lauriers gala - Lauriers de la PME

Transcription

6
th
LAURIERS GALA
Recognizing entrepreneurial
excellence in the Francophone
and Acadian communities
TABLE OF
CONTENT
THE 2014 SME LAURIERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
RDÉE CANADA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
VISION & MISSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
MESSAGE OF THE CHAIR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
MESSAGE OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR . . . . . 7
FINALISTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
PROCESSING/MANUFACTURING
BUSINESSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
SERVICE BUSINESSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
RETAIL BUSINESSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
MICRO-BUSINESSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
THE 2014 SME
LAURIERS
DEFINITION
The Lauriers de la PME competition
recognizes entrepreneurial excellence
for small and medium-sized businesses
in Canada’s Francophone and Acadian
communities. Open to all Francophone
businesses outside Quebec, this national
competition underscores entrepreneurial
merit in five areas: Processing/Manufacturing
Business, Service Business, Retail Business,
Micro-business, and Young Entrepreneurs.
With this competition, RDÉE Canada
celebrates the success of the Canadian
economic Francophonie.
For this sixth edition, RDÉE Canada joins the
Conseil économique du Nouveau-Brunswick
(CÉNB), which will also be holding its annual
business banquet the same evening. The
two organizations expect to welcome some
700 members of the Francophone business
community from across the country.
The 2014 awards gala will be held at the
Delta Beauséjour Hotel in Moncton, New
Brunswick, on November 15, 2014.
This committee comprises an equal
number of men and women selected from
across Canada. The impartial and anonymous
process examines all of the nominations
according to a series of specific criteria,
with scoring as follows: economic
performance (70%) and social engagement
(30%). Nominated businesses must show
that they contribute actively to their
community and to the development
of French life in general, in addition to
posting excellent economic results. At the
end of the process, the selection committee
determines the five competition winners.
A Francophone SME is defined as a business
with less than 500 employees run by one
or more French-speaking owners involved
in administrative and technical management
of operations, maintaining ongoing
contact with their staff, and encouraging
the development of the Francophone
economy outside Quebec.
Each member of RDÉE Canada from the
12 provinces and territories except Quebec
submits nominations for Francophone
businesses in their community. The selection
committee consists of stakeholders from the
Francophone business sector and federal
economic development organizations.
3 / FINALISTS 2014
CATEGORIES
Winners will be chosen in the
following five categories:
PROCESSING/MANUFACTURING BUSINESS
A “processing/manufacturing business”
is one whose principal activity consists in
transforming, processing or manufacturing
goods from raw products or materials.
In general, manufacturing involves
transforming materials or substances into
new products by means of mechanical
or physical processes. The primary products
undergo some form of transformation,
processing or modification that, with
the addition of inputs (other elements or
sub-products) creates a value-added product.
SERVICE BUSINESS
A “service business” is one whose
activity involves the sale of services
directly to consumers or to other
businesses that use these services as
production inputs. The services may be
more notable for the creativity with which
they are provided than for their level
of industrial or technological intensity.
RETAIL BUSINESS
YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
A “retail business” is one whose activity
involves purchasing products from suppliers,
producers or importers, either directly or
through a wholesaler. The business then
resells the goods, usually in units or small
quantities, to customers in a store, shop
or by mail through a catalogue or website.
It is the final link in the distribution
chain, which is what distinguishes
it from a wholesaler.
This category is for any business owned
by one or more owners aged 35 and under
who have made a difference in economic
diversification in any business line. Examples
include a processing company focusing
on a new aspect of the local economy,
an eco-friendly construction company
contributing to diversifying a resource‑based
economy, or a business providing new
technology services or products
on the national and international market.
MICRO-BUSINESS
A “micro-business” can operate in a variety
of sectors but must employ a maximum
of three employees (including the owner).
In general, such a business provides
commercial, accounting, technical, legal,
informatics or other skills. Micro-businesses
can also involve a self-employed
worker (without employees).
4 / LAURIERS GALA
This major national competition
is a unique opportunity to celebrate
the successes of the Canadian
economic Francophonie!
RDÉE
CANADA
RDÉE Canada (Réseau de développement économique et d’employabilité) is the only national
organization working for the economic development of the Francophone and Acadian communities
in Canada. This non-profit organization that promotes the economic growth and development
of Francophone minority communities is present in all of the provinces and territories via local
RDÉEs that comprise the national network.
RDÉE Canada is a leader in community-based economic development (CED) in the Francophone
and Acadian minority communities. Its national office also offers a wide range of support
and services to its provincial and territorial members to assist them in their own initiatives.
RDÉE CANADA
• Acts as a hub for connections, networking and harmonization
• Is an incubator for projects and initiatives
• Maintains professional linkages and sustainable partnerships
• Supports leadership and innovation
• Promotes best practices and continuous learning
• Conducts research and communicates its results
• Enhances the development and growth of networks and collaborative work
• Celebrates and disseminates Francophone economic success stories
5 / FINALISTS 2014
VISION
RECOGNIZED FOR ITS EXPERTISE AND
BUILDING ON THE CONTRIBUTION OF
ITS MEMBERS, RDÉE CANADA IS THE
LEADER OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
IN FRANCOPHONE AND ACADIAN
COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE COUNTRY.
