dragonhpcs.com Dragon HPCS

Page 5 - BOMA Insider Page 7 - Is Calgary Going High-Tech?

By Lloyd Suchet, Executive Director, BOMA Calgary

I

Get Ready for BOMEX - Canada’s Building Excellence Summit

t’s no secret that Calgarians love to show off our beautiful city and provide guests from around the world with a feel for our hospitality and community.

In how many places can someone enjoy a free community breakfast for 10 days straight as you can during the Calgary Stampede? Calgary also earned its reputation around the world during the 1988 Winter Olympics, where an incredible volunteer effort was key in making the games a success. But its not just the large events, as stories like these play out in our city on a weekly basis as various organizations host guests for conferences, sporting, and cultural events.

Here at BOMA Calgary, we’re excited to contribute to this legacy as we prepare to host the commercial real estate industry this October for BOMEX - Canada’s Building Excellence Summit. When Calgary was first awarded BOMEX five years ago, our city and the industry looked quite different. I don’t need to tell you that the past few years have been tumultuous for commercial real estate in our city, but I think we can sense optimism in the air as we slowly recover. During these tough times, there has been plenty of talk around the country about Calgary and our economy. In a sense, the timing couldn’t be better, as BOMEX provides us the opportunity to show commercial real estate professionals first hand how Calgary is reinventing itself. That is why the BOMEX committee has been working tirelessly to not only put together a program that provides industry professionals with education and best practices from leading experts, but to also highlight our city and the incredible projects and developments that are reshaping it.

To kick things off, Arlene Dickinson, Calgarian and former dragon from CBC’s Dragon’s Den, will share her vast knowledge of business and entrepreneurship during the opening keynote address. Then delegates will

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Page 3 - TransCanada BOMA Excellence Awards Interview

NEWS

FALL 2018

learn about how buildings and smart urban planning can actually contribute to a more sustainable environment.

They will also hear from two leading edge speakers on engaging young professionals and integrating them into high-performing teams. A renowned futurist as well as a seasoned commercial real estate professional will then share with delegates their insights on how technological change and “disruptions” will impact this industry, and steps organizations can take to harness technology for their own success.

We also have three tours lined up to show off the new Calgary. Delegates will have an opportunity to go on a walking tour of the East Village and will be able to see up close this new and exciting urban neighbourhood just a stone’s throw from the downtown core. They can also tour the Edison Building, Aspen Properties’ ambitious newly renovated building that is designed to attract creative and tech industries. Since the past informs the future, we also have an incredible heritage buildings tour that highlights Calgary’s remaining terra cotta and sandstone buildings that showcase the first major economic and building boom from the early 20th century.

Finally, we wrap things up with Canada’s most exciting night in commercial real estate, the BOMA Canada National Awards Gala. The event celebrates the industry and has local award winners face off for national honours and the opportunity to compete against the rest of the world at the International Awards in 2019.

As you can probably tell, we’re excited about hosting the industry from across Canada for BOMEX 2018, and we are committed to putting our best foot forward. We can also feel this excitement building among the community, and the strong registration so far is a testament to that. So I encourage you to be a part of the excitement and join us for BOMEX 2018 in Calgary.

Client: SERV

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3

BOMA Calgary News

BOMA Calgary News is a co-publication of BOMA Calgary and Business in Calgary.

Business in Calgary

1025, 101 - 6 Ave. SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3P4 Tel: 403.264.3270 • Fax: 403.264.3276 info@businessincalgary.com www.businessincalgary.com

BOMA Calgary

Suite 225, 550 11th Avenue SW, Calgary AB, T2R 1M7 Email: info@boma.ca • Web: www.boma.ca Tel: 403.237.0559 • Fax: 403.266.5876

Communications Committee Kelsey Johannson, Chair, TransCanada Corporation Christine White, Vice Chair, Oxford Properties Group Rita Borrow, Brookfield Lance Merrifield, Epic Roofing Enam Islam, Hines Jon Holmes, Camfil Aydan Aslan, BOMA Calgary

Board of Directors

CHAIR Lee Thiessen, MNP LLP CHAIR-ELECT Richard Morden, QuadReal Property Group SECRETARY TREASURER Rob Blackwell, Aspen Properties PAST CHAIR Chris Nasim, GWL Realty Advisors EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Lloyd Suchet, BOMA Calgary

Directors

Jay de Nance, RioCan Management Inc. Steve Walton, Oxford Properties Group Todd Throndson, Avison Young Art Skow, Bentall Kennedy Canada LP Laura Newcombe, GWL Realty Advisors Irene Au, Manulife Candace Walker, Brookfield Blair Carbert, Carbert Waite LLP

The Building Owners and Managers Association of Calgary publishes BOMA Calgary News quarterly. For advertising rates and information contact Business in Calgary.

Publication of advertising should not be deemed as endorsement by BOMA Calgary. The publisher reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to reject any advertising at any time submitted by any party. Material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of BOMA Calgary, its members or its staff. © 2015 by BOMA Calgary.

Printed in Canada.

O

n Thursday, May 3, BOMA Calgary hosted the 2018 TransCanada BOMA Excellence Awards at The Westin Calgary Hotel. The BOMA Excellence Awards recognize individual achievements as well as the teams that are responsible for high performing buildings in and around the Calgary area, no matter the size, age, or occupancy type. The best of the best in the industry were all there to celebrate their accomplishments. Livingstone Place, managed by QuadReal Property Group, won The Outstanding Building of the Year (TOBY®) Award in the 500,000 – 1M SQ Category. Below is an interview with Sharlene Quian, property manager at QuadReal Property Group. We asked Sharlene what the award meant for her team.

Why did you decide to submit for the Awards this year?

It was a great opportunity to showcase the QuadReal brand and provide local representation at the upcoming BOMEX event in Calgary.

What benefit, if any, did you find going through the Awards process?

The opportunity allowed for a deep dive into processes and procedures and provided an opportunity not only for implementing improvements, but also as a team building exercise.

How has the winning in this category affected your team? Your clients or organization?

Winning the TOBY award has given our team the acknowledgement they deserve while boosting morale. Furthermore, it has reinforced with our tenants the lengths we will go to constantly improve. It also highlights our efforts for prospective tenants.

What would you say to a company or team that is thinking of entering the Awards next year?

Do it! BOMA is such a great organization, and opportunities like this allow for a company to bring the team together with a common goal. It brings out the competitive spirit and motivation, while giving the team a sense of pride in what they do.

2020 BOMA Excellence Awards Applications will open in October 2019. For more information, contact the BOMA Office or visit or www.boma.ca/awards.

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BOMA Insider 2018 BOMEX Only 1 month left before #BOMEX2018. Register now before it’s too late! #giddyupbomex

Welcome New BOMA Member Companies!

Barricades and Signs Ltd. - Harry Gerritse

BOMA BEST Congratulations!

Integral Group - Dean Astren Scandinavian Building Services - Aleem Jessani Maxim Building Restoration - Drew Campbell

Deerfoot Atria – Silver – Bentall Kennedy

Just Junk Calgary - Deb Darbyshire

South Calgary Health Centre – Bronze – Bentall Kennedy

Heavy Industries - Kyle Bell Cook

Destination:Deerfoot City – Platinum – Shape Property Management

Executrade - Mike Montgomery

Centrium Place – Platinum – Triovest

Building Automation Systems - Paul Sykes

CrossIron Mills – Silver – Ivanhoe Cambridge

Schindler - Daniel Theriault Shel-bar - Sheldon Grollmuss

BOMAzing Race

T

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he second Annual BOMAzing Race was a success and a lot of fun! Thank you Brookfield, Dream Unlimited, Morguard, Oxford Properties Group, Cadillac Fairview, QuadReal, Hines, GWL Realty Advisors, Aspen Properties and Bee Clean Building Maintenance for your support!

By David Parker

P

Is Calgary Going High-Tech?

oliticians and government agencies continue to seek ways to diversify our economy so that it is not so reliant on the oil and gas industry. High technology is always on their lips and efforts have been made to attract new businesses to this city and to this province, but I would suggest that hi-tech is already a big employer and significant economic driver. Also, more should be done to encourage and support our home-grown businesses.

A major player is Hexagon. President and CEO Michael Ritter is relocating Hexagon’s Calgary head office and manufacturing plant to a brand new, almost 200,000 square foot, facility in Melcor’s The District development at Country Hills Blvd and Deerfoot Trail N.E. The new space will welcome 480 employees (doubled over the past three years) and there is room for a staff of 600, which Ritter is confident he will need the space for in the future.

On behalf of Hexagon, Peter and Justin Mayerchak of Colliers International worked with Remington Development, who purchased the land and built the IBI Group designed structure.

Remington was also the developer of the large office building between Edmonton Trail and 4th Street N.E. that carries the name of Benevity on its facade.

Benevity is a Calgary-launched hi-tech company specializing in online workplace giving, marketing, volunteering, and integrated management solutions. Only 10 years old, the move across the river to the northeast represented its third need to expand as the company with world-wide name brand clients now employs more than 300 in the city.

