July 26, 2024

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CEO MESSAGE

Because my daughter is raising her family in Saskatchewan’s capital city, I refuse to jump on the Regina trash talk bandwagon other than dissing one thing - their drinking water. While it originates in the Rockies, Regina’s potable water supply comes from Buffalo Pound Lake north of Moose Jaw. Although it’s heavily treated before it flows from the tap, it smells and tastes like a lake and is almost undrinkable (including brewed coffee), especially when I’ve been spoiled by the refreshing drinking water most of us in BC enjoy.

In a recent interview with a highly regarded tourism leader for the August edition of TIABC’s Voice of Tourism podcast, he inferred that from a marketing perspective, BC’s biggest competitive advantage over other destinations is our clean water and fresh air. Simply translated...these natural assets are one of the primary reasons why people come to our province so we need to leverage them.

No question we are so fortunate to be able to drink a purer form of water straight from the tap and breath fresh air on most days but, as my podcast guest would agree, we also have many other qualities that make British Columbia a wonderful place to visit.

In a workshop at Whistler earlier this week, I heard several speakers discussing some of BC's best attributes as professional colleagues from western provinces and states gathered for the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER) Summit. Aside from the conference itself, delegates spent time enjoying the breathtaking scenery, incredible attractions, and wonderful cuisine...all part of what makes the resort community so special.

With a focus on preparing for FIFA World Cup 2026, I was invited to provide a five-minute (virtual) update on BC’s visitor economy (divided into three 60- second sections – strengths, state and strategy) where I began by briefly referencing a few advantages vis-à-vis our tourism eco-system.

I then switched gears to talk about the state of the visitor economy and noted that so far this year, domestic travel is flat; international overnight visitation is growing but still shy of 2019 numbers; anecdotally operators say people aren’t spending as much; some operators are seeing record revenues but pandemic-induced debt has wiped out profit margins; booking cycles are much shorter; constant news of wildfires is dissuading travel to some regions; and the cost to do business is leading to forthcoming difficult decisions. In fact, 40% of restaurants are losing money or barely breaking even. Still, depending on where and type of business, many operators can’t keep up with the demand.

I spent the last minute of my talk focussed on strategy noting that with FIFA World Cup and other major events, we have an incredible opportunity for partnerships…across border, across sectors, together with all levels of government, with Indigenous nations… to leverage the opportunity to promote our destinations, generate new business and relationships, and collectively deal with the issues that limit visitation and growth from international markets no matter the sector.

We also have a chance to influence how visitors experience our respective destinations, and advance initiatives that matter to travellers…like safety, security, sustainability, access, and other priorities.

Moreover, we have an opportunity to look at new investment opportunities - whether at a government level for infrastructure such as highways, high-speed rail, and airports, or for tourism entrepreneurs in the development of new products and experiences, hotels and convention centres, stadiums and cultural venues, etc.

In spite of the many issues facing the tourism and hospitality industry today, I remain bullish about our visitor economy and have faith in the work that Destination BC, the regional DMOs, community DMOs, sector associations, Destination Canada, several government ministries and ministers, as well individual businesses do to make our province a great place to visit…not to mention live and work.

I drink buckets of water every day, primarily for health reasons not merely to quench my thirst. But first thing in the morning I kick start my day with a large, home-brewed coffee composed of fresh, boiled tap water, roasted beans from a Kootenay-based coffee company, and a splash of cream. It goes without saying that I’d rather drink a cup of java sitting by the lake than coffee that smells and tastes like one.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Relief for BC Wineries Protects 2024 Vintage and Jobs

Following this year’s devastating loss of grapes, the Province has announced BC wineries will now benefit from temporary support that will allow BC wines to be made with grapes and grape juice from outside of the province for the 2024 vintage year.

This temporary measure will allow BC wineries to plan for the production of a 2024 replacement vintage, retain jobs and contribute to the province’s tourism sector.

The wine industry generates approximately $3.75 billion annually for BC and employs more than 14,000 full-time workers. There are approximately 350 licensed grape wine wineries in British Columbia as of June 2024.

These supports will take effect April 1, 2025, and remain until March 31, 2026. More information on eligibility and related requirements will be provided to the industry in fall 2024.

Read the full announcement from government HERE.

