Opinion - Top opinion

POSTED: Saturday, Nov. 15, 2008

Still time to benefit from 2010 Vancouver Olympics

In these tough economic times, Whatcom County businesses and workers have an opportunity unavailable anywhere else in the nation - the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Earlier this week, the director of the 2010 Commerce Centre in Vancouver, said that there is still much business to be done in the lead-up to the games.

Brian Krieger told the audience at the annual Western Washington University Bellingham Business Forum that our community is positioned to be part of the success. "Whatcom County has a unique opportunity to tell the stories of this region to the world," Krieger said.

But time is running out.

The games are set to start in February 2010, with many events in Vancouver and others in Whistler.

During the 15 months between now and the start of the games there are thousands of potential opportunities for our local businesses to take advantage of the billions of dollars that will be spent preparing for, and presenting, the games.

While construction of most of the venues is complete, there is need for contractors to provide all kinds of services and supplies. We imagine many local businesses could benefit from working with bigger businesses as sub-contractors to a bigger contract. Thousands of contracts must still be let in preparation for the events.

Imagine, for example, having one of our local chocolatiers helping supply chocolates given to visitors at Vancouver hotels. Or perhaps a local transportation company can work to move some of the goods that will flow into British Columbia to supply the games. There may even be some relief in real estate from travelers who need a rental or fall in love with the area and decide to stay.

In a world struck by an economic downturn, the Olympics strike as almost a recession-proof event. All countries who have winter athletes will send contingents to this important, once-every-four-years celebration. Fans from many nations will follow.

The world celebrates the Olympics and they will go on even if the world's economy hasn't improved much by 2010.

From what we have seen so far, the 2010 Vancouver Olympics promises to be a very high-quality event. Leaders in B.C. should be praised for their work.

Our community can benefit economically and culturally from that event and we encourage all businesses who might have something to offer to contact Commerce Centre officials and take advantage of the opportunity.