Another hi-tech Calgary-born firm that is on the move is Blackline Safety. When CEO and chairman Cody Slater joined the company five years ago, the staff stood at under 20 and was housed in a small building in Ramsey. It continues to grow at a remarkable pace, which means relocating the 120 that now work in the Calgary office into the former Dominion Bridge plant on 24th Avenue S.E. Blackline Safety designs and manufactures monitoring systems for personnel working alone within complex facilities or in the most remote regions. Recognized as a leading manufacturer of wirelessly connected lone

Benevity is a Calgarylaunched hi-tech company specializing in online workplace giving, marketing, volunteering, and integrated management solutions. Only 10 years old, the move across the river to the northeast represented its third need to expand as the company with world-wide name brand clients now employs more than 300 in the city. safety products in the world, it has an office of eight staff based in the U.S., and with Europe currently its fastest growing region, has also opened an office in the U.K. Although we were unsuccessful in persuading Amazon to locate here, Blackline supplies the industry giant with monitoring devices in its plants around the world.

Cody Clayton, president of Remington Development, is bullish about out hi-tech industry and its impact on real estate development. He says his last three large commercial buildings all house technology companies: the new Hexagon; Meredith Block that became home to Benevity; and the 90,000 square foot, four storey Computer Modelling Group building in University Research Park.

High technology is already a thriving industry in this city – let’s do a better job of growing what we have.

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SAFE AND SECURE WITH AE SECURITY

by Rennay Craats

A

E Security provides more than residential and commercial security, video surveillance and access control systems; it provides peace of mind. Since 1983, AE Security has offered Calgary the best in home and business security systems, ranging from temperature and flood alarms to smoke and CO detection, video surveillance to mobile GPS medical alert pendants. Over the years the company has earned its reputation as the premiere security company in Calgary and as the city continues to grow and evolve, so does AE Security.

sacrificing the personalized, small-company attention it affords each client. The 10-member staff, many of whom are long-term employees, go above and beyond to ensure that clients are satisfied.

Now in its 35th year, AE Security has embraced the cuttingedge technology of today’s security systems without

Another key is to align with great partners to bring clients the best products on the market. AE Security was Calgary’s first

“We have good support here. If you call, someone answers the phone,” says Randy Larkam, founder and president of AE Security. “We have great people and that’s the key to providing a high level of service.”

Above: Elisha Larkam – Sales Manager, Randy Larkam – President, Justin Gough – Technician, Chris Rubak – Installation & Service Manager, Noland Windsor – Technician, Brian Hernandez – Technician, Harry Feero – Consultant, Maurice Simon – IT, Marianne Farkas – Admin, Angie Gaffney – Office Manager and Debora Bailey – Accounting.

“Congratulations AE Security! From one family business to another!”

WILLOW PARK | 110, 10816 MACLEOD TRAIL SE | 403-278-3930 DOWNTOWN | 512 – 4TH AVENUE SW | 403-264-1222 Private dining options available.

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AE Security • 35

Honeywell authorized dealer in 2003 and the company is proud to offer Honeywell’s product lines, specializing in the new Lyric Smart Security and Home Control system.

“It’s a more modern, future-proof design and is meant to be operated from a mobile device instead of having keypads all over the house,” says Larkam.

Lyric is simple to use, employing voice commands or easyto-access controls through the Total Connect app. Beyond 24-hour protection, the wireless system can do everything from turning on and off lights and adjusting the thermostat to emailing photos of the kids when they let themselves in after school. AE Security programs the system to fit into clients’ lives, making security easy and reliable.

AE is now offering a do-it-yourself option for the client who still wants the quality and value but appreciates the DIY experience. Consulting with their knowledgeable professionals allows each customer to have a personalized system designed, programmed, and tested. This results in a professionally monitored alarm system that is tailored to each client and all they have to do is install the devices.

providing the best products and service possible. As Larkam begins handing over the reins to his daughter Elisha, sales manager, and Chris Rubak, installation and service manager, the next generation will carry on the tradition of excellence and service, keeping Calgary clients safe and secure.

“The hardest thing they have to do is connect it to the Wi-Fi,” he says.

Showroom: 19, 4511 Glenmore Tr SE Calgary, AB T2C 2R9 Ph: 403 531-1555 • www.aesecurity.ca

Whether clients are ordering a DIY option or having a comprehensive system installed, AE Security is dedicated to

THANKS FOR 35 YEARS OF KEEPING AN EYE OUT!

CAL R GARY ’S #1 FORD AND LINCOLN DEALE

WHERE CALGARY COMES FOR FORD.

1135-17 Avenue S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2T 0B6 Phone: 403-245-1177 www.toolepeet.com

AT DEERFOOT AND DOUGLASDALE • (403) 253-2211 www.WOODRIDGEFORD.com

CELEBRATING

GOULET TAX PLANNING GROUP An association of professional corporations

Congratulations AE Security on providing Albertans with leadership for the past 35 years!

We look forward to your continued success. # 209, 2577 Bridlecrest Way SW, Calgary, Alberta T2Y 5J4 Ph: (403) 221-9300 | Toll Free: 1-888-508-0077 | Fax: (403) 221-9309 PHSP@puhlemployeebenefits.com | www.puhlemployeebenefits.com

“Our firm is very proud to have worked with AE Security over the past 15 years. Randy and staff have been very supportive of our firm during that time. We wish to congratulate them on their 35th anniversary in business” ~ Brian Goulet #104, 3016 – 19th Street NE Calgary, AB T2E 6Y9 403-250-2119 | bgoulet@gpcpartners.com www.gpcpartners.com

AE Security • 35

CALGARY’S MILLION DOLLAR HOMES // REAL ESTATE

Calgary’s MILLION DOLLAR HOMES IS ANYONE BUYING?

BY ERLYNN GOCOCO

S

ince the economic downturn, Calgary’s real estate market has suffered considerably. In almost every neighbourhood in the city, we continue to see sale signs go up. We also see many stay up, some for several months.

In many cases, the signs are taken down because a home

just isn’t selling. However, according to many real estate professionals, it’s the mid-range market that has suffered the most and needs a boost. Homes in the $500,000-million dollar range took the biggest hit, while those in the million dollar plus range continue to slowly gain momentum.

ABOVE: LUXURY HOME IN ELBOW PARK LISTED BY ROONEY, CRONIN + VALENTINE. PHOTO SOURCE: ROONEY, CRONIN + VALENTINE

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CALGARY’S MILLION DOLLAR HOMES // REAL ESTATE

“RESALE HOMES AT OR ABOVE A $1 MILLION DECREASED SHARPLY WHEN OIL PRICES DECLINED, CREATING A RECESSION AND REDUCING DEMAND FOR HIGHER PRICED HOUSING IN CALGARY.” ~ SALAT MOHAMED

The real estate market will recover with time and, according to some, there is light at the end of the tunnel. There is, in fact, an upside to having more inventory – buyers are able to be very selective and find exactly, or close to, what they want. Since it’s a buyers’ market, prices for luxury homes have decreased drastically.

Mohamed Salat, senior analyst, economics with CMHC explains, “Resale homes at or above a $1 million decreased sharply when oil prices declined, creating a recession and reducing demand for higher priced housing in Calgary. Sales of homes of a $1 million and above declined by almost 40 per cent in 2015 compared to 2014.”

With Calgary’s economy growing, says Salat, sales of higher-end homes have been recovering but are still not back to the level of sales experienced prior to the economic downturn. “At the end of 2017, there were 679 sales, up 11 per cent from the previous year. In the first half of 2018, sales of million dollar homes reported by the Calgary Real Estate Board have amounted to 351, down 11 per cent from the same period last year.”

Calgary realtor Gary Cronin of Rooney, Cronin + Valentine, says Calgary’s luxury home market has, like the general market, experienced a “slowdown” in sales. Despite the slowdown, Cronin says homes are still transacting.

The luxury market year-to-date, says Cronin, has had approximately 427 sales over $1 million dollars and 46 sales

in the $2 million dollar range and higher, with another 11 sales over the $3 million dollar range. “In the $2 million+ market, buyers are looking for newer homes or substantially renovated and current. We are also seeing a fair amount of land transactions as buyers are also looking to custom build.”

Ann-Marie Lurie, chief economist for Calgary Real Estate Board says, “Like most segments of the market, sales activity for $1 million+ homes fell compared to last year. Year-to-date sales as of June stood at 350 units, which represents an 11 per cent decline over last year. At the same time, new listings continue to rise, and inventories have an average 468 units so far this year, a 23 per cent increase over the previous year.”

ABOVE: SALAT MOHAMED, SENIOR ANALYST, CMHC PHOTO SOURCE: CMHC

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CALGARY’S MILLION DOLLAR HOMES // REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS REALTOR CARMEN DAVISON IS HOPEFUL AND OPTIMISTIC ABOUT THE REAL ESTATE MARKET IN CALGARY, AND TRIES TO EXPLAIN THIS TO HER BUYERS AND SELLERS ALIKE. Lurie adds that while they do not track price movements by price range, slower sales activity combined with higher inventory is likely weighing on prices this year.

Inventories in this segment of the market reached record highs during the 2015-2016 recession, says Lurie, but did start to fall last year as price adjustments encouraged some buyers back into the market and caused some potential sellers to hold off on their decision. “However, the economic recovery has been slow to gain traction and much of the job growth has not been in areas with traditionally higher pay, impacting demand in this sector.”

Real Estate Professionals realtor Carmen Davison is hopeful and optimistic about the real estate market in Calgary, and tries to explain this to her buyers and sellers alike.

“We have seen recovery to our million dollar market in Calgary since the recession and the flood of 2013,” says Davison. Although it has been over five years since the flood, she believes that some buyers still remain nervous when it comes to purchasing in river communities.

