Druide Improves Its VÉLOSYMPATHIQUE Certification

Druide informatique is pleased to announce that it has improved its VÉLOSYMPATHIQUE certification. The panel set up by Vélo Québec has recognized the steps that Druide has taken to promote cycling and has awarded it the silver level VÉLOSYMPATHIQUE certification.

Druide was among the very first organizations to earn VÉLOSYMPATHIQUE certification in 2016. Since 2015, its employees (“the Druids”) have had access to a secure bicycle storage room with space for 23 bicycles as well as lockers and tools. A shower was also installed, allowing cyclists to freshen up after their morning sprint.

“Vélo Québec wishes to congratulate Druide informatique for having implemented the recommendations they received following their first application. This has allowed them to develop a cycling culture and to obtain the silver level VÉLOSYMPATHIQUE certification,” said Suzanne Lareau, CEO of Vélo Québec.

One of the new measures that has been implemented is the creation of a cycling committee that encourages employees to cycle to work by participating in the Mois du vélo and by providing information and rewards. Employees can enjoy the pleasures of cycling together with organized excursions. They are also encouraged to participate in cycling events as a team. No less than fifteen of them proudly sported the colours of Druide on May 26th during the Défi métropolitain, a 100 km event on Montreal’s North Shore.

With all these measures, close to 20% of the Druids are now cycling to work. “We sincerely believe in the bicycle as a means of getting around the city,” says Éric Brunelle, president of Druide and principal architect of Antidote, who is an avid cyclist himself. “It’s good exercise for our employees, much better for the environment and gives our city a more welcoming, more human atmosphere. Better facilities for bikes can even help us to attract and retain staff. So it’s an excellent investment for the whole community.”