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January / February 2009
Lights. Camera. Action!
Despite, or perhaps in spite of, the doom and gloom in the economic headlines, 2008 was a good year for Halifax businesses. From new green energy start-ups to high tech communications, from unique dining to unique buildings, the past year has produced a bumper crop of excellence from our business community. The 2009 Halifax Business Awards has selected 20 nominees from among all the possible contenders to be recognized for their achievements.
What makes a company an award winner? What sets it apart from its peers and competitors and makes it a leader?
These are the questions that are truly at the heart of the 2009 Halifax Business Awards. Now in their ninth year, the Awards seek to uncover the 'who' and the 'why' behind the successful risk takers and innovators in Halifax’s economy. Each nominee must reveal their corporate philosophy and the strategy they use to face the challenges of today’s uncertain financial times. They must also show how they care for their employees and the environment. All these answers and more are revealed in the nominees’ own word throughout the following article as we profile all 20 of the potential winners of the distinguished titles of New Business of the Year, Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, and Business Person of the Year.
[profiles appear in no particular order]
New Business of the Year
BLUEBIO GREEN SOLUTIONS
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
BlueBio provides green solutions to business, government and the public to reduce emissions and recover resources from urban wastes. We believe sustainable solutions for urban waste involve switching to proven clean technology alternatives and harvesting valuable resources, particularly energy, from waste streams. Our bioScrubber solutions harness natural microbes in water-based cleaners to replace toxic petroleum solvents for the degreasing of machine and auto parts and eliminate hazardous solvent wastes.
WHAT MAKES YOUR ORGANIZATION A TRAILBLAZING AND RISK TAKING ORGANIZATION?
Our business premise is that heightened perception of environmental and health risks associated with "dirty" and wasteful practices, amplified by rising resource and energy costs, will motivate business, government and the public to switch to proven clean and green solutions. Our core strategy is to identify clean alternatives (systems and services) that are proven in other regions, particularly the U.S. and EU, and to introduce these to our initial market in HRM, a city known for its leadership in recycling and diversion of waste from landfill.
WHAT SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES HAS YOUR BUSINESS UNDERTAKEN TO ENSURE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
AND MAINTAIN QUALITY?
In response to initial customer concerns regarding costs versus current solutions, BlueBio lowered its pricing on bioScrubber systems and introduced an EasyGreen plan that puts the system to work in shops for a low monthly fee with full servicing of the system by BlueBio. We visit customers weekly to perform routine maintenance and elicit comments and suggestions. This has led us to seek out accessories for our system that simplify certain customer applications and further reduce the use of hazardous cleaning solvents. Our FOG to FUEL program, which provides for clean and safe collection of used fryer oil by our staff directly in the kitchen, is based on flexible collection schedules tailored to our customers’ needs.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS CONTRIBUTING TO MAKING HALIFAX A BETTER PLACE FOR ALL?
One aspect of our business that contributes to quality of life in Halifax is the fact each product and service we deliver reduces harmful environmental emissions and workplace risks for employees. BlueBio has also contributed financial support for a conference on sustainable business practices organized by the Eco-Efficiency Centre. BlueBio founder Dr. Michael Dennis sits on several non-profit boards, including Discovery Centre, BioNova, InNOVAcorp and Hope for Wildlife Society.
SECOND SOURCE POWER
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Second Source Power, based in Nova Scotia, is the leading distributor of clean energy for residential and commercial properties throughout Atlantic Canada. Second Source Power reduces dependence on ‘the grid’ and oil heating by providing a wide range of efficient solar and wind systems and other renewable energy solutions for commercial and residential properties. Second Source supplies and installs wind turbines, solar panels and other renewable energy systems for consumers, and if they need extra power they can get it through the grid.
WHAT MAKES YOUR ORGANIZATION A TRAILBLAZING AND RISK TAKING ORGANIZATION?
Clean green energy is the underpinning of the Second Source Power mission; driving us to think differently about the way power is made. We’re setting the tone and direction of an exciting business model. Our business is wind, solar, back-up power and eco-friendly products; our customers range from large commercial and industrial businesses to homeowners, to farmers wanting to think differently about how they consume energy.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS MINIMIZING ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT?
As Atlantic Canada's leading provider of renewable energy solutions for homes and businesses and the manufacturer of a wind turbine sold around the world, we’re enabling people to reduce their carbon footprint in Atlantic Canada and around the world!
