Business News - May 2010

VOLUME 25, NUMBER 5, 0834-20X

IN THIS ISSUE:

• Go RVing!

• ‘Experience’ tourism • Cruise the Edge

MAY 2010

Contents IN THIS ISSUE Business News is a monthly publication of the St. John’s Board of Trade.

Reproduction of any material contained in Business News is permitted provided written approval from the St. John’s Board of Trade.

Articles and criticisms are invited, but opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily represent those of the St. John’s Board of Trade.

We encourage you to support the business leaders whose names and products you see advertised in this issue as well as throughout our entire membership. The Board reserves the right to edit submissions.

Editor:

COVER STORY

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CHAIR’S MESSAGE FEATURES

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KEEPING CURRENT

Krista Penney

Printed by: British Group of Companies Layout: Roxanne Abbott

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MEMBERSHIP

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ST. JOHN’S BOARD OF TRADE EXECUTIVE Derek Sullivan Jo Mark Zurel Steve Power Denis Mahoney Bruce Templeton Sherry Walsh

Chair Senior Vice-Chair First Vice-Chair Second Vice-Chair Immediate Past Chair Secretary-Treasurer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Keith Healey Kim Keating Jerry Kirkland Jeff LeDrew Margot Bruce O’Connell Brenda O’Reilly Celina Stoyles

STAFF Nancy Healey Jennifer Chaytor Lori Coleman Margie Davis Craig Ennis

Wanda Palmer

Krista Penney Sherry Ryan

Chief Executive Officer Manager, Finance & Compliance Business Affairs Manager Sales Manager Vice President of Policy and Communications Events Marketer & Administrative Coordinator Manager of Member Communications Member Relations Administrator

St. John’s Board of Trade 34 Harvey Road P.O. Box 5127 St. John’s, NL A1C 5V5 Canada Tel: (709) 726-2961 Fax: (709) 726-2003 E-mail: mail@bot.nf.ca Website: www.bot.nf.ca

Business News

May 2010

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Cover Story economically vital Economic impact study highlights the $255 million annual contribution of the Port of St. John’s

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he average resident probably doesn’t know too much about the important role of the Port of St. John’s or its daily activities, yet its valuable function affects virtually everyone in this region. The port is far more than a place for ships to dock; it’s a vital transportation hub, a primary supply and service centre for offshore energy projects, and a gateway for more than half of the general cargo arriving to this province — from creamed corn to new cars.

Now, a new economic impact study, conducted by local research firm Goss Gilroy Incorporated, has reaffirmed the Port of St. John’s as a major contributor to the economic well-being of the city, province and region. In fact, the port’s total impact on the provincial gross domestic product (GDP) has climbed to nearly $255 million per annum.

“The Port of St. John’s is as crucial an economic engine today as it has been

for centuries,” observes Sean Hanrahan, President and CEO of the St. John’s Port Authority (SJPA). “The fact that its economic importance is growing, and has increased over the past decade, reflects the evolution of our economy and the commitment of industry partners — Oceanex, A. Harvey & Company, Newdock, and the Woodward Group, to name just a few—which continue to invest to meet emerging needs for the benefit of us all.”

The study also highlighted the port’s role as a significant source of employment.

Port users and businesses that support port activity were responsible for 3,021 jobs at the end of 2008, providing both livelihoods for highly skilled workers and an important tax base for all levels of government.

The port’s ongoing success is the result of sound strategic investment by stakeholders in advancing and diversifying its capacity to serve a broad spectrum of purposes.

Indeed, the SJPA itself has invested approximately $23-million over the past decade. The result? The Port of St. John’s is one of the most accessible and flexible ports in the country; it is also the primary offshore energy supply and service centre,

The thriving Port of St. John’s welcomes vessels from around the world.

Last year it set a new record for arrivals as 1,261 vessels entered the port, bringing a wide range of visitors and cargo to meet the needs of residents and industry.

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May 2010

a significant fish-handling port, and home to the province’s most advanced container handling terminal. It’s also an important base for military and coast guard vessels, and a welcoming destination for the international cruise ship industry.

“Our goal is to continue working with industry partners to capitalize on the enviable location, infrastructure and highly skilled workforce that, together, are fueling steady growth,” said Steve Marshall, Chairperson of the St. John’s Port Authority. “The benefit of this study is that it offers a clear picture of the port’s tremendous significance to the economy and that having such a comprehensive understanding of the port’s evolving role is essential for the strategic planning of all stakeholders.”

And that future growth is on the way. Despite tough economic times, activity continued to grow in terms of cargo handled and vessels arriving in 2009. Indeed, this thriving economic engine shows no signs of slowing. The economic impact study estimated that the overall impact of the Port of St. John’s on the provincial GDP will increase by approximately 11 per cent between 2008 and 2011 to an annual total of $283.1 million; while the number of jobs related to port activity will rise five per cent to 3,182.

This bright future means that the Port of St. John’s will continue to shine as a dynamic gateway serving a broad spectrum of activities. Partners in the port will continue to make strategic investments to ensure that it maintains its innovative edge.

And that means residents and businesses in this region can continue to trust that this vital transportation hub will keep meeting the needs of those who live, work and visit here.

The St. John’s Port Authority, a self-sufficient federal agency that derives all revenue from port operations and reinvests all earnings into enhancing the port’s infrastructure and operations, commissioned the economic impact study.

Business News

Chair’s Message tourism Just as things are taking a turn for the better weatherwise, we turn our focus in this month’s Business News to tourism

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nd there might not be anything more relevant and big-picture to talk about on tourism than the bold Uncommon Potential plan that the province launched a little over a year ago.

The 10 year vision for tourism is to double the industry’s annual revenue – that is, turn the industry into a $1.5 billion-plus driver of opportunity and growth.

There are some challenges that we must all face in reaching such a goal.