MISSION
RDÉE CANADA, A NATIONAL ANCHOR FOR
ITS PROVINCIAL AND TERRITORIAL MEMBERS,
FOSTERS MOBILIZATION, COLLABORATION
AND COORDINATION OF EFFORTS
TO SUPPORT FRANCOPHONE AND ACADIAN
COMMUNITIES TO CONTRIBUTE FULLY
TO CANADA’S PROSPERITY.
MESSAGE
FROM THE
CHAIR
The Francophonie is an essential asset
to Canada’s economic development. A part
of our heritage, it is the key to dialogue
and sharing. It is therefore our aim at RDÉE
Canada to encourage Francophone businesses
in a minority setting to contribute to
a prosperous Canada.
we firmly believe it is our duty to highlight
the efforts of our Francophone entrepreneurs.
Doing so allows us to share their satisfaction,
and it is a wonderful way to bring us closer
together, given that each nomination package
provides a glimpse into the unique experience
of the various nominees.
As chair of the RDÉE Canada Board
of Directors, I am proud to be involved
in this sixth edition of the Lauriers de la
PME. This national competition is an
ideal opportunity to celebrate the many
successes of Francophone entrepreneurs
across the country. The awards gala will be
held together with the Entreprise de l’année
annual business banquet of the Conseil
économique du Nouveau-Brunswick (CÉNB).
This recognition event is tangible proof
that the Francophonie has an essential and
advantageous role in the Canadian economy.
Lastly, I want to congratulate each of
the 29 finalists who are all success stories,
regardless of whether they are Lauriers
de la PME winners.
We know there are countless challenges
involved in starting a business, which is why
Denis Laframboise
Chair of the Board of Directors
6 / LAURIERS GALA
I wish them well, not only in terms of this
competition but also, and more importantly,
for their continued success.
MESSAGE
FROM THE
EXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR
As the leader of Francophone economic
development and employability, RDÉE
Canada is proud to lead this unparalleled
initiative that connects us with so many
entrepreneurs right up until the Lauriers
de la PME awards ceremony. This sixth
edition, made possible thanks to the
continued efforts of all our members
and our team, promises to be a success!
Having had the privilege of reading through
the nomination packages, I must say that
I was struck by the quality, innovative spirit
and potential for success of our business
people. It gives me great satisfaction
to see the growth and perseverance
shown by each of these entrepreneurs.
I would like to take this opportunity to
underscore the excellent work from all the
members of the RDÉE Canada, and I am
pleased to note that this positive energy
also applies to our communities. We are
all committed to the Francophonie in the
broadest sense of the word and are proud
of its contribution to the economy. That is
why it is vital to maintain this Lauriers
de la PME competition bringing
recognition and celebrating
Francophone entrepreneurial success.
I would like to remind you that this year
we are introducing an all-new concept
to showcase the five competition winners
via the Dialogue avec des entrepreneurs :
les clés de la réussite francophone. This
entrepreneurs workshop on the keys to
Francophone success will be an opportunity
to develop high-level dialogue between
the winners, business experts and
the RDÉE Canada members.
Lastly, I would like to sincerely thank
all of the participants from each province
and territory and all those who have helped
make this such a meaningful event. A special
thank you to the members of the RDÉE
Canada team who have been part of the
success of the Lauriers de la PME 2014.
Jean Léger
Executive Director 7 / FINALISTS 2014
FINALISTS
PROCESSING/MANUFACTURING BUSINESSES
Brunet Monuments
Greener Print Solutions
Margarine Golden Gate Michca Inc.
Over the Hill Orchards
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Arctic Kingdom
Artisan Inn
Atlantic Roofers Ltd.
CrossFit Winnipeg Inc.
Daniel and Daniel Catering Inc.
Echovoix
EvelineCharles Salons & Spas
Fundy Pros
Groupe Gestion CNT Inc.
Red Letter Films
RETAIL BUSINESSES
By Nature Import Inc.
Cherlock & Safe
HMS Office Supplies Ltd.
Monique Lavoie Pharmacy Ltd.
Sandbanks Estate Winery Inc.
8 / LAURIERS GALA
MICRO-BUSINESSES
Audio Concepts Plus Inc.
Dan’s Flying Service Ltd.
Galerie June Deveau
MaxAudio Ltd.
Rheault Distillery
Ron’s Construction
YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
Bold Innovation Group Ltd.
Infiniti Homes
Joel’s Coffee Inc.
OMD Construction & Consulting Ltd.
9 / FINALISTS 2014
PROCESSING/MANUFACTURING BUSINESSES
GREENER PRINT SOLUTIONS
In 2010, Jason Gagne developed a brand-new concept and created Greener Print Solutions, a
company offering a wide range of products and services for eco-friendly printing. This is made
possible through the use of adapted printing technology, recyclable and biodegradable printing
products, equipment free from greenhouse gas emissions, vegetable water- and soy-based inks.