IDENTIFY JOB CREATION AND EXPANSION ACTIVITY UNDERTAKEN BY YOUR BUSINESS IN HALIFAX IN THE PAST YEAR LEADING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
Second Source has incorporated a strong base of diverse talent into its board and management team, including experts in management, marketing, law, human resources, engineering and construction management. We’ve the capability to manage large scale renewable energy projects from conception to consumption with our technical expertise in operations management. We’re trained and certified in areas of project management, engineering consulting, electrical and other technical areas. In addition, we have extensive expertise in certification of wind turbines as well as permitting for net metering.
HEALTHFUL HOMES REALTY INC.
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Healthful Homes Realty is an innovative real estate agency that assists clients in making the homes they purchase greener and healthier, and effectively marketing homes that already possess green and healthful attributes.
WHAT MAKES YOUR ORGANIZATION A TRAILBLAZING AND RISK TAKING ORGANIZATION?
The company is the first of its type in Canada to focus exclusively on the purchase and sale of greener, healthier homes. Being the first of anything brings with it significant risk. The risk is market acceptance – is this the right time to launch an innovative business, focused on a particular market niche, in a staid, well-established and traditional industry? We chose to take this risk and pave the path of a new approach to real estate sales.
IDENTIFY JOB CREATION AND EXPANSION ACTIVITY UNDERTAKEN BY YOUR BUSINESS IN HALIFAX IN THE PAST YEAR LEADING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
As a start-up Healthful Homes Realty plans to expand carefully and thoughtfully. Over the past nine months, the company has hired one additional sales agent and an office assistant. Discussions are now underway for future growth.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND OUT ABOVE ALL OTHERS?
We express the hearty, spirited ideals of true entrepreneurship on every front. It’s borne out of desire to work with passion and meaningful intent, to express deeply-felt personal values through professional activities. The concept was created completely from scratch, a pure innovation modeled into a working program designed to give consumers a better choice.
MOXI CREATIVE
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Moxi is a virtual agency. That means no offices, no furniture, no fancy art on the walls. Instead, we put our money – and our clients’ – into a virtual team of marketing experts that can outperform your toughest budget. We’re driven by rich ideas, not expensive overheads. We help you focus your brand and hone your marketing strategy. Then we disappear into our virtual world and brew up the most unorthodox, imaginative ideas anywhere. The result is clever, unexpected and compelling marketing that unlocks the rich potential in both traditional and new age media.
WHAT MAKES YOUR ORGANIZATION A TRAILBLAZING AND RISK TAKING ORGANIZATION?
Rather than adhere to convention, we always strive to take our work to the next level, creating that startling, unexpected effort that makes potential clients really take notice. Given that we’ve been winning most proposals we submit is evidence we’re gaining attention for being innovative and risk-taking. We’re committed to remaining a virtual agency and are proud to be setting the example for other companies to follow.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS MINIMIZING ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT?
We didn’t intend to call ourselves eco-friendly... it just came naturally. You see, by operating virtually, we’ve almost eliminated our need for paper. Everything from strategy documents to estimates and invoices are all reviewed across the web. No more hard copies sent by snail mail or courier. And online conferencing has dramatically reduced our need to travel. Our goal is to reduce carbon emissions by reducing or eliminating both airline travel and auto travel.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND ABOVE ALL OTHERS?
This strategy has successfully earned us business with NSBI, The Department of Labour and Workforce, Music Nova Scotia, Vidabode Group Inc., Onyx and Marble, Hillcrest KIA, Transcontinental and Pantel International.
DOES YOUR BUSINESS HAVE A HEALTHY WORKPLACE?
At Moxi, we take the health of our staff very seriously. Our flexible work schedules accommodate valuable personal time for family commitments and individual fitness programs, which in turn helps our staff balance their personal lives with their careers. Moxi also has a participatory work environment, making it easy for everyone to have input on work-related matters, such as productivity goals, work schedules, equipment in use, training and supervision. Regular face-to-face meetings, as well as online conferencing, allow the team to stay up-to-date on project developments and address concerns as they arise.
DARTMOUTH CROSSING
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Dartmouth Crossing is the Region's newest shopping destination with more than one million square feet of retail now open for business (since the first retailer opened in January 2007). The total lands are 511 acres and the first phase of development represents approximately 200 acres.