Travel barriers – the province is right in saying that “there’s no such thing as an accidental tourist” in Newfoundland and Labrador – must come down. The Board of Trade is working on that through its national-level advocacy on Marine Atlantic improvements, and through national and provincial advocacy on air access.

A strong Canadian dollar and an economic slowdown contribute to people’s desire to stay closer to their own homes and reduces the drive to come to this province. What we are doing is telling our regional and national partners that this is the place to be. The Board also learned recently that it will be hosting the 2011 Canadian Chamber of Commerce annual convention, bringing over 350 delegates from Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade to St. John’s.

But there are many opportunities. A couple of years ago, this province nearly doubled its population with nearly half a million non-resident visitors. Their economic impact was more than $350 million. When you add being a tourist at home and the hundreds of millions we spend right here, the opportunities are even more evident.

Let me talk a bit more about being a tourist at home. This is something the Board encourages. Why would the St. John’s Board of Trade encourage being a tourist at home? Aside from making Business News

Chair, Derek Sullivan economic sense, it also helps to build a stronger province because we are face-toface with one another more. We can share ideas, create and strengthen relationships, help each other and contribute to a greater understanding of our differences and similarities.

Tourism is largely about the senses – what we see, taste, and feel – and this province does an exceptional job of providing

“A couple of years ago, this province nearly doubled its population with nearly half a million non-resident visitors.

Their economic impact was more than $350 million.” tourists with a world class experience.

How do we take advantage of our leading tourism destination to compete against long-standing destinations? For starters, we can do a better job of utilizing information technology to reach out to niche tourists.

We cannot approach tourists as one group of ‘come from aways’ and expect to attract them here in masses. Think of how you are attracted to a place. It has some relevance to you, something that interests you, and something that is unique. There is a move to attract environmentally conscious travelers who want to know that their May 2010

experience is sustainable so that people who visit here after them can enjoy the same experience. Tourists are expecting a hand-crafted experience that gives them a rich, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity or memory. And tourists are expecting high quality service in a friendly and secure place as a haven from the wear and tear of their regular schedules.

The private sector has to do its job in getting these tourists here and giving them reason to rave about Newfoundland and Labrador when they leave. The tourism sector is challenged to cut through the masses of vacation destinations and experiences available to people and demonstrate that we have what they want.

That has to be done by embracing new methods of promotion and selling, such as e-commerce. It has to be done by carefully building and packaging creative events, destinations, meals or accommodations.

And it must all be reinforced by giving tourists an exceptional human experience that is worthy of our reputation as a friendly, welcoming people.

Product-development, partnership, training and marketing will all contribute to tourism efforts resulting in success.

This province’s tourism industry has driven success; there is no doubt about that. Individual players, sectors within the industry, and the collective industry have taken positive steps to achieve success.

Now that they are well down that path, it’s imperative that improvements and positive actions continue. If we want to achieve even greater success we can’t rest on the efforts of the past, no matter how recent and how successful.

These are lessons we can apply no matter what sector or industry we are in as members of the St. John’s Board of Trade.

But I will finish with this point. We are all ambassadors of our city and province.

When we interact with a tourist, whether from out of town or out of province, let’s be sure to give them reason to come back and to bring their friends.

Sincerely, Derek Sullivan 3

Gardiner Centre Connects business faculty vision Business school building shareholder value

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n February I was honored to present to the Board of Trade my vision for Memorial’s Faculty of Business Administration and I quickly ascertained that almost 100% of my audience has direct ties to the Faculty. The business community is virtually entirely comprised of graduates of the Faculty, employers of graduates or suppliers who work with business graduates.

Think of these relationships and what each stake is worth. For business graduates, if you consider the degree as a share certificate, what is the value of that share in terms of your current career, income, lifestyle and family advantages? For those who employ graduates, what value does a graduate bring to a business versus someone who does not have a business degree? If you send your employees for training through the Gardiner Centre’s management development programs, how does this impact your business’ success? And for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, what value does Memorial’s business school bring to meet the province’s need for business professionals?

I think it is clear that the value of the share each of us has in the Faculty of Business Administration, whether measured in economic, human or other terms is significant. And my responsibility, as Dean of the business school, is to increase the value of those shares.

For graduates, increasing shareholder value means maintaining and enhancing the reputation of their degrees.

For employers, increasing shareholder value means ensuring that graduates have the skills to be successful and employers can maintain and enhance those skills. For this province’s citizens, increasing shareholder value equals building managerial capacity to support our economy and promote self-sufficiency.

This province’s rapid development, diversification and growth increases

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Dr. Wilfred Zerbe, Dean, Faculty of Business Administration the need for globally-aware business professionals.

Memorial’s Faculty of Business Administration is already over-performing for our size and our resources. Our student teams have had outstanding success nationally and globally. The research output of faculty members in top journals is the highest among Atlantic Canada business schools and Gardiner Centre programming provides outstanding professional development opportunities.

We are very well-positioned to achieve even more.

In a business, shareholder value is increased by improving the value of products and services so they are sought out in the market place and create satisfied customers, increased profits and market share. In a business school this translates into improving the teaching and learning environment through ongoing improvement of teaching programs, enhancing faculty recruitment and retention, increasing fund development, improving student recruitment, renovating and expanding facilities, maintenance of international accreditation, and management of resources and growth.

May 2010

Just as I have a responsibility to increase the value of your share, you have a role in supporting the Faculty to enhance its programs and activities and to maintain and enhance its reputation.

You can support us in the following ways: • Provide feedback on how we can help you succeed: tell us what skills and knowledge we should be developing to contribute to your success.

• Support the Faculty through your advocacy and support.

• Hire our graduates.

• Create placement positions for our Bachelor of Commerce co-op students.

• Take advantage of the professional development programs the Gardiner Centre has to offer.

