Skip to content
Join our Newsletter

On the Street: Local software firm No. 5 on Profit’s fast-growing list

Three Victoria companies have been named to the Profit 500 ranking of Canada’s fastest growing companies. Software development firm Redbrick topped the list of Victoria firms at No. 5, while First Light Technologies came in at No.

Three Victoria companies have been named to the Profit 500 ranking of Canada’s fastest growing companies.

Software development firm Redbrick topped the list of Victoria firms at No. 5, while First Light Technologies came in at No. 55 and MD Charlton, which distributes police and tactical equipment, was listed at 366.

Founded in 2009, Redbrick has reported growth of more than 8,200 per cent between 2010 and 2015. The software analytics company employs 36 people and reports revenue of between $10 million and $20 million annually. “Redbrick has been on an exciting growth trajectory since we started doing business, and with the recent launch of our desktop software analytics platform, DeskMetrics, we are not slowing down anytime soon,” said CEO Tobyn Sowden.

First Light, a manufacturer of solar-powered outdoor lighting founded in 2009, has reported growth of more than 1,400 per cent in the last five years and has grown to employ 12 people, with revenues between $2 million and $5 million. “We have an innovative product line and a great team; this achievement is evidence of the terrific momentum our brand of solar lights are experiencing in the lighting industry,” said First Light co-founder Sean Bourquin.

MD Charlton, in operation since 1980, reported 137 per cent growth over the last five years, and revenue of between $20 million and $50 million.

 

Arq marks 20 years

 

Arq Salons is celebrating its 20th year in business. The hair-cutting company, founded by Stewart Bridgman and Brett Lacey, has grown to two locations

(1317 Douglas St. and 829 Goldstream Ave.) with 18 employees. “When we first started our plan was to create an environment to grow and educate successful stylists. We knew that if we worked hard and built respect with those who work so hard in our company that we would be able to have longevity,” said Lacey. The partners are most proud of their work in the community as the salons have given more than $250,000 in cash and donations over the years.

 

Peetz unveils artist series fishing reel

 

Peetz Reels has released its latest limited edition fishing reel as part of its artist series. Peetz is selling 90 reels entitled Orca, Salmon and Moon as its 2016 Chain of Life reel. The mahogany and brass reel, hand-carved, numbered and signed, by Kwagiulth artist Jason Henry Hunt is designed to appeal to both fishing enthusiasts and collectors of West Coast art. The reel’s design depicts an orca hunting salmon under a full moon, which is represented by a piece of abalone shell. “It is my vision that this reel design reflects our capacity to transform our thoughts and bring about lasting change that will ensure the future health of the Pacific Northwest’s precious salmon for all dependent species.”