March 1, 2024

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CEO MESSAGE

Within a span of seven days my automatic watch stopped, a major component on the car failed, the motherboard on my laptop blew up, and finally the plastic housing on one of my skates cracked. While none of these repairs in particular was anticipated or budgeted for, warranties covered the costs to fix three of the items, which otherwise would have put a $6,000 dent in my wallet.

To be sure, I annually set aside money for incidentals but nearly blowing a significant part of the household maintenance and replacement budget this early in the year tells me that perhaps I need to pad my rainy-day fund, especially as various warranties expire.

Similarly, having faced the prospect of not being able to pay fixed-cost expenses during the pandemic, TIABC’s Board of Directors approved an internal policy that mandates the organization’s balance sheet to show up to 18 months of operating revenue at all times, not only to be fiscally responsible but in the event of unforeseen circumstances. As you can appreciate, having an emergency funding cushion proved to be wise during COVID.

Looking over the new BC budget, which was introduced last week, I noted a line item that showed a whopping $10 billion over three years in what government refers to as contingency funds to be accessed as necessary for various needs, including 'emergencies'.

The province also set aside an additional $405 million to prepare for and respond to climate emergencies, including wildfires. Although funding to support regional DMOs to execute on the four pillars (preparation, mitigation, response, recovery) of tourism emergency management (as per TIABC’s request) was not included anywhere, I'm not giving up in pushing for an annual fixed allocation given the tourism industry's critical role during emergencies.

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport (MTACS) did realize an increase in its annual operating budget, with funds to be distributed amongst the various sectors and five crown corporations the ministry is responsible for. Although Destination BC received a modest bump for the coming fiscal based on performance, I've determined that as part of next year's budget consultation cycle, TIABC will need to resume advocating for an increase to DBC’s annual budget, which has remained largely stagnant in recent years. With the cost of marketing steadily increasing, competition becoming more aggressive, more demand for resources by individual sectors, and other factors, a healthy budget bump for DBC is long overdue.

It goes without saying that while more money isn’t always the answer for myriad problems in the tourism sector, it can help fix certain things that are broken or conversely, leverage emerging opportunities. I look forward to estimates (budget debate) starting next week to hear more details on how various ministries intend to allocate resources beyond what their service plans currently show.

Admittedly, I’m waiting for the next personal item to break and sincerely hoping it’s not my hockey stick given that replacements are upwards of $200 and don’t come with a warranty. In the meantime, duct tape is holding one of my broken possessions together until it can be fixed or replaced. Guess which one it is.

(See you next week at BCTIC 2024)

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Some 400-500 tourism industry leaders from businesses and sector associations, regional and community destination management/marketing organizations, First Nations, provincial/municipal governments, and non-government organizations will gather for discussions around the conference theme - 'Shaping Our Future Together'.

An Outstanding Program You Don't Want to Miss!

With both a 'knowledge and skills' track for workshops, delegates will not only be informed but able to apply their learnings within their own professional settings. Our goal is that in partnership, all elements of British Columbia's tourism industry will align to help the sector meet the challenges ahead but also create an environment to build back better than ever.

We’re very excited to offer a stellar lineup of plenary and breakout sessions and we hope you are too. Don't miss out!

Learn more about the conference program including the agenda, speakers, opportunities for sponsorship and silent auction prizes, and more in the link below.

TIAC Responds to New Visa Requirements for Mexicans Visiting Canada

Yesterday, the federal government announced it is reimposing some visa requirements on Mexican nationals visiting Canada and the new rules are now in effect.

Government's statement on the rule change said Mexican citizens who hold a valid USA non-immigrant visa or have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years and are travelling by air on a Mexican passport will be able to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to visit Canada.

Ottawa said the change “responds to an increase in asylum claims made by Mexican citizens that are refused, withdrawn, or abandoned.

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) expressed its concerns over new partial visa requirements for Mexican Nationals in a statement released on Wednesday. TIAC President & CEO Beth Potter responded to the announcement by stating “While we understand the government’s objective to streamline the process and ensure a robust immigration system, the potential repercussions on the tourism sector, still recuperating from the effects of previous travel restrictions, cannot be overlooked."

TIAC also noted Mexican visitors spent more than $750 million in Canada last year. It is calling on the Canadian government to implement service standards that guarantee prompt visa processing. 

More information about these changes, including for people in transit or with upcoming flights, is available on IRCC's HERE.

Read the TIAC news release of February 28th HERE.

