North America Outlook - issue 03

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES | MARTIN BENCHER CANADA

w w w. n o r t h a m e r i c a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 03

CARVER COMPANIES Water-based logistics provision

MAVIRO Serving a diverse range of markets in North America

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

Energy

AND Environment The oil & gas giant talks of its progressive environmental, employee and community centered operations

SNEHA PATEL of NYC’s Women in Sustainability Network Hub discusses the role of women in sustainability and how the landscape is changing

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES | MARTIN BENCHER CANADA

w w w. n o r t h a m e r i c a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 03

TATA HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY

GOODWE | NAS AIRPORT SERVICES

w w w. a f r i c a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 89

w w w. a p a c o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 49

MARELLI | TRUMPF GROUP

w w w. e m e o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 40

Cementing the Nation

CARVER COMPANIES Water-based logistics provision

MAVIRO Serving a diverse range of markets in North America

ANT YAPI GROUP Construction, development and people-centric operation

KAOLIN EAD The oldest operating mining firm in Bulgaria

We report on LafargeHolcim Côte d’Ivoire, highlighting the company’s products, services and its place in a highly competitive West African construction industry

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

Energy

AND Environment

UGANDA HEALTHCARE FEDERATION (UHF) Uganda’s private healthcare sector

Making

K TEDI MINING

The oil & gas giant talks of its progressive environmental, employee and community centered operations

Machinery KR Pfiffner Group and its innovative, forward-thinking approach in manufacturing

An in-depth look into Ok Tedi, its operations within Papua New Guinea, including executives interviews and revealing deep insight into the organisation

SNEHA PATEL of NYC’s Women in Sustainability Network Hub discusses the role of women in sustainability and how the landscape is changing

Sabine Dall’Omo, CEO of Siemens South Africa, talks about the development on the continent and the pandemic-accelerated potential for digital applications

the role of women in sustainability and how the landscape is changing SNEHA PATEL of NYC’s Women in Sustainability Network Hub discusses

the continent and the pandemic-accelerated potential for digital applications Sabine Dall’Omo, CEO of Siemens South Africa, talks about the development on

Kent Wu of JustKitchen, discusses his company’s all-inclusive business practices in the Asian food and beverage industry

Mark Fox, CEO at Roadchef, reveals how the company has responded to the reality of serving a nation in lockdown responded to the reality of serving a nation in lockdown Mark Fox, CEO at Roadchef, reveals how the company has

business practices in the Asian food and beverage industry Kent Wu of JustKitchen, discusses his company’s all-inclusive

and revealing deep insight into the organisation Papua New Guinea, including executives interviews An in-depth look into Ok Tedi, its operations within

Environment AND Energy MIDSTREAM TIDEWATER

Machinery

MINING K TEDI

centered operations environmental, employee and community The oil & gas giant talks of its progressive

forward-thinking approach in manufacturing KR Pfiffner Group and its innovative,

Making

Tell us your story, and we’ll tell the world. healthcare sector Uganda’s private

(UHF) FEDERATION HEALTHCARE UGANDA

West African construction industry services and its place in a highly competitive highlighting the company’s products, We report on LafargeHolcim Côte d’Ivoire,

in North America range of markets Serving a diverse

the Nation Cementing

MAVIRO

logistics provision Water-based

COMPANIES CARVER w w w. n o r t h a m e r i c a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 03

w w w. a f r i c a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 89

w w w. a p a c o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 49

mining firm in Bulgaria The oldest operating

KAOLIN EAD

and people-centric operation Construction, development

ANT YAPI GROUP

w w w. e m e o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 40

North America Outlook, Africa Outlook, APAC Outlook and EME Outlook and are digital and print publications aimed at boardroom and hands-on decision-makers, reaching an audience of more than 800,000 people around the world; spanning the full range of industrial sectors.

