Things CAA Business can do to help support Canadian businesses

The cost of doing business, from tariffs and supply chains to price tags on goods and services, is impacting the Canadian economy and driving business owners to get inventive on where they can save.  

Equifax Canada's recent data shows that many industries are starting to feel the pressure, with more businesses missing payments and fewer applying for credit. 

"Businesses across the country and across a variety of industries are showing increased vulnerabilities as broader economic uncertainty continues," notes Jeff Brown, Head of Commercial Solutions at Equifax Canada. "Businesses will continue to need resilience and careful planning to navigate this economic environment." 

But what can small businesses do to manage rising costs, staff turnover and ongoing uncertainty?  

Strengthen your team with better staff retention 

One of the best ways to protect your business is to invest in the people behind it. High employee turnover can disrupt operations and drive up costs, especially when tight profits and expanding budgets aren't always possible. 

One cost-effective strategy is to adopt rewards or points programs and give memberships to staff. A CAA Membership is particularly effective, since it’s a lifestyle brand that offers discounts on a huge range of everyday purchases, from shopping and dining out to sports tickets, travel, insurance and auto mainteance.   

But for companies that join as CAA Business Members, the savings go both ways. Businesses that join as CAA Business Members can save up to 25 per cent on employee Memberships, which include perks like insurance savings and exclusive discounts. Through CAA Business, companies get staff access to savings and services that make a difference through employee Memberships and group benefits—from wellness support and flexible options to everyday value.  

Keep your fleet moving with more intelligent management  

Whether your company fleet is two sedans for the sales team or several small delivery trucks, the cost of operating fleet vehicles is significant, as fuel prices fluctuate and maintenance relying on tariffed parts impacts the bottom line.  

CAA has a few tools to help, starting with the Driving Costs Calculator, which helps owners determine the costs of operating gas, hybrid and electric vehicles.  

A CAA Business Membership also helps reduce that strain with services designed to keep your fleet on the road. Our Commercial Pit Crew offers maintenance, while Commercial Roadside provides 24/7 coverage, 100-kilometre towing and volume discounts for multiple vehicles. Companies can also access fuel savings and other cost-cutting benefits through CAA Membership perks. 

Protect your business with tailored insurance solutions 

Business thrives in certainty, but the unexpected can still happen. From accidents and extreme weather to service interruptions or unforeseen events that disrupt operations and result in costly setbacks, having the right insurance and a plan can help protect your business when it matters most.  

CAA Business will soon add business insurance products that support small to medium enterprises. Policy options can be tailored to your company's needs and are coming soon. Comprehensive coverage can help protect key assets and reduce financial strain. Combined with other CAA Business services, it creates a more complete and flexible strategy for resilience.  

Build connections with trusted partners   

Owning a business comes with plenty of decisions, but facing them alone doesn't have to be one of them.  Local networks and business organizations offer a sense of community that can help navigate uncertainty. Whether joining the Ottawa Board of Trade or connecting through local Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), tapping into a network makes a difference.  

The new CAA Business Membership adds another layer of connection. By becoming part of a broader network of like-minded business owners, Members gain access to curated savings, brand partnerships and visibility opportunities – all backed by a name Canadians have trusted for over a century. It's another way to stay grounded, even when the business landscape shifts. 

Grab a CAA Business Membership 

Contact us today and get your Membership started – your business deserves support.