Davison believes that elements such as job loss and uncertainty have improved for many Calgarians, therefore strengthening the market place. She does acknowledge, however, that the new mortgage rules brought in earlier this year have definitely put “a chill in people’s pocket books as well as the continual rise of interest rates over the last year.”

“The Trump phenomena and trade talks continue to keep the markets unstable and bring uncertainty,” says Davison.

“There is some indication of over-building in areas where there are higher-end homes and prices may come down in order for these new homes to be absorbed over next six months. Positive, albeit very slow growth.”

While many were affected by the downturn, many were not.

For those that have the means to purchase a luxury home, they would be getting great value in this market.

Compared to other major Canadian cities, “Calgary still remains one of Canada’s most affordable places to live,” says Davison.

ABOVE: CARMEN DAVISON, REALTOR, REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS.

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Leading Business SEPTEMBER 2018

Compugen – Simplifying the business of technology…together

CalgaryChamber.com BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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2018 Board of

Directors Executive Chair: Phil Roberts, President, Vintri Technologies Inc Vice Chair: Brent Cooper, Partner, McLeod Law Past Chair: David Allen, Founder & President Situated Co. Treasurer: Wellington Holbrook, Chief Transformation Officer, ATB Financial

Directors Bill Brunton, Vice President, Habitat for Humanity, Southern Alberta Mike Williams, Executive Vice-President, Encana James Boettcher, Chief Idea Officer, Fiasco Gelato Desirée Bombenon, President & CEO, SureCall Contact Centres Ltd Mandeep Singh, Audit Partner, Deloitte Jason Hatcher, Managing Principal, Navigator Greg Garcia, President and CEO, Calgary Elite Roofing Brian Bietz, President, Beitz Resources Jenn Lofgren, Founder, Incito Mike Shaw, Vice President, Calgary Region Gas Distribution, ATCO Management Sandip Lalli – President and CEO Aaron Kroontje – Director of Digital & Technology Rebecca Wood – Director of Member Services Zoe Addington – Director of Policy, Research and Government Relations Leading Business magazine is a co-publication of the Calgary Chamber and Business in Calgary Calgary Chamber 600, 237 8th Avenue S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2G 5C3 Phone: (403) 750-0400 Fax: (403) 266-3413 calgarychamber.com

Policy Bites: The Changes to Alberta’s Labour Laws your Business Should Know

A

lberta’s labour laws have undergone significant change in recent years. In October we will see Alberta’s minimum wage increase to $15/hour – a 47 per cent increase in three years.

Along with the minimum wage, the Alberta Government has also made changes to the employment standards and labour relations legislation, introduced a new Occupational Health and Safety Act, and amended the Workers Compensation laws.

In this article we outline the key changes you should know, how your business could be impacted, and where you can find more information.

Minimum Wage Increase and the Impact on Calgary Businesses At the Chamber, we know that ensuring all Albertans are paid a fair wage for a day’s work is an important public policy position. That said, the Chamber has advocated against further increases to the minimum wage for two key reasons: 1. It has increased costs to employ minimum wage staff for small and medium-sized businesses, as well as not-for-profits organizations, by 50 per cent in just three years 2. By increasing costs to this magnitude, we are seeing less jobs and fewer hours for the very people the policy is intended to benefit The cause and the intention of the minimum wage increase has not been achieved.

Blanket minimum wage increases fail to target many working Albertans most in need of support. This becomes clear when we take a closer look at the data (Stats Canada): • 2 per cent of working Albertans earn the minimum wage (2017) • 61 per cent of minimum wage workers in Alberta are under 25, 70% per cent are under 30 (2017) • 50 per cent of minimum wage workers in Alberta identify as a son or daughter living with a parent (2016) • 13 per cent of Canadian minimum wage workers live in low-income households, as measured by the low-income cut-off (2012) The minimum wage places large costs on small- and medium-sized business. A typical small- or medium-sized restaurant and hospitality business surveyed in the Chamber’s Layered Cost Assessment will pay an additional $50,000 in 2018 over what was paid in 2016.

As business costs escalate, there is less of an opportunity to fund wage or job growth. In the Layered Cost Assessment, 55 per cent of businesses with minimum wage staff have reported layoffs due to the wage increases, with 36 per cent of all businesses surveyed reporting they will likely need to make future layoffs when the $15 minimum kicks in.

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Moving forward, the Chamber recommends the Alberta Government consider more targeted and businessfriendly policies to support lower income Albertans rather than increasing the minimum wage, such as expanding the Alberta Family Employment Tax Credit to all low income working Albertans, not just families.

What the New Employment Standards and Labour Relations Changes Mean for Your Business In 2017, the Alberta Government introduced changes to the Employment Standards and Labour Relations Code.

Taken together, these rules govern most employeremployee relationships.

The Employment Standards Code (ESC) addresses minimum standards such as when employees qualify for overtime, maternity leave, and how sick time is managed. The ESC will now mandate overtime pay be banked at 1.5 hours for every hour worked and will allow all employees to be automatically eligible for paid and unpaid holidays, even if the holiday does not land on a regular work day.

In addition to protecting existing, and adding new unpaid leaves, changes to the ESC reduce the eligibility or the time an employee must work before being eligible for a leave, such as maternity, to 90 days from 12 months. Employees can now return from a leave within 48 hours notice to their employer, instead of two weeks.

The Labour Relations Code (LRC) lays out rules dealing with the establishment of unions and the unionmanagement relationship. The new legislation shifts the balance of power in favour of more and stronger unions, makes it possible to certify a union without a vote, and puts the onus on the employer to prove they were innocent of unfair labour accusations.

A major issue with the changes to the ESC and LRC was the lack of consultation with the business community. In Ontario, the government spent two years reviewing their workplace legislation. In Alberta, there was a 36-day consultation period.

Most of these changes came into force in January 2018 with minimal consultation of the business community.

Key Changes to Occupational Health and Safety Your Business Must Comply With The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) sets the minimum standard for workplace health and safety, as well as the role and responsibilities of all parties in the workplace. In 2017, the Alberta Government undertook a review of Alberta’s OHS system and have now implemented a new OHSA that came into effect on June 1, 2018.

There are many changes to OHS rules that could impact your business, including the expansion of existing parties and the addition of new work site parties that will have roles and responsibilities under the legislation. The new OHS rules also expand business responsibilities to prevent harassment and violence, places the onus on the employer to prove disciplinary action was taken against a worker for reasons not relating to obligations under OHS, and ensure their workers have access to OHS information.

One of the changes that impacts not just work sites, but offices too, is the requirement for all employers with 20 or more employees to form a Health and Safety Committee (HSC). The HSC must consist of a minimum of four members with at least half representing workers, and is responsible for developing a health and safety plan, inspecting the worksite at regular intervals, and participating in investigations of serious injuries and incidents. If a workplace has between five and 19 workers, a health and safety representative must be appointed.

Learn More about Alberta’s Changing Labour Landscape The recent changes to the laws governing Alberta’s labour landscape are complex. The above information is only meant to provide an overview of the key changes you should know and how you could be impacted. You can find a detailed analysis, along with the work we did advocating on behalf of the business community, at calgarychamber.com.

The Chamber also regularly hosts workshops and webinars on changes to the labour landscape; notifications for these events can also be found on our website.

Further information and business requirements can be found on the Alberta Government’s website at www.alberta.ca.

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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Member Feature: Compugen: The Path to Partnership

W

hen asked about Compugen, Terry Mirza, Compugen’s VP of Sales – Canada West and United States, says, “We’re in the business of building long-term, trustbased relationships. We refer to this as CustomerFIRST thinking.”

This is not the response most would expect when discussing a typical IT solutions and services provider. However, upon further investigation, it becomes apparent that Compugen is anything but typical; trust and partnership are the foundational elements of the organization’s culture and corporate values. They are attributed to driving Compugen’s success in Calgary and across North America.

Since its inception in Ontario in 1981, Compugen, has been an active participant in the evolution of the IT industry. Its founder, President and CEO Harry Zarek, continues to lead the company forward in the new world of digital transformation. With portfolio priorities focused on The Modern Workspace and HybridCloud, mid-market and enterprise organizations in both the public and commercial sectors are able to benefit from Compugen’s mission to facilitate business transformation, leveraging these disruptive platforms. Customers are active participants in all stages of the dialogue to discover the best solution(s) for their required business outcome. The passion to work collaboratively with customers and to leverage the value of IT for their business, has become both the vision and tagline for the company: “Simplifying the business of technology…together.”

Compugen opened its first Calgary office in 1995. This was in response to market demand from large national clients who were seeking continuity in the IT supply and service chain.

Establishing a western office allowed Compugen to meet these existing requirements and increase its capacity to serve additional customers; as Calgary was home to the highest head office concentration per capita in the country.

Fast forward some 20 years and the same rationale still applies; albeit with additional benefits. Compugen endeavours to adhere to sustainable business practices and assists charitable organizations in the local community. Compugen’s subsidiary, Compugen Finance (CFI), is a market leader with its Green4Good® program. This program lets customers responsibly and securely dispose of all decommissioned hardware and donate the proceeds to non-profits of their choice. Recently, CFI was designated as a B-Corp, which is a prestigious designation based on a rigorous standard of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. The company also earned membership in the United Nations Global Compact, a corporate sustainability initiative. These recognitions validate the company’s commitment to support environmental and community programs.

Another unique differentiator is CFI’s CarbonBank™ program.

Compugen is able to generate CSA certified carbon credits through the asset reuse program. Many of the larger Green4Good

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customers have integrated the associated carbon credits into their carbon reporting regime, allowing them to demonstrate a reduced carbon impact.