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES | MARTIN BENCHER CANADA

GOODWE | NAS AIRPORT SERVICES

TATA HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY

MARELLI | TRUMPF GROUP

With original and exclusive content compiled by our experienced editorial team, we look to promote the latest in engaging news, industry trends and success stories from across the globe.

Your company can join the leading industry heavyweights enjoying the free exposure we provide across both digital and print platforms with a free marketing brochure, extensive social media saturation, enhanced B2B networking opportunities, and a readymade forum to attract new investment and to help you grow your business.

Visit www.outlookpublishing.com/work-with-us for details on how your company can feature for free in one of our upcoming editions.

www.outlookpublishing.com/work-with-us

WELCOME

Sustainable at Heart

EDITORIAL Editor: Sean Galea-Pace sean.galea-pace@outlookpublishing.com Editor: Marcus Kääpä marcus.kaapa@outlookpublishing.com Junior Editor: Phoebe Harper phoebe.harper@outlookpublishing.com PRODUCTION Production Director: Stephen Giles steve.giles@outlookpublishing.com

Today, a strong sustainability strategy goes a long way.

Senior Designer: Devon Collins devon.collins@outlookpublishing.com

And operating with a sustainable approach isn’t just for brand image. Certainly not in 2021 anyway.

Junior Designer: Matt Loudwell matt.loudwell@outlookpublishing.com Production Assistant: Courtney Solomon courtney.solomon@outlookpublishing.com BUSINESS Managing Director: Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com Sales Director: Nick Norris nick.norris@outlookpublishing.com Operations Director: James Mitchell james.mitchell@outlookpublishing.com Commercial Director: Joshua Mann joshua.mann@outlookpublishing.com REGIONAL DIRECTOR Tom Cullum tom.cullum@outlookpublishing.com PROJECT MANAGERS Chelsea Pettifer chelsea.pettifer@outlookpublishing.com David Knott david.knott@outlookpublishing.com Galen Youngman galen.youngman@outlookpublishing.com Iran Malli iran.malli@outlookpublishing.com HEADS OF PROJECTS Callam Waller callam.waller@outlookpublishing.com Eddie Clinton eddie.clinton@outlookpublishing.com Thomas Arnold thomas.arnold@outlookpublishing.com TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Vivek Valmiki vivek.valmiki@outlookpublishing.com SALES MANAGERS Donovan Smith donovan.smith@outlookpublishing.com Krisha Canlas krisha.canlas@outlookpublishing.com Matt Cole-Wilkin matt.cole-wilkin@outlookpublishing.com Ryan Gray ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com

ADMINISTRATION Finance Director: Suzanne Welsh suzanne.welsh@outlookpublishing.com Finance Assistant: Freya Penn freya.penn@outlookpublishing.com Office Manager: Daniel George daniel.george@outlookpublishing.com CONTACT North America Outlook East Wing, Ground Floor, 69-75 Thorpe Road, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1UA, United Kingdom.

Sales: +44 (0) 1603 959 652 Editorial: +44 (0) 1603 959 657 SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 657 sean.galea-pace@outlookpublishing.com www.northamericaoutlookmag.com

With an ever-increasing number of companies adopting more environmentally friendly ways of working, businesses run the real risk of being left behind their competitors if they don’t embrace green. That’s a pretty big incentive.

On this month’s cover sits Tidewater Midstream. As a key player within Canadian oil and gas, Tidewater harbors goals of becoming the midstreamer of choice. We speak with Joel Vorra, CFO of the organization, about the company’s progressive environmental, employee and community centered operations within the North American industry.

“The energy sector is a big part of the Canadian economy,” explains Vorra. “We’ve seen it evolve over the years as environmental sustainability and carbon emissions have come more into focus, so it’s definitely impacted all of our lives and has evolved how we do business.”

