The Bank of Canada’s quarterly Business Outlook Survey summarizes interviews between the bank and approximately 100 senior managers from businesses across Canada. Its purpose is to gather the perspectives of these businesses on topics such as demand, capacity pressures, and other economic indicators. The Summer 2017 Business Outlook Survey signalled that businesses are gaining strength…
Today, approximately 3,800 Ontario food and beverage processing companies provide crucial resources to both local and international consumers. The province continues to be an ideal location for business owners in the food and beverage industry based on access to natural resources, innovation, and skilled labour. In 2016, Ontario’s agriculture sector increased its total output by…
Although the Mentor Works team is dedicated to helping our clients receive government funding, we do have some hobbies outside of work. This includes traditional hobbies like cooking, reading, sports, and gardening, as well as more eccentric hobbies. Over the past year, some Mentor Works team members have been playing dungeons and dragons together. Not…
Smart, connected vehicles are transforming the global automotive industry. Consumers are now looking for technologically-advanced vehicles to support a ‘connected lifestyle’ where they can still be entertained, productive, and safe behind the wheel. Automotive manufacturers should take note of this shift and offer new valuable products or services to serve the connected vehicle market. There…
When considering what foods to buy, more consumers are seeking products that cater to a balanced diet. In fact, when given the choice, 59% of consumers prefer to ‘eat clean’ and are more likely to purchase foods that are less processed. Today consumers are demanding greater access to whole foods such as fruits and vegetables,…
Guided by regulatory requirements and a shift in consumer preferences, electric vehicles are on the path to taking over global market share for new vehicle sales. While there are still many years ahead where internal combustion will reign supreme, the inevitable swing in market preference will eventually catch up. But when will this be? How…
As most business owners can agree, staying abreast of the latest top trends and consumer insights is crucial to success. Not only does this ensure that your business will stay ahead of competitors, but it also helps you prepare for the future and navigate industry-changing shifts with ease. Of course, pinpointing the most innovative ideas…
Automotive technologies are constantly improving to meet customer demand. The popularity of cutting-edge, technology-filled vehicles continues to increase across the world; therefore, automotive suppliers and technology developers must be willing to develop these systems. There are incredible opportunities for businesses who respond to growing interest for electric, autonomous, and connected vehicles. Canadian automotive companies should…
The future of electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly clear. Battery and engine technologies are being researched and developed at record pace; this has allowed global consumer demand to increase steadily. As more consumers begin to understand the technology and feel comfortable investing in electric vehicles, the market will become dominated by this trend. This…
New data released by Statistics Canada has shown that Ontario’s economy is strengthening, particularly in relation to employment. Although some metrics may fluctuate from month to month, contrasts to the same period last year (or even the last 10+ years) show some emerging trends all businesses should be aware of. In April 2017, Ontario’s unemployment…