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Financial Post Small Business Roundtable: A Closer Look at Challenges and Opportunities

Introduction to the Forum

Published Mar 21, 2025 • 14 minute read

The Financial Post Small Business Roundtable is part of Postmedia’s ongoing series titled "How Canada Wins." This platform serves as a recurring forum aimed at fostering discussions among small business owners and leaders. During these sessions, participants will evaluate the significant challenges they face while also exploring viable solutions to ensure their continued growth and prosperity.

The Economic Backbone of Canada

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are frequently acknowledged as the lifeblood of the Canadian economy. They account for over 99% of all businesses and are responsible for employing more than 60% of the Canadian workforce, underscoring their vital role in economic stability and innovation.

Challenges Ahead

As part of our discussion series, we will bring together diverse voices, such as Jack Shinder, CEO of Ambico Ltd., and Adele Larkin, General Manager of Black Rock Oceanfront Resort. They will share their perspectives on pressing issues like rising tariffs and labor shortages.

Key Industry Participants

1. Jack Shinder – The leader of Ambico Ltd., a family-owned company specializing in custom doors and frames for commercial entities in Canada and the U.S.
2. Adele Larkin – Overseeing operations at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, a hotel that has consistently attracted guests with breathtaking coastal views.
3. Kevin McLaughlin – CEO of Zygg Mobility Inc., a service provider for e-bikes catering to both consumers and various sectors, including municipal services and educational institutions.
4. Dan Kelly – Head of the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB), an organization dedicated to advocating for the interests of independent business owners.

The Discussion on Challenges

During the roundtable, various pressing issues that small businesses are grappling with were discussed.

The Impact of Tariffs

Jack Shinder noted that his company, which is heavily involved in U.S.-Canada trade, feels the immediate impact of tariffs. Although they had anticipated challenges due to these tariffs, they now see an opportunity to double down on customer engagement and product quality.

Cost of Living and Talent Acquisition

Adele Larkin provided a comprehensive overview of the cost-of-living crisis affecting recruitment, particularly on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The high average wages make it challenging to attract candidates who can afford to live in the area, thereby affecting the entire tourism sector.

How AI legalese decoder Can Help

legal jargon can often be overwhelming for small business owners trying to navigate regulatory changes, including those related to tariffs. AI legalese decoder offers a straightforward solution by simplifying legal language and presenting essential information that can guide businesses through their legal obligations. This can help in understanding how recent changes might affect their operations, leading to more informed decision-making and enhanced compliance.

Long-Term Strategies

Both Shinder and Larkin emphasized the importance of forward-thinking strategies in dealing with the repercussions of tariffs and talent shortages. They both pointed out that businesses need to remain adaptable and evolve their practices continually.

Leveraging Technology

Adele Larkin highlighted a substantial investment in IT systems that allow her resort to make agile decisions. This kind of investment can streamline operations and improve responsiveness in the face of market changes.

Addressing Labor Shortages

Both leaders expressed their dependence on foreign workers to fill gaps in labor, emphasizing that current work visa policies need significant recalibration to support businesses better.

Conclusion: Path Forward for Small Businesses

While small businesses face their fair share of hurdles, they also appear more ready than ever to confront these challenges head-on. With ongoing discussions like those at the Financial Post Small Business Roundtable, and tools like AI legalese decoder available to illuminate complex legal concepts, Canadian SMEs can navigate these turbulent waters more effectively.

This reformulated content highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by small businesses in Canada while explaining how AI legalese decoder can provide essential support for navigating legal complexities.

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