The company uses local suppliers whenever possible. Today, Jason Gagne is Canada’s leader in
eco-friendly print products.
Greener Print Solutions relies on a team of loyal employees and is committed to encouraging
their creativity and innovation. Jason Gagne regularly gives staff the opportunity to upgrade
their training.
Next year, Greener Print Solution, through the Free the Children foundation, will be planting
a tree with each order processed. Jason Gagne works closely with the Educacentre College,
regularly sharing his story with job seekers and future entrepreneurs, and awarding
two annual student scholarships.
OWNER Jason Gagne
LOCATION Richmond, British Columbia
YEAR ESTABLISHED 2010
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
5 full-time, 1 part-time
and contract employees
MARGARINE GOLDEN GATE MICHCA INC.
Margarine Golden Gate is a family operation that has been in business for 30 years.
It is a leading producer of margarines and specialty laminating fats, and also
offers a complete range of baked goods.
The two margarines manufactured by the company under the Crystal and Mirage brands are
tailored to meet different consumer demands. Their soya- and canola-based margarines are rich
in omega-3 fatty acids and make an excellent choice for baking or just spreading and serving.
Golden Gate is constantly working to develop new products (looking for new flavours)
and the owner keeps abreast of health and environmental issues (e.g., elimination of trans
fats and new eco-sustainable packaging). That is why Mirage margarine comes in reusable
containers with a five-year lifetime.
Golden Gate also distributes internationally. Clients include individual consumers, restaurateurs
and industries that use it as an industrial product. The company also works closely with
hospitals and restaurant chains to develop products meeting their specific needs. This has led
to the production of sodium-reduced, lactose-free and garlic flavoured products, to name a few.
10 / LAURIERS GALA
OWNER Michel Lafortune
LOCATION Oakville, Ontario
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES 75
BRUNET MONUMENTS
Monuments Brunet produces and installs an average of 300 tombstones a year in addition
to larger monuments such as columbariums and statues.
The company is a family legacy, which has sought to preserve craftsmanship excellence
for over a century. Owner Charles Brunet took over the management of Monuments Brunet
in 1990 and has continued the family tradition with his wife, Gisèle, and their son,
Benoît, who works as an engraver.
Monuments Brunet stands apart from the competition and is a recognized leader due to the
material and artistic visual quality of its products. Monuments Brunet is in fact the only
monument business in Manitoba that employs a full-time artist. Clients receive three drawings
of the proposed monument, an unparalleled level of service in the industry. The result is
original, highly stylized, remarkable and sometimes spectacular works of art. Mr. Brunet strives
to keep in touch with market trends and has attended several professional fairs and exhibitions
where he has also promoted and raised public awareness about commemorative monuments.
OWNER Charles Brunet
LOCATION Winnipeg, Manitoba
OVER THE HILL ORCHARDS
Farming couple Dean and Sylvia Kreutzer are the owners of Over the Hill Orchards
in Lumsden. These certified organic fruit growers cultivate several types of fruit
trees adapted to the Saskatchewan climate.
They grow several varieties (apricots, grapes, peaches, apples, raspberries and strawberries)
and are preparing to introduce blackberries and honeysuckle. The farm uses no pesticides,
using organic alfalfa pellets instead.
Today, they produce a range of derivatives, low-sugar foods, and gluten-free baked goods.
In addition to their healthy food line, they offer guided tours of the orchards, sharing
their passion and love of the earth with anyone taking the time to stop by. Sylvia
and Dean have thus become leaders in their region’s tourism development.
Dean attends to the farm chores, assisted by his retired parents, while Sylvia handles
the day-to-day store and website management, fruit processing, purchasing,
marketing and administration.
11 / FINALISTS 2014
OWNERS Dean and Sylvia Kreutzer
LOCATION Lumsden, Saskatchewan
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES:
15 (3 full-time, 2 part-time,
and 10 seasonal)
SERVICE BUSINESSES
ARCTIC KINGDOM
In 1999, Graham Dickson decided to combine his diving instructor training and his dream
of starting his own business. Passionate about the great outdoors, he introduces the world
to the Arctic, its people and geography. In just a few years, Arctic Kingdom has become
the largest tourist outfitter in the Canadian Arctic.
Arctic Kingdom provides equipment and guide services for private and business tourists
as well as film crews and scientists. With the introduction of its Tour Iqaluit adventures,
the company also offers local guided city tours, boat tours, deep-sea diving,
snowmobiling, ice fishing and much more.
Graham Dickson has organized more than 200 Arctic safaris as well as some 20 major
expeditions that have generated impressive media coverage. Mr. Dixon has been the subject
of 30 feature articles in newspapers and magazines as well as television broadcasts.
He was actively involved with the filming of the French documentary Océans for three
years, and has also worked with National Geographic, the BBC (United Kingdom), NDR
(Germany), the Outdoor Life Network (OLN, Canada) and Ushuaïa/TF1 (France).