WHAT MAKES YOUR ORGANIZATION A TRAILBLAZING AND RISK TAKING ORGANIZATION?
At Dartmouth Crossing, we feel strongly about reducing our environmental footprint where we can by using sustainable practices throughout the development phases. Previously the lands were used as a quarry and asphalt plant for years prior to the acquisition of the property in August 2004. We have restored two on-site brooks previously damaged by prior land uses. In early phases of site rehabilitation,
an Osprey nest was found on the site. Working with biologists, the nest was painstakingly dismantled and carefully relocated to a safe and permanent home overlooking Lake Micmac and the Dartmouth Crossing site. Every spring since 2005 our adult osprey pair have returned to raise a family.
WHAT SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES HAS YOUR BUSINESS UNDERTAKEN TO ENSURE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AND MAINTAIN QUALITY?
Dartmouth Crossing from the initial construction and on an ongoing basis prides itself in working with the community to seek input from neighbours and the public, and a big part of that is being a good corporate citizen. We welcome public feedback and it’s with the positive feedback and support of Halifax Regional Municipality, neighbours, the many contractors working on the development and customers that we opened in January 2007 and continue to grow. On our website – www.dartmouthcrossing.com – we encourage customer feedback and strive to promptly respond to all inquiries. We regularly update the retailers on the overall development and what is happening in the next phases of development, so they’re
equipped to respond to customers' inquiries.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND OUT ABOVE ALL OTHERS?
Dartmouth Crossing has had the vision to develop the site right the first time using best practices and has strived to create a unique and welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy and be proud of.
Business of the Year
JACQUES WHITFORD
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Jacques Whitford is internationally recognized as a leader in engineering, sustainability, environmental and earth sciences solutions. We currently operate more than 45 offices across North America and internationally. Our staff of approximately 1,800 highly trained professionals worldwide are focused on maintaining the tradition of excellence and expanding horizons established in Halifax by Hector Jacques and Mike Whitford in 1972. On June 1, 2007, Jacques Whitford became the first, major environmental consulting firm in North America to become carbon neutral. Halifax is home to the corporate office for corporate accounting and human resources of the company and the headquarters for our Nova Scotia operations. We currently employ 250 in our offices on Spectacle Lake Drive and Wyse Road.
WHAT MAKES YOUR ORGANIZATION A TRAILBLAZING AND RISK TAKING ORGANIZATION?
Jacques Whitford has demonstrated our trail blazing culture on many fronts over the past year. Examples of significant initiatives are as follows: Colleague development is a cornerstone of Jacques Whitford. In the past year we have invested more than double in per capita training and development as compared to the rest of our industry in North America in the areas of technical, risk management, safety, operational management and leadership training. In 2007, Jacques Whitford became the first major environmental consulting firm in North America to become carbon neutral. Jacques Whitford has differentiated itself from competitors by recognizing the role of family. Enhanced maternity leaves and flex time has enabled many of our colleagues with young families to remain in the workplace and has allowed us to attract others. We’ve been recognized for our leadership in this area by the Financial Post (2007), MACLEANS (2007 and 2008), Today’s Parent Magazine (2007 and 2008) and Progress Magazine (2008).
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS CONTRIBUTING TO MAKING HALIFAX A BETTER PLACE FOR ALL?
Jacques Whitford contributes funds to a wide range of charities throughout Nova Scotia. We involve all employees in the decision making regarding which charities we support. Employees are given the opportunity to nominate charities among which the moneys will be distributed. Nominations can be for a general charity of choice or a specific charity fundraising event. Charities may include local or national charitable organizations of all types and/or sports team sponsorships.
DOES YOUR BUSINESS HAVE A HEALTHY WORKPLACE PROGRAM? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US ABOUT IT.
Jacques Whitford has achieved recognition as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers and Top 10 Family Friendly Employers. What sets us apart at Jacques Whitford is our commitment to offer workplace benefits that set the standard for our employees and their family. Nothing is more important than protecting the safety of our employees and everyone who intersects with our work and workplaces. We understand that safety is the outcome of continual, vigorous and rigorous attention to planning, training, equipment and action at every level and by everyone throughout our organization.
BLUEWAVE ENERGY
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Bluewave Energy provides sales and delivery of petroleum products to homes, businesses and industries across Canada. This includes diesel fuel, gasoline, home heating oil, lubricants, marine gas oil and asphalt.