TIABC Responds to Announcement on New Visa Requirements for Mexican Visitors

A Step Backwards for BC Tourism

Following yesterday's announcement by government to immediately implement new visa requirements for Mexican visitors to Canada, TIABC released a response, stating this is a step backwards for BC's tourism industry.

The media release informed that after years of industry lobbying and the eventual removal of visa requirements in 2016, Mexican visitation has grown exponentially in British Columbia, noting in 2023, Mexico became the province’s third largest international market and was the only one where visitation exceeded 2019 numbers.

TIABC will continue to advocate for the removal of visas for qualified visitors. As well, given the immediate implementation of the new regulations, TIABC and several other sector associations are urging government to consider a grace period for impending visitors over Spring Break, Semana Santas, & Easter who may not be able to obtain a visa on time. Another option TIABC is intending to propose to government is a partial exemption to visa requirements for visitors with return airfares and confirmed commercial accommodation in a Canadian tourism destination, including those who do not currently hold a USA visa (which is one of government’s partial exemptions).

Read the full media release HERE.

Update from WGBC | Townhall Sessions Address

Wine Industry Concerns

Last week Wine Growers of BC (WGBC) organized Town Halls inviting industry stakeholders to discuss the recent adverse climate events (sustained periods of extreme cold) in December 2022 and January 2024, and resulting crop loss. Over 250 attended the town halls held in Kelowna, Penticton and Osoyoos with a facilitator providing feedback and input on potential mitigating options for assistance from government.

There was active discussion with consensus for the following:

• Support the ability for BC wineries to import grapes, juice or wine from outside of BC
• Support regulatory changes to suspend ALC rules related to wine production and ancillary activities on ALR land
• Support regulatory changes such that all BC wineries be eligible for temporary markup exemptions (subject to some form of limit to prevent abuse) on non-BC wine
• Support changes to ensure BC producer shelf space in BCLS, wine stores etc. for non-BC wines

Based on the Town Hall discussions, direct stakeholder feedback, etc., WGBC is developing a prioritized catalog of immediate government support for advocacy committee feedback and board approval prior to briefing government over the next two weeks. You can learn more by watching the Penticton Town Hall recording in the link below.

TIABC Continues Work on STR Regulations

In an interview with the Vancouver Sun earlier this week, TIABC CEO Walt Judas acknowledged questions from owners are being raised about the new short term rental regulations that will be in place May 1st. However, the organization continues to work with government on regulatory changes required to allow purpose-built, stratified tourism accommodation to be exempted from the new rules to ensure communities have adequate visitor accommodation.

Read the full story HERE.

Restaurants Canada Calls for Action Against Proposed Chicken Price Hike

Chickan't Afford Me Anymore Campaign

Restaurants Canada has launched a proactive campaign urging the BC government to take swift action to prevent a proposed 10% increase in the cost of chicken. The proposed price hike by the BC Chicken Marketing Board would mean the restaurant industry and consumers will be hit with another significant increase they cannot afford.

Restaurants Canada notes the price hike comes at a time when restaurants are already fighting an uphill battle to profitability, with 62% of restaurants operating at a loss or barely breaking even – compared to 10% pre-pandemic, this upsurge could further destabilize the industry.

Restaurants Canada is asking the province to intervene to convince the BC FIRB to reject the proposed 10% chicken price increase proposal given BC already has the highest chicken prices in Canada and has already absorbed an 8% increase in chicken prices since the pandemic.

Read the official news release from Restaurants Canada HERE.

Extension Requested to Consultation

on Proposed Changes to

Labour Relations Code of BC

TIABC joined 17 associations to submit a letter to Premier Eby, expressing concerns regarding the current timeline for consultation on the proposed changes to the BC Labour Relations Code.

The letter stated that while there is an appreciation for government's efforts to seek input from stakeholders, the coalition believe that the allocated period of 30 days for consultation is insufficient to allow for meaningful engagement and that given the significance and complexity of potential changes to the Labour Relations Code, it is imperative to ensure that all relevant stakeholders have ample time to provide thorough and thoughtful feedback.

The letter concludes by collectively requesting an additional 30–60 days of consultation to allow for a more inclusive and comprehensive dialogue.

Read the full letter to Premier Eby HERE.

