RBC Economic Outlook 2019

January 28, 2019  

The Oakville Chamber of Commerce was pleased to present their members and the Oakville business community with the RBC Economic Outlook 2019. The event provided guests with the opportunity to hear from RBC’s Chief Economist Craig Wright, Ipsos’ Canada Vice President Sean Simpson, and Ontario Real Estate Association’s President Tim Hudak. Following the keynote presentations there was a question and answer forum moderated by Tim Cestnick, Columnist at the Globe and Mail and CEO of Our Family Office. 

If you would like to obtain a copy of Craig Wright’s presentation slides please e-mail Kristen at kristen@oakvillechamber.com 

Coverage of the event:



Oakville Chamber receives Reaccreditation

January 7, 2019  

The Chamber Accreditation Council of Canada (CACC), a dedicated team of representatives from all levels of the Chamber Network, has given the Oakville Chamber of Commerce the highest praise the group can bestow. The CACC has re-accredited the Oakville Chamber for another three years: 2019 to 2021. Accreditation is a formal acknowledgement that member Chambers of Commerce have been successfully evaluated by the CACC against rigorous national standards of policy, service and performance.
 
Accreditation ensures:
  • Strategic focus on core chamber activities.
  • Uniform practices and policies across the network.
  • Dependable governance procedures.
  • Distinctive brand identity.
  • A competitive edge against other business organizations.
  • A stronger “voice of business” in your community.
  • An increased role in national and international policy advocacy
 


Oakville Chamber Hosts RBC Economic Outlook: Featuring a Distinguished Panel Offering Their Views for 2019

January 3, 2019  

Tim CestnickThe Oakville Chamber of Commerce will host its annual RBC Economic Outlook on Tuesday, January 22nd at the Oakville Conference Centre. The Chamber is excited to debut a new format that will include expert analysis and a panel discussion led by Tim Cestnick, Globe & Mail Columnist and CEO of Our Family Office. The expert panel will include:

  • Craig Wright, Senior Vice-President and Chief Economist, RBC
  • Sean Simpson, Vice President, Ipsos Public Affairs
  • Tim Hudak, Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Real Estate Association

The event provides an ideal opportunity for business owners and professionals to understand how economic and social factors may impact their business. Questions to the panel will be accepted from the audience. Tickets are available to both Oakville Chamber members and non-members.

“The RBC Economic Outlook is one of the Oakville Chamber’s signature events. We are excited to debut the new format and I look forward to hearing the panelists observations on the economy as we head into the New Year” stated Tim Caddigan, Chair of the Board, Oakville Chamber of Commerce. “We thank our partners RBC, Henderson Partners LLP, the Oakville Milton and District Real Estate Board (OMDREB) and Ipsos Canada for their support in making this event possible.”

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, January 22, 2018

Time: 7:30am – 9:30am

Location: Oakville Conference Centre (2515 Wyecroft Road)  

Tickets:

Oakville Chamber Members and OMDREB Members

  • Individual Tickets: $45
  • Table of 8: $325

Non-Members

  • Individual Tickets: $65
  • Table of 8: $475

Register online through the events calendar, or by contacting the Oakville Chamber directly at 905-845-6613, or info@oakvillechamber.com
To register media attendance for this event, please contact Kristen Curry, Communications Manager, at kristen@oakvillechamber.com or at (905) 845-6613 x 209.


Long-Term Transportation Plan Fundamental to Ontario’s Diverse Transportation Needs

December 7, 2018  

This week the Ontario Chamber of Commerce released Moving Forward: Towards a Strategic Approach to Ontario’s Transportation Needs (Part I), a policy report calling on the Ontario Government to develop a Long-Term Transportation Plan. To address the current and future transportation needs of the province, the report highlights three areas of opportunity that will help improve the movement of goods and mobility of Ontarians.

In a recent Ontario Chamber survey, 58 percent of Ontario businesses rated existing transportation infrastructure as fair or poor. With much of the existing infrastructure in Ontario built in the 1950s and 1960s and nearing the end of its useful life, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce recognizes that the costs of investment are high, and Ontario is far behind when it comes to building new and maintaining old infrastructure.

“Transportation is the backbone of our economy, affecting the movement of people and goods and the everyday lives of Ontarians and businesses,” said Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “Yet, congestion, limited transit connectivity, population growth, aging assets, unique regional needs, and a historic under-investment in infrastructure have led to a significant gap between the actual and needed infrastructure in Ontario. This has led to real challenges faced by Ontario residents and businesses every single day.”

The Ontario Chamber developed an initial thirteen strategic and pertinent transportation recommendations for a stronger Ontario within three critical areas. Although not an exhaustive review of all transportation modes and regional needs across the province, this approach will help to address the current and future transportation needs of the province with a focus on:

  1. Transit planning governance (with an initial focus on the GTHA);
  2. Moving people and goods by rail; and
  3. Autonomous vehicles.