OWNER Graham Dickson
LOCATION Iqaluit, Nunavut
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
20 full-time (year-round) and
50 seasonal (summer)
ARTISAN INN
Artisan Inn is located in the small coastal town of Bonavista, Newfoundland. The Gow family,
who started out restoring a heritage property in 1990, have turned Artisan Inn into a regional
success story. The business comprises six buildings, including five guestrooms, four vacation
homes and a restaurant, which are open from May to October (six months).
Campbell House, the first home restored by the Gow family, is a “living museum”
where guests can sleep in period beds and relax in a comfortable and historic setting.
Artisan Inn uses local products and services whenever possible. The gardens are used
for growing flowers, herbs, lettuce and rhubarb for their Twine Loft restaurant.
Artisan Inn provides its guests with all the information they need to enjoy the region’s tourist
attractions, including hiking and walking, bird and whale watching, cultural events, and more.
The Artisan Inn has put Trinity on the map as an architectural and historic preservation site.
12 / LAURIERS GALA
OWNER Tineke Gow
LOCATION Trinity, Newfoundland
ATLANTIC ROOFERS LTD.
Atlantic Roofers Ltd. specializes in roof repair and construction. Arthur Allain founded
the business in 1972 in Cocagne, New Brunswick. In 1992, his nephew Jean Allain,
who was working as an apprentice, took over the sixth regional office in Winsloe, PEI.
Atlantic Roofers is known as one of the best roofing companies in the province and Atlantic
region. They provide emergency repair services after a fire or heavy snowfall, among others.
The regional office focuses more on major commercial, institutional and government
contracts, including Island hospitals, schools, offices and factories. Regular customers
include provincial government buildings such as post offices and the Department
of Veteran Affairs building.
With the support of his administrative assistant, Jean Allain manages all the operations of the
PEI regional office, which also involves preparing and submitting tenders. Lastly, he frequently
visits worksites to supervise employees and inspect the quality of work with one of his foremen.
OWNER Jean Allain
LOCATION Winsloe, Prince Edward Island
CROSSFIT WINNIPEG INC.
Tania Tétrault Vrga has been the owner and head coach at CrossFit Winnipeg since 2009.
The business has been a success, jumping from 20 to 340+ customers in five years.
The staff has also grown and now consists of a dozen qualified trainers, two
receptionists, a part-time massage therapist and several other professionals.
With CrossFit, the young coach discovered the possibility of combining a variety of physical
exercises such as weight training, running, gymnastics and rope climbing. It is based on
the principle of customers participating in classes and working out in groups. That said,
CrossFit Winnipeg also offers personal training, individual exercise programs, and nutrition
and lifestyle consulting. For the owner/founder, the community aspect is key, given that
CrossFit is a highly intense and difficult form of exercise, and sharing the experience
with others brings people together.
In 2014, CrossFit Winnipeg launched a new venture: a summer camp for youth.
The next step will be to offer classes for adolescents practising high-level sports,
since CrossFit is known for being very effective in supporting sports training.
13 / FINALISTS 2014
OWNER Tania Tétrault Vrga
LOCATION Winnipeg, Manitoba
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
5 permanent and 12 contract employees
DANIEL AND DANIEL CATERING INC.
With their background in restaurant and hotel services, Daniel Clairet and Daniel Megly
joined forces in 1980 to provide catering services. In the beginning, while they worked as
“off-site caterers” for a variety of restaurants and specialty gourmet shops, they did not have
their own location in which to host events and prep their food. However, they had access
to some of the best Toronto venues, including Roy Thomson Hall, the Royal Ontario
Museum and Steam Whistle Brewing.
D&D Catering also traveled to other locations such as gardens, offices and public
spaces, depending on customer requests. After a few months in business, they expanded
their catering services to include businesses, commercial publicity and film shoots
as well as wedding receptions.
D&D Catering is part of the renowned Catersource US Catering Association, which includes
the ICA (International Catering Association). This membership helps them stay current
with marketplace trends and gives them equal footing with their North American industry
competition. Association gatherings are an opportunity to network, discuss culinary trends,
event organization, and what’s new in the cooking world.
OWNERS Daniel Megly and Daniel Clairet
LOCATION Toronto, Ontario
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
96 including 4 part-time
ECHOVOIX
Echovoix is a communications specialist providing interpretation and translation services
to an array of clients across Canada and the United States. Gabriel Comeau is the general
manager and chief interpreter at Echovoix.
The company specializes in simultaneous interpretation services for conferences and meetings,
both large and small, courses, press conferences, site visits and various other meeting types.
For smaller groups, the company offers equipment rental, including fully portable systems.
Echovoix targets clients in farming circles - still a specialty area in the interpretation field.
In line with the mentoring and teaching programs, Mr. Comeau offered a two-day training
workshop in April 2014 to small five-person groups across Nova Scotia and New Brunswick
with a view to creating a network and identifying a potential succession. Training new
interpreters is a key concern for the company as it strives to address the interpreter
shortage in the Halifax region.