Elsewhere in the magazine, we speak with executives at Carver Companies to explore the company’s commitment to safety, while also prioritizing the requirements of its clients. “We make sure to promise that we can meet the needs of our customers,” Stephen Kelly, President of Sales and Business Development at Carver Companies, tells us. “From equipment companies to trucking companies and manufacturers, we have exceptionally good industry partners and vendors that help us achieve the best outcomes for all involved.”

Also, check out our feature with Wadhams Enterprises. As a historic family-owned transportation company, Wadhams is steeped in heritage. In an exclusive interview with Steve Wadhams, President of the organization, we take a dive into operations and explore how the country’s trucking industry is transforming. “It is exciting if you like change as it is changing fast and it’s hard to keep up,” explains Steve.

“Technology is moving very quickly, and it is unpredictable.”

Be sure to read in-depth company reports with Maviro, Martin Bencher Canada, Shawcor Integrity Management and U.S Energy Corporation.

And before you go, check out our Q&A with Sneha Patel, head of New York City’s Women in Sustainability Network Hub, who discusses women’s role in sustainability and how the landscape is changing.

Enjoy the issue!

Sean Galea-Pace Editor, Outlook Publishing North America Outlook issue 03 | 3

CONTENTS

18

14 8

REGULARS

6 NEWS

TOPICAL FOCUS

Around North America in seven stories

18 SUSTAINABILITY

8 EXPERT EYE

12

A leading green US city

BUSINESS INSIGHT

114 THE FINAL WORD

12 SUSTAINABILITY

What or who has been a source of inspiration for you during your career?

Women in Sustainability The women driving the changing landscape of sustainability

14 SUSTAINABILITY

The Race to Net Zero An insight into how to cut carbon from the e-commerce supply chain

4 | North America Outlook issue 03

Sustainability in San Francisco

An insight into the e-commerce boom

NORTH AMERICA OUTLOOK MAGAZINE

40

22

56

72

F E AT U R E S

20 SHOWCASING LEADING COMPANIES

66 Haffner’s

Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world

Energizing the community

Fueling New England

OIL AND GAS

SUPPLY CHAIN

22 Tidewater Midstream

72 Carver Companies

Energy and Environment

Renewable and environmental focus in oil and gas

40 Maviro

The Maviro Difference Serving a diverse range of markets in North America

48 Shawcor Integrity Management

Continental Operation

Water-based logistics provision

90 Wadhams Enterprises Safety First

A family-owned and operated transportation firm

100 Martin Bencher Canada Logistics Made Easy

Energy Evolution

Providing logistics services in North America and beyond

A global leader in technology-based products, services and solutions for the energy industry

106 Arrow Trucks

56 U.S Energy Development Corporation

90

Driving Quality

A leading US player in pre-owned heavy and medium duty trucks sales

Energy at the Fore

People-centric energy investment firm in the NA region

North America Outlook issue 03 | 5

NEWS Around North America in seven stories…

A E R O S PAC E

Delta Air Lines suffers $1.2 billion loss

TECHNOLOGY

NO APPLE IPHONE MINI FOR 2022?

IN A note to investors, TF International Securities analyst, Ming-Chi Kuo, has predicted that Apple’s iPhone models for 2022 could come in four different types with drastically improved cameras featuring image sensors supplied by Sony. According to the prediction, the new phones will come in two sizes: 6.7-inch, and a 6.1-inch model.

This forecast suggests that the tech

H E A LT H C A R E

Rebound for Healthcare Stocks HOST O F CNBC’s ‘Mad Money’, Jim Cramer, has suggested that healthcare stocks that have been neglected over the course of the coronavirus pandemic, are now having a comeback. Cramer was quoted as saying, “I think that the left-behind healthcare stocks are now coming back to life at the expense of the cyclical growth plays, and you should 6 | North America Outlook issue 03

DE LTA A I R Lines has reported a loss of $1.2 billion over the course of their first quarter, surpassing analyst’s expectations. Directly resulted to the disruption caused by the pandemic, the airline’s revenue fell by 60 percent from one year ago, to $4.15 billion, which topped the analyst’s forecast of $3.94 billion. As the first US airline to release a first quarter report, others are expected to follow suit.