WHAT MAKES YOUR ORGANIZATION A TRAILBLAZING AND RISK TAKING ORGANIZATION?
Bluewave completed the acquisition and integration of Shell's hosting oil division in the Maritimes and Ontario in early 2007 and immediately launched into the acquisition and integration of Shell's delivery network in Ontario to British Columbia in Q2, 2008. This entailed the equivalent of acquiring and integrating 30 separate businesses within a 12-month timeframe.
DOES YOUR BUSINESS HAVE A HEALTHY WORKPLACE PROGRAM? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US ABOUT IT.
Yes. All employees receive a financial bonus for every quarter they’re incident free. We have an extensive HSE program and a full-time HSE manager. We have a health and wellness committee to develop incentives, such as personal health assessments, free blood tests and support for employees involved with healthy activities, including the Bluenose Marathon and the Dragon Boat races.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS MINIMIZING ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT?
We support fuel efficiency programs and are the only oil company in the area promoting Oil Managers, which saves a minimum of 10 per cent usage. We participate in the furnace replacement program with a rebate for high efficiency units and have a program to improve the efficiency of fuel delivery trucks, such as minimizing idling.
EXTREME GROUP
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Extreme Group is an award winning, results driven, full service marketing communications agency with offices operating in Halifax and Toronto. We aren’t rocket scientists. We will not cure cancer. We do not pack silver bullets. We help our clients by sticking to three simple beliefs that lead us to some pretty powerful ideas. Those beliefs are: collaborate, think like the customer and great work will deliver great results.
HOW HAS YOUR ORGANIZATION GROWN AND DEVELOPED IN THE PAST YEAR?
Extreme group had a breakout year over the past 12 months, strengthening an already vibrant and successful Halifax home office and seeing its founding partner strike out to bring Extreme to Toronto with a new regional office in the Ontario capital that’s already making waves.
WHAT MAKES YOUR ORGANIZATION A TRAILBLAZING AND RISK TAKING ORGANIZATION?
Risk-taking is part of our DNA at Extreme. However, all of our risks are calculated. Though we might not wait for all of the calculations an accounting firm may look for, we do assess the potential benefits of taking a risk and the potential risk of doing nothing. We usually end up taking the risk.
WHAT SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES HAS YOUR BUSINESS UNDERTAKEN TO ENSURE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AND MAINTAIN QUALITY?
Extreme Group is a company built on its culture. We have a group of people who believe whole-heartedly in delivering great solutions for clients. Our focus is the clichéd “customer first.” We follow this model to the point where everything we do is focused on our customers.
SOUTHWEST PROPERTIES
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Named one of the Top 101 companies in Atlantic Canada, Southwest is a development and property management firm that has constructed, owned and operated properties in Halifax for 56 years. Southwest’s culture is rooted in the entrepreneurial spirit of its founder, Simon Spatz, who built a small corner grocery store business into one of the largest apartment portfolios in Halifax. Building that portfolio of properties, especially the construction and development of new buildings, involved overcoming great adversity and risk. Simon’s son Jim, who took over the business in 1988, has maintained the entrepreneurial passion of Southwest and has lead the growth of the company to include commercial, retail, condominium and hotel real estate.
HOW HAS YOUR ORGANIZATION GROWN AND DEVELOPED IN THE PAST YEAR?
Southwest has recently entered the hotel business, in partnership with New Castle Hotels of Shelton, Conn. Southwest designed the Marriott Residence Inn in Moncton, which opened June 26, 2008. This is just an example of how Southwest turned an underutilized urban property into high-value real estate. The second hotel project, a Hampton Inn and Suites at Dartmouth Crossing, began construction in the fall of 2007.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS CONTRIBUTING TO MAKING HALIFAX A BETTER PLACE FOR ALL?
At Southwest, we believe giving back to our community is part of doing business. In addition to a roster of employees who actively volunteer in a variety of community groups, Southwest Properties supports a number of organizations and activities. Southwest has a long standing partnership with the Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank and is a leading contributor to several cultural, healthcare and community organizations, including the IWK Health Sciences Centre, QEII Health Sciences Centre, Dalhousie University, Neptune Theatre and many other worthwhile causes.
DOES YOUR BUSINESS HAVE A HEALTHY WORKPLACE PROGRAM? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US ABOUT IT.