14 / LAURIERS GALA
OWNER Gabriel Comeau
LOCATION Truro, Nova Scotia
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES 1 full-time
EVELINECHARLES SALONS & SPAS
From its humble beginnings as a rural hair salon, EvelineCharles Salons & Spas quickly climbed
the ranks to become a world-class business, providing a complete line of beauty products
and treatments in addition to the salon and spa services.
When she opened her second salon, owner Eveline Charles stopped working as a hairdresser
to focus exclusively on developing her business. The 2000s saw her expand into British
Columbia and launch a full beauty product line.
Eveline Charles has surrounded herself with international experts to create exclusive hairstyling
tools and cosmetic products for body, hair and nail care. She is known for the diversity of
her beauty treatments, including the Beauty MD section that includes Botox injections, laser
hair removal, laser anti-pigmentation treatment, soft tissue filler, and ProFractional laser skin
resurfacing. Moreover, the renowned EvelineCharles Academy was created in 2005 and has
become one of Canada’s top beauty schools, offering cosmetology and esthetics training.
OWNER Eveline Charles
LOCATION Calgary, Alberta
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
260 (around 200 full-time and 60 part-time)
FUNDY PROS
In 1993, Mario Allain founded Allain Drywall, which became Fundy Pros in 2009. As the
largest specialized construction company in New Brunswick, its range of services includes
installing steel studs, drywall, flooring, ceilings, insulation, fire stops and exterior insulation
finish systems (EIFS). Mr. Allain undertakes many residential as well as commercial projects.
FundyPros supports the recognition of tradespeople as certified professionals. The company
set up a classroom at its location and hired an instructor to provide training in essential
supervisory skills. These efforts have paid off, and New Brunswick’s Apprenticeship and
Occupational Certification has committed to developing a curriculum for lathers.
In the last few years, FundyPros has expanded into the Fredericton and Saint John areas. As
well, the Master Drywall and Custom Exterior Design teams have joined forces with FundyPros,
growing the company’s client base and capacity for indoor and outdoor work. FundyPros
customers therefore only need to call on a single contractor instead of having to manage
several. This aspect brings added value for customers, especially for bigger projects.
15 / FINALISTS 2014
OWNER Mario Allain
LOCATION Dieppe, New Brunswick
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
and 3 on seasonal contract
GROUPE GESTION CNT INC.
Groupe gestion CNT Inc., established in Regina by Claire Bélanger-Parker, specializes
in event, conference and association management.
For seamless organization, Groupe gestion CNT works with a number of quality suppliers,
including printers, graphic artists, hotels and caterers. Groupe gestion CNT Inc. prepares
and submits a complete event manual to each of its clients. The group makes every effort
to ensure the events they manage are a guaranteed success from start to finish.
Groupe gestion CNT has expanded into all the Canadian provinces, the United States,
and even Latin America and the Caribbean. Its online management services allow employees
to work remotely and for clients to strengthen the impact of their event or conference.
This type of management requires an excellent knowledge of clients and the network as well
as solid negotiating skills with service providers. Groupe gestion CNT employees work closely
and continuously with client teams to keep them informed and prepared to provide
ongoing service after their job is done.
OWNER Claire Bélanger-Parker
LOCATION Regina, Saskatchewan
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
2 full-time and 1 part-time
RED LETTER FILMS
The Red Letter Films production company in Surrey, British Columbia, develops and produces
compelling television with a primary focus on social documentary. Founded in 2001 by Sylvie
Peltier, Red Letter Films has proven expertise in producing French-language television and is
one of a select few Francophone production companies outside of Quebec and France.
While Red Letter Films was primarily involved in making documentaries five years ago,
the company now produces television series. Things really took off for Red Letter Films
with the documentary La légende de Cataline/The Legend of Cataline, its first contract with
Radio-Canada. Today, its main clients are Canal D, Historia, TV5 and the new UNIS
station. Competition is tough for Red Letter Films, considered by its Quebec colleagues
as a “dangerous little sister!”
The company is also a member of the Alliance des Producteurs Francophones du Canada
(APFC), an organization devoted to the development of the French language television, film
and multimedia industry across Canada. Recognized by her peers, Sylvie Peltier has been
the chair of the APFC for the past four years.
16 / LAURIERS GALA
OWNER Sylvie Peltier
LOCATION Surrey, British Columbia
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
RETAIL BUSINESSES
BY NATURE
Established in Vancouver by Nicolas Rousseau, By Nature produces a line of innovative
and original plant products ranging from a “living” frame to vertical indoor gardens.
With the help of his associate, Fred Collay, the owner creates alternatives for enhancing
the esthetic environment and contributing to well-being through the addition
of a natural decorative element.