Delta CEO Ed Bastian is confident that they are now in the stage of ‘active recovery’ with rising ticket sales and intends to run approximately 90 percent of its US pre-pandemic schedule for summer 2021.

giant’s 2020 release of the iPhone 12 Mini, their lowest-cost new device, has not been as popular as predicted after the model was introduced due to user requests for a smaller iPhone model. This latest announcement has sparked speculation that Apple are moving away from the Mini model, instead pursuing the next level of mobile phone camera photography.

grab one before they all really take off.”

This statement has been reinforced by economic data as Dow Jones’ Industrial Average closed for the first time above 34,000.

The spike comes after a rise in shares for UnitedHealthGroup. The health insurance provider is not the only one to have surpassed analyst estimates, with Eli Lilly and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals also showing positive action with stocks climbing in double digits in spite of last year’s slump.

ECONOMY

New Jersey Deli Reaches $100 Million Stock Market Value YO UR HOMETOWN Deli, a tiny establishment based in Paulsboro, New Jersey has hit staggering market value despite the company’s modest sales totalling $35,748 over the past two years combined. As the single business owned by Hometown International (HWIN), the deli and its $100 million market capitalization, was used as an example by hedge fund manager David Einhorn to warn of the

market dangers for retail investors, as high-profile investors everywhere express uncertainty due to the unpredictable booms in shares over the past year.

HWIN’s CEO, who works in his local high school as a wrestling coach, is yet to give comment. Despite the deli’s closure from March 23 to September 8, 2019 due to the pandemic, the company’s stock price rose during that period from $3.25 per share to $9.25 per share.

Last trading was recorded at $14 per share. As part of the risky context of over-the-counter shares, the deli’s value is a striking example of the broken market.

FOOD & DRINK

PEPSICO REVIVES SALES FOR ROCKSTAR ENERGY R O C KSTA R E N E R GY drinks have received a total branding revamp, following the business’ acquisition by PepsiCo in 2020.

This entailed the creation of a new logo, packaging and the brand’s first ever Super Bowl advert. This has resulted in a growth in sales for Rockstar, although PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta has told analysts that it is still too early to tell whether this will lead to permanent consumer habits. Pepsi acquired Rockstar for $3.85 billion as part of their expansion into more heavily caffeinated drinks, as the company was struggling amidst competition with leading energy drink producer, Monster Beverage.

R E TA I L

TARGET TRIALS NEW APPROACH TO SPEED UP DELIVERIES

ENERGY & UTILITIES

Tesla to boost solar energy efforts after disappointing 2019

PHOTO BY BNC319 - OWN WORK, CC BY-SA 4.0

T ES L A I S facing pressure to reinvigorate their solar energy business after the company’s energy revenue declined by $24 million over the course of 2019. In an annual

Tesla Solar Roof (2017), produced at Giga New York

financial report, Tesla announced that their photovoltaic production plant located in Buffalo, New York – Gigafactory 2 - would be increasing manufacturing of solar panels in collaboration with Panasonic.

Although Tesla’s solar energy and storage systems reported a record fourth quarter, the full year saw a decline in sales.

CEO Elon Musk is under duress from both the Mayor of Buffalo, due to the significant taxpayer funds deployed to build Gigafactory 2 which currently does not meet state requirements with the size of its workforce, and Tesla shareholders, who originally sued Musk after his controversial $2.6 million dollar acquisition of SolarCity in 2017.

I N A bid to increase the speed between online purchases and delivery to the customer’s door, leading US retailer Target are trialling a new delivery system in their hometown of Minneapolis.

Supported by three businesses that Target have acquired, deliveries will now be packaged in-store by Target employees before being transported to a sortation center.