Compugen’s values-based philosophy, has driven its growth in Calgary, even during the recent economic downturn. The disruption within the resource sector required innovative strategies by all parties. In response, Compugen created a new solution that provides incentives for the service provider and customer to work together to drive efficiencies, improvements, and enable transformation. This provides predictability and removes the incentive for one party to profit at the expense of the other – a ground breaking model of partnership to achieve business outcomes. Although this innovative solution was designed for the needs of the resource sector, Compugen is optimistic that customers with less volatility will also want the predictability that this type of service provides.

This type of innovation, coupled with the belief in Calgary’s resiliency, led Compugen to expand its reach by opening a new Western Hub. Located in the Sunridge Business Park, this location provides state-of-the-art advanced configuration, ISO quality warehousing, as well as parts and logistic services.

The expanded footprint displays game-changing market differentiation for infrastructure sourcing, coupled with “smarthands” field services teams to deploy, support, and maintain – all centralized through common tools, processes and service levels.

Compugen is hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony at its new Western Hub on September 20th. They will showcase the facility to customers and the community to thank them for their ongoing support. In addition, Compugen wants to highlight the hard work and dedication of its local staff. Compugen attributes its success to the amazing people who have embraced the Compugen values and CustomerFIRST philosophy.

To learn more about Compugen, , please go to http://www.compugen.com.

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s get you back out on the road faster!

To view our inventory, visit drivingforce.ca

AMVIC Licensed

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about the experience.

Chamber Member Spotlights The Calgary Chamber is proud to represent many Calgary businesses large and small; this month we are highlighting some of our industry leading members.

Altus Group Ltd

Altus Group Limited is a leading provider of independent advisory services, software and data solutions to the global commercial real estate industry.

The Altus Group; Altus Analytics and Altus Expert Services, reflect decades of experience, a range of expertise, and technology-enabled capabilities.

Their solutions empower clients to analyze, gain insight and recognize value on their real estate investments. Headquartered in Canada, they have approximately 2,500 employees around the world, with operations in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific.

To learn more, please visit altusgroup.com

Fluor Canada

Fluor Coproration is a global engineering, procurement, fabrication, construction and maintenance company that designs, builds and maintains capital-efficient facilities for its clients on six continents. For more than a century, Fluor has served clients in the energy, chemicals, government, industrial, infrastructure, mining and power market sectors by delivering innovative and integrated solutions across the globe.

For more information, visit fluor.com/canada

Mortgage 360

Homegrown in Calgary, Mortgage 360 strives to build something that matters. It’s as simple as that. The company focuses on helping their customers make the best decisions for their needs while giving back to the community. With the introduction of the Mortgage That Matters, a mortgage that guarantees you the best rates while contributing to the charity of your choice for as long as you have your mortgage, the business is clearly committed to making an impact in our world. Not just the mortgage world, but the whole world.

For more information, visit mortgage360.ca

Thanks

The Chamber thanks the following long-standing member companies celebrating anniversaries this month for their years of support to the Calgary Chamber, and their commitment to the growth and development of Calgary.

Member name

Years as a member

Avenir Software Inc Concord Mortgage Group Ltd. Tervita Corporation Alberta Beauty Systems Inc. Sylvan Learning Centre Tundra Process Solutions Autism Aspergers Friendship Society of Calgary Crafted Edge Homes Freeman Audio Visual Canada Meticulon Print Three Stone Waterson Inc

20 20 20 10 10 10 5 5 5 5 5 5

Cenovus Energy

Cenovus Energy is a Canadian integrated oil and natural gas company. It is committed to maximizing value by responsibly developing its assets in a safe, innovative and efficient way. Cenovus operations include oil sands projects in northern Alberta, which use specialized methods to drill and pump the oil to the surface, and established natural gas and oil production in Alberta and British Columbia. The company also has 50% ownership in two U.S. refineries.

For more information, visit cenovus.com.

First Student ADT Security

Headquartered in Montreal and Toronto, ADT is one of Canada’s largest monitoring and alarm system installation companies, with solutions including the full line of Protectron Smart Security and ADT Interactive Services. With its network of qualified professionals specializing in the sale, installation, servicing and monitoring of electronic security systems, it serves more than 750,000 residential, commercial and industrial subscribers across Canada.

For more information visit adt.ca

ATCO

Founded in true entrepreneurial spirit in 1947, ATCO has grown from its Alberta roots into a worldwide group of companies with approximately 7,000 employees and assets of $22 billion.

ATCO’s strength is in its diversity. The company is engaged in Structures & Logistics (workforce housing, innovative modular facilities, construction, site support services, and logistics and operations management); Electricity (electricity generation, transmission, and distribution); Pipelines & Liquids (natural gas transmission, distribution and infrastructure development, energy storage, and industrial water solutions); and Retail Energy (electricity and natural gas retail sales).

For more information visit atco.com

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SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

As one of the leading school transportation solutions provider in North America, First Student strives to provide the best start and finish to every school day. First Student completes five million student journeys each day, moving more passengers than all U.S. airlines combined. With a team of highlytrained drivers and the industry’s strongest safety record, First Student delivers reliable, quality services including full-service transportation and management, special-needs transportation, route optimization and scheduling, maintenance, and charter services for 1,100 school district contracts.

For more information, please visit firststudentinc.com

Congratulations to Tundra Process Solutions for celebrating 10 years as a Calgary Chamber Member

Tundra Process Solutions

Tundra Process Solutions Ltd. brings uniqueness to several industries with their ability to supply the majority of the equipment to a full facility and offer in house custom engineered solutions for any application. Tundra represents industry leading manufacturers in Artificial Lift, Motors & Drives, Boilers & Water Treatment, Panels & Buildings, Valve & Actuation, Instrumentation & Controls, and Service & Support. In addition to being a representative for industry leading products, Tundra manufactures a full range of custom engineered solutions including pre-fabricated panels, buildings, equipment, and truck offloading systems.

For more information, visit tundrasolutions.ca

THE SMALL BUSINESS BOOM // SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

THE SMALL BUSINESS

BOOM NINETY-SIX PER CENT OF ALBERTA BUSINESSES ARE SMALL BUSINESSES

BY JOHN HARDY

I

t’s a frustrating stereotype but it’s getting much, much better. “Small business” is no longer a cynical negative.

On the contrary! “Small business” has become a dynamic source of pride and positivity.

“Small business is the cornerstone of the Canadian economy,” says the enthusiastic Sandip Lalli, president and CEO of the Calgary Chamber. “Small business creates the majority of the jobs in Canada. The owners of these businesses are passionate, driven, and motivated individuals who spend their days working and their nights planning.”

Teresa Clouston, executive vice-president, ATB Financial, who is very plugged in to the success of Alberta small businesses, echoes the new understanding and perceptions. “About 96 per cent of Alberta businesses are small businesses with fewer than 50 employees. They are important job creators. They are also fertile ground for new products and services and, in turn, for diversification of the economy.

“Small businesses are where entrepreneurial activity tends to find a home. When one small business succeeds, the whole community tends to benefit from the boost to the local economy.”

Lalli underscores the value and importance of small businesses, particularly in the Calgary business market. “Small

businesses pack a big economic punch and they are invariably agile and quick to adapt to change and new opportunities.

“Although officially we define a small business as one with less than 100 employees, they are much better defined by their business culture. They are driven, tenacious, goalorientated, and willing to take the odd risk,” she smiles.

As Clouston points out, while the planning and the decision to launch a small business can be both exciting and challenging, navigating the speedbumps of a small business is laced with pros and cons.

“When I meet with business owners, the frequent pro-side is the ability to be nimble in terms of how they operate and adapt more quickly to challenges, like Alberta’s downturn. “On the con side, most small businesses are already pretty lean operations and they may not have much room to cut costs or options to focus on growing their operations and diversifying.”

Her common take-away recommendation for small businesses? Cash flow. “Cash flow is critical for small business success. Cash flow management is all about monitoring and managing how and when cash flows in and out of a business and avoiding shortfalls, minimizing expenses and maximizing returns.”

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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Digital Marketing:

The Keys To Success

STEP

Looking to get noticed and stand out from the crowd? A strong marketing strategy can expand your business’ visibility and greatly increase your chances of engaging in meaningful contacts. Here’s a 5-step plan to help get you started today:

1

Keep your info up-to-date

STEP

Having all your information up to date will allow potential customers to know your address or opening hours, encouraging a meaningful interaction. It will also help you rank better on search engine results.

2 Have a strong website

STEP

Having a trendy and well-organised website that is optimized for all types of screen displays (computer, tablet, mobile) will allow potential customers to easily seek you out.

3 Develop quality content

STEP

Quality content such as images, videos or blog posts, will help your potential customers to engage with your business, while also greatly increase your search engine rankings.

4 Engage with the community

STEP

Social networks like Facebook and Instagram offer you privileged platforms to answer questions, foster engagement and ensure that you are always pertinent to your audience.

5 Capitalize on paid search

Once all the elements are in place, paid search can speed up the pace of your digital marketing and make it possible to appear at the top of the list during relevant searches.

Visit businessressources.yp.ca to learn more on digital marketing!