By Nature goes far beyond interior decoration. Their creations also contribute to a real indoor
ecosystem with oxygenation and air revitalization, giving users a way to breathe better…
Their highly innovative plant creations are both ecological and locally sourced. These features
are greatly appreciated by building professionals, as some By Nature projects can help them earn
the LEED credits (green building certification) that are essential for some architectural
projects such as hospitals and schools.
The company’s clients include florists, garden centres, home improvement stores, building
professionals and the general public. Since 2012, the owners have expanded their distribution
network across Canada, with more than 250 stores currently selling their products.
OWNERS Nicolas Rousseau and Fred Collay
LOCATION Vancouver, British Columbia
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
CHERLOCK & SAFE
Established in 2008 by Cheryl Gareau, Cherlock & Safe is a high-security locksmith service.
Wanting to make a career shift in a once male-dominated field, the entrepreneur took
the necessary steps to become a certified locksmith. On receiving her certificate, she became
the only female journeyman locksmith in Saskatchewan. This new title, combined with
her accounting background, gave her the confidence to pursue her dream of owning
her own business. Cheryl’s specialization in high-security locksmithing has attracted
customers from financial, government and commercial institutions.
In her first two years of business, Cheryl secured her first two major contracts with
the Saskatchewan Penitentiary and with the City of Prince Albert’s Police.
They have remained loyal customers and formed a solid foundation from
which Cherlock & Safe could grow.
For Cheryl, quality assurance is key. Always at the forefront of new products,
she offers solutions that are tailored to customer needs and demand. Customer
satisfaction is her goal and she also guarantees her products.
17 / FINALISTS 2014
OWNER Cheryl Gareau
LOCATION Prince Albert, Saskatchewan
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
HMS OFFICE SUPPLIES LTD.
Henri Gallant started his career in office furniture sales in 1972. A decade later, he teamed
up with Paul Arsenault to create HMS Office Supplies in Summerside. A few years later,
they expanded their store, adding furniture, office machine and computer sales.
In 1999, Henri and his wife Gloria Gallant purchased Mr. Arsenault’s shares. The entrepreneur
assumed the role of general manager, assisted by Gloria, while their son Pierre became
the furniture division manager.
The office supply division of HMS Office Supplies primarily targets the business, commercial
and institutional markets, providing a province-wide account and delivery service.
The company supplies hospitals, seniors’ homes and schools as well as large
manufacturing and institutional offices such as Cavendish Farms, Amalgamated
Dairies Ltd., BioVectra and the Wind Energy Institute of Canada.
The company’s furniture sales are geared toward large businesses, institutions
and the provincial and federal governments. Because of its solid reputation,
HMS is often invited to bid on contracts.
OWNER Henri Gallant
LOCATION
Summerside, Prince Edward Island
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
7 full-time
HMS is a well-known and widely respected local company.
MONIQUE LAVOIE PHARMACY
Pharmacist owner/manager Monique Lavoie sells pharmaceutical and retail products under
the Shoppers Drug Mart name. Incorporated in 2009 as Monique Lavoie Pharmacy Ltd,
she chose the franchise route to remain competitive.
Monique Lavoie offers a wide range of products and services to promote her customers’
health and well-being. She sells organic as well as the standard healthcare fare, basic
medicines, cleaning products, non-perishable foods, magazines, and more.
In November 2012, the pharmacist obtained the right to prescribe certain products that
enhance the quality of her service offer. She and her team also administer flu vaccines.
The pharmacist is very active in the community and is a frequent sponsor of the St. Isidore
Carnival, an event promoting regional French language and culture. Monique Lavoie
is her area’s Shoppers Drug Mart representative at the national level, where she represents
the ideas, opinions and concerns of local associate-owners.
18 / LAURIERS GALA
OWNER Monique Lavoie
LOCATION Peace River, Alberta
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
SANDBANKS ESTATE WINERY
The Sandbanks Estate Winery, located in Wellington, Ontario, was established in 2000.
At that time, Catherine Langlois and René Lauzon planted some 6,000 vines to prepare
for their first harvest in 2003, which was initially only supplied to restaurateurs.
Half of the vineyard consists of Baco noir hybrid grapes, which mature early and are highly
disease-resistant. These qualities make this variety of European origin an ideal choice
for harsh Canadian winters. The Sandbanks Estate Winery practises sustainable farming,
and the winemakers use no herbicides or pesticides. They are also members of the Sustainable
Winemaking Ontario Association, which promotes eco-friendly development.
They opened their first store in 2004, where self-guided vineyard tour maps are available
and provide a description of the different types of grapes grown in the Sandbanks vineyard.
The owners currently have three wineries on the same property. They are involved
in several jazz and flamenco events as well as wine tastings for LCBO managers.
Their wine is now distributed in Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia
as well as abroad via Canadian embassies.
19 / FINALISTS 2014
OWNERS
Catherine Langlois and René Lorenzo
LOCATION Wellington, Ontario
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
19 full-time and 10 part-time (seasonal)
MICRO-BUSINESSES
AUDIO CONCEPT PLUS
Pierre Cormier started up Audio Concepts Plus in Paquetville in his parents’ garage. Since 2006,
the company has specialized in automobile electronics, the sale and customized installation
of electronic equipment such as sound and alarm systems, remote starters, light systems, GPS,
satellite radio, and electric doors and windows, creating middle density fiberboard housing
(MDF) for speakers and subwoofers, fibreglass mouldings and MDF parts, and more.
