New reality for workplaces requires strategic rethink

If the dialogue around remote work seems to have changed from “when is your team going back to the office to how can you adopt a hybrid workplace,” you’re not alone. The Canadian Chamber’s Business Data Lab shows that North American cities are adapting to a new reality. Employers who are facing challenges finding and keeping workers are embracing workforce mobility as a solution. However, the change requires new strategies for ensuring the economic health and safety of urban cores that have lost jobs to the suburbs. The Chamber is working with our regional partners to rethink the role of Downtown Victoria so that it continues to be the vibrant centre of our regional economy.

“We know that our suburban downtowns are thriving, and that’s good news for a lot of municipalities in Greater Victoria,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “What we also need to do is make sure that Downtown Victoria continues as a major draw for tourists and a great place to live for residents. Of course, the way we do that is making sure we have a great climate for businesses to thrive so they can provide the goods and services that attract visitors and support locals.”