Technology will be leveraged to group packages for the most efficient delivery routes. The final stage involves contract workers for Shipt – a company acquired

by Target in 2017 that offers a same day delivery service. The new strategy will enable the brand to compete with e-commerce competitors such as Walmart and Amazon.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 7

EXPERT EYE

NAVIGATING CROSS-BORDER E-COMMERCE More of us than ever – 2.1 billion globally, in fact – are turning to e-commerce in a bid to get our shopping fix. Sam Ranieri, CEO at Reach, examines the new age of shopping online Written by: Sam Ranieri, Chief Executive Officer at Reach

P

rior to 2020, the number of consumers choosing to shop online was already increasing; now, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the knock-on effects of changing consumer behavior, this rise is breaking every record ever set for e-commerce growth.

The statistics for growth from 2020 prove that e-commerce needs to be an integral part of every brand’s strategy from the very beginning. Indeed, according to Digital Commerce 360, the past year saw the highest annual growth in US e-commerce for two decades (44 percent), as well as the biggest jump in e-commerce penetration in the US ever recorded (5.5 percent). In fact, 2020 became the first year in history that e-commerce sales accounted for the entirety of US retail growth (101 percent).

This new age of e-commerce brings with it vast opportunities, but it’s not 2010 anymore. Consumers 8 | North America Outlook issue 03

are savvy, fraudsters are sharp, and the biggest players keep getting bigger. Retailers can take advantage of the unprecedented confluence of advances in technology, mass digitisation and of course, the pandemic. For those seeking to bridge the gap to success in e-commerce, my advice is simple: Focus entirely on the primacy of the customer’s experience while optimizing your own cross-border operations.

The beauty of being borderless Not being confined to one locale has a fundamental benefit: instant access to an international customer base that is far larger than any single domestic market. Customers are on the hunt for new, unique retail goods, and serving that buyer will get you brand loyalty, an expanding customer base, and increased revenue. However, to succeed on an international scale, you have to do it right. A few bad experiences, and you lose that customer forever.

Cross-border transactions have high decline rates. Shockingly, 18 percent of foreign e-commerce transactions are declined in the US, which goes to show how being unprepared for your international consumer can backfire spectacularly.

While customers are happy to make purchases across the globe from the safety of their sofas, they don’t like

to be out of their comfort zone when it comes to an unfamiliar checkout experience.

If you are a borderless merchant and have noticed an unusually high rate of drop-off once customers head toward the pay button, consider your checkout process. If it’s an unfamiliar UX, if you have irrelevant payment methods displaying, or if you’re offering too many payment or shipping options, any of those missteps can put customers off. You’ll lose those sales.

It’s also important to remember that consumers will trust what they know. Many potential customers will be put off by unfamiliar currencies and languages, which can make them doubt the legitimacy of the business from which they’re buying. Be sure to consider accessibility for every market you’ll be operating in.

What’s your customer’s preferred payment method?

Across the globe, different regions will have their own favoured payment methods. For example, 56 percent of e-commerce transactions in the Netherlands use iDEAL to conduct real-time bank transfers.

For many consumers, it’s a matter of security. Offering a payment method that they’ve never heard of, even if it’s in their regional currency, can make consumers wary about purchasing. Even if they do feel

secure enough to pay, that may not be enough; if you’re operating in the Netherlands and aren’t supporting iDEAL, then you’re creating barriers to payment and friction for 56 percent of your potential customer base.

Ultimately, each market a merchant trades in has its own nuances and payment culture. The good news is that you don’t need to understand all these fluctuations and variations yourself, as a payment partner with expertise in local payment methods can enable merchants to target every customer, in any country, as an individual.

Don’t get caught out by foreign exchange (FX) rates Arguably one of the bigger and continued sticking points for retailers dealing in cross-border e-commerce is finding their prices are less competitive than larger or local competitors due to having to add the cost of increased FX rates to the price of their products.