As part of Southwest Properties’ Healthy Workplace initiative, we have developed an Employee Health and Wellness Incentive Program. All full-time employees of Southwest Properties can receive a reimbursement for health and fitness related activities. It’s an opportunity for employees to receive a reimbursement of up to $200 per year for a wide variety of health and fitness related activities. Any type of activity that will improve health could qualify as part of the Employee Health and Wellness Incentive. Some examples nclude: weight loss programs; personal trainer sessions; fitness classes or seminars; fitness centre membership; nutrition seminars, etc.
O’REGANS GROUP
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
O’Reagans owns and operates dealerships for 15 new vehicle brands in 11 locations in Nova Scotia, as well as the largest independent leasing company in Atlantic Canada, O’Regan’s National Leasing.
WHAT MAKES YOUR ORGANIZATION A TRAILBLAZING AND RISK TAKING ORGANIZATION?
The Auto Mall in Dartmouth has been a great success for O’Regan’s, not only from a sales and customer service perspective, but also from a public relations and economies of scale perspective. The reuse and recycling of building materials for the auto mall, coupled with the implementation of the latest in energy efficient lighting, heating, plumbing and cooling resulted in O’Regan’s winning the Dalhousie Eco-Efficiency Centre’s Excellence in Business Award.
DOES YOUR BUSINESS HAVE A HEALTHY WORKPLACE PROGRAM? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US ABOUT IT.
O’Regan’s has implemented a number of programs aimed at promoting an active lifestyle and healthy eating. We have onsite gyms in Halifax and Dartmouth, which are available to all staff. We also measure employee satisfaction annually and in 2007 we were named one of the Best Companies to Work for in Atlantic Canada (Progress Magazine).
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS MINIMIZING ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT?
O’Regan’s has implemented a number of programs at our dealerships aimed at reducing waste and increasing energy efficiency. Our new facilities use the latest technology in waste reduction for heating, water and lighting. We have also partnered with provincial and national organizations in their efforts to preserve the environment.
Small Business of the Year
HAMACHI GROUP OF RESTAURANTS
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
The Hamachi Group owns and operates a group of six unique restaurants. These include: Hamachi House Fine Japanese Cuisine, Hamachi Steakhouse, Hamachi Grill and Sushi House, Hamachi Kita-Sushi and Asian Flare, Rogi Orazio Pasta and World Cucina and it's newest addition, Brussels Restaurant and Brasserie. These restaurants are all very successful and provide a unique cultural and dining experience of exceptional quality.
WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO BUSINESS?
The approach when creating these restaurants has always been focused on providing high quality product with exceptional service in a cultural, unique and comfortable environment. Efforts are made internally and externally to the business. The company is highly involved in the community and welcomes customer feedback, as well as focusing internally on efficient operations and customer satisfaction.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS MINIMIZING ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT?
This year the Hamachi Group introduced papermade, compostable take-out containers and went through the extra effort to specially ordered them from Alberta. Hamachi Restaurants also recycle their oil from the fryers and provide it to the cosmetics and cleaning industry. The restaurants have introduced an internal program to buy local as much as possible, maximize yields and eliminate excess food usage and wastage. Staff has also trained on minimizing utility consumption, including power, propane and water.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND ABOVE THE REST?
Many things make these restaurants stand out from their peers. The unique and cultural components combine with the focus on quality and providing good value in a clean and comfortable environment to makes these restaurants successful. Over the years, customer feedback has established a need to open several Hamachi Restaurants around HRM to provide healthy, cultural dining options to our customers closer to home.
CERTAINLY CINNAMON
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Certainly Cinnamon is a family-run, independently owned business founded in 1989. We currently operate a busy coffee shop in Downtown Halifax, a successful catering business implementing foodservice programs throughout Nova Scotia, contract catering for four hotels and recently we opened two full service, 100-seat bistros, including The Wooden Door Bistro at Chocolate Lake Hotel and The Wooden Door Bistro at Quality Inn Airport.
WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO BUSINESS?
Certainly Cinnamon believes ethical behavior in business is a must. We believe a strong set of values will lead to positive results in the business world and beyond. The company is committed to solid ethical practices. Certainly Cinnamon’s Code of Ethics is one that guides the company through veryday situations and larger challenges should they arise.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS CONTRIBUTING TO MAKING HALIFAX A BETTER PLACE FOR ALL?