Update on Tourism Renewal Initiative from

the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

An excerpt from the official announcement:

Starting in late 2022, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport (Ministry) held several engagement sessions with tourism organizations, operators and stakeholders across the province. These sessions provide an opportunity for the ministry and tourism sector to identify and discuss opportunities to advance the visitor economy in BC as we were emerging from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Through these discussions the sector clearly validated the ongoing importance and relevance of the priorities articulated in the Strategic Framework for Tourism in B.C., with an emphasis on the key areas of housing, human resources, transportation and emergency management. The Ministry and its partners have continued to prioritize work in these areas over the past year.

In follow up to the province-wide engagements the ministry also created the Tourism Renewal Initiative Advisory Committee to assess what was heard from the sector and identify activities that would enhance the tourism landscape in British Columbia. The Advisory Committee was comprised of Richard Porges, President & CEO, Destination BC; Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia; Ingrid Jarrett, President & CEO, British Columbia Hotel Association; Paula Amos, Chief Marketing & Development Officer, Indigenous Tourism BC; Nancy Small, Chair of the BC Destination Marketing Association; and Clint Fraser, Chair of the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat. 

The Advisory Committee has concluded its work and has recommended the Ministry and its partners continue the priorities of the Strategic Framework and in particular advance work in the following areas:

• Coordinated destination management and stewardship
• Advancing Indigenous tourism opportunities
• Building out a competitive events hosting sector
• Attracting investment in tourism enterprises
• Enabling more robust tourism data and insights

The Ministry would like to thank the Advisory Committee for their thoughtful contributions to the Tourism Renewal Initiative and input into the forward-looking areas of focus. As we move forward in 2024, the Ministry will continue to work collaboratively with the industry, all levels of government, and interest groups to take a holistic approach to stewarding BC’s tourism economy and ensuring that it continues to contribute to the quality of life of British Columbians.

Just Released | Episode #20 in TIABC's Voice of Tourism Podcast Series

Meet Gladys Atrill, Executive Director of Tourism Smithers as she joins TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas to discuss her career path, the need to foster domestic tourism, and the importance of a strong tourism industry in British Columbia. Gladys also doubles as mayor of Smithers.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism podcast features interviews with some of the most respected professionals in the tourism industry and has been developed to provide TIABC members and stakeholders with insightful content and a unique perspective on industry developments, policy directives, the work that sector associations are doing, and the opportunities that exist for businesses, communities, and government within the visitor economy

Now Available on Spotify or the following link:

Outdoor Recreation Council of BC Announces New Grant Intake

The Outdoor Recreation Council of British Columbia has announced an upcoming grant intake for the new Outdoor Recreation Fund of BC.

The fund supports initiatives that create meaningful outdoor recreational and nature-based experiences for British Columbians. Eligible organizations can apply between mid-March and April 2024.

Learn more about the grant opportunity HERE.

Destination Vancouver Expands Market Development Team

Destination Vancouver (DV) has announced three new members will be joining their Market Development team, effective March 4th.

Madusha Neilson, Travel Trade Specialist, North America brings extensive experience in hospitality and tourism. Madusha joins DV from Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where she served most recently as Operations Supervisor.

Ben Pattie, Manager, Travel Media and Public Relations, International joins DV with expertise in public relations strategy from his work with UK-based London & Partners and most recently in Vancouver with the Invictus Games.

Natalie Fox, Manager, Travel Media and Public Relations, North America has a background in marketing and communications, including her most recent experience with Toptable Group.

Tourism Marketing Consortium Gearing Up to "Score for BC"

As Vancouver gears up to host the FIFA World Cup 26™ - Destination BC (DBC) is leading a new Tourism Marketing Consortium. DBC has assembled a top-notch team to ensure BC is showcased to the world before, during and after this monumental global sporting event.

,

1). Strategic Play: The Consortium will craft a winning game plan to align tourism-related initiatives that extend beyond the stadium.

2). Total Fan Engagement: The Consortium will strategize on fan experiences to showcase BC's offerings to visitors eager to experience our breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and top-notch hospitality.

3). Collaborative Province-Wide Offensive: The Consortium’s primary objective is to develop and oversee a province-wide tourism marketing strategy to leverage every phase of FIFA World Cup 26 Vancouver and maximize economic benefits around BC, ensuring a legacy for tourism for years to come.

Read the official announcement from Destination BC HERE.

If you have a winning play you’d like to pitch the Consortium, share it with DBC at their booth during the 2024 BC Tourism Industry Conference in Victoria next week - March 6 & 7. Email media.relations@destinationbc.ca with the subject line “Tourism Consortium” to meet.