A Message from Anderson Vacations in Support of Jasper Evacuees

Seeking Work and Accommodations

I hope this message finds you well. As many of you may know, the wildfires in Jasper have had a devastating impact on the community, displacing many residents and causing significant job losses in the tourism and hospitality sectors. These people will be traveling far and wide to search for work during the recovery; many are currently living temporarily at campgrounds or in hotels. Anderson Vacations is currently compiling a list of employment opportunities *that include staff accommodations* across BC and Alberta to help these displaced workers find new homes.

• If you are currently hiring for immediate (or soon) start AND have staff accommodations available, please fill out this form
• If you know of places that have staff accommodation available, please forward them this communication
• This list of information will be shared on the Jasper Evacuees Facebook group.

The individuals will be directed to apply on their own to these listings through the contact information provided. Pet-friendly accommodations are in dire need. Those interested in aiding with temporary accommodations should contact their local Emergency Support Services office.

Any information or connections you can share to help those find their next home and job would be invaluable. Please feel free to forward this information to your colleagues and peers who may have contacts within the industry to call upon.

Let us work together to support and uplift our community during this challenging time.Thank you for your compassion and cooperation.

Reminder | Emergency Preparedness Resources

Our thoughts are with those who were forced to evacuate from Jasper and communities around our province impacted by wildfires.  We know many people will be travelling within British Columbia in the coming days, weeks, and months, and there are so many incredible experiences for travellers to enjoy throughout the province.

BC is a geographically diverse province and certain communities or areas experiencing wildfire activity does not necessarily impact travel to many other areas. Countless tourism destinations and businesses are ready and eager to welcome you! We always want people to explore BC safely and responsibly, and this summer is no exception.

With that in mind, we are sharing some recommended guidelines, resources and language for our industry partners to relay to guests to ensure they are aware of wildfire activity and are able to travel safely and responsibly. 

• Visit Destination BC’s Know Before You Go page for the latest updates, and links to official information sources to help keep you informed on trip planning and travels.
• Conditions can change quickly. Monitor official information sources (such as DriveBC and the BC Wildfire Service) regularly before and during your trip.
• Download and allow notifications from Alertable, which delivers geographically relevant updates from sources like the provincial Alert Ready system, Environment Canada, and Drive BC.
• Be a responsible traveller – obey road closures and any area restrictions in place to ensure the safety of you, communities, and first responders, and report any wildfires you see – even if you think they’ve already been reported – to either *5555 on a cell or 1-800-663-5555 toll-free.
• Connect with the Visitor Centre in the community or communities you plan to visit. Visitor Centres are a wealth of local information, and can help with anything from providing local travel tips and recommendations, to providing alternate itineraries and help with rebooking if your destination is impacted.

Additional information, resources such as guidance and shareable graphics can be found on the TEMC Google Drive.

Free N95 Respirator Masks Now Available

The Canadian Red Cross (CRC) has launched a program to provide N95 respirator masks - free of charge - for organizations to distribute to the communities and people they serve to help mitigate the impacts of wildfire smoke.

The masks will be distributed across Canada, on a first-come, first-served basis, until the end of September. Organizations and communities are invited to submit the order form to request N95 respirator masks by visiting THIS LINK.

For any questions regarding the CRC N95 Respirator Mask Distribution Program, please email maskdistribution@redcross.ca.  

Labour Forecast Calls for Collaboration & Advocacy

Tourism HR Canada has published its latest labour supply and demand projections report—the final report of this series. This work was carried out by the Conference Board of Canada on behalf of Tourism HR Canada, and reflects statistical modelling of labour force, employment, and job vacancy rates up to 2040.

Preliminary and interim modelling projections have been published over the last three years, but this final report draws on more up-to-date data and incorporates contextual information gleaned from surveys and focus groups conducted over the past year with tourism operators and leaders.

Highlights from the report include:

• The long-range forecast for the tourism sector looks good. Models suggest that by 2040, the gap between labour demand (businesses looking for workers) and labour supply (people available for work) will narrow to just shy of 4,000 people—a marked improvement over the current state of the sector.
• When this mapping is applied to the projections in the Conference Board of Canada’s model, it shows that the tourism sector is on track to meet Destination Canada’s targets for growth, at least on the labour front.
• Some of the recommendations to come out of this report include perennial items such as addressing the sector’s poor reputational profile, improving working conditions in general, and making more strategic use of immigration programs to meet labour demands.

The full projections report, The Future of Canada’s Tourism Sector: Labour Demand and Supply Analysis can be downloaded in the link below.

BCDMOA Announce New Chair and Board of Directors for 2024-2025

The BC Destination Management Organization (BCDMOA) held the first meeting of its new Board earlier this month with the first order of business to elect the new chair and officers for the 2024-2025 term.