Being in the foodservice industry, we’re the jumping board for young Canadians entering the workforce. We have a unique situation in that we’re able to hire unskilled young people and give them the opportunity to learn from the bottom up. Some of our most valued employees who maintain busy kitchens or organize events have started by making sandwiches and serving coffee at Certainly Cinnamon.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND ABOVE THE REST?
I guess for us it’s our simple philosophy of hard work and personal commitment to quality. We rarely take centre stage, we don’t seek out recognition, and in fact chances are most people don’t know the magnitude of our company. This is just the way we like it.
WOOZLES
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Woozles is Canada's oldest children's bookstore. In addition to a wide range of book titles (both English and French) for babies through to senior readers, Woozles also stocks excellent toys, music recordings and DVDs, as well as reference materials for parents and teachers. Woozles, over its 30 years, has offered the public thousands of workshops, a large number of book launches and author visits, and its signature program – “Battle of the Books,” which is a competition for teams of students to display their knowledge and recall of books and authors.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS CONTRIBUTING TO MAKING HALIFAX A BETTER PLACE FOR ALL?
Woozles is an enthusiastic supporter of all things benefitting a healthy environment for children and families. From providing space for the Junior League's Buckle Up Baby Program and its magazine, Ahoy, in the 80s, to providing space for the early formation of a children's writers' group, to donating financial support to a wide array of groups from the IWK's Read to Me program to the Ann Connor Brimer Foundation, to providing publicity for the early years of the Discovery Centre and Halifax's Children's Festivals, Woozles has lived up to its title “A Place For and About Children.”
DOES YOUR BUSINESS HAVE A HEALTHY WORKPLACE PROGRAM? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US ABOUT IT.
Woozles is interested in the overall welfare of its staff. We try to compensate well above the minimum wage; offer full-time staff life insurance and health benefits; and set schedules to accommodate the flexible needs of the staff. We pay close attention to staff needs and concerns and suggestions. The fact that most of our staff stays with Woozles for a long time tells us it’s considered a good place to work. We also make sure we have a number of staff social functions (including partners) so we can appreciate each other in a relaxed setting.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND ABOVE THE REST?
Woozles is now 30 years old and this makes us not only the oldest children's bookstore in Canada, but also one of the oldest independent bookstores in the country... and most importantly, we love what we do!
MODA BY OZLEM
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Our company is a producer, wholesaler and retailer of one-of-a-kind fashion costume jewellery, which is made with our semi-precious beads, glass beads, natural stones and – most importantly – Swarovski Crystals. From the designing to the marketing process, we’re personally involved in every single step of our business.
WHAT SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES HAS YOUR BUSINESS UNDERTAKEN TO ENSURE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AND MAINTAIN QUALITY?
Our company takes customer satisfaction and quality very seriously. To ensure quality, we use the highest quality beads and stones with all of our pieces. For sensitivity issues, the metals we use are all nickel free metals. Since we design and make each piece with care and with utmost attention, the quality is evident. We also offer a lifetime warranty with all our pieces.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS MINIMIZING ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT?
Our packaging, boxes and bags are all made with recycled paper. We always recycle our beads and try to refurbish broken beads and reuse then again if they pass quality control. We use our designing studio mostly in the daytime to reduce around the clock electricity consumption.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND ABOVE THE REST?
The one thing that makes Moda stand out above others is the endless imagination and vision of its owners. There’s much more to accomplish and lots of ambition to support it. We believe there’s a bright future ahead waiting for us.
INTERNETWORKING ATLANTIC INC.
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
As an innovator in the telecommunications field, Internetworking Atlantic Inc. (IAI) specializes in providing the redundant, high bandwidth, high security fibre-optic communication links vital to the operations of IAI’s corporate, institutional and government customers.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS CONTRIBUTING TO MAKING HALIFAX A BETTER PLACE FOR ALL?
Both on a corporate basis and through the work of its employees, IAI strives to make a significant contribution to the Halifax community. IAI supports the local arts community through Bruce MacDougall’s participation on the board of Creative Spirit East. CSE is a non-profit organization where artists challenged by disabilities work together to express themselves through their art, build on their talent and skills, and
learn about the business of art. CSE operates the Veith Street gallery.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS MINIMIZING ITSCARBON FOOTPRINT?
