Food has always been a central focus for Toben Kochman, chief culinary director and founder of Toben Food by Design in Toronto. “I started working in professional kitchens at the age of 18, just as a fun job as I was always interested in food and grew up in a family where food was a big focal point to family gatherings,” he says. Kochman received his culinary training at the Cordon Bleu in Paris, France, after which he worked…
Ômage Hotel Montréal/Laval has opened its doors, marking the debut of a brand-new boutique hotel following a 10-month transformation of the former Hilton Laval. The property now operates under a new identity as part of Tribute Portfolio, Marriott Bonvoy’s collection of independent hotels. Designed as a welcoming living space, Ômage Montréal/Laval features interiors inspired by the power of the elements and a distinctly local character, with the goal of bringing together both travellers and the Laval community. Located at…
Modern Group, owner and operator of Modern Steak, has appointed chef Rogelio Herrera as director of culinary. This marks a significant step in the group’s continued evolution of culinary leadership and long-term vision. Colombian-born and firmly established in Calgary, Herrera is a highly respected figure in the city’s culinary community, bringing decades of experience across fine dining, restaurant leadership and ownership. His career includes influential roles at The Wildwood and Teatro, followed by his time as co-owner and chef…
The Government of Canada announced a $15 million investment for a new convention and cultural event centre in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program. The project will deliver an energy-efficient and fully accessible facility designed to host cultural events, recreational activities, conferences, and community gatherings. By providing a modern space for diverse events and gatherings, the space is expected to strengthen community connections and contribute to local economic activity by attracting visitors and…
SITE (Society for Incentive Travel Excellence) has appointed Cvent as its official event technology partner across its portfolio of globally recognized events. “SITE’s events bring our global community together to learn, connect, and experience the power of incentive travel,” said Annette Gregg, CEO, SITE. “By partnering with Cvent, we’re evolving the way we design and deliver those experiences, with technology that supports engagement, inclusivity, and insights before, during, and after every event.” As the exclusive event technology partner, Cvent…
EMA Marketing announced the addition of UNIQUE DMC UK, a leading UK‑based destination management company, to its portfolio of global partners. This new partnership expands EMA’s reach into one of Europe’s most dynamic and iconic regions, offering Canadian and international meeting, incentive, conference, and event planners’ access to ground services throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and the UK at large. UNIQUE DMC UK brings destination expertise, from London’s world‑class venues to cultural experiences across the British Isles, delivering unforgettable, tailored…
Sandman Hotel Group is reintroducing its West Georgia Street hotel as Sandman Signature Vancouver Downtown Hotel, following a comprehensive upgrade. Situated in the heart of downtown Vancouver, the newly branded Sandman Signature Vancouver Downtown Hotel features 303 refreshed guest rooms and suites, all thoughtfully redesigned to reflect the Signature brand’s premium positioning. Guest accommodations have been fully refreshed with contemporary finishes, improved layouts, and deluxe linens designed to enhance comfort and sleep quality. Upgraded kitchenette suites provide added flexibility…
The meetings, event and incentives industry is facing a talent reckoning. According to the Incentive Research Foundation’s 2024 Future of the Incentive Workforce report, more than three-quarters of meetings and incentive professionals are experiencing talent or skills shortages. At the same time, more than 70 per cent of potential job seekers have never considered a career in our industry. Not because it lacks appeal, but because they simply do not know the opportunities that exist within our industry. This…
Construction has begun on the Autograph Collection Hotel in Calgary. This is the first of three planned hotels to get underway in The Culture + Entertainment District. The 13-storey, 320-key hotel is a full-service, premium lifestyle hotel offering meeting and ballroom spaces, a range of elevated food and beverage offerings, a terrace with pool, jacuzzi and outdoor bar, and indoor swimming pool and fitness club. “Truman is proud to officially break ground on our first hotel project, which also happens…
The Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) has launched an enhanced Certification Program and exam for individuals aspiring to become travel counsellors and agency supervisors/managers. The new TICO Certification Program replaces the previous static study manual with a fully interactive, online learning experience that reflects best practices in adult e-learning education. “The new TICO Certification Program puts the learner experience front and centre,” said TICO CEO Richard Smart. “It’s been designed to be more interactive, easier to navigate, and…