Colin Carson (Tourism Prince George) will take the reins from Nancy Small (Tourism Richmond) who served as chair for the past seven years. Over the years, Nancy was extremely active in raising the profile of the BCDMOA through her active engagement with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, Destination BC, go2HR, BCHA, and TIABC, as well as served on the provincial Tourism Review Committee and Tourism Emergency Management Committee.  

Nancy will assume the role of Immediate Past-Chair. Also appointed to the executive team is Kelley Glazer (Destination Osoyoos) in her role as Treasurer. In addition to the executive team, 4 members were elected to the board; Gerardo Corro (Tourism New Westminster), Jikke Gyorki (Tourism Fernie), Ian Lobb (Tourism Oliver) and Lesley Weeks (Tourism Squamish), who is returning for her second term.

The BCDMOA Board for the 2024-2025 term are: 

Colin Carson (Chair), Tourism Prince George

Kelley Glazer (Treasurer), Destination Osoyoos

Nancy Small (Past-Chair), Tourism Richmond

Allison Colthorp, Tourism Chilliwack

Gerardo Corro, Tourism New Westminster

Jikke Gyorki, Tourism Fernie

Ian Lobb, Tourism Oliver

Carly Pereboom, Tourism Nanaimo

Chris Peters, Tourism Burnaby

Lesley Weeks, Tourism Squamish

Learn more about the BCDMO HERE.

2024 Small Business Awards BC

The annual Small Business BC Awards is back to celebrate businesses from all industries, communities, and cultures across British Columbia.  

The Small Business BC Awards is British Columbia’s largest awards competition dedicated exclusively to small businesses. Across the 21 years of history, over 6,600 businesses have participated in the Awards, learning, securing financial support, and gaining valuable exposure to a province-wide audience.

Awards Timeline 2024

• Nominations and Voting – June 18 – August 16
• Top 5 Announcement & Business Pitches – Late August/Early September
• Top 3 Announcement – Mid-September
• Awards Reception at Vancouver Convention Centre – November 1

Learn more about how to participate, how to nominate and vote HERE.

Opportunity | Director, Regional Stewardship, 4TVI

4TVI, part of the 4VI Group, is looking for a Director, Regional Stewardship. This position is responsible for managing the projects that support communities and tourism businesses in the Vancouver Island Region. As an organization that prides itself on innovation and pushing the boundaries of conventional tourism, 4VI believes in the power of leadership and strategic vision to make a lasting impact.

The ideal candidate for the Director, Regional Stewardship will have a deep understanding of the tourism industry in BC, knowledge of the communities of the Vancouver Island Region, a passion for sustainability and stewardship, and desire to seek and implement change. Learn more about the opportunity HERE.

Apply to hiring@4VIGroup.com 

Opportunity | Director, Communications & Engagement

The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) is hiring a Director, Communications & Engagement. This person will play a key role in developing, leading and executing all communications, engagement and stakeholder relations strategies and initiatives to uphold the vision, mission and values of GVHA.

The role is a generalist leadership position with responsibility and accountability for communication and engagement functions including strategic communications planning, external and internal communications, social media strategy, issues management and crisis communications, web and digital strategy, media relations, marketing, brand and reputation management, community and stakeholder engagement, event management, and executive communications.

Learn more about the opportunity and how to apply HERE. Apply to hiring@4VIGroup.com 

Bus Parking/Moorage Now Available at

The Shipyards

The Shipyards now have new bus parking! The City of North Vancouver has received approval to run a one-year pilot project for a tour bus parking zone on the south side of 100 block of E Esplanade Ave – one block away from the waterfront and The Polygon Gallery. Chartered buses may temporarily stop and drop guests off in the passenger zone outside The Polygon on Carrie Cates Court before proceeding to the new bus parking.

Or, come by boat!

Chartered boats may arrange moorage to St Roch Dock (100 ft. long) located in close proximity to The Polygon. To learn more about this public amenity, contact the City’s Shipyards Liaison at bookings@cnv.org or (604) 982-3910.

Mobi-mat Installed at Parksville Bay Beach

The City of Parksville in partnership with Access Oceanside Association and supported by Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism Association, is excited to pilot a mobi-mat installation for the 2024 summer season.

An accessible beach mat, also known as a mobi-mat, is now in place on Parksville Bay Beach, accessed from the concrete ramp in front of the waterfront gazebo. The new 100 foot-long mobi-mat will enable easier beach access for people using wheelchairs, families with strollers and others to access the water.

