Our next member spotlight is a new member to the CWQA but an old veteran to the water treatment industry. Van Isle Water will celebrate 50 years in the water movement and treatment business in 2022.
Van Isle Water is a BC-owned & operated water systems and outdoor living distributor and retailer. Founded in 1972 on Vancouver Island in Victoria, British Columbia, they supply equipment to diverse, but water related industries like: aquaculture, swimming pools & hot tubs, koi ponds, fountains, lake water management, irrigation, water treatment, sump & septic, rainwater harvesting, and well water systems.
Jeff Irvine, Owner / President, and 38 years with Van Isle Water contributes the company’s growth from its humble beginnings with 3 employees in 1972 to now almost 30 employees across 3 locations in BC. (Victoria, Courtenay, and Surrey) by recognizing the needs of the marketplace and embracing change and technologies as they continue to evolve in their respective industries. Van Isle Water has always been a solutions-based company offering systems and knowledge to its broad customer base.
50 years is a long time. Van Isle Water plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary in grand fashion. Not only for their customers but also for the very loyal and dedicated staff. Jeff credits Van Isle Waters’ success to creating great relationships. Creating a great environment for both customers and staff is paramount. Great advice for retaining valuable employees.
The province of British Columbia has had the most devastating year from heat domes and forest fires to atmospheric rivers and floods and all happening through a global pandemic. BC is beat up right now. It has been a tough couple of years for every business. Van Isle Waters’ ability to adapt quickly to current conditions enables it to better serve its customer base with large and relevant inventories.
When asked why they joined the CWQA it came down to credibility. Since the industry self polices itself, having strong education programs, lobbying to the federal and provincial governments, and creating consumer awareness is what the CWQA needs to be able to provide. Van Isle Water believes very strongly in education and providing that to their contractors, staff, and consumers will go a long way, and becoming part of an association that can augment that training will add to their credibility.
Lastly, when asked about the future, “if you aren’t growing your dying”. New products, new technology, new ways to educate are all welcomed at Van Isle Water. Being open to change and diversity will keep the challenges to the industry like supply issues, and people resources a little less severe and it will help the company to stay fluid, in the movement of water.