The report points to short- and long-term opportunities, including CN Rail’s Milton Logistics Hub, the use of advanced signalling technology to increase capacity on subways, VIA Rail’s High Frequency Rail proposal, bringing two-way all-day GO Train service to the Innovation Corridor, developing ‘Union Station West’, and the return of passenger rail to Northern Ontario.

Ontario was also the first province in Canada to implement a pilot regulatory framework to allow for the testing of autonomous vehicles and driverless technology. The report calls attention to the readiness of the province for the reality of autonomous vehicles in the near future, recommending Ontario capitalize on its first-mover status in this space. The OCC urges all levels of government to work together with industry to attract future investments, innovation, and jobs, as well as ensure Ontario is the first province to reap the benefits associated with this technology.

“50% of Ontario businesses view transportation infrastructure as critical to their competitiveness. The province needs a plan that is strategic, provides value for public dollars, optimizes existing assets, leverages the private sector and technology, and takes into account the unique needs of our province,” added Rossi. “Moving forward, we will continue to consult our members on the province’s vast and diverse transportation needs.”

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has been active on the transportation file for years, and will continue to provide thought leadership on other transportation modalities as part of its ongoing advocacy on the province’s transportation planning and priorities.

Read the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s report: Moving Forward: Towards a Strategic Approach to Ontario’s Transportation Needs (Part I).



The Accelerating Pace of Change: Economic, Business and Policy Outlook for 2019

December 4, 2018  

Last night business and association executives, as well as senior public servants gathered at our annual Crystal Ball Symposium to hear from leading experts on how trends in technology, the global economy and international politics will affect Canadian business 2019 and beyond.   

This year’s event featured Linda Mantia, Chief Operating Officer for Manulife.  Responsible for globally leading corporate strategy and corporate development, analytics, technology, marketing, innovation, human resources, regulatory and public affairs, global resourcing and procurement, and the global program office. Ms. Mantia and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Chief Economist Trevin Stratton discussed topics ranging from the growing economic divide and the national economy to strategies for businesses during this period of change.

In the full report, released today, we lay out what we heard over the course of the last year about the environment businesses expect to be operating in throughout 2019 and the implications that has for policy-makers and business leaders.

Read the full outlook.

Sailing the Rhine: Holiday Markets

November 19, 2018  

Limited space. Fifteen cabins have been reserved at a special rate for members of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce!

The Oakville Chamber of Commerce introduces an inaugural River Cruise Trip in partnership with Expedia CruiseShipCentres Oakville South! 
Embark on a romantic journey through Rhine River November 29 to December 9, 2019. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Swiss Alps and explore the historical architecture. Visit Basel, Switzerland; Strasbourg, France; Karlsruhe, Mannheim, Rudesheim, Koblenz and Cologne, Germany; and Amsterdam, Netherlands. 

All Inclusive Excellence
The distinguishing hallmark of the Crystal River Experience is undiluted excellence. Aboard ships purposefully designed for today’s most sophisticated travelers, the ambience is carefree yet luxurious, engaging yet relaxing

Legendary Expertise
Built on over 28 years of expertise of serving luxury customers, Crystal River Cruises carefully crafted itineraries follow the Rhine River with Crysal’s award-winning fi nesse, venturing into the heart of iconic destinations adorned with castles and palaces, vineyards and forests, monuments, art and holiday markets!


Learn more.


2018 Fall Economic Statement

November 15, 2018  

The Oakville Chamber of Commerce has issued the following statement in response the the Government of Ontario’s 2018 Fall Economic Statement.

“The Oakville Chamber of Commerce is encouraged by many of the measures outlined in the Government’s Fall Economic Statement including the focus on fiscal accountability, electricity costs, and cutting cumulative red tape. Our local and provincial economy are strongest when industry and government work together.  We look forward to working with our local MPPs as we continue to discuss the measures outlined in the Fall Economic Statement and advocate on behalf of our members”

Drew Redden, President, Oakville Chamber of Commerce

Read the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s analysis of the 2018 Fall Economic Statement.

Read the 2018 Fall Economic Statement.



10 Ways to Build a Canada that Wins: 2019 Election Edition

October 29, 2018  

For the past seven years the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has published the 10 Ways to Build a Canada that Wins (formerly the Top 10 Barriers to Canadian Competitiveness).

This report, which is read widely by decision-makers in government and elsewhere, articulates a series of clear priorities and objectives that, if addressed, will give Canada a competitive edge, improve productivity and grow the economy.

It is key that the 10 Ways to Build a Canada that Wins reflects the views of our members—businesses big and small throughout Canada—especially in an election year. That is why, this year, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Hill+Knowlton Strategies on this feedback exercise. 

Please participate in this 5-to-10-minute confidential feedback survey.




By giving us your input, you will be:

  • shaping the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s 2018 message to the federal government and other stakeholders, and
  • telling chambers of commerce at the national, provincial, territorial and local levels about the priorities that are important to you, both as a Canadian and a business person.

