Type Scale 

Game On 2010 - Industry

High Demand Industries

Businesses in the hospitality, tourism and retail industries can expect to see higher customer demand than usual, especially those located in close proximity to any Games venues.

In order to maximize their demand, businesses in these industries should consider:

  • Visitor demand: Visitors coming to watch the Games are different than the typical Vancouver/Whistler visitor. Sports tourists have different demographics, spending patterns and tastes.
  • 2010 merchandise and made-in-BC products: Landmark events tend to trigger a demand for products that are unique to the event and its host. Note that the majority of Olympic merchandise is typically purchased by the domestic audience—not just visitors.
  • Demand timing and tourism patterns: Large destination events will often trigger spending or draw visitors that would otherwise consider visiting at other times of the year. For example, 2009 or 2010 summer visitors to B.C. may decide to visit in February 2010 instead.

    In addition, local markets may also alter their timing for some goods and services around the Games. For example, home renovations, electronics and furnishings demand usually increases before a major event as residents prepare to host friends and relatives that will be visiting, as will demand for event-related consumables such as food and beverage.

    Consider this potential shift in demand and visitor patterns, and how it should impact your marketing, inventory and pricing. Also consider the demand for seasonal products that may not be available during the traditionally slow February months.

    2010 Contractors

    Many businesses will be busy “behind the scenes”—supplying other businesses who are producing the event and hosting the spectators. Successfully fulfilling Games-related contracts and subcontracts—including those with sponsors, broadcasters, corporate hosts, sport federations, etc.—will require significant planning.

    For businesses looking to become a 2010 contractor, most buyers will be using the 2010 Business Network as their source of potential vendors:

    • The 2010 Business Network is a free online supplier database that allows companies to profile themselves to 2010-related buyers and others. It also has a robust search function that will help you search for suppliers, partners and subcontractors.

    Businesses that will be supplying any 2010-related buyer should consider:

    • Availability of goods: Ensure that all contracts with other suppliers and providers have been finalized way ahead of your own delivery date. Competition for a particular good may be high; have a contingency plan in place to mitigate any shortfalls. Consider stocking up on products for which there may be a competition for or shortage of during the Games.
    • Access and accreditation: To access and deliver to Games venues, or in areas in close proximity to venues, vehicles and drivers will be checked, approved and accredited. Review the Host City Olympic Transportation Plan to determine if you will be affected by Games-time operational changes. The Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit (V2010ISU) will be providing accreditation and security at venues. If you are serving clients located in an accredited area and believe that you may need accreditation, contact the V2010ISU.
    • Transportation and/or accommodation: It may be difficult to ask staff to make their own way to your business location, and you may need to consider transportation and/or on-site/close-to-site accommodation solutions for the duration of the Games. This needs to be addressed in your hiring plans, and any additional costs should be factored in.
      • To source potential accommodations near your work site, Tourism BC has created 'Destination 2010', the official destination planner.
      • For transportation options, visit Translink’s guide 2010 transportation planning,TravelSmart
    • Flexibility/Contingency plan: Consider a back-up plan with the following:

      • Research alternate suppliers — the 2010 Business Network is an online vendor database that profiles suppliers of a wide variety of goods and services.
      • Research alternate methods/times of delivery
      • Source potential partnerships to build capacity — the 2010 Business Network may be an excellent place to start.
      • Consider using industry associations and Chambers of Commerce as sources for potential partners.
    • Option to share freight deliveries with business partners or associates: Consider partnering to reduce the amount of vehicles required, increase capacity and save on costs. Also consider consolidating orders to minimize vehicle trips
    • Schedule periodic or seasonal maintenance prior to February 1, 2010

    Key Resources


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