Their other option is to absorb the costs themselves and watch their profit margins suffer as a result. To resolve this, retailers need to work with local banks, or expert payment providers, to ensure they get the best FX rates available, allowing them to increase their price competitiveness and secure more sales.

Don’t worry – there are specialists who can do this for you. Solutions are now available to facilitate crossborder merchants with not only a solution to optimize and offer their customers the very best in FX rates, ensure they are regulation-compliant and provide the hyperlocal knowledge and expertise that will make international trading a pleasure and not a pressure.

Be regulation aware Perhaps the most important piece of advice I have for every brand I work with is to continually investigate and make themselves aware of the various

territory regulations.

Secure Customer Authentication (SCA), for example, is a European regulation that is part of the EU’s Payment Services Directive (PSD2).

While a similar protocol has not yet made it into federal regulation in the US, regulations aren’t going anywhere, and merchants need to be aware of the impact they can have on their transactions. Indeed, efforts such as the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), which seeks to harmonise US data privacy laws with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), are an indicator that the North American region is perhaps on the fast-track to catch up.

Local Expertise - Everywhere With so many payment methods and regional differences around the globe it’s important to study up on your hyperlocal knowledge – or to employ specialists that operate in those regions – so that your business is as competitive as possible.

That’s not to say that an independent merchant – big or small – needs to go out and hire a new team to support borderless efforts.

The amount of resources required to succeed can be prohibitive for smaller merchants, so it pays to do your research. Partnering with experts in the payment arena can provide all of the benefits you would get by operating in-country, without the huge investment of both time and money it takes to set up business across borders.

With e-commerce, and particularly cross-border e-commerce, looking likely to continue its sterling growth across 2021 and beyond, brands need to plan for operating on a global scale from the very start. Regulatory awareness, an in-depth understanding of the consumer experience, and an appreciation for cultural and regional differences will be vital to staying successful in an ever-changing economic landscape.

ABOUT THE EXPERT Sam Ranieri, CEO, Reach Sam Ranieri is the founder and CEO of Reach, the crossborder payments provider that delivers lower costs, higher conversions, and less risk for merchants. A seasoned executive and leader, Sam has more than two decades of experience in the fintech, foreign exchange, and international treasury management industries, along with several years of entrepreneurship expertise.

As the leading voice at Reach, Sam brings ethical, proactive, and impassioned management to all arms of the business, being responsible for organizing Reach’s risk and compliance practices, toplevel budgets, key relationships, strategic direction, and debt and capital raises. Under Sam’s stewardship Reach has exploded onto the worldwide payments scene, quickly establishing itself as a leading global provider of crossborder payment solutions.

Prior to his role with Reach, Sam was the driving force behind the corporate division of foreign exchange provider Calforex, setting up the business in 2002 before steering it to an annual revenue generation of $3 billion CAD. As the business grew, Sam managed the division’s successful merger with Axiom Foreign Exchange International, leading to the creation of Shift Connect Ltd. Following this merger, Sam now also serves as a Director on the board at Shift in addition to his role with Reach.

Outside of Reach, Sam turns his leadership skills and adaptability to a challenge closer to home, coaching his son and his son’s team in the nation’s favourite sporting pastime – ice hockey.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 9

Outlook Creative Services Complementing the production of North America Outlook, APAC Outlook, EME Outlook and Africa Outlook magazines, Outlook Publishing’s awardwinning in-house team is now utilizing these same specialist production skills to offer a full and bespoke range of editorial, design and marketing services via its new Outlook Creative Services division.