DBC's Kathleen Harvey Recognized as Accessability Champion by Travelability

Congratulations to Destination BC’s Manager of Visitor Services, Kathleen Harvey, who has been recognized by TravelAbility as one of the 24 Accessibility Champions to watch in 2024. This recognition honours those who have made inclusion and accessibility fundamental principles in their work and who continually seek solutions to obstacles and practices that prevent full and equal access for those who identify as having a disability.

As cited in the announcement from DBC, "Kathleen’s leadership and dedication to improved accessibility through visitor services has truly set her apart as an inspiring leader who is helping to lead the way for a more inclusive future. She continues to champion the importance of improving the employee experience and removing barriers for those who identify as having a disability, and has led the development of Destination BC’s first Accessibility and Inclusion Advisory Committee."

Read the official announcement from DBC HERE.

Destination Greater Victoria

Celebrating 50 Years!

Congratulations to Destination Greater Victoria (DGV), who have been supporting the region's visitor economy for 50 Years.

In celebration of their half-century of dedicated service to their community, visitors, members, and the vibrant tapestry of experiences they call home, DGV be launching videos, a brand new podcast, and ongoing celebrations that share the stories, experiences, and wonders that make their destination truly extraordinary.

Building on last year's Every Visitor Counts campaign, DGV invite you to watch the first three 60-second videos that highlight their role in building the region’s visitor economy, their efforts to champion growth and access, and their commitment to sustainable growth.

Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium is home to thousands of incredible ocean species and amazing aquatic life. Since opening in 1956 as Canada's first public aquarium, the Vancouver Aquarium has connected more than 40 million people from around the world to our oceans and all the wonders within them.

Based on the principle to attain the highest possible standard of animal care within a top-notch facility, the Vancouver Aquarium provides an informative and educational guest experience.

Learn more about the Vancouver Aquarium 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. If you want to be featured in an upcoming TIABC Voice of Tourism and other platforms, 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.

National Tourism Week 2024 

April 15-19

Now in its 14th year, National Tourism Week (NTW) is a weeklong national social media campaign orchestrated by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in partnership with provincial/territorial industry associations such as TIABC. This annual event is a crucial platform for highlighting the pivotal role of tourism in Canada.

TIAC and TIABC are enthusiastically inviting everyone to partake in celebrating the nation's finest offerings to the world under the inspiring banner: Canada: Powered by Tourism

There are four easy ways to get involved; Go Green, Get Social, Share a Video Message, and Spread the Word.

The NTW website provides useful toolkits, which includes suggestions on how to do the video, how operators and organizations can get involved, and a valuable factsheet to readily use.

It's time to start planning, to celebrate tourism in our province. 

Stay tuned to TIABC for 2024 Tourism Week in British Columbia toolkit and resources.

Crisis Communications Planning Training

Destination BC is offering one last Crisis Communications Planning training session this spring! The goal is to equip tourism destination management or marketing organizations, visitor centres and experience sector organizations with the skills required to effectively communicate during crises, including emergencies and reputational issues.

The application-based training encompasses 10 hours of guidance over two days and is led by seasoned crisis communications experts.

Dates: April 16 & 18 (applicants must be available to attend both training days).

Learn more and register HERE.

Art of Leadership for Women Returns

to Vancouver

The Art of Leadership Women is returning to Vancouver! This year's conference features a riveting collection of renowned world leaders, business icons, esteemed academics, and bestselling authors who share strategies and insights on the most critical issues confronting leaders in our world today. Don't miss this unique opportunity to develop your leaders, engage your talent, and build high-performing teams.

Date: June 24

Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Register by March 1st using promo code EBLW41 and save $100 per pass.

Learn more and register HERE.

Fernie's Biggest Winter Festival

A weekend long festival fun for all ages, with live entertainment, all new lumberjack show, the Extreme Griz competition, Griz Parade, fireworks, bed races, hot wing eating conpetition and so much more!

Dates: March 1-3

Learn more about the weekend activities HERE.

Western Community College

Job Fair

Are you looking for candidates in hospitality, healthcare or business? Join Western Community College in partnership with PICS for a Mega Job Fair with 120+ other employers.

Date: March 13

Location: 12350 Pattullo Place, Surrey

Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

Explore your future by scanning the QR code.

Spring Break Learn to Fish Programs

Looking for an activity to do with the kids this spring break? Join us for a Learn to Fish program in Coquitlam. Register via the links below with the City of Coquitlam.

• Como Lake, March 20
• LaFarge Lake, March 21
• LaFarge Lake, March 27

7th Annual TRUE Penticton Tourism Expo!

