Survey paints discouraging picture for B.C. small businesses [Video]

The organization Business Improvement Areas of B.C. released the results of a survey of more than 500 small and medium-sized businesses Monday, and the results paint a discouraging picture.

According to Jeff Bray, the head of the organization, many businesses are increasingly concerned about street disorder – including vandalism and shoplifting.

“A decade ago this was seen as an urban issue, maybe just a Vancouver issue,” Bray said, adding that the problem has spread to involve most communities in B.C., and action is needed.

His message for the government: “We can’t wait any longer for long-term plans, we need action right away,” said Bray.

There’s also concern among the small businesses surveyed about the rising costs of goods and benefits – including the requirement that employers provide five paid sick days – eating into thin profit margins.

Unless current conditions change, 39 per cent of respondents don’t think they’ll survive …