With “disruptive evolution” a strong value for Arc’teryx Equipment, the organization developed its new benefits plan to reflect this mentality, according to Mikkaela Fernandez, manager of total rewards, benefits, wellness, leaves and retirement, during a fireside chat at Benefits Canada’s 2025 Vancouver Benefits Summit.
The global retailer, which is based in Vancouver and has 3,000 North American employees, has a diverse mix of workers varying from salaried corporate staff, in-store retail and supply chain employees. “Being able to adapt your benefits plan to ensure the plans and programs you’re offering accommodate employee’s individual and household needs has been really critical.”
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When the organization was developing the new benefits plan, which launched June 1, it aimed to individualize plans to reflect its employee needs, she noted, gathering information through employee testimonials, feedback from people leaders and employee sessions.
The benefits plan covers all Arc’teryx employees, regardless of status, to provide them with access to essential health care, including adding part-time benefits to capture more employees and looking to add global athlete benefits.
The plan also recognizes different types of households, going beyond traditional single and family planning coverage, said Fernandez, noting it provides both couples and single parents with coverage for their dependants in an aim to be more equitable in cost-sharing and coverage needs. It also includes gender-affirming coverage, fertility and family planning drug coverage and adult orthodontia.
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Arc’teryx offers both a health-care spending and a wellness account. The latter is more open and flexible, she noted, and can be used for various services, such as house cleaning. Employees can also use the accounts for climbing, mountain or ski passes, which ties in closely with the mountain culture associated with the company brand.
“Our roles as plan sponsors can have a direct influence on employee well-being,” said Fernandez, noting the organization plans to grow and push forward, remaining competitive through benefits and compensation to ensure employee satisfaction.
Read more coverage of the 2025 Vancouver Benefits Summit.