This not-to-be-missed FREE tourism event will give you a unique opportunity to meet with local tourism businesses and get you Thinking about the Remarkable Unique Experiences that keep visitors coming back to Penticton year after year. Discover new adventures and reacquaint yourself with all of the amazing activities, attractions, accommodations, restaurants, wineries, breweries, cideries, events and so much more happening in and around Penticton.

Date: April 7

Location: Penticton Trade & Convention Centre

Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Learn more HERE.

BC Hotel Association Summit

Registration is now open for the 2024 BCHA Summit Conference.

Date: May 1-2

Location: Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Join the BCHA to network with leaders, owners, operators, vendors, and tech partners. Featuring provincial and federal advocacy, in-person Fast Track Your Future education series, dynamic opening and closing keynote speakers, plus many more speakers, session, and panels!

Learn more and register HERE.

2024 BC Mountain Bike Symposium

Mountain Biking BC has announces the next symposium to be held will be at the Naramata Centre in the South Okanagan. The theme chosen for the symposium is “Stewardship; Creating a Culture of Care”. Stewardship can be applied to many aspects of mountain biking from the responsible management of trails to the effective leadership of our organizations and to the way we promote and market the experience to riders. 

Date: May 1-3

The venue is just 15 kilometers north of Penticton on the east side of Okanagan Lake and has many great riding options to offer including the extensive Three Blind Mice trail network and the Kettle Valley Rail Trail that connects Naramata and Penticton along the scenic Naramata Bench.

Registration is now available HERE.

Pig Out Festival

Buy tickets now for Pig Out Festival Weekend in the heart of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country.

Date: Saturday, May 4

A colourful "Fiesta" celebration of the diverse food and culture of the South Okanagan, this popular one-day event returns to its original spring dates, in an exciting new location.

Gather with friends and savour the start of the sunshine season with one of the biggest and best outdoor culinary festivals in the Okanagan Valley.

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

2024 BC Economic Summit

Transforming Industries, Empowering Communities

With the theme "Transforming Industries, Empowering Communities," the 2024 BC Economic Summit will be delivering this highly anticipated annual event, dedicated to fostering collaboration and growth among Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike, and to focusing on local industries and empowering communities to achieve success.

Date: May 6-9

Location: Penticton

The BC Economic Summit serves as a dynamic platform that brings together a diverse range of thought leaders, experts, and innovators from within and outside British Columbia. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest economic development trends, strategies, and success stories that are reshaping industries and creating positive change in communities.

Learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | WORTH Leadership Summit

This Spring, women-identifying leaders and their allies in recreation, tourism, and hospitality will come together for a full-day industry event. Top voices in the sector will share inspiring ideas to spark dialogue about issues that impact women in the workplace. Their perspectives will inform, ignite, and empower to collectively identify ways to retain and develop women in the industry. This event will connect a community of leaders to expand their network and create meaningful relationships.

Date: May 13

Location: Fairmont Waterfront Vancouver Hotel

Tickets go on sale soon! For sponsorship details, please get in touch with summit@worthassociation.com or view HERE.

2024 Canadian RVing and Camping Week

The Canadian RVing and Camping Week is designed to encourage Canadians and international visitors to get outside to enjoy a fun, safe and secure camping experience with family and friends.  

Dates: May 21-26

The week is organized and sponsored by the Canadian Camping and RV Council and supported by the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association to:

• Promote the lifestyle associated with camping and RVing.
• Promote good behaviour and respect via the Camper’s Code
• Raise funds for Care Camps to send children with cancer to camp.

Be part of the program and sign up HERE.

Save the Date

2024 Annual Conference | BCAC's "Soaring Above Challenges"



The BC Aviation Council (BCAC) is excited to announce that the 2024 Conference is now scheduled! Mark your calendar now and check in with our draft event webpage closer to the date for more details including agenda, speaker profiles, sponsorship opportunities, activities (including add-ons), travel and hotel partners, and more.

Date: May 27-29

Location: Nanaimo

View the draft event agenda HERE.

2024 BC Chamber of Commerce AGM

Join us and explore this vibrant, diverse and naturally beautiful city located on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the Syilx/Okanagan people.

Date: May 28-30

Location: Coast Capri, 1171 Harvey Ave., Kelowna

Learn more and register HERE.

2024 CanSPEP National Conference Registration

Join event entrepreneurs at CanSPEP featuring immersive programs, networking and awards in Victoria, BC.

Dates: June 25 - 28

Early registration is now open until May 3, 2024. Learn more and register HERE.