Please provide your input!



The Oakville Chamber of Commerce is hiring a Director, Membership Development

October 24, 2018  

 Position and Job Title Job Title: Director, Membership Development Hours: Full time, permanent Reports to: President Salary Range: $55/70,000 Location: 700 Kerr. St. suite 200, Oakville, Ontario Summary The award-winning Oakville Chamber of Commerce representative of 1,100 member businesses of all sizes and sectors is seeking a dynamic, high energy and self-motivated Director, Membership Development to join our team.  Responsibilities include new member sales, up sells and membership retention as directed by the President. The successful candidate will be a strong communicator and have demonstrated sales experience in a member based organization.  This position works collaboratively with the Chamber Team to best meet the needs of new and existing members. Sales & Retention
  • Identify prospective Chamber members and implement a monthly sales plan;
  • Develop metrics with the President: sales, member visits, calls, and member conversions;
  • Develop a thorough understanding of the various Chamber membership levels and the benefits each provides a business;
  • Develop a retention strategy and work with Chamber Staff to strengthen membership renewal;
  • Develop a strong working knowledge of the Chamber and its various programs and promote to the membership;
  • Secure advertising revenue as per the Chamber’s approved sales target;
  • Participate in various Chamber meetings, events and activities;
  • Represent the Chamber at community events to enhance the Chamber brand within the community;
  • Always represent the Chamber professionally and positively.
Other Duties
  • Assist with events as required;
  • Database maintenance;
  • Support Chamber advocacy work;
  • Other duties as assigned by the President.
Preferred Background, Experience & Qualifications
  • Minimum three years outside sales experience;
  • Membership sales and membership based organization experience preferred;
  • Excellent presentation skills;
  • Experienced with Microsoft Office, Excel, Constant Contact, Database Programs and Social Media Channels;
  • Excellent organizational and follow up skills.
Personal Attributes
  • Highly motivated with B2B sales experience;
  • Excellence in relationship building and relationship sales;
  • Thorough knowledge of Oakville business community and Chamber;
  • Ability to set and meet goals;
  • Excellent selling and closing skills;
  • Strong sales and prioritizing focus;
  • Excellent follow up skills;
  • Excellent networking skills.

Apply now!

   

Rapid Policy Update: Bill 47, Making Ontario Open for Business Act, 2018

October 24, 2018  

On October 23rd,  the Government of Ontario announced Bill 47, Making Ontario Open for Business Act, 2018. The announcement included a near full repeal of Bill 148, dissolution of the Ontario College of Trades, and improvements to the journeyperson-to-apprentice ratio.

What do these changes mean for business?

  1. Minimum wage paused at $14 per hour

  2. Partial repeal of scheduling provisions

    Bill 148 allowed employees to refuse a shift scheduled less than 96 hours before its start and required employers to pay staff for a minimum of three hours of work in the case of a cancelled/reduced shift. The government will be repealing the 96-hour rule, while maintaining the 3-hour rule.

  3. Removal of equal pay for equal work

  4. Returning to previous calculation of public holiday pay

  5. Return to previous union certification policies

    Bill 148 extended card-based union certification to the temporary help agency industry, the building services sector, and home care and community services industry, removing the need for a secret ballot vote.  In addition, Bill 148 forced employers to provide unions with access to employee lists and employee contact information where the union is able to demonstrate 20 percent employee support. It will return to the previous requirement to demonstrate at least 40 percent employee support.

  6. Amended personal emergency leave

    Under Bill 148, small businesses were required to provide a minimum of 10 personal emergency leave days per year (8 unpaid and 2 paid). This will be amended to require a total of 8 unpaid days within the following categories: 3 sick days, 2 bereavement days, and 3 family emergency leave days. To help promote accountability, employers may now once again ask employees for a sick note.

  7. Maintain domestic or sexual violence leave

    Bill 148 introduced a domestic or sexual violence leave provision, which gives employees the right to up to 10 days of individual leave and up to 15 weeks of leave if the employee or their child experiences domestic or sexual violence or the threat of such violence.

  8. Maintain paid vacation expansion

    The government will not be removing provisions that entitle employees to 3 weeks of paid vacation after 5 years with the same employer.

  9. Apprenticeship ratios set at 1:1

    10. Dissolution of the Ontario College of Trades The government has announced that it will be dissolving the Ontario College of Trades and uploading its responsibilities to the Ministry of Labour
“Yesterday’s announcement is welcome news for the Oakville Chamber of Commerce. As Oakville’s business advocate, our position has been clear: Bill 148 was too much, too fast. The compounding labour reforms and unintended consequences came at too high a cost for Ontario’s economy and the businesses who employee Ontarians in Oakville and across our Province. The Oakville Chamber will continue to advocate on behalf of our members to ensure that the Government implements balanced policies that make it easier to invest, start, and grow a business as well as build an economy that connects workers to jobs” – Drew Redden, President, Oakville Chamber of Commerce