• Use the research of our talented scholars to improve your business.

• You can donate to the Faculty. This is the most tangible investment to maintain and enhance your share in the business school and this also pays mutual dividends.

We have performed exceptionally; yet we have even greater potential. I look forward to increasing your shareholder value in the Faculty of Business Administration in the future.

Dr. Wilfred Zerbe is Dean of the Faculty of Business Administration at Memorial University. You can connect with Dr. Wilfred Zerbe at deanfba@mun.ca or visit www.business.mun.ca for more information about the programs offered by the Faculty.

Business News

Feature become a volunteer Volunteers listen with their hearts

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erving the community has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it? It sounds very important, and it is! Without volunteers all charitable and nonprofit organizations would suffer. We rely on volunteers to protect the environment, clean streams, provide maintenance to our trail systems, coach hockey and baseball games, organize Boy Scout or Girl Guide outings, help the elderly, raise funds for schools, hospitals and sporting organizations and much, much more.

Volunteers are the ones that help single parents or children with disabilities. They are the ones who raise urgently needed funds for medical research or organize outings for the underprivileged in our community. They are the ones who provide leadership on boards of directors and the governance for all voluntary, nonprofit and charitable organizations. Put simply, volunteers are the people who make our communities a better place to live.

It is not always easy being a volunteer.

It can be exhausting and nerve-wrecking.

It can be heart-breaking, but it can also be enriching and empowering, and it is wonderfully worthwhile. Those that have volunteered know what I mean – they have felt the frustration, suffered the exhaustion,

Business News

Jim Burton, FRI, MVA, Honorary Chairperson, Volunteer Week yet they carry on. Understanding the fact that we know there is a need for our work; we know we are making a difference. That in itself is its own reward.

It has been said in selling that 68 per cent of sales are not made because of failure to ask for the business. Interestingly, the same seems to be true for volunteering. In

May 2010

comparison, some 55 per cent of all those volunteers who initially get involved in an organization are a direct result of someone asking (i.e. asked by someone inside the organization). Volunteer organizations that continuously encourage members to ask others to get involved strategically grow and bring fresh ideas, which promote the life and success of our communities.

Being a volunteer provides endless opportunities for growing new friendships, developing professional and personal skills and learning from other volunteer gifts. Employer and workplace supported volunteer programs are good for business.

There is developing evidence that employer-supported volunteering leads to greater employee motivation and builds employee competencies.

If you haven’t been asked to join a voluntary organization, may I suggest you visit the Community Services Council web site at www.envision.ca and click Volunteer Connections to see where you might get involved. You can also call CSC at 753-9860 for more information.

There are 5000+ voluntary organizations throughout Newfoundland and Labrador so there are many different opportunities for you to participate.

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Feature travel rv style RVing provides the perfect escape

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magine travelling the great outdoors with no fixed itineraries, no accommodation issues, and no repeated packing – total freedom. Relax beside the ocean to watch whales or icebergs, camp in a remote spot in Gros Morne overlooking a fjord or stay beside a river or pond with only you and nature as company. Sound like your dream vacation? If so, then RVing is for you – and Newfoundland and Labrador is a great place to start.

RV travel is a popular activity across North America; Newfoundland and Labrador being no exception. Our province, with its pristine landscapes, rugged coastlines, coastal villages and wildlife, not to mention fjords and icebergs, certainly has a lot to offer. An RV is a unique way to explore this incredible land. Drive on the highway any Friday from May until September and you will be amazed at the number of people either driving a motor home or towing a travel trailer or fifth wheel; some with a car, bike or personal watercraft in tow as well.

Motor homes, travel trailers and fifth wheels are all RVs and come in a variety of sizes. They include everything from a 19 foot camper van or pop up trailer that sleeps two to four, up to large luxurious

units that sleep six to eight and have all the conveniences of home. Some owners use their RV as summer homes, hooking them up to full service sites in an RV park. Others use them as their home away from home to travel short distances each weekend, while others travel North America.

A few years ago a movie appeared in theatres based on this popular mode of travel. “RV” starring Robin Williams portrayed some very funny and somewhat catastrophic events. RVs are in fact, quite user friendly. Any reputable RV dealership will provide a full orientation on the use of the specific machine and ensure that the

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customer is comfortable with all systems before they drive it off the lot. Obviously this was not the experience for Mr. Williams.

Most Newfoundlanders who embrace this lifestyle choose to own their RV. A common question asks, who is buying these units? The simple answer is everyone; from young couples with children, retired singles and couples, busy career couples and people who like to travel on a budget. RV travel provides outdoor adventure and camaraderie that is an important part of this lifestyle. Often night time gatherings happen around a campfire where music, singing and roasting marshmallows provides the perfect backdrop.

However, not everyone can justify purchasing an RV. That’s why RV rental makes perfect sense! Families often rent to experience RVing before purchasing. Others want an alternative to their usual vacation. Many expatriate Newfoundlanders return for family reunions or weddings where accommodations are limited. Other tourists find a motor home a unique way to experience first hand the culture and unique landscape of Newfoundland.

Movie/film crews enjoy the convenience of having shelter and food readily available for actors and models.

Perhaps the biggest advantage to owning or renting an RV is the spontaneity it provides. You can decide on a minute’s notice that you need to get away. Just load your things and you are ready to go! You are the captain of your own itinerary and where you go is up to you. Stop when you find your own piece of paradise and spend the night or a few days – the choice is yours.

Happy RVing!

Gwen Bannister is Rental Manager for Islander RV Sales and Rentals, Paddy’s Pond, TCH, St. John’s. Visit them online at www.islanderrv.com.