Read more about this exciting project HERE.

Self-driving Robotic Pods Coming to YVR

YVR has introduced a new pilot project. The new technology, developed by Vancouver-based A&K Robotics, is designed to provide another option for passengers who may need assistance when travelling through the airport.

The new self-driving pods represent an important step forward for accessibility at the airport, helping ensure people of all ages and abilities can independently navigate the terminals and will give travellers more freedom to reach their gates and access airport services with greater independence. 

The pods have integrated real-time mapping software that enables passengers to accurately and intuitively understand where they are within the airport. Over the coming months, YVR will be conducting trials with employees, members of the accessibility community and, eventually, travellers. This phased approach will ensure the pods are safely integrated into the airport environment.

Read the full news release and learn more HERE.

Shuswap Tourism Launches Farmstand Tour

Shuswap Tourism has recently launched a unique culinary experience so locals and visitors alike can discover local food.

In partnership with the Culinary Tourism Alliance, the program has a multi-year maintenance and growth plan that will help Shuswap grow as a destination for culinary, cultural, and agri-tourists alike.

The Shuswap Farmstand Tour is a self-guided tour to local farms in the Falkland, Salmon River and Yankee Flats area and is set to promote sustainable agriculture and fostering community connections.

Learn more about the Shuswap Farm Stand Tour HERE.

Pendray Tea House First Canadian Restaurant to Achieve The PLEDGE

Congratulations to TIABC member, the Pendray Inn and Tea House, a boutique establishment known for its historic charm, daily breakfast offerings, and traditional afternoon tea service. The establishment is proud to announce its historic achievement as the first restaurant in Canada to be certified by The PLEDGE on Food Waste. With an impressive score of 93%, Pendray Tea House has earned the Gold Level certification, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and reducing food waste.

The PLEDGE on Food Waste is a globally recognized, third-party audited certification and benchmarking system designed to fight food waste, reduce costs, and nurture the local ecosystem of solution providers.

Read the full announcement HERE.

Would you like your image to appear in our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Contact deborah@tiabc.ca

Campbell River Whale Watching & Adventure

Since 2008, Campbell River Whale Watching & Adventure has been a key player in Campbell River’s tourism industry and became northern Vancouver Island’s first carbon neutral eco-tour company.

The company specializes in educational nature tours focused on ethical whale watching and grizzly bear tours, single day and multi day wilderness kayaking tours - all of which are designed to minimize environmental impact while highlighting the local attractions.

Learn more about Campbell River Whale Watching & Adventure HERE.

Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism, social channels or on our website? TIABC member testimonials provide visibility and exposure to the tourism industry and a wider audience for your business. Contact Deborah - deborah@tiabc.ca

Become a Member in 2024

Your Membership is Important to Us!

We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC in 2024 to support our important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.

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

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

TIAC's Associate Program for TIABC Members

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) continue to offer TIABC members an opportunity to extend their membership. TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.

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

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

WEBINAR | Update on the

State of Tourism in BC

Destination BC invites you to join in for an update on the state of tourism in BC and the latest on their key strategies and programs.

Date: Thursday, August 1

Time: 10:00 am (PDT)

The webinar will include updates on our marketing campaigns, travel trade and media relations, destination development projects, and more. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session.

Destination Canada Launches

Webinar Series

Destination Canada is excited to be back for the second year with the Destination Dialogues webinar series.

Date: September 12

Time: 8:30am to 10am (PT)

This free 90-minute online session will describe how destinations, organizations, businesses, and individuals can create compelling storytelling-based experiences in rural areas.

This webinar is open to everyone, in Canada, and is designed to inspire, inform and foster innovation amongst communities. Many smaller rural regions lack the resources and budget to send staff to industry conferences, so this opportunity is to provide them with a comprehensive and valuable learning opportunity online.

If you are interested in joining, you can find more about the event and register through the link below.

2024 Go Fish BC Photo Contest

The Go Fish BC Photo Contest is now open.

Categories

• BC Fishing Landscapes 
• Fishing Buddies
• Fishing Firsts

First and second place prizes will be awarded for each category.

1st prize: $300

2nd prize: $150

Additionally, there will be a random draw from all submitted entries on July 26, August 9, August 23, and September 6. Random-draw winners will receive a Go Fish BC prize pack, including a cap, drink tumbler, and stickers.

How to Enter

Complete this entry form, upload your best freshwater fishing images, and click submit. It’s that easy! Contest closes September 16th.