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SEPTEMBER 2018 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

“THE EXPO WILL ENCOURAGE NETWORKING FOR SMALL BUSINESS PEOPLE TO GET INSPIRED AND LEARN FROM OTHER SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS, AS WELL AS SEEING VALUABLE EXHIBITORS AND PARTICIPATING IN INTERACTIVE LEARNING LABS.” ~ SANDIP LALLI Lalli and the Chamber team are focused on the planning and the many details of Calgary’s upcoming Small Business Week, particularly this year’s two marquee events: the Small Business Calgary Expo on October 18 and the awards gala on October 19.

“The Expo will encourage networking for small business people to get inspired and learn from other small business owners and service providers, as well as seeing valuable exhibitors and participating in interactive learning labs,” Lalli explains.

The awards gala will recognize the finalists and winners of the Small Business Calgary Awards.

Last year’s ATB Small Business of the Year Award winner was ROSSO Coffee Roasters. As a gung-ho and successful Calgary small business owner, Cole Torode, ROSSO’s partner and director of coffee, admits that, “One of the challenges is efficiently figuring out budgets and how to allocate capital. It’s tempting to bite off more than you can chew. Figuring out where the time and the capital to fund these ideas will come from can be stressful.

However, the greatest reward of being a small business and of Small Business Week, is meeting other likeminded people who are going through the same battles and sharing motivation, because we’re all going through this together.”

Richard Fankhanel and Kent Greves.

Diamond Fireplace & Stone

Celebrates 35 Years

by Rennay Craats with photos by Riverwood Photography

W

hen Kent Greves’ father, Gary Greves, started Diamond Fireplace & Stone in 1983, the company offered customers a small selection of half a dozen wood burning fireplaces. A lot has changed in 35 years. While the business continues to focus on customer satisfaction and quality products as it did in the beginning, today’s Diamond Fireplace boasts an impressive selection of only the best brands in the industry.

“Diamond has grown with Calgary,” says Kent Greves, vicepresident of Diamond Fireplace & Stone. “We want to be the guys who are the best resource for whoever needs a fireplace or stonework.”

They are well on their way to achieving that. Designers, contractors, new home builders and retail customers all know that Diamond has the expertise, experience and

Diamond Fireplace & Stone | 35 Years | 1

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“We are the company that introduced Centurion Stone out of Nashville to the Calgary market,” Greves says. “It started over 25 years ago with us convincing builders to put a bit of stone on the corner of the garage and it has expanded to where you can see lots of homes with full facades of stone.”

product lines that translate into the perfect fireplace or stone finishing for their space. Over the years, the company has evolved and expanded from wood burning units to include gas and electric fireplaces and accessories, barbeques, HVAC, antique and retro kitchen appliances, and outdoor firepits and stoves. It is also a leading supplier of quality manufactured stone with a wide range of colours and styles for home exteriors, interior accents and fireplace finishings.

Looking after your fleet needs for the last 34 years.

Diamond’s professionals both provide and install the stone, and there is sure to be something for every taste and style in the catalog. From castle to fieldstone, stack to ledge stone, rubble to river rock, Centurion Stone can accommodate every design need of Diamond’s customers. Whether clients are redesigning facades or adding rock to a fireplace feature, Greves is proud to be the one-stop shop.

“Our showroom is pretty unmatched in the city for what we can display in fireplaces and our stone products,” he says.

The 5,000+ square foot showroom is the jewel of the recent move to the 15 Street northeast location. After more than 20 years in the previous storefront, Diamond relocated and has the space and layout to do its incredible products justice. The

Congratulations to Diamond Fireplace & Stone on this truly remarkable milestone.

Holding our partnership in the highest regard, we wish you many years continued growth and prosperity.

• Priority service • Competitive rates • 2 year or 40,000 km warranty Nationwide

Congratulations to Diamond Fireplace on reaching this milestone!

3005-23 Street N.E. Calgary, Alta.T2E 7A4 T:403-235-2912 F:403-235-2315 www.cetusautomotive.com

www.renaissancefireplaces.com

Diamond Fireplace & Stone | 35 Years | 2

Industry Leader of Manufactured stone

25 year

celebrating our

partnership

Top Sellers

LEDGESTONE

RUBBLE

STACK

CUTFACE

Over 30 Patterns Available!

Since 1969, Centurion Products has led the way to secure stability

and performance in the precast stone industry. Architects, builders, general contractors and designers nationwide are confident in the craftsmanship offered by Centurion as a global leader.

MANUFACTURING & CORPORATE OFFICE 50 Van Buren Street | Nashville, TN 37208 615-256-6694 615-726-1795 Toll Free: 800-786-6352 CenturionStone.Com

PLANTATION

Trending New Patterns

The “Close to Nature” appearance of Centurion’s wide variety of products has made it a favorite worldwide for decades. Our stone has a distinct advantage because it is lighter, cost effective and easier to install than natural stone. Our state of the art facility enables us to manufacture quality products that meet the high standards we set for ourselves and that our customers’ expect. Centurion maintains a timeless goal of making a product that will last for decades regardless of the climate.

MOUNTAIN LEDGE

DESIGNER SERIES

designs, the artful and innovative designs of Montigo fireplaces, the stylish and modern wood burning fireplaces manufactured by Renaissance Fireplaces, and top-of-theline Napoleon barbeques and fireplaces, Diamond has it all.

“We’ve been able to align ourselves with good companies, and we can see what’s coming down the line and plan for it,” says Richard Fankhanel, president of Diamond Fireplaces & Stone. “We like to stay on top of market trends.” showroom is a world of possibilities featuring more than 70 working fireplace displays and extensive stone samples. Clients can walk through the displays and find a style that fits their tastes, and they are encouraged to return often. Diamond is always renovating the displays to ensure the newest and most popular products are featured in the showroom.

Diamond has the best products from the top manufacturers, many of which are Canadian. With high-end fireplaces from Town & Country Luxury Fireplaces that offer gorgeous clean

The latest trends can be seen throughout the showroom, most notably in the lines of linear fireplaces.

These long, rectangular electric fireplaces are beautiful art pieces as much as they are design elements. Clients can change the colour of the flames flickering in these built-in or wallmounted pieces with the click of a remote control. While they don’t throw off the heat of a wood or gas fireplace, the linear designs function more as an art installation that doubles as a space heater, giving off around 5,000 BTUs. These units are perfect additions to condos or small spaces and continue to be a top seller for Diamond and a growing trend in the market.

Z-FLEX

®

CHIMNEY & VENTING SOLUTIONS

“

“

We are proud to have worked with Diamond right from the beginning

-Brian Richards Director, Sales and Marketing

Z-FLEX

®

CHIMNEY & VENTING SOLUTIONS

www.amantii.com Diamond Fireplace & Stone | 35 Years | 4 Diamond Quarter Page Ad 1.indd 1

2018-07-19 8:54:31 AM

fireplaces continue to be very popular with Calgary customers.

The modern designs are aesthetic as well as warm, and the fans are quiet, so they can spread heat without interrupting the cozy, comforting atmosphere.

Regardless of the style or fuel source, Diamond ensures its products are safe. Many of the high-end fireplaces the company carries are designed with extra panes of specialty glass or safety screens to give parents and pet owners peace of mind that the fireplace is safe to touch. Diamond Fireplaces & Stone cares about clients and goes above and beyond to get them exactly what they want and need.

“Another niche market that we offer is custom fireplaces. We’ve done custom fireplaces in malls and hotels as well as individual customer designs,” says Fankhanel.

Diamond also offers modern wood fireplaces that are more beautiful, efficient, and airtight than those Kent’s father could have ever imagined when he started the company decades ago.

For those preferring convenience over tradition, Diamond also carries gas inserts to convert fireplaces from wood burning to gas. With the convenience of heat with the flick of a switch, along with the vast selection of beautiful units available, gas

It all comes down to ensuring customers are happy, which means carrying on a relationship once the sale and installation is complete. Diamond services the products it sells; knowledgeable technicians are available to do maintenance and repairs to ensure products are in top shape. Technicians check to make sure the valves, thermocouple, and switches are in peak order and that everything is clean and well-kept, so clients are ready to enjoy their fireplace when the weather turns.

Diamond Fireplace & Stone | 35 Years | 5

But with Diamond’s products, clients don’t have to wait until winter. There is a unit for every room, even if that room doesn’t have walls. With an impressive selection of gas and propane fire pits and tables, wood stoves and outdoor fireplaces, Diamond helps clients create a fantastic and comfortable outdoor living space.

“We sell a lot of electric radiant heaters to new homes that have an outdoor living area,” says Greves. “People use the fireplace for ambiance and use the heaters to warm their bodies.”

The few Napoleon backyard barbeques and accessories featured in the showroom are a mere sample of what Diamond carries.

The company can bring in any Napoleon product, so clients can achieve their perfect backyard paradise.

Diamond has been serving the needs of Calgary clients since 1983 and with the new location and spectacular showroom of products, it is determined to continue that tradition.

While the market has changed in 35 years, Diamond’s dedication to excellence and customer service never will.

That’s why, inside and out, Calgary designers, architects, and retail customers know where to find the best fireplaces and manufactured stone products in the city—for its many repeat customers, Diamond Fireplace & Stone is the only place in town.

#4, 10221 – 15th Street NE Calgary, Alberta, T3J 0T1 Phone: 403-273-0000 | Fax: 403-273-7333 diamondfireplace.com

SERVING CALGARY BUSINESSES SINCE 1969 WITH ALL OF THEIR ACCOUNTING NEEDS

Congratulations to Diamond Fireplace and Stone.

Very proud to have been a part of the success of this distinguished company and we wish them continued success!