The basis of IAI’s core service – direct optical connectivity – is a passive technology and requires no electrical power outside of the customer premises. This innovative use of optical fibre in a direct configuration rather than switched through a traditional telecom central-office, means the service has an effective zero carbon footprint. This decentralized and passive model for Metropolitan Area Telecommunications represents a significant innovation in the field reducing the use of energy and therefore the carbon footprint of IAI’s operations.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND ABOVE THEREST?
IAI is a privately held Nova Scotia corporation. It has recorded a profit in every year of operation since its inception. The company reflects the personality of its owner. Bruce MacDougall’s broad experience with the management of engineering and technical programs, coupled with his educational background, has enabled him to bring IAI from a concept in 2001 to a leading supplier of high-level telecom services today. He promotes individuality, while surrounding himself with the professional support critical to his success.
Business Person of the Year
WADIH M. FARES, PRESIDENT OF WM FARES GROUP
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
WM Fares Group is a leading building design, project management and development company in Halifax that brings together a unique combination of disciplines by incorporating the talents of architects, engineers, planners and project managers. Our highly skilled team provides effective solutions and support from site planning up to building occupancy.
HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS CONTRIBUTING TO MAKINGHALIFAX A BETTER PLACE FOR ALL?
As a leader, I believe that building and shaping communities is the measure of true success. I serve and continue to be an active volunteer on numerous boards and committees in the Halifax Regional Municipality.
WHAT ROLE HAVE YOU PLAYED IN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, JOB CREATION AND EXPANSION IN THE REGION LEADING TO ECONOMIC GROWTH IN HALIFAX?
Being a leader in the building design and development industry, WMF injects millions of dollars into the Nova Scotia economy every year. WMF also provides direct employment to hundreds of employees and creates business to a wide spectrum of industries.
DOES YOUR BUSINESS HAVE A HEALTHY WORKPLACE PROGRAM?
WM Fares Group has offered all employees a NuBody’s membership for a healthier lifestyle. We thrive on healthy eating habits and having a healthy workplace environment.
JAMIE BAILLIE, PRESIDENT AND CEO, CREDIT UNION ATLANTIC
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
CUA is a full-service provider of personal and commercial financial services, delivered through a network of eight branches throughout metro. Headquartered in Halifax, CUA is owned by 17,600 customer-shareholders.
DESCRIBE YOUR APPROACH TO BUSINESS.
I base my approach to business on the principles of openness, honesty, trust and the all-important “no surprises” rule. This is particularly important for employees, but also extends to clients, suppliers and all other suppliers to the business. I maintain a CEO blog where many serious company issues are discussed with all staff. In addition, I hold regular “pancake breakfasts” in each branch, where business issues can be discussed directly over an informal breakfast of pancakes made by the CEO. I firmly believe this approach has led to better company decision-making as I constantly reinforce to all staff that they have a right – and an obligation – to participate in the growth and management of the company.
HOW DOES YOUR BUSINESS MINIMIZE ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT?
CUA was one of the first financial institutions in the country to introduce a “green” lending product. The GoGreen CarLoan was specifically designed to help our customers migrate from an expensive gas guzzler to a more fuel-efficient car, with a low interest loan. The program is still in effect and is a real win-win for the customer and the environment. However, we were very conscience of the fact we needed to also make sure we were doing our own part, as a company, to minimize our carbon footprint.
WHAT IS ONE THING YOU HAVE DONE IN THE PAST YEAR THAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT ABOVE THE REST?
In February, I got up on stage dressed as Elton John and sang (badly) in front of 600 people to raise money for the Mental Health Foundation. Although I’m certain I was the worst vocalist, I did win the fundraising award, with a total of $84,000 pledged.
RAY RITCEY, PRESIDENT AND CEO, HERITAGE GAS LIMITED
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Heritage Gas Limited is in the energy business and has a full-regulation class natural gas distribution franchise business for Nova Scotia in Colchester, Cumberland, Pictou, East Hants and Halifax Counties. Heritage Gas is committed to building the infrastructure so that Nova Scotians can enjoy their own natural gas along with the many economic and environmental benefits of using natural gas.
DESCRIBE YOUR APPROACH TO BUSINESS.