For details and reservations call 726-4930 or e-mail ballyhaly@nf.aibn.com 6

May 2010

Business News

Feature tourism and the boardroom Two major trends are gaining momentum and expanding the opportunities for operators of tourism facilities

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ne, experiential tourism, meaning the customer wants to feel an experience instead of just visit a destination, has been a buzz word in the industry for a while. Of course some operators were doing it long before it had a name; teaching visitors to jig for fish (back in the good old days), taking them mussel picking, letting them try their hands at rug hooking or mending nets. When Martha Stewart was at Woody Island Resort she wanted to learn how to make toutons.

Perhaps we should have added that to our attractions.

The other trend doesn’t have a buzz word, so we’ll just call it business tourism, meaning organizations of all kinds; corporate, public and non-profit, are realizing the value of using nontraditional business sites (i.e. traditional tourist destination sites) for maximizing the outcomes of meetings and educational seminars, and particularly for team building retreats. Obviously, as an operator, if you can combine the two, your bottom line stands to benefit.

Experiential tourism can sometimes be a matter of degree. Is getting up close and personal to a massive iceberg as ‘experiential’ as chipping off ice for your drink from a bergy bit? Is catching a salmon as experiential as cleaning it yourself and cooking it over an open fire?

Not everyone has the same opportunity to provide hands-on experiences, although you might be surprised once you start using your imagination.

What these two trends can do for smaller and/or less luxurious establishments is level the playing field somewhat. There are interactive experiences that can be tapped into in rural areas and are appropriate for rustic surroundings that would never work in urban or more sophisticated surroundings, and vice versa. The very Business News

Staff from Woody Island Resort prepare toutons amenities that make up five-star status can take away from the sense of renewal that a well delivered ‘back to the basics’ retreat experience will supply.

In fact, the value of corporate retreats is that they remove the team from distractions found in the work place. The most effective retreats are not held in places that simply change distractions from work to play. The whole point is bringing the team together therefore this is one time when less really is more when it comes to individual activity options.

The business tourist group requires basic comfort, meeting facilities and the opportunity to relax and have fun together. Whether the objective is bonding a management team, improving a board’s effectiveness or strategic planning for the organization, getting to know each other better in a less pressured environment has proven invaluable to all types of business.

Of course ‘less pressured’ can sometimes be a matter of definition. Some team building retreats are quite experiential, built around white water rafting or rock rappelling, for example. Even so, very few Newfoundland tourism operators with a hint of creativity would not be able to develop a package suitable for some small, or less adventuresome, sector of the business market.

Another attraction of the business tourism May 2010

market is that normal tourist peak months of July and August are off months for meetings and retreats. If tourism operators can get the Newfoundland and Labrador business segment out of their offices and into our establishments during off-peak months, and businesses improve operations as a result of more successful meetings, it’s a win-win situation!

Janice Wells is a local author and Group Marketing Manager for Woody Island Resort. For more information please contact 364-3701 or visit www.woodyi.com.

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Feature history is all around us It just began in Cupids

by Joshua Jamieson and Pat Mackey he national spotlight is fixed on Cupids, Newfoundland and Labrador as the biggest cultural event in Canada – Cupids 400 – gears up. The year-long Cupids 400 festivities commemorate the 400th anniversary of the establishment of the first English speaking settlement in Canada and it will be a ‘mighty party’ to which everyone’s invited. While the core Cupids Cove Soiree celebrations take place August 17-22, the months ahead will feature over 200 events across the entire Northeast Avalon.

Cupids 400 is very much a regional event, highlighting not only the vast and storied heritage of Cupids but the rich history and culture of communities from Old Perlican to Pouch Cove.

Though each month presents a range of festivals, concerts and events for the entire family, there are some that simply can’t be missed. June 14 features the opening of a state of the art Cupids Legacy Centre that will illuminate the rich tapestry of history and culture that has defined Cupids’ place

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at the nexus of Canadian history. The centre represents a permanent home to a vast archaeological and cultural heritage packaged in an interactive experience unlike anything ever witnessed before.

The New World Theatre Project, premiering in June and running throughout the summer season will feature five classical and original productions focusing on the cultural landscape of 1610. Together with performances of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, three original works will be presented: The Tiring House, Feast of the Sword, and Ben Pittman’s Colony of the Heart. Along with local venues, the festival will also employ the Endeavour Stage, an elaborate yet portable adaptation of the Jacobean playhouse, developed in partnership with Shakespeare’s Globe Centre Canada and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London.

The innovative sound stage employs materials that would have been readily available at the time and will seat 150 – 200 people for a true taste of 17th century culture.

July’s marquee event will be the Muses & Minstrels Early Performing Arts Festival, a superb educational and entertainment

experience highlighting the performing arts of earlier centuries. Running July 2-11, the festival is an interactive spectacle that links the audience directly to the roots of their culture, illuminating the life and times of various periods in history through music, dance and theatre. The festival will host events in a number of communities throughout the Northeast Avalon adding to the colour and flavour of the performances.

Cupids 400’s premier event happens in August with the Cupids Cove Soiree.

Celebrated from August 17-22 , the Soiree is the centerpiece of the Cupids 400 celebrations year, marking the actual anniversary of John Guy’s establishment of the first English speaking settlement in what was to become Canada in August of 1610. This seminal event features six days absolutely packed with concerts, dances, plays and performances, with food, fun and adventure for all ages! Shuttle services from neighbouring communities as well as convenient travel times to St. John’s (approximately 45 minutes) ensure easy and carefree days of fun. While in Cupids, be sure to check out the famous Cupids Cove Plantation. This active archeological dig is a renowned treasure trove that is not to be missed, with over 160,000 artifacts uncovered so far and something new being discovered every day.

In planning a visit to any of the Cupids 400 celebrations, visit www.cupids400.ca for the most up to date information, downloadable schedule of events as well as festival highlights.