35 35 YEARS

serving the Calgary area with quality fireplaces and stonework

Montigo Congratulates

Bay 1, 3700 19 St NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6V2 ph: (403) 250-5111 f: (403) 291-0412

our partners at Diamond

www.quonassociates.com

Fireplaces on reaching this milestone

Glad to be part of your 35 years of success!

airportcrossing.com Phase II Now Leasing

Diamond Fireplace & Stone | 35 Years | 6

CHEVROLET • CADILLAC BUICK • GMC

Redefining Luxury at Carter Cadillac

by Rennay Craats with photos by Riverwood Photography

A

t a time when beehive hairdos and wide lapels were the rage, the most coveted accessory didn’t come from Jackie Kennedy or Steve McQueen. It came from Jack Carter. Calgarians flocked to Jack Carter Chev Olds to get a look at the latest models and over the years the dealership has put more than 100,000 people behind the wheel of a new, leased or pre-owned vehicle. Carter established his Chevrolet dealership in 1962 on Macleod Trail and soon moved into the iconic location on the corner of Glenmore and Macleod Trails where it flourished for decades.

Since its inception more than 55 years ago, the dealership has evolved to become Jack Carter Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC to incorporate additional brands and has expanded its services to provide the very best to Calgary customers.

“Both Chevy and GMC have some pretty exciting plans to enter into new market segments where they are not currently offering products,” says Jay McKeen, dealer-principal at Jack Carter.

With its broad and impressive selection of SUVs, crossovers, trucks and cars, Jack Carter has some-

Jay McKeen, dealer-principal at Jack Carter.

thing for everyone who walks onto the lot. The push to further expand its product offerings as well as its service capacity at the 29th Street SE dealership coincides with another monumental change coming to Jack Carter.

Jack Carter Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC • 1

105

Kevin Duriaux, Jay McKeen, Scott Forrest, Jared Williams, Terry Maddison, Lane Austin, Dennis Clease, Corey Taillon and Mike Cautley.

Construction is underway on an exclusively Cadillac dealership at Meadows Mile near Blackfoot and Deerfoot Trails. In 2015, General Motors announced the shift away from Cadillac being integrated within broader dealerships and toward a stand-alone dealership dedicated to the luxury brand’s product lineup. In keeping with this mandate, the Jack Carter team searched out the perfect location. Meadows Mile has quickly become the only place Calgarians need to go for luxury vehicles, and Cadillac’s fantastic location is a stone’s throw from the Porsche, Lamborghini, Mercedes, Lexus and Ferrari dealerships. The Carter Cadillac dealership will be the first in North America and only the second in the world to incorporate Cadillac’s new vision for the brand when it opens late this year.

“The luxury market in automotive has been one of the fastest growing segments in not just Canada but North America and we want to position Cadillac to take advantage of that,” McKeen says.

The corporate vision, tagged “Dare Greatly,” has Cadillac poised to not only introduce new and improved models but to enter market areas in which the brand isn’t yet established. It is pushing the limits of engineering and imagination to surpass the German and Japanese luxury brands in quality, performance and above all else, service.

What truly sets Cadillac apart is the experience, and the new dealership will redefine what it means to

Kevin Duriaux, Cadillac Canada’s western regional manager for sales & marketing with Jay McKeen.

buy a luxury vehicle in Calgary. The new facility will have a virtual reality room that allows customers to experience Cadillac products even before they are released. Customers can get an idea of features and capability in advance, helping them determine if the product is something they want to consider.

But it’s not all business. To complement the challenge for people to “Dare Greatly,” customers can experience a bit of adventure and excitement while they wait for servicing.

“Cadillac has been supporting doing these adventurous things and stepping out of the box, so we thought why not let someone virtually climb Mount Everest or drive the Paris Dakar Rally? If you’re going to sit for an oil change, you may as well Dare Greatly,” he says.

This isn’t the only innovation integrated into the 50,000-square-foot state-of-the-art dealership. With the advancement in electric cars, Carter Cadillac

Jack Carter Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC • 2

will be equipped with everything from specialty tools to charging stations to Cadillac-trained specialized technicians to accommodate the growth in that market. Also, at both the Jack Carter and Carter Cadillac locations, electric models will be charged using solar panels to further reduce their environmental footprint. The full-service facility brings the outside in too, as it offers new and pre-owned luxury Cadillacs in a unique and beautiful location.

“We have a marvellous location that is right on the bluff and we really felt that it should be a two-storey showroom rather than a single-storey one,” he says.

The second storey will showcase more than the views. It will be home to Cadillac’s new electric vehicles along with the exciting line of high-performance V-Series vehicles. With Cadillac’s involvement in the U.S. racing circuit as well as its dedication to green energy, McKeen felt it was important to highlight these two special categories of cars. The basement level will celebrate the storied history of GM with a collection of classic cars. It’s a car enthusiast’s dream seeing muscle cars like GTOs and Camaros, classic pickup trucks, and the jewel of the collection, a 1954 museum-quality Corvette, all in one place.

The dealership’s main level will showcase Cadillac’s newest models with a wide selection of vehicles on the lot. And the selection is truly impressive.

“We are the largest Canadian Cadillac dealership west of Toronto, and that means we earn more allotment to carry more product than anyone else,” he says. “It also means that, with the volume we sell and service, there is nobody more knowledgeable in the Cadillac world than our team.”

This experience ensures that customers are well informed and that they get the right vehicle for their needs, even if that ends up not being a Cadillac. The priority is achieving customer satisfaction through integrity and credibility, which means no pressure sales.

The team is committed to Customers for Life and they know that if they treat customers well, they will come back again and again.

“No one sale is important enough to compromise the overall philosophy that we’re trying to implement,” McKeen says.

This philosophy was started in the 1960s with Jack Carter and continues to be the cornerstone of the existing and new dealerships. After all, the simple formula of

This philosophy was started in the 1960s with Jack Carter and continues to be the cornerstone of the existing and new dealerships. After all, the simple formula of “customers first” is a winning one. By applying it, Jack Carter Chevrolet has doubled its growth across all metrics over the past five years and is being recognized for its unique way of doing business. “customers first” is a winning one. By applying it, Jack Carter Chevrolet has doubled its growth across all metrics over the past five years and is being recognized for its unique way of doing business. In 2017, the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association recognized Jack Carter with the Laureate Award for business innovation. This award celebrates the dealership’s commitment to providing quality service in order to keep Customers for Life. But Jack Carter takes it a step further by applying the same standards to its team to ensure the dealership has the most stable, consistent and knowledgeable staff so it can provide the highest possible level of service.

“We need them to be trained better than anyone else, to be more knowledgeable. We need them to be people we can count on and empower to make decisions. In order to do that, we can’t be changing people over all the time,” McKeen says.

To achieve this, Jack Carter initiated a process called Hire Slowly during which management looks at not only the qualifications and experience of potential employees but also at their personality and character. This helps determine if they would be a good fit

Jack Carter Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC • 3

“Our turnover rate is about one-third of what the industry standard is, which gives us credibility when we say we get the best employees. The turnover rate indicates that we are walking the talk.” ~ Jay McKeen with the culture and the staff to perpetuate the positive, enthusiastic workplace environment for which the dealership is known. By ensuring the right people are hired, Jack Carter is encouraging long-term employee retention and satisfaction to keep “employees for life” as well. Hiring began nearly a year before Carter Cadillac was set to open to ensure the new dealership has the right team in place when it launches. While it’s not always easy to implement, the process is definitely paying off.

“Our turnover rate is about one-third of what the industry standard is, which gives us credibility when we say we get the best employees. The turnover rate indicates that we are walking the talk,” he says.

The Laureate Award also recognized that the dealership walks the talk when it comes to charity and community support initiatives as well. Through Carter Cares, all 110 employees were allotted $200 to support a group or charity in 2016. At the end of the year, nearly

CHEVROLET • CADILLAC BUICK • GMC

every employee had supported a cause close to their hearts and the initiative has continued to be a way for Jack Carter to support organizations connected to its team. Whether staff supported an established charity or pooled their resources to help an employee’s neighbour get a new electric wheelchair, each employee supported the community and made Calgary a better place to live.

“It’s those initiatives that I’m most proud of and it gives a flavour of the culture that we try to have here at the dealership,” says McKeen.

That culture has created a dealership with great service, knowledge and selection to better serve Calgary customers. Whether customers are looking for a small electric commuter vehicle or a powerful pickup truck, a roomy SUV or a luxury vehicle, one thing is certain: they will have a great experience at Jack Carter Chevrolet Buick GMC and Carter Cadillac.

11555 29 St SE Calgary, AB T2Z 0N4 Sales: 888-378-4671 | Service: 1 888-692-8317 www.jackcarterchev.ca

Jack Carter Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC • 4

CARRIAGE HOUSE INN

by David Parker with photos by Riverwood Photography

Celebrates 50 Years W

hen Carriage House Inn opened on 90 Avenue south of the Bow River 50 years ago, it must have seemed an awful long way from downtown Calgary. However, the three local families that invested in what was then a motor inn had tremendous foresight and confidence in the growth of this city.

They already had experience with the Highlander Hotel on the north side of the city along the Trans-Canada Highway at 19th Street N.W. and felt the south was poised for expansion.

At the time, Macleod Trail was nothing like the busy commuter road it is today. There was a lot of excitement as Chinook Centre and Southridge Mall were combining to become a huge shopping and entertainment attraction; however, south of Glenmore Trail there were few places to visit and not a lot of residential properties.

