The Downtown Victoria Business Association is helping its members keep Christmas spending local, launching a Downtown Delivers program on Monday that will see free deliveries of goods to customers from Sooke to Sidney.
The DVBA said it will support its members by subsidizing deliveries using three local companies — Maximum Express, NomadEx Bike Cargo and Geazone. The program is expected to last at least until Jan. 15 as funding permits.
“Victoria’s small businesses have worked harder than ever to keep their doors open and their staff employed, and we have been thankful for the community support throughout the year,” said DVBA executive director Jeff Bray.
“This program comes as we are being asked, again, to flatten the curve and keep close to home, and so it will be valuable to all downtown retailers. This is one more way we can safely satisfy our customers.”
Bray said Downtown Delivers offers an incentive to keep your dollars local.
“A $30 purchase to Amazon has no impact in the local economy,” he said. “That same purchase, when bought from a local retailer and delivered by a local courier service, stays in Victoria.
“It has a ripple effect through the region — paying retail staff, delivery drivers and suppliers, then spreading through the community to restaurants and cafes, butchers and bakers and service providers.”
More information about the program can be found at dvba.ca/downtowndelivers.
Espley named chamber member of the year
John Espley has been named Chamber Member of the Year for 2021 by the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce.
“John is someone that knows everyone. He’s a familiar face at chamber mixers and was one of the people who helped make our virtual events so successful this year,” said John Wilson, chair of the chamber’s board of directors. “We’re delighted to recognize John for his support and I look forward to celebrating with him in 2021, as we continue working to rebuild and add resilience to Greater Victoria’s economy.”
Espley is a vocal champion of the chamber and has been involved with the organization since the 1990s. Currently the chief connector for Connection Skills, Espley served as chair of the chamber in 2007 and is now a member of its board of governors.
Shop local holiday craft pop-up
With craft fairs cancelled this year, Metchosin lavender farm Bilston Creek is using its barn as a safe place for the community to shop for local, handmade and unique gifts. The pop-up consignment shop is featuring products from a rotating selection of local makers, artists and creative small businesses each weekend to Dec. 23.
Vendors will set up items for display, but will not be present during store hours. Customers will be able to browse the shop and pick up items from multiple local businesses, and Bilston Creek Farm staff will be responsible for processing all payments from behind plexiglass barriers.
By booking a ticket in advance, customers can help reduce lineups and crowding.
Bilston is at 4185 Metchosin Rd. Call 778-533-7550
Top accounting student
Aron Funk of Victoria was one of nine students who made the honour roll after writing the Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia national exams in September.
In total, 1,004 students passed the multi-day national final examination.
In order to attain the designation, students must complete rigorous course work, pass the final exam and fulfill relevant practical experience requirements.