Photography by Dennis Minty for the Cupids 400 photo bank 8

May 2010

Business News

Feature tourism trends Tourism posting impressive numbers early in 2010

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t either end of the ‘George Street entertainment district’, as it is now being branded, are two success stories that fit into the tourism industry’s quest to double tourism revenues within the province by 2020.

At one location, two St. John’s icons have fashioned a new partnership; Ches’ at O’Reilly’s means that patrons at O’Reilly’s can order Ches’ famous fish and chips from the menu or as a take-out at this downtown location. At the other end of the street, YellowBelly Public House & Brewery have opened the province’s first gastropub. Gastropubs are part of a new culinary revolution, started in England, where upscale food is served in a casual setting with focus on quality food and fresh ingredients.

Seeing a void and capitalizing on it is part of the reason why tourism operators are enjoying success in 2010. And as we move into what has been known as the “traditional” tourism season, many are predicting the first quarter numbers will set the trend for the remainder of the year.

From January to March, the St. John’s Airport Authority reported 244,210 passenger movements, up 6.9 per cent over last year, with March setting an all time record in passenger movements with 95,808, a 10.9 per cent increase over 2009.

A good number of these inbound passengers no doubt contributed to the positive growth in the accommodation sector during the first quarter. Destination St. John’s reported that the number of rooms nights sold in the region increased 9.6 per cent to 115,568 room nights between January and March. Another healthy indicator was the increase in the daily room rate of three per cent, along with a 6.6 per cent increase in occupancy rate. And for 2010, the convention market is looking to perform well; already three per cent ahead of booking pace compared to 2009. Highlights include a record April, largely due to the success of the JUNOs including Ruckus on the Edge; and June

Business News

YellowBelly Public House & Brewery and July are looking to be record breaking months as well.

Why are we seeing success so early on in the province’s vision for tourism, Uncommon Potential? A lot of the success goes to the award winning media campaign, “Find Yourself Here” and the hauntingly beautiful television ads. Added to that is the captivating images of St. John’s broadcast across the country during the first season of Republic of Doyle, one of the best non-marketing campaigns ever put together. Now renewed for the 2010 – 2011 season, the first season’s estimated economic spin-off sits at $11 million.

Considering that nationally the Canadian Tourism Commission reported that international travel was down in January by 7.6 per cent and American travel the lowest its seen in 10 years at 7.9 per cent, our numbers are even more impressive.

What are some of the other reasons why Newfoundland and Labrador is enjoying success despite the global economic picture, which is impacting travel globally? The tourism industry, like other sectors, have been looking hard at how to grow this industry putting us in a good place to weather the storm.

May 2010

Of the seven strategic directions in the Province’s Vision document the City of St. John’s have identified four as priorities: Public – Private Partnerships; Sustainable Transportation Network, Market Intelligence & Research; and Product Development.

As the Department of Economic Development, Tourism & Culture looks to Tourism Awareness Week in June and celebrating our tourism success stories at the annual Tourism Awards, it’s people like Brenda O’Reilly and business partner/ husband Craig Flynn that continue to have the creativity and passion to take this industry even farther. For O’Reilly it’s the satisfaction of seeing how her creativity impacts patrons. Future plans for the duo include franchising O’Reilly’s/Ches’; a boutique hotel/resort experience where they can grow their own hops and organic ingredients; plus opening a bottling plant in a rural location where they can make a real difference.

Margaret Donovan is with the City of St. John’s Department of Economic Development, Tourism & Culture.

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Special Feature cruise nl Newfoundland and Labrador – On the Edge

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ruise Newfoundland and Labrador (Cruise NL) has a new brand – Cruise the Edge. This new look was launched at their recent Annual General Meeting in Gander and was unveiled internationally at Seatrade Cruise Shipping Miami 2010 in March.

The revised icon image represents the cruising product of the province in an attention-grabbing way that demands engagement and raises curiosity. A rugged landmass in the shape of a cruising ship soaring through the sea communicates from the start that they are on the edge.

With new, brightened tones, this image is welcoming and intriguing. Dramatic but with a sense of cutting edge adventure.

“Cruise the Edge communicates strong emotions through powerful imagery that speaks to both the ruggedness and uniqueness of Newfoundland and Labrador” said Cruise NL Chair Dennis O’Keefe. “This brand will move the cruise industry in Newfoundland and Labrador to the next level.”

Through strategic marketing initiatives, Cruise NL plans to expand passenger and crew visits by ten per cent per year. 2010 is projected to be a record breaking year with approximately 75,000 passengers and crew scheduled to visit 52 ports of call on 26 cruise ships. The province aims to be a destination of choice for adventure/ expedition, transatlantic/European, Canada-New England and homeporting cruises while ensuring that activity fits the scale, nature, and character of the destination.

Cruise NL is the lead in cruise industry marketing for the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

They are a partnership between ports, destination marketing agencies, government at the federal, provincial and municipal levels, and other industry stakeholders. Their primary objective is to increase cruise activity in Newfoundland and Labrador and corresponding economic impact.

The 2010 Schedule is available at www.

CruisetheEdge.com.

The Rotterdam getting a bon voyage from Lt Robin Martin, Royal Newfoundland Companies 1861, under the order of St. John’s Mayor Dennis O’Keefe. Photo courtesy of Todd Lehr, City of St. John’s.

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May 2010

Business News

Keeping Current policy matters Board launches ‘Why Development Matters’ The St. John’s Board of Trade recently launched its ‘Why Development Matters’ series to contribute to public debate and discussion on the topic of development within St. John’s. The goal for this information campaign is to contribute positively to public debate and stimulate further critical thinking.

Over the long term, the Board is hoping that contribution to this discussion will encourage visioning for the city, ensure decision-making authority remains in St. John’s and support sustained economic development. As well, the Board notes the importance of development and the need for a positive business environment as part of a continually enhanced community.