The same families who planned, developed, and built the Carriage House Inn and transitioned it into a full service, independent hotel, are still the proud owners.

It quickly became a favourite with travelers and locals and today the location is really only just a few minutes from the core of the city.

The Carriage House Inn still boasts some of its original customers who continue their relationship with the hotel. A number of its loyal staff has been with the business for many years, giving testimony to the quality of the hotel, its ownership and management.

Carriage House Inn â&#x20AC;˘ 50

109

They show a committed dedication to the hotel’s “We take great care of you” motto, offering a strong internal culture and excellent customer service – Carriage House Inn’s management boasts 225 years of collective hospitality within its walls.

Many of the staff are proud of their long association with the hotel. Sally Fanjak has retired from the kitchen where she enjoyed working for the past 40 years, and maintenance engineer, Frank Rzewsky, recently retired after 31 years on the job.

Above: Archived exterior photo of the Carriage House Inn circa 1974.

Inset: Peanuts Pub before renovations in 1983.

A legend to visitors was the kind and always happy Leo Sheftel, part of the ownership group who was there when the Carriage House Motor Inn was being built and who was always present greeting guests and pouring them coffee every day until he passed away in 2004.

General Manager Keith Grainger speaks fondly of Sheftel with this story. After being hired for a job when he was a 14 year-old schoolboy Grainger nervously stood by the kitchen waiting for instructions. Mr. Sheftel spied him, asked why he was just standing there and said, ‘Come with me,’ and showed him how to bus tables and support the waiters in the dining room.

Grainger worked his way up through all of the hotel’s departments over 42 years, and transitioned into his current position of general manager in October, 2015.

The Carriage House Inn has changed a lot over the years. Over the same footprint, 41 rooms, including 12 suites, were added. Many improvements were made, and the Bottle Room & Saloon opened.

In 1970 construction began on the 10-storey tower that provided an additional 116 guest

Carriage House Inn • 50 • 2

Above: Bharathi Raja, Keith Grainger, Robert Frew, Pamela Currie, Ken Ho, Angela Rivard, Isabel Opazo, Nicole Monks, Roxane Carlson, Rahim Omran, Frank Wong and Lino Savino.

rooms, conference space, ballroom and Marlborough Lounge. This helped to establish the hotel as a popular spot for conferences, banquets, receptions, meetings and weddings.

Grainger says its doors have welcomed thousands of wedding guests over the years, serving up to 100 wedding banquets annually, creating a larger satisfied customer base.

The venue space boasts 17,000+ square feet of meeting rooms that includes three large ballrooms where up to 400 people can dine comfortably and 800 can be accommodated reception style.

Roxane Carlson, Catering & Events Manager, has been with the Carriage House Inn for 11 years and has executed countless weddings and events in the hotel’s diverse function space.

One of the big attractions is the availability of parking close by. Carriage House Inn has ample parking around the hotel, providing guests with more than 750 parking spaces.

The hotel’s kitchen under the direction of Lino Savino, Director of Food & Beverage, and Ken Ho, Executive Chef who has been with the hotel for 25 years, handles meals for all events, the restaurants and room service.

From the outset the Carriage House is known as the go-to place for the best steak sandwich in town (the record to date, for one day, was over 1,000 steak sandwiches) and the best Sunday brunch you could find throughout the city. In addition, it offers casual beer and food in the popular Peanuts Public House where Manager Frank Wong has served for the past 30 years, as well as home-style cuisine ˆ Restaurant where you’ll be welcomed by Restaurant in THE Congratulations Carriage Manager, Rahim Omran, who has 32 years with the Carriage on 50 years!

House Inn. The hotel also offers fine dining in Ninety Thirty Lounge and cocktails in Dudley’s Gaming Room.

Guests reviews show how happy they are with the level of hospitality and dining options, especially the hearty breakfasts and the enticing products from the in-house bakery.

Besides supplying all of the hotel’s venues, the bakery offers breads, bagels, cookies, pastries, pies and kosher baked goods at a retail cashier station in the lobby where the wonderful aroma attracts a large number of customers, many who drive from surrounding communities to get their high-quality baked goods each week.

House Inn

We’re the creative event partner you’ve been looking for.

Let’s do great things together.

3920 B Edmonton Trail NE 1.877.598.9378 | onewestevents.com

Carriage House Inn • 50 • 3

Like any high quality hotel, it has many appreciated amenities like a 24-hour business centre, complimentary hi-speed internet, free parking and a fitness centre with a steam room. The year-round outdoor swimming pool with heated deck, bar service and hot tub has become a big winner, even during the cold winter months.

Grainger says its core value of service excellence in hospitality has not changed, but the way the customer consumes information and interacts with a business definitely has. Yet despite economic downturns and the addition of a number of competing properties in the area, the Carriage House Inn has fared very well as an independent, non-branded property.

Its 180 fulltime staff work hard to maintain the company motto, ‘We Take Great Care of You”, annually welcoming thousands of satisfied guests through the hotels guestrooms, function space and dining outlets.

The hotel remains a mecca for travelers to the city while enjoying a loyal following of Calgarians who appreciate the lounge, fine dining restaurant and classic bakery goods, as well as the convenience of its convention and meeting facilities.

030 Macleod Trail South, Calgary Alberta, Canada T2H 0M4 Phone: (800) 661-9566 | Phone: (403) 253-1101 | Fax (403) 259-2414

www.carriagehouse.net

Carriage House Inn • 50 • 4

WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBOURHOOD AT THE CENTRE OF IT ALL. Providing a full experience to your valued team and guests is definitely a requirement for hosting a great meeting or event. Your space, audio/visual and catering needs are lined up, but what about that bit of something extra? What can you do to really send things over the top for a truly memorable experience? Let us show you what we can do for you.

As the cornerstone of Calgary’s Convention scene, the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC) is at the centre of a truly great experience. Not only are we home to innovative spaces and collaborative services; we are directly connected to over 1,100 hotel rooms at the Calgary Marriot Downtown, the Fairmont Palliser, the Hyatt Regency Calgary and other beautiful boutique accommodations.

For a bit of post-meeting cultural engagement, explore Calgary’s own Glenbow Museum, located within CTCC’s south building. Alternatively your team can take in live theatre or a philharmonic performance across the street at the Arts Commons.

For the foodies, CTCC serves some of the best food in the city, and we also connect you to vibrant downtown eateries. Whether it’s a pre-meeting breakfast at the Blue Vinny, dinner at Teatro, Centini or SALTLIK, an afternoon caffeine fix at Rosso or Phil & Sebastian, or post-event beverages at The Wednesday Room, there’s a little something for everyone’s taste.

With hundreds of shops only a short walk away, your team will find just about everything they’re looking for. From high-end fashion at Holt Renfrew, to books and toys for your kids, you’ll have your retail therapy covered.

And for those that simply need a bit of peace and quiet amongst the trees, we are proud to be situated just a few steps from Olympic Plaza. Take in the sunshine, sights and sounds of the city during the summer, or enjoy the quaint outdoor skating rink in the colder months.

Connecting to the rest of Calgary’s city centre is easy and convenient. As a hub of the city’s indoor +15 elevated walkway, you won’t need to brave the outdoor weather in winter to get around the downtown core. Furthermore, there are over 5,000 nearby parking spaces, and for those taking public transportation, the C-Train stops right outside our front door.

Hosting your team’s critical meeting or important celebration isn’t just about the space you’re in, it’s about the full experience and the bigger area. From great shopping, exceptional coffee to peaceful outdoor spaces, CTCC makes Calgary’s Convention scene your local destination for that perfect memorable and complete experience.

calgary-convention.com BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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Trade Turmoil Impacts Calgary’s Economic Outlook

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here has been an alliterative aspect to the overriding themes emerging from Calgary Economic Development’s annual Economic Outlook in recent years. From recession to recovery in 2016 to modest momentum for economic growth a year ago. The trend looks to continue again this fall amid trade and tax turmoil.

With an export-focused economy in Calgary, the uncertainty over NAFTA and other major global trade agreements – in addition to inter-provincial trade disputes – promises to be a major theme as leading economists offer their forecasts for 2019 on October 3 at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre.

Amid growing protectionist sentiment worldwide, Pedro Antunes, deputy chief economist for the Conference Board of Canada, and Todd Hirsch, chief economist for ATB Financial, will give their projections and discuss the outlook for the country, the province and the city in the year ahead.

Most forecasts for Alberta in 2019 suggest modest growth in gross domestic product between 2.0-2.5 per cent. Tariffs, taxes and the spectre of trade wars are listed among the main threats to a robust recovery for Calgary from the 2015-16 recession.

“Cautious optimism” has become the mantra in Calgary in recent years but as the Conference Board said in a report this summer “uncertainty about the future of the North American Free Trade Agreement doesn’t help matters.”

Corporate tax changes in the U.S. are another big wild card.

For Calgary Economic Development, the Economic Outlook lunch this year is an opportunity to publicly launch the updated economic strategy for the city titled Calgary in the New Economy. The strategy serves as the blueprint to build a diverse and resilient economy and helps align civic partners in their work.

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Despite the signs of optimism from higher oil prices and increased business confidence, office vacancies and stubbornly high unemployment are stark reminders that Calgary remains on the road to recovery.

“The province has improved from where it was even just a year ago, however, the pace of this recovery process is likely frustrating for many Albertans seeking work,” ATB noted in a recent report.