Mr. Cormier installs equipment on different types of vehicles, including cars,
trucks, boats and RVs.
The entrepreneur started out as an installer and salesman in May 2001. Over the years, he
gained valuable business management experience. In March 2004, he decided he wanted to
go into business and hone his skills. He went back to school to study small and medium-sized
business management techniques, following which he started his own company in 2006.
OWNER Pierre Cormier
LOCATION Paquetville, New Brunswick
DAN’S FLYING SERVICES LTD.
In 1998, Daniel Roberge launched Dan’s Flying Services Ltd. This aerial application business
came into being as a result of Daniel’s passion for flying inspired by his uncle, Édouard Privé.
Mr. Roberge was a farmer who flew small planes when he finally decided to get
his commercial air operator’s licence.
The Ponteix business offers aerial crop seeding in this large Prairie region. Dan’s Flying Services
started out with five clients, which grew to more than 75 by 2012. These services, which are
quicker and more effective, also offer herbicide, insecticide and fungicide crop applications.
The move from farmer/pilot to commercial air operator involves following strict criteria
for Daniel Roberge. These measures include aircraft inspections every 100 hours of flying as
well as annual parts testing. The equipment at Dan’s Flying Services consists of a crop duster
(Air Tractor AT-300) as well as a truck and trailer for transportation. The aerial application
season runs from April to October, with the remainder of the year spent on administration.
20 / LAURIERS GALA
OWNERS Daniel Roberge
LOCATION Ponteix, Saskatchewan
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
2 full-time and 2 to 3 part-time
(April to October)
RHEAULT DISTILLERY
The Distillerie Rheault is a small artisan distillery located in northern Ontario. Farmers Mireille
Morin and Marcel Rheault started out in 2009 by handcrafting “alpha” quality vodka.
While grain growing in the Hearst region is almost unheard of, it is absolutely essential
for a distillery. An alpha vodka must be produced from rye or wheat and follow a long,
complex process to achieve the desired refined results. Each of the couple’s products is created
individually from grains to meet Ontario standards.
The distillery’s Loon Vodka comes from an age-old Russian recipe dating back to the 1600s.
Initially sold only in their store, Loon soon garnered the attention of the LCBO (Liquor
Control Board of Ontario). Last winter, the owners sent their first 135 crates of vodka
to the LCBO, which displayed them in 30 “AAA” stores, where premium vodka is sold.
Distillerie Rheault also recently developed two new products: a cherry liqueur and whiskey.
OWNERS
Mireille Morin and Marcel Rheault
LOCATION Hearst, Ontario
JUNE DEVEAU GALERIE STUDIO
June Deveau is a self-taught Acadian visual artist who immortalizes scenes from daily life.
The landscapes around her and the rich cultural life rooted in the Acadian villages
of St. Mary’s Bay are her inspiration. In 1982, June attended her first painting workshops,
when she was studying painting as a hobby. In August 2003, she opened the June
Deveau Galerie Studio, a rustic gallery at the heart of St. Alphonse, where
she sells her original paintings, prints and cards.
June welcomes visitors from around the world to her gallery, taking the opportunity to talk
about her Acadian roots–Acadian culture, tours of cultural sites, and sampling Acadian food
and music–to create a unique experience. She shares the inspiration for her work and that
of other regional artists with guests. Moreover, she received the Canada’s Seacoast Quality
Tourism Experience designation, a benefit that identifies her gallery as a place representing
a more refined, higher-value tourism product.
June offers activities year-round, including art classes on drawing and painting basics.
21 / FINALISTS 2014
OWNER June Deveau
LOCATION St. Alfonse, Nova Scotia
MAXAUDIO LTD.
MaxAudio Ltd. is a residential and commercial next-generation automation company
established in 2007. Founded by Maxime Lorieau, the company features energy conservation,
security, property monitoring and comfort. This sustainable and energy efficient building
technology promotes reduced energy use through specific and customized controls.
The company offers exclusively personalized and made-to-measure services. Its strength lies
in project creation and design, systems installation and start-up, as well as technical follow-up
and maintenance, without needing to subcontract.
MaxAudio has created alliances with customized homebuilders specializing in prefabricated
energy efficient homes, which allows Maxime Lorieau to guarantee stability and continuity
in a highly competitive market.
OWNER Maxime Lorieau
LOCATION Edmonton, Alberta
RON’S CONSTRUCTION
Ronald Arsenault worked in the construction industry for close to 18 years before becoming an
entrepreneur. He decided to found his own construction company, Ron’s Construction, in 1996.
Ron’s Construction specializes in home renovation and building, mainly in the Evangeline
region and surrounding communities.