The Board released a series of background documents which examine subjects such as: • Density & Sprawl – linking the idea that concentrated development can prevent economically and environmentally costly urban sprawl, and that development in the downtown requires height because of the limited space available • Transit – noting that a concentration of people can support the enhancement of public transit such as Metrobus as transit would achieve economies of scale with higher passenger volumes • Productivity & Knowledge – ensuring that the city is able to compete more fully in a global economy, in knowledge-based industries that are sustainable and create wealth for employees and the community.

“We need to ensure that St. John’s is a place of choice for living and working,” said Board Chair Derek Sullivan. “This requires development that attracts and retains business. Business and community goals do not have to be mutually exclusive.

In fact, community goals are helped by having decisions made by local business people and we need to prevent them from being attracted to other cities. Business people are volunteers and neighbours

Business News

who care about the city and province. The private sector contributes directly to arts, events, recreation and other meaningful things that support a high quality of life.”

Provincial budget: Board comments, member highlights Budget 2010 offered some welcome public policy initiatives and programs for business; however, deficit spending

requires cautious monitoring. “Economic conditions are not static, but prudent management of public funds must be a key consideration for the province,” said Board Chair Derek Sullivan. “The Board advocates for debt reduction because that frees up financial resources far into the future. Paying a dollar today on driving debt down will mean multiple dollars for public programs and services in the future.” continued on page 12...

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11

Keeping Current policy matters continued from page 11...

• Continued decreases in personal

A number of Budget items supported the business sector including: • Drop in small business corporate income tax rate from five per cent to four per cent; • More than $65 million to help private sector enterprises expand as part of a $126 million business plan • Increasing the dividend tax credit rate to 11 per cent from 9.75 per cent

income taxes.

The Board also welcomed the inclusion of a number of its recommendations in the Budget: • Incoming investment attraction strategy • A comprehensive labour market review • A five year air access strategy • Continued activities on poverty reduction

NEW TD CANADA TRUST SMALL BUSINESS ADVISOR We’d like to introduce Jerrod Lalonde as your new Small Business Advisor.

Jerrod understands the pressures of owning and operating a business and is committed to helping you by: • discussing your business banking needs • offering professional banking and investment solutions • delivering excellent personal service

To see a summary of What Small and Medium Businesses in the Board of Trade Need to Know about Budget 2010, visit www.bot.nf.ca/publications.asp

At the Federal level The Board will continue to push for enhancements to the Marine Atlantic ferry service, particularly in light of the $175M to be invested in the next two years by the federal government. The Board will push for recognition of the service as a national economic corridor which supports billions in trade, with significant benefits to mainland businesses. To learn more about the Board’s efforts to enhance this vital trade link, see the Board’s resolution to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce at www. bot.nf.ca/publications.asp.

The Board will also be making representation to the federal government on two important financial matters – financial literacy of Canadians and the future of the retirement income system in the country.

Visit www.financialliteracyincanada. com for more information on the financial literacy consultation, and www.fin.gc.ca for more information on the retirement income system consultation.

Drop by one of the branches listed below to talk to your Small Business Advisor and discover how we can make your business banking easier.

We look forward to seeing you soon.

26 Gibson Dr., Mount Pearl 18 Centennial St., Mount Pearl Cell: (709) 631-3058 jerrod.lalonde@td.com Monday to Wednesday Thursday & Friday Saturday

8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

advocates... ... for ways to reduce the cost of doing business. ... for tax fairness, cost controls, deficit elimination and debt repayment. ... for reasonable user fees for services to support your business efforts.

Learn more at www.bot.nf.ca 12

May 2010

Business News

Keeping Current around the board How green are your meetings?

MEETING TIPS

T

he topic of environmentalism is creeping into more and more business conversations, with leaders puzzling over how to do their bit to save the planet.

The Newfoundland Association of Environmental Industries’ recent conference, aptly titled “Green is the New Black,” gave over 100 business people from this province much food for thought on the topic.

The presenters, all Canadian leaders on environmental issues, were loud and clear in their view that making the environment a priority is no longer just a nice thought, it’s a must-do for every business. Cleaning up the mess we’ve made and changing the way we live to ensure there is a planet for future generations, is the right thing to do and it’s also worth billions of dollars globally. One speaker gave this merging of capitalism and environmentalism its own name: Environomics.

So, as businesses it seems we are faced with big responsibilities and big opportunities. And it could start with bringing the topic into the meeting room.

Here’s how: 1. When you strategize, factor in sustainability. Learn from the example of companies like Mountain Equipment Coop, Canada’s most environmentallyresponsible retailer. In planning exercises, they regularly ask things like: • Are our packaging and distribution channels making the best use of energy?

• Are our raw materials sustainable and responsible?

• Are we wisely using water resources?

• Could our heating and cooling systems be more efficient?

• Do our products help the environment?

Business News

Start small with going green. Susanne Nippard, domestic services coordinator at Myx Meeting Centre, carries wine bottles that have been re-purposed as water bottles.

2. Consider: Are you encouraging the right practices among employees?

Research shows employees like working for companies that are environmentally conscious. How can you meet with staff to set goals and to seek continuous improvements that help make your company “green”?

3. Start simple. Use the meeting room to take small steps towards big improvements.

• Set a rule – no paper. Email documents and ask people to take notes on laptops.

• Use real mugs instead of paper coffee cups.

• Eliminate plastic water bottles. (David Suzuki says every person living in Canada has access to clean drinking water from the tap. At Myx, we’ve re-

May 2010

• •

purposed wine bottles as water bottles – it’s smart and it also makes a good conversation piece. ) Turn off the lights in the meeting room when it’s empty.

Recycle flipchart paper.

The environment is a big issue and there’s no doubt it will increasingly dominate meeting agendas. For more ideas on how to go green in your business, visit www.davidsuzuki.org or www.mec.ca.

