VANCOUVER, BC (January 22, 2025) — The British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) is proud to announce the appointment of Paul Hawes as its new President and CEO, effective February 3, 2025. Bringing over 30 years of leadership experience across travel and hospitality sectors in Canada and the United Kingdom, Paul is poised to guide the BCHA into its next phase of growth.

Paul’s journey in the industry began in the UK where he studied tourism and hospitality. In 1995, he moved to Canada and joined Banff Caribou Properties, marking the start of a distinguished career. He has since held leadership roles with Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, Travel Alberta, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, the Canadian Tourism Commission (Destination Canada), and Destination Greater Victoria. During a period back in the UK, Paul also played a pivotal role in establishing the overseas offices in the UK, Germany and France, for Destination New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

Since 2021, Paul has served as vice president, destination development and marketing at Explore Edmonton Corporation, leading the entire visitor economy function. In this role, he was responsible for building industry relations including the region’s hotel sector. He led the teams of global marketing, media relations, sales and business development, event attraction and destination stewardship, including the destination’s tourism master plan evolution.

Under Paul’s leadership, the city of Edmonton earned recognition among Lonely Planet’s top places to visit in 2025. As a passionate advocate for sustainability, Paul has championed sustainability and regenerative tourism initiatives in Edmonton, ensuring the city’s visitor economy continues to thrive into the future.

“We are honoured to welcome Paul to the BCHA,” said Tanya Stroinig, Chair of the BCHA. “Paul’s diverse career portfolio and skillset will serve him well in his role as president and CEO of our organization. For the past four years with Explore Edmonton Corporation, Paul has dedicated his time to driving business and establishing and managing relationships with the hotel community,” she added.

“I am confident that Paul will lead the BCHA forward to achieve continued success,” said Ingrid Jarrett, current president and CEO of the BCHA. “Paul will work with government at the provincial and federal level as I have, ensuring the best interest of the accommodation sector and advocating for our members. I am fully committed to supporting Paul in the transition to his leadership of the BCHA.”

In his new role at the BCHA, Paul will leverage his global expertise and passion for hospitality to drive growth, fostering collaboration in British Columbia’s hotel sector and continuing to strengthen relationships. “I am delighted to be joining the incredible team at the BC Hotel Association. This opportunity feels very much like a homecoming to my roots, with hotels playing such a pivotal role in shaping my early career,” said Paul Hawes. “I’m eager to build on the remarkable work achieved under Ingrid's leadership and look forward to continuing BCHA's legacy of success."

To learn more about the BCHA's work in the hospitality sector through education, communication, and advocacy, visit bcha.com.

Calgary, AB – January 21, 2025 – WebRezPro cloud-based property management system (PMS) for independent lodging operators is excited to announce its integration with MTech Locks, a leading provider of access solutions for the hospitality industry. This partnership empowers properties to elevate the check-in experience by automating mobile key delivery and simplifying front desk operations.

Since 2015, MTech Locks has provided end-to-end access solutions backed by exceptional service. As a Canadian-owned and operated company, MTech Locks is a natural partner for WebRezPro. Together, their integration streamlines self check-in processes, creating a truly frictionless experience for both guests and staff.

“WebRezPro seeks to work with its clients and MTech to create unique tailored solutions based on our shared commitment to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and support,” stated Ken Minogue, President of MTech Locks.

Through this integration, WebRezPro automatically sends reservation data to the property’s MTech Locks system, which responds by generating a unique mobile key delivered to the guest upon check-in. By eliminating the need to enter booking details into the locking system manually, the direct connection improves operational efficiency, reduces errors, and enhances guest satisfaction.

"As a Canadian business ourselves, we’re thrilled to partner with another Canadian company committed to innovation and customer service,” said Frank Verhagen, Founder and President of WebRezPro. "MTech Locks is a proven leader in access solutions, and this integration supports a seamless self check-in experience while boosting efficiency and security of operations for our clients."

MISSISSAUGA, ON | JANUARY 21, 2025 – The Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA) has partnered with the BC Hotel Association (BCHA) to announce the launch of a comprehensive workforce training program designed to address the ongoing labour shortages in Ontario's hospitality sector. This initiative, aimed at equipping workers with the skills needed for success in the hospitality industry, will provide fast-track pathways for career growth and development.

The Fast-Track Your Future program, developed by BCHA, offers a streamlined training curriculum focusing on critical hospitality skills, including customer service, food and beverage management, and essential health and safety protocols. The program has been tailored to help those already working in the industry, with the opportunity to upskill and advance in their careers.

Built as a retention initiative, this program offers opportunities for the growth of employees looking to Fast Track their career, employers to show dedication and commitment to their new and aspiring leaders, as well as established leaders who want a refresher and aspire to continue learning about the unique positions they hold.

Fatima Finnegan, Vice President of Workforce Initiatives & Industry Relations at ORHMA, emphasized the importance of workforce development in the hospitality sector, stating:

"We are excited to partner with BCHA to offer this crucial training initiative. With the hospitality industry facing a significant labour shortage, programs like Fast-Track Your Future are vital to ensure that individuals are prepared for successful careers in the sector. This collaboration provides both immediate career opportunities and long-term growth for employees, and we are proud to be part of such a meaningful program."

Karissa Bourgeault, Fast Track Manager at BCHA, shared her thoughts on the program’s impact on the workforce:

"The Fast-Track Your Future program is designed to provide a rapid and effective way for individuals to enhance their skills and progress in their hospitality careers. It offers a valuable opportunity for employees to fast-track their development, while acquiring high in-demand skills and certifications. We're proud to offer this opportunity alongside ORHMA, which will ultimately strengthen Ontario’s hospitality workforce and provide support long-term retention and growth to build a sustainable career."

Training details and enrollment information are available on the BCHA website at . Interested individuals can find resources, course schedules, and next steps to develop in their career journey.

MONTREAL, Jan. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nüline Distribution is thrilled to announce its partnership as the official Canadian distributor for Newgarden, the Spanish brand known for its innovative outdoor lighting and furniture solutions. This collaboration marks a significant step in bringing Newgarden’s exceptional designs to the Canadian market, catering to a growing demand for stylish, sustainable, and functional outdoor living products.

Introducing Newgarden to Canada

has established itself as an European leader in the outdoor design space, offering an extensive range of products that combine aesthetics, durability, and eco-friendly technology. From solar-powered lighting to unique planters and versatile outdoor furniture, Newgarden’s collections are celebrated for their modern design and commitment to sustainability.

Through this partnership, Nüline Distribution will ensure that Canadian retailers and consumers have access to Newgarden’s innovative products, transforming outdoor spaces across the country.

A Shared Vision for Quality and Sustainability

“We are proud to partner with Newgarden to bring their exceptional products to Canada,” said Ricardo Turner, Business Development Manager at Nüline Distribution. “Their commitment to sustainability and innovative design perfectly aligns with our mission to provide high-quality, stylish solutions to the Canadian market. This partnership represents an exciting new chapter for outdoor living in Canada.”

What Canadian Customers Can Expect

With Newgarden’s wide range of solar-powered lighting, portable furniture, and decorative items, Canadian customers can expect:

• Eco-Friendly Options: Solar-powered lighting solutions for sustainable energy use.
• Durable Designs: Weather-resistant products built to withstand Canada’s diverse climate.
• Stylish Aesthetics: Contemporary designs that enhance any outdoor setting.

Nüline Distribution is committed to supporting Canadian retailers with the tools and resources needed to showcase Newgarden’s product line, from marketing materials to seamless supply chain solutions.