Mr. Arsenault’s experience is often in high demand for community projects. He has served on
the parish committee of the Saint-Philippe et Saint-Jacques Church in Egmont Bay to assess
the feasibility of restoring the old church. He volunteers each year for organizations such as the
Agricultural Exhibition and Acadian Festival (Exposition agricole and Festival acadien) and also
sits on the board of the Le Bel Âge housing cooperative, where he oversaw the construction
of the residential complexes.
Ronald is one of the most sought-after Francophone contractors in Prince Edward Island.
He steadfastly supports other Francophones entrepreneurs in the region, using their
specialized services for his project finishing (electricians, plumbers, painters,
plasterers, floor installers, etc.).
22 / LAURIERS GALA
OWNER Ronald Arsenault
LOCATION
Wellington, Prince Edward Island
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
and contract, as needed
YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
BOLD INNOVATION GROUP LTD.
Bold Innovation Group Ltd. works in the digital sector, specializing in eCommerce websites
and app development. Based in l’Île-des-Chênes, the company was created in 2012, spurred
by its four owners, Stéfan Maynard, Yvan Boisjoli, Éric Boisjoli and Jason Myers, who saw
this activity as an extension of their respective jobs. Bold Innovation Group now offers globally
accessible services and provides round-the-clock personalized support.
Bold meets the needs of users looking for innovative solutions. The company creates websites
for online sales as well as specific customized apps. Among their different contracts, the
entrepreneurs have had the chance to work with Cirque du soleil, Microsoft, and TimeLife.
The company has diversified by adding other products to its portfolio:
• BoldCommerce.net – eCommerce website consultation and sales service
• Mapply.net – a powerful embedding app
• Community Info – a framework that allows rural communities to create websites.
OWNERS Stéfan Maynard, Yvan Boisjoli,
Éric Boisjoli and Jason Myers
LOCATION Île-des-Chênes, Manitoba
JOEL’S COFFEE
Café de Joël / Joël’s Coffee is an artisan roastery located in Rockland, Ontario. It was launched
in 2011 by the two owners, Joël Béland and Daniel Béland, out of their home. They sell
organic fair trade coffee, tea, soup, salad and sandwiches.
In January 2013, Café de Joël / Joël’s Coffee expanded its services to offer food prepared
on-site from regional, organic products. They also supply coffee to several regional
businesses and regularly host events in partnership with the Mouvement
d’implication francophone d’Orléans (MIFO).
Their products are now featured in 24 sales points across Eastern Ontario. The owners sell
to a number of restaurants, cafés, natural food stores, offices and other businesses in a growing
market extending all the way to Waterloo. They have a booth at the Cumberland market
and are involved in a series of festivals and events across Eastern Ontario, including the Foire
Gourmande in Lefaivre, the Curd Festival in St. Albert, the Festival of Flavours/
Marché des saveurs in Vankleek Hill, the Navan Fair, and several others.
23 / FINALISTS 2014
OWNERS Joël Béland and Louis Béland
LOCATION Rockland, Ontario
INFINITI HOMES
Infiniti Homes Ltd. was established in 2010 in Beaumont. The 33-year-old president
and owner, Jonathan Létourneau, was just starting out in the construction field when
he founded Infinti Homes, a residential housing development company. A mere four
years later, the company has roughly 100 employees working under its wings.
Whether it is for new housing or home renovation projects, Jonathan Létourneau has built
a solid reputation as a businessman across Alberta. Two other construction companies were
created to complement the services of the Infiniti Homes head office: Elegance Finishing Ltd
and Stiletto Framing. Both are also based in the Beaumont municipality and focus more
on renovation and finishing work (framing, insulation of doors and mouldings, etc.).
Infiniti Homes offers genuine customized services to all of their customers.
OWNER Jonathan Létourneau
LOCATION Beaumont, Alberta
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
More than 140 (full-time,
part-time and contract)
OMD CONSTRUCTION & CONSULTING LTD.
In May 2012, Jamie Caissie received his Construction Technician Certificate from Holland
College. Looking for a new challenge, he started up OMD Construction and Consulting Ltd.
OMD Construction & Consulting provides a variety of services, such as designing building
plans, project management, construction and many other kinds of construction work.
OMD Construction & Consulting brings a fresh, modern touch to the business, particularly
with regard to new building design. The young entrepreneur recently learned new planning
and building techniques, which he now offers to his customers. This know-how is greatly
appreciated and has helped Jamie Caissie secure numerous contracts, despite the fierce
competition in a market brimming with experts in the field.
In his first year in business, Jamie Caissie signed a contract to build a house. Since then, he has
received several major projects from government institutions such as the École-sur-mer school
in Summerside and the renovation of the Jean Canfield federal building in Charlottetown.
24 / LAURIERS GALA
OWNER Jamie Caissie
LOCATION
Wellington, Prince Edward Island
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
5 to 10 full-time, depending
on the number of contracts
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
PARTNERS
MEMBERS
25 / FINALISTS 2014

lauriers gala - Lauriers de la PME

Transcription

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