Government-imposed regulations, while a hinderance to current business, help with staff shortages, since as Ford says, “Gathering- size limitations are keeping groups relatively small and the hotel operations team is able to manage the groups without any sacrifi ce to the service delivery.” The one notable change is the elimination of buffets, otherwise, says Ford, “Groups will not see any modifi cations to their program.” At the Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC), Claire Smith, vice-president, sales and marketing, says, “Staffi ng has been a signifi cant factor in our planning and operations as we pivot back to hosting events again. Our facility was thankfully in a position to retain a fair portion of our staff throughout the pandemic, either in a partial or full-time capacity. However, like other organizations in our sector, the pandemic did have a large impact on our overall staffi ng levels.” The pause also impacted the VCC supplier partners, who are also going through their own recovery process. “Like us, our clients have also had to navigate these challenges around resources and processes. This has put a huge emphasis on cooperation and adapting, which isn’t a bad thing.” As for dealing with new health and safety protocols (like mask-wearing, proof of vaccination, enhanced cleaning, protective barriers, redesigned fl oor plans), Smith says, “While we don’t know how long these modifi cations will be required, many will carry through after the pandemic as clients have been very encouraged by what this heightened focus on safety adds to their events. We know that confi dence in attending events is at a fragile point right now, so it’s critical that we can give as much assurance as possible to everyone coming into the building at all times.” Proving the universality of labour issues, Paul Bugge, director of business development and industry relations for Destination St. John’s, says, while St. John’s is already hosting business events, the city “has not been immune to the staffi ng shortages being experienced across Canada. We are having problems fi lling positions in the retail, food and beverage and accommodation sectors; thus, creating service and timing challenges.” On the plus side, as a port city they aren’t as impacted by the shortage of coach and truck drivers which is complicating the transportation of delegates and materials to some of the more popular event destinations. There is hope that with the end of government wage subsidies coupled with sector switching, workers from other industries could top up travel and hospitality vacancies to grow employment in sync with the return of business events. Are staffi ng issues effecting your business and events? Join the conversation on our Facebook page. 10 | Ignitemag.ca | Winter 2021 To book your next event contact cntower.ca/events • [email protected] WELCOME TO YOUR NEXT EVENT SPACE Elevate your celebration at the CN Tower, home to the city’s most awe-inspiring views. Toronto’s iconic landmark offers guests an unforgettable experience in one of the Tower’s spectacular event spaces, while showcasing sustainably sourced and local cuisine every bit as jaw-dropping as the view. L E T O U R O N E - O F - A - K I N D V I E W S P E A K F O R I T S E L F.