Economic Outlook is an opportunity to explain the work Calgary Economic Development will be doing to attract investment, increase trade and assist local companies seeking to diversify into new markets. Those key areas of focus – as well as workforce development – are all aspects of the economic strategy. Tickets are available through calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com.

The strategy envisions Calgary as being Canada’s top destination for talent, the country’s leading business-tobusiness innovation community as well as its most livable city and most business-friendly city regardless of the stage of the economic cycle.

It also addresses challenges to the city’s long-term competiveness with the disruption from the unprecedented advances in technology – with its implications for companies and workers – that economists agree are critical to enduring prosperity. Initiatives such as the $100-million Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund align with the strategy and are intended to be a catalyst for new investments to expand and diversify the economy.

Amid the uncertain times the economists will be discussing, the strategy provides Calgary a framework that is a foundation for future growth.

Ultimate Host City Designation Recognizes City Builders and Contributors BRINGING TOGETHER CALGARY’S PROMINENT CITY BUILDERS, COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTORS, AND DESTINATION INFLUENCERS

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BY BRIDGETTE SLATER

n 2017, Tourism Calgary unveiled Calgary’s Destination Strategy: Ultimate hosts. Ultimate host city. This collective, stakeholder-led vision articulates Calgary’s competitive advantages and marketplace position, establishes key recommendations, and provides a framework for making Calgary the ultimate host city.

Achieving this collective vision requires the strategic alignment and collaboration of the entire industry.

As such, Tourism Calgary developed the Ultimate Host City Designation program to foster support for Calgary’s Destination Strategy and recognize partners and stakeholders that are contributing to its success. Built upon the key attributes of city builder, community contributor, and destination influencer, this program recognizes organizations that are actively working to make Calgary the ultimate host city.

Active contributions include efforts to: enhance Calgary’s hosting infrastructure; energize iconic anchor experiences; attract, develop, promote and activate events year-round; articulate and emotionalize Calgary’s unique personality; and foster stakeholder alignment and collaboration.

Since launching the program in May 2018, six prominent Calgary-based organizations have earned the Ultimate Host City Designation and established their positions as destination development leaders. The inaugural designation was awarded to Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) for its commitment to establishing Calgary’s Cultural and Entertainment District through the Rivers District Master Plan. In the following months, Arts Commons, Beakerhead,

Calgary Arts Development, Calgary Stampede and Heritage Park Historical Village (Heritage Park) earned their status by formalizing how their organizational strategies and tactics contribute to the success of Calgary’s Destination Strategy.

With significant contributions like Arts Commons hosting upward of 1,800 events annually, Beakerhead’s plans for year-round programming, Calgary Stampede’s generation of $400 million in visitor spending annually, and Heritage Park’s Natural Resources Area restoration project, these organizations are well deserving of this accolade. In receiving the Ultimate Host City Designation, organizations receive recognition for their efforts through Tourism Calgary’s multi-platform campaigns and benefit from joining an exclusive community of like-minded city builders who are motivated to forge Destination Strategyfocused partnerships.

Initial interest in the program has already exceeded expectations and Tourism Calgary predicts upward of 15 organizations will earn the Ultimate Host City Designation by the end of fall 2018. As the Ultimate Host City Designation program grows, the strategic alignment, unified commitment and collaborative contributions of the city’s key partners and stakeholders will become more significant. This combined effort toward furthering Calgary’s Destination Strategy will positively impact the organizations involved, while simultaneously stimulating the economy, building the city, amplifying experiences, enhancing quality of life, intensifying the city’s vibrancy, and fostering community spirit.

To learn more about Tourism Calgary, see visitcalgary.com.

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // SEPTEMBER 2018

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Succeeding in the New Calgary Business The consumer mood is cautious

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uggesting that the past two years has been a Calgary business roller coaster would be a positive understatement.

Although there is no way to get specific stats about the toll it has taken on Calgary businesses of all sizes, in business, as in life, there is no value in hindsight, aside from lessons learned.

However, one thing seems certain. The dynamic Calgary business resilience and seasoned business savvy of dealing with flux and changes continues to trigger a recovery, and Calgary businesses, particularly Calgary EO members, are dealing with the new normal, including a focus on understanding and succeeding in the Calgary business market, the consumer mood, and ongoing competition.

Business in Calgary turned to two Calgary EO members for thoughts about succeeding in “the new” Calgary business.

Rachel Ballman is the owner of Bronze Baxx Tanning Studios, and Dr. Jeffrey Ma is the owner of the Friends & Family Dental Health clinic.

“I feel the word for the Calgary consumer mood is ‘cautious,’ Dr. Ma explains. “Although some consumers may have recovered from the recession, it is clear that they do not have short memory and still approach spending with diligence and thought.”

“Our success at Bronze Baxx has been bringing to Calgary what the world has to offer in tanning and wellness and a key to our business is making it convenient, consistent, and a great customer experience,” Ballman says. “It’s about bringing in new services that cater to our target clients’ lifestyle, under the brand that we have built with a lot of trust among our 30,000 clients in Calgary.”

Contributing Members:

Dr. Ma agrees. “As a dental clinic, our clients are our patients.

The key to retaining existing patients as well as attracting new ones really boils down to creating an exceptional client experience. And word of mouth is vitally important to growing our preferred client base.”

As Ballman points out, Calgary’s new business normal is happening at an exciting and opportune time with technology.

“Social media and email marketing have been the two most important communication tools we have used in the past two years. We realized how important it was to stay relevant with our target market, so we hired someone solely committed to social media messaging. Monthly emails and Instagram are our #1 favorite tools to show off all the sides of our brand with our existing and potential clients.”

A key aspect of business success is dealing with the competition.

“I love competition. It can be a great tool to get us fired up,” Dr. Ma says with enthusiasm. “It can be a reminder to strive to be better, to do better. We focus inward and trust that our discipline and commitment to our core values will differentiate us from our competition.”

“For us, competition in Calgary is about how Calgary is ingeneral – friendly,” says Ballman. “We have always felt that if our competitors are doing well, then we all win. So, we have nothing but love for our competitors and we really like seeing them succeed!”

Upcoming Events: Sept 13 • EO Dine Around Sept 18 • Accelerator MBA Sept 26 • Mentorship Launch

Dr. Jeffrey Ma

Rachel Ballman

owner of the Friends & Family Dental Health clinic

owner of Bronze Baxx Tanning Studios

Sept 28 • MYEO YYC Cycle Spin for Charity

The international Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) is the respected, world-wide business networking group — with more than 10,000 members in 35 countries — where business leaders meet informally to brainstorm, compare notes, learn and share relevant discussions about business.

EO has 122 chapters around the world, including the Calgary chapter which is the fifth largest and one of the most active EO chapters in the world.

www.eocalgary.com

|

For membership inquiries: membership@eocalgary.com

WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

Hosting an important meeting or celebration is about more than just the space youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about the whole experience, including the bigger neighbourhood. The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre is your perfect choice for being at the centre of your most memorable events and experiences.

calgary-convention.com

MARKETING MATTERS // DAVID PARKER

Marketing Matters

BY DAVID PARKER

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eattie Tartan, an integrated communications agency that is headquartered in London and has 12 offices in the UK and Ireland, plus a network spanning more than 100 cities worldwide, has opened in Calgary under the leadership of Jessica Harcombe Fleming, director, Alberta. The company’s chairman is Kevin Roberts, former CEO Coca Cola (Canada) and former CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi. Founder Gordon Beattie wanted to expand onto Canada and teamed up with Deirdre Campbell, who had 16 years with her own PR company in Vancouver.

Beattie Tartan was launched a year ago. It now has offices in Vancouver, Victoria, and Toronto – and Fleming is hiring a local team here. She spent six years with Bellstar Hotels & Resorts, has worked with Travel Alberta, and also has experience as the director of making and communications with Treeline Outdoors.

Very involved with health and wellness, Beattie Tartan’s current accounts include Maple Leaf Adventures, NW Explorations, Le Boat, VeloGuide, and more.

It’s good to see agencies adding staff, and Craig and Emily LePan, managing partners over at Flipp Advertising Inc., have recruited some great talent. Leah Zukowski has joined Flipp as creative director, following leadership roles spanning almost 25 years; including six with Venture Communications, almost six with ZGM Collaborative Marketing, and more recently with C&B Advertising.

Paul Rzeszut is the new lead UI/UX designer, and Justin Bedford has been named Flipp’s new digital strategist.

They have plenty to do with accounts such as Walton International (Edmonton), Genstar Development

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Company (Calgary), Papa John’s Pizza (Canada), Brewster’s Brewing Company, and Canada Malting. Add new clients like KidSport, Spiritleaf, and Nest (which is a condo development in the popular Mission district) and you can see how the company is going to be very busy.

Metrographics: Art + Design has been selected as part of the creative team designing the new visitor centre at Waterton Lakes National Park. When completed it will provide a new space offering a full range of information services and interpretive programming throughout the year for the park’s 400,000 annual visitors.

Opening this fall at the new Calgary Fire Department building on 1st Street N.E. is Metro’s Holding Fast display of 11 circular paintings by Doug Driediger, who has completed some 40 murals across Western Canada. His work at the fire station will provide an understanding of the department’s history, while also reflecting a memorial theme. Already on view is his stunning 82” x 36” acrylic on cut steel bison, which is installed in the Iniskim Centre in Mount Royal University.

Parker’s Pick C&B Advertising has been selected to provide creative strategy and content development for Travel Alberta for the next three years.