Why paying a Living Wage matters at Point Blank 

In this short blog, Shannon Spelay, HR Manager from Point Blank explains why they became a Living Wage Employer, and the benefits they’ve found from being part of the program. 

Point Blank is a values-first, purpose-driven, women-led unionized shop that’s hellbent on being on the right left side of history. We partner exclusively with unions, progressive political parties and candidates, not-for-profits, charities, and public sector allies who, like us, are trying to create a world that works for everyone. 

In both our internal workplace and in our external-facing work, Point Blank is dedicated to working toward fairness and equity, with particular attention to underrepresented communities and equity-seeking groups. From recruitment to hiring, onboarding to ongoing staff support and training, we work hard to ensure Point Blank team members’ feel safe and welcome, and are able to do their best work.   

So far it is paying off: Our 34 staff hail from 9+ countries, speak 9+ languages, 76% of us are women, non-binary or gender non-conforming, and over 1/3 of us identify as 2SLGBTQIA+. Our turnover rate for this past year is exceptionally low at 2.7%, especially compared to the Canadian average of 11-15% and industry-specific benchmark of 18-30%. 

We have been a Living Wage Employer since 2024. Becoming a Living Wage Employer was an obvious choice for Point Blank. As a purpose-driven organization fighting for the rights of workers across the country, that mission starts at home with our own team. Being certified as a Living Wage Employer reiterates our commitment to our employees and to the communities they work so hard to serve.  

Since becoming a Living Wage Employer, we’ve noticed real, positive changes in our workplace. While union support continues to rise across the country, driven by the soaring cost of living, the creative sector continues to be overly reliant on precarious work and high-turnover models. But people can’t be expected to do their best work if their basic needs aren’t met. Economic security, job stability and wellness invites creativity and innovation, plus steady and lasting relationships with clients.  

In 2023, Point Blank became the first fully unionized creative agency in Canada, and only the second in North America. At the end of 2025, Point Blank’s staff secured a renewed collective agreement with continued commitments to pay employees at or above the living wage for their region, guaranteed annual wage increases, employer RRSP contributions, and expanded benefits and time off. The agreement received 100% support from our team, a rare accomplishment in bargaining. 

Unionization isn’t something employers should fear, and we are an example of that. We are proud to be a Living Wage Employer and to have that commitment baked into our collective agreement. When workers have stability and a real voice, they do their best work—and our campaigns, we believe, speak to this best. 

Paying a Living Wage doesn’t just benefit our team, it strengthens the local economy and helps families thrive. We’re proud to be part of a movement that’s making a difference across Canada.  

Ultimately, our team is made up of dedicated campaigners and creatives looking to not only do their best work, but make real change in their communities and around the world. As an organization, our imperative is to facilitate an environment that sees and supports them in every way possible, so they can do just that. 

We encourage others to join us in becoming Living Wage Employers. Together, we can create a fairer, more sustainable future for everyone. 

Certifying as a Living Wage Employer is a voluntary commitment employers make to invest in their communities and local economies. There are now over 500 Living Wage Employers across BC. 

Find out more about Point Blank on their website: https://wearepointblank.ca/