These tips are brought to you by Myx Meeting Centre, the province’s first and only centre designed specifically to host meetings, workshops and boutique conferences. Have a question about your next meeting? Email gina@myxmeetings.com

13

Keeping Current around the board

Premier Danny Williams and Board of Trade Chair Derek Sullivan talk in the lobby of Confederation Building moments after Budget 2010-11 was read by Finance Minister Tom Marshall

Business News

May 2010

15

Keeping Current around the board

On April 1 the Minister of Finance, the Honorable Tom Marshall (centre), addressed the St. John’s Board of Trade at a luncheon where he discussed the 2010 Provincial Budget

St. John’s Board of Trade members celebrated St. Paddy’s Day at a business mixer hosted by the Murray Premises Hotel. L-R: Marie Kelderman, Sales Associate, Murray Premises Hotel, and Board of Trade staff, Wanda Palmer and Sherry Ryan

At a recent lunch ‘n’ learn, Selling to the Public Sector, members interacted with key purchasing representatives and learned about supplying goods and services to the provincial and federal governments and other public sector entities

16

May 2010

Business News

Keeping Current upcoming events Open House Come meet us to learn more about the Board of Trade…membership discounts, incentives, Member Referral Program launch! Bring a potential member to receive a gift. Join us for refreshments, food and much more.

Where: Board of Trade

34 Harvey Road, 5th Floor When: Tuesday, May 11, 11am-2pm All businesses are invited to attend.

Republic of Doyle luncheon Join us as the producers and cast of this popular, locally filmed television series, address the St. John’s Board of Trade!

Where: Delta St. John’s When: Wednesday, May 12

12:30pm – Networking

1pm – Luncheon Cost: $39.50 member rate

$79 non-members

Board of Trade Week May 10-14 Champagne Reception

Lunch ‘n’ Learn

Come mix and mingle with Provincial Airlines and other Board of Trade members. Prize giveaway and tasty samples from The Newfoundland Chocolate Company!

Join Wilma Hartman, Principal of Digital Daisy Inc. and founding partner and C.O.O. of Applecore Interactive to learn how social media can support your marketing if harnessed strategically.

Where: St. John’s International

Airport, RCAF Road Hangar 1 When: Thursday, May 13, 4-6pm Cost: Included as a benefit of

membership

Topic: Developing Your Social

Footprint Where: Board of Trade

34 Harvey Road, 5th Floor When: Friday, May 14, 12-2pm Cost: $25 member rate

$35 non-members

Bring a friend!

Introduce a business partner or client to the benefits of membership and your name will be entered to win a prize. Guests who join at this event will get tax free membership.

Book your tickets now! Call Wanda at 726-2961, ext 9 or email events@bot.nf.ca

Business News

May 2010

17

Membership member news for customers and for the bank. “I’m passionate about it,” said Nixon. “We have embedded diversity and for that we are a better company. It’s one of our core values and part of what we do at RBC.”

M5 appoints Executive VP and Chief Strategist Gary Wadden, President of m5 Group of Companies, recently appointed one of Atlantic Canada’s marketing communications leaders, Rod Budgell, as Executive Vice-President and Chief Strategist of m5 marketing communications. In this new role, Budgell will lead m5’s client service and strategic support efforts across offices in St. John’s, Halifax, Moncton and its newest location in New England.

In this new role, Budgell will be responsible for leading a multi-million dollar business with primary reach throughout Canada and the US. “Recognizing the ever-changing dynamics of the marketing communications world in Canada and elsewhere, we’re guiding our clients in ways never before anticipated,” said Budgell. “I will be very fortunate to work with a multi-disciplinary team that understands this, and has the skills to keep our clients on pace with this incredible speed of change.”

Focusing in on m5’s ‘results’ mantra, Budgell said he is committed to a highly collaborative environment at m5 to ensure that clients receive industry-leading impact from their marketing investments.

Stewart McKelvey welcomes partners Stewart McKelvey is very pleased to congratulate Karen Bennett-Clayton, Ian Sutherland and Mark Tector on their recent admission to the partnership. Karen Bennett-Clayton is a member of the Health Law and Insurance practice groups. Ian Sutherland combines a general corporate commercial practice with a commercial real estate practice. Mark Tector is a member of the Labour and Employment practice group.

Karen, Ian and Mark all practice in the Halifax office of Stewart McKelvey, a law firm with over 220 lawyers and 350 staff in six offices across the region.

Welcome to the partnership, Karen Ian and Mark!

Rod Budgell CEO, Gordon M. Nixon.

RBC’s winning initiative includes many components to ensure employee success.

This Award provides an opportunity to ignite further efforts to drive prosperity

RBC recognized for adapting women’s programs RBC’s commitment to enabling the progress of women and minorities and their climb up the corporate ladder has earned them international recognition as a recipient of this year’s Catalyst Award for diversity. Women comprise nearly 40 per cent of executives at RBC, with 54 per cent of management roles held by women.

Visible minorities account for 14 per cent of executives and in management roles their representation has doubled from 13 to 26 per cent.

“Clearly supporting diversity is the right thing to do, but it also represents incredible business potential. The link between diversity and the success of a business is clearly there,” said RBC President and 18

May 2010

Business News

Membership member profiles A.J. Fagan Consulting Inc. A Special Touch is a specialty gift store located in the Avalon Mall and owned by Sandra Avery. Whether you are looking for a special gift, or home décor ideas, A Special Touch provides all the inspiration you need. As such, a culture of warmth, colour and charm has been created providing “Special Gifts for Special People”.

Over the past 22 years, this destination boutique has received many awards, including the top retailer in the Avalon Mall in 2007.

Recently, A Special Touch was presented with the 2009 Retailer of the Year award from the Canadian Gift and Tableware Association. Chosen from hundreds of applicants, this is the first time a Newfoundland retailer won this award – the highest retail honour in the country.