Tickets Now On Sale | 2024 Wine Capital Weekend

Oliver Tourism Association and the Wine Capital Weekend Organizing Committee is thrilled to announce that tickets for the 2024 Wine Capital Weekend are now on sale!

Set in the picturesque town of Oliver, from September 20th to 22nd, this extraordinary weekend promises to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with world-class wines, craft beers, ciders, spirits, delectable food, and exciting entertainment.

Secure your tickets now to take advantage of early bird pricing available until July 31st!

Learn more and purchase your tickets HERE.

2024 BCHF Golf Tournament

Registration is now open for the 2024 BC Hospitality Foundation golf tournament in Victoria.

Date: August 21

Location: Olympic Golf Club

Learn more and register HERE.

ELEVATE | In Support of

Canucks Autism Network

Get ready to soar to new heights at this exclusive fundraising event in support of Canucks Autism Network!

This year, ELEVATE features an aviation-themed evening of mingling and music, drinks and dancing, and thrilling helicopter rides courtesy of SKY Helicopters. Dress in “aviation casual” and walk the red carpet into SKY hangar, a 6,000 square foot space where you will be engrossed by music, ambiance, and thoughtful decor – perfect for mixing and mingling. 

Date: August 26

Reserve your tickets HERE and prepare for an unforgettable night

Annual Tourism Summit & AGM

What to Expect at the 2024 Tourism Summit - As an attendee you will have access to a range of networking opportunities, the chance to pick up invaluable insights from industry experts, and time to connect with the tourism community. 

Date: October 15-17

Location: Bella Coola

Registration, room rates and agenda will be posted soon.

Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration 2024

At the annual Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration, the BCAC recognizes aviation and aerospace industry colleagues for specific achievements. As well, they disburse almost $150,000 through their Scholarship Awards Program to hard-working students enrolled in aviation and/or aerospace programs in British Columbia.

Date: October 18

Time: 5:45pm - 10:00pm PT

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Note: Prior to the Silver Wings event, they are also hosting the third annual "Chair’s Women in Aviation and Aerospace Reception” (CWAAR), also at the Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC).

For more information and registration HERE.

Save the Date | NBC Tourism Summit

The Northern BC Tourism Summit is back for 2024! It will be the first time the summit has happened since 2019 and will bring together industry experts, travel enthusiasts, and local businesses to discuss the latest trends, strategies, and opportunities in Northern BC's tourism sector.

Dates: October 22-24

Location: Ramada Hotel, Prince George

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association AGM

The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association will be holding it's 47th Annual General Meeting & Tourism Industry Conference.

Dates: October 23-24

Location: Prestige Lakeside Resort, Nelson

Mark your calendar! Program details to follow!

TOTA AGM and Summit

Early bird registration is now open for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association AGM & Summit.

Dates: October 29 and 30

Location: Vernon

Hosted in partnership with Tourism Vernon and Destination Silver Star. Early bird pricing for the Summit is available until August 2nd. 

Mark your calendar, learn more and register HERE.

Annual Lodging & Camping Ideas Forum

The Ideas Forum is designed to provide BC Lodging and Campground Association members and guests with an inexpensive learning opportunity thanks to our sponsors and suppliers. It’s a chance to network with the sponsors, suppliers, fellow members and meet the volunteer board of directors. This is where ideas are discussed, knowledge is shared, and members’ questions answered!

Dates: November 4-6

Location: Manning Park Resort

Registration and agenda to be available August, 2024.

Save the Date - 2024 Policy Conference & Big Splash Gala

The Sport Fishing Institute of BC (SFI) will hold its annual Policy Conference. This year's theme is Selective and Sustainable. This is a highly anticipated forum where elected officials, public servants and those in the sport fishing industry can meet, share their perspectives on the issues facing the recreational fishery and discuss expectations for the coming seasons. As last year, SFI will be providing the Pacific Salmon Foundation a portion of the day to share details about programs and projects that are funded by revenues generated from sales of the Salmon Conservation stamp on your tidal waters licence.

Date: November 29

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Following the Conference is the Big Splash Gala and Fundraiser.

Much more information to come on each event, ticket sales will begin in September.

Tourism Congress 2024

Join the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity. We are thrilled the Tourism Congress is hitting the road this year.

Dates: December 3-5

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre

Learn more about Tourism Congress including group booking opportunities HERE.

Save The Date

The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria.

Day of Impact: January 26, 2025

Dates of Conference: January 27-29, 2025

Details to the conference including registration, accommodation and travel information will soon follow.