Building the right team at Heritage Gas and providing value-added solutions for customers is the key
to the long-term success of the natural gas business in Nova Scotia. Natural gas is the fuel of choice virtually everywhere in the world and it will be so one day in Nova Scotia. Working with key industry and
government stakeholders in building effective partner arrangements helps bring those benefits to as
many as possible.
WHAT INNOVATION/RISK INITIATIVES/CREATIVE APPROACH HAVE YOU INTRODUCED TO YOUR ORGANIZATION?
Heritage Gas is a comparatively new company that has existed for five years and is developing a new industry in a province that never used the fuel before. This is the challenge faced by the entire Heritage Gas team since inception. We use innovation, education, risk mitigation and creative approaches to effectively grow the business.
HOW DOES YOUR BUSINESS MINIMIZE ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT?
As president of Heritage Gas, I’m not only helping my business minimize its carbon footprint, but also the carbon footprint for many citizens of HRM. At Heritage Gas we’re reducing our carbon footprint by being a natural gas customer, building highly efficient town border stations, ensuring our fleet of vehicles are properly serviced and don’t idle, and our employees are encouraged to reduce electricity by shutting down their computers at the end of the day.
A.M. (BEN) MCCREA, CHAIRMAN, THE ARMOUR GROUP LTD.
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Armour Group operates with a unique structure of fully integrated real estate development, construction and property management within the one organization. The company has significant real estate holdings in the residential, commercial and hospitality (hotel) sectors. During the past 36 years, the company has developed, constructed and now manages approximately 1.8 million square feet of real estate in Atlantic Canada, primarily in Halifax and Dartmouth.
DESCRIBE YOUR APPROACH TO BUSINESS.
The Armour Group follows an integrated approach to buildings, actively implementing and organizing the design, construction, project management and full ownership and property management thereafter. Wherever possible, the company maintains control of the product line through these phases in order to ensure each project exceeds the quality standard desired. This philosophy means building to the highest point the market will bear in terms of quality, services and design and holding these assets for a long period on the basis a superior product in terms of design, construction and management will significantly appreciate relative to its peers.
WHAT INNOVATION/RISK INITIATIVES/CREATIVE APPROACH HAVE YOU INTRODUCED TO YOUR ORGANIZATION?
The latest of the new office buildings, slated for completion in 2008, is designed and built to meet the Green Building Council of Canada’s standards for certification as a LEED™ building. This will be the first LEED™ certified commercial building to be built in our area. The building will be a pioneer in developing a more environmentally sensitive built community and will reduce energy and water consumption by almost 40 per cent.
HOW DOES YOUR BUSINESS MINIMIZE ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT?
Ben McCrea has long promoted environmentally sensitive and energy efficient buildings. In 1972, Historic Properties pioneered in North America the use of seawater as the primary source of cooling and heating. This system was recently upgraded with more modern equipment and a 50 to 60 per cent savings in utilities (electricity and fuel) was achieved.
SCOTT TRAVERS, PRESIDENT, MINAS BASIN PULP AND POWER CO. LTD.
WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?
Minas Basin produces 100 per cent recycled paperboard products, such as linerboard and coreboard, and has a production capacity of 100,000 metric tonnes per year. We are an 80+-year-old company; we have and will be here for the long haul. To this day, we value long-term business relationships, building them from the ground up and maintaining them with superior customer service. We have used green energy for 70+ years.
DESCRIBE YOUR APPROACH TO BUSINESS.
I’m a global thinker, a solution searcher, an outside the box strategist and above all, a team player. My goal has always been to mentor and learn. I’m a strong proponent of lifelong learning, so endorsing a variety of training was no stretch for me.
WHAT ROLE HAVE YOU PLAYED IN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, JOB CREATION AND EXPANSION IN THE REGION LEADING TO ECONOMIC GROWTH IN HALIFAX?
We’re pioneers for the Province of Nova Scotia with the pilot initiative, Employer of Choice Program, in South West Nova. Our HR Manager is very active on the Employer Relations Committee of CME (Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters). We’re also actively involved in BRE (Business Retention and Expansion) and have representation on the local committee through our RDA.
WHAT IS ONE THING YOU HAVE DONE IN THE PAST YEAR THAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT ABOVE THE REST?
We have stood well above many other industry leaders in the energy sector. Many people have gotten into wind energy and we’re in that game too, but we’ve stepped forward to take a major role in a largely unknown energy area – tidal and wave energy. This is one of the energies of the future. We’re indeed pioneers on this front.
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