Capital Ready Mix Limited (CRM), a subsidiary of Pennecon Limited, is the foremost producer of ready mix concrete in all of Newfoundland and Labrador.

CRM services the ready mix and sand/ stone markets for commercial and residential in St. John’s and surrounding areas.

At CRM we are committed to producing top quality concrete led by a team of engineers and quality control technicians coupled with on-site testing laboratories.

We strongly believe in constantly improving our performance and products and exceeding industry standards. Our comprehensive suite of services allows us to meet the demands of our clients for any job from beginning to end.

Call 364-5008 or visit www.pennecon.com to learn more about our company and services.

Business News

A.J. Fagan Consulting Inc. is a St. John’s based company providing services in seismic interpretation, seismic permitting and regulatory / policy affairs. The company also runs short courses for the petroleum industry through its Petro-Ed division. Petro-Ed’s popular one day course “Introduction to the Petroleum Industry” has been presented to hundreds of people throughout Atlantic Canada who gain the benefit of a substantial “head start” in understanding this important industry. Petro-Ed has recently launched a half-day version of the course for the busy executive that boils down all of the essential elements into three hours of instruction.

For more information contact Phonse Fagan, M.Sc., P.Geo. Phone: 709-368-7930 or 709-727-4517 or email info@petro-ed.com www.petro-ed.com

In business since 1943, Harold Snow Service Group remains Newfoundland and Labrador’s perennial parts and service company for the commercial food and laundry equipment industry.

Harold Snow remains firmly committed to providing superior customer service through recently added benchmark performance indicators. Our factory trained authorized service technicians are focused on first time fix rates with minimal downtime.

It is critical for our clients that all equipment is repaired with the right knowledge and certified parts, assured through constant employee training.

For expert service and quality parts call us at 709-754-0330 or visit us at www.haroldsnow.ca.

May 2010

Since 1979, Baker Hughes has been offering reliable products and services resulting in consistent performance to reducing costs, improving efficiency and enhancing production on Canada’s East Coast. Utilizing regional expertise and global experience, we are conveying our successes from the other major offshore plays to this region. When you work with our team, you’ll know the challenges and solutions before drilling begins. Our approach is straightforward. We integrate an interdependent HS&E culture into all levels of our organization with a Stop Work authority!

Our offshore and onshore oil and gas solutions are managed from our head office in Mount Pearl capturing our HSE, warehousing, maintenance, marketing, administration and chemical operations.

Contact Craig Ralph, Business Development Manager, at craig.ralph@ bakerhughes.com or phone 709-748-4935.

Nestled in the folds of a wooded hillside, Fishers’ Loft Inn’s casually elegant rooms, suites and dining room overlook the everchanging seascape of Trinity Bay. Within minutes of the Inn there are walks and hikes, among them the Skewink Trail rated by Travel and Leisure Magazine in the top five trails in Canada. Professional theatre, museums and heritage interpretation, dramatic seascapes, whale and iceberg watching are nearby.

The National Geographic Traveler Magazine recommends Fishers’ Loft Inn as one of 15 places to stay in Canada, recognizing our efforts to capture the essence of the built and natural culture of rural Newfoundland.

Where to Eat in Canada has awarded the Inn’s restaurant two stars, the most in Newfoundland.

Fishers’ Loft Inn, 4 1/2 stars www.fishersloft.com 1-877-464-3240 19

Membership new members Blue Ocean Management Christopher O’Brien, Senior Consultant 59 Gil Eannes Drive St. John’s, NL A1B 5C6 P: 749-6836 chris@blueoceanmanagement.ca www.blueoceanmanagement.ca

Bowering Ponds & Gardens Ltd. Mark Bowering, Owner P.O. Box 13576, Stn A St. John’s, NL A1B 4B8 P: 753-5473 F: 753-0177 mark@boweringgardens.com www.boweringgardens.com

Specialty Apparel and Promotional Products Ltd. Greg Clarke, General Manager 10 Lintrose Place, Donovans Mount Pearl, NL A1N 5K2 P: 364-3004 F: 364-3793 greg@sparrel.com www.specialtyapparel.ca

Schizophrenia Society of Newfoundland & Labrador Dave Banko, Executive Director 306 Waterford Bridge Road, 205 – 206 WB St. John’s, NL A1E 4J8 P: 777-3335 F: 777-3524 ed@ssnl.org www.ssnl.org

Bren Kir Industrial Supply Barry Furlong, General Manager 15 Glencoe Drive Mount Pearl, NL A1N 4G5 P: 368-4656 F: 368-4658 barry.furlong@brenkir.com www.brenkir.com

Integrated Informatics Inc. Cliff Roberts, Business Advisor P.O. Box 5217, Stn ‘C’ St. John’s, NL A1C 5W1 P: 631-8926 ceroberts@integrated-informatics.com www.integrated-informatics.com

Ellsworth Estates Inc. Ron Ellsworth, President P.O Box 13336, Stn A St. John’s, NL A1B 4B7 P: 757-5020 F: 757-5025 ronellsworth@nl.rogers.com

Fishers’ Loft Inn Inc. John Fisher, President P.O. Box 36 Port Rexton, NL A0C 2H0 P: 464-3240 inquiries@fishersloft.com www.fishersloft.com

Advantage Personnel Luke Sebben, Director of Operations & Sales Gary Carew, Account Manager 805 -215 Water Street St. John’s, NL A1C 6C9 P: 579-4990 F: 579-4992 lsebben@onyourteam.com www.onyourteam.com

Daisy Design Jeannette French, Owner & Designer 1 Honeysuckle Hill St. Philips, NL A1M 3S8 P: 743-6777 jeannette@daisydesign.ca www.daisydesign.ca

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May 2010

Business News