For more information on how we can work with you in providing a plethora of completely flexible and customizable production services, please visit: www.outlookpublishing.com/creative-services

DESIGN: Stephen Giles +44 (0) 1603 363 634 steve.giles@outlookpublishing.com

E D I TO R I A L : Sean Galea-Pace +44 (0) 1603 363 654 sean.galea-pace@outlookpublishing.com

Devon Collins +44 (0) 1603 363 656 devon.collins@outlookpublishing.com

Marcus Kääpä +44 (0) 1603 363 653 marcus.kaapa@outlookpublishing.com

WOMEN IN SUSTAINABILITY

WOMEN in Sustainability With women playing an influential role in helping to create an equitable, low carbon society, Sneha Patel, head of New York City’s Women in Sustainability Network Hub, talks about women’s role in sustainability and how the landscape is changing Written by: Sean Galea-Pace

W

omen in Sustainability is a network for professional female changemakers to maximize their impact.

The organization was formed following a realization of the power that women have when aligned on a common goal and shared values base.

This led to the network’s foundation as a result of helping female changemakers access a powerful peer community.

Founded by Rhian Sherrington, she has since helped launch Women in Sustainability (WINS) Network Hubs across the UK, Germany and indeed in New York City.

And leading New York City’s operations is Sneha Patel. She is a well-renowned and established package professional within the FMCG industry who has developed a reputation for adapting to the rapidly evolving and competitive packaging marketplace. Patel has worked in a

SUSTAINABILITY number of innovation, e-commerce and consulting roles within research and development and throughout her career, she has taken unconventional business development approaches to drive sustainability initiatives in her current role.

In our exclusive Q&A, we hear from Patel to find out more about her work with Women in Sustainability and how the perception of sustainability is changing, particularly within North America.

North America Outlook (NAO): Can you start by giving us an insight into how you came to be at Women In Sustainability?

Sneha Patel (SP): As I have been navigating my career within the packaging industry, my passion towards sustainability became truly relevant over the last few years. The sustainability industry holistically has been on a trajectory to become a sector where it’s no longer an area that is a secondary thought in the business landscape.

My purpose has been to become a catalyst for change across this sector, to empower and support other women that are looking to move the needle across various arenas.

Through this journey of discovery, I had stumbled upon a global network called Women in Sustainability. I was immediately drawn to this sustainability impact enterprise and could resonate towards a community that shared my vision and likemindedness. I joined the Women in Sustainability network as the first expansion hub into the United States, to lead the New York City region.

NAO: Can you introduce us to Women in Sustainability? What is it about and can you outline your mission statement?

SP: At Women in Sustainability, we create community to inspire and

nurture impact. We love bringing together women who share common values that include making a difference, treading lightly on this planet, being authentic and leading change. Our values steer both how we roll as a business but also how we deliver the network, our hub events and other services.

NAO: As a network for professional female changemakers that are seeking to maximize impact, in what ways are you making this happen?

SP: I connect with women that share a similar purpose and mindset firstly to find out what’s valuable to them to gain a deeper understanding of what drives them. I share my knowledge to help identify why they are seeking change through mindset coaching to bring to surface deeper rooted areas of their professional ambitions.

I leverage my expertise as a mentor as well to guide conversations that support others to amplify their actions and take steps towards creating sustainable change within their organizations or community.

NAO: Can you talk to us about the network hub events that you offer?

SP: One of the ways we support our members and community are through network hub events. These events are held virtually at the moment due to the pandemic and the purpose of the events are to empower, educate, and motivate our members to gain more understanding through expert speakers and lens on a multitude of topics related to sustainability.

NAO: How has COVID-19 changed operations? How successful have events been in a virtual format?

SP: COVID-19 has absolutely changed the landscape on how we manage our business and support our community members. We have had success on

launching to a virtual format and at the same time have presented its own challenges. The virtual format has provided us an uplifting pathway to become more agile and flexible as many of us are juggling full time corporate roles, businesses, are working mothers, and so forth and still stay well connected with women globally.

NAO: How have you noticed people’s perceptions of sustainability change over the past few years?

SP: People’s perceptions of sustainability has certainly evolved over the last few years. The evolution of the idea of sustainability or sustainable development was mainly focused on environmental issues.

Over the years, we have shifted our perspective as humans to think more holistically about the key factors and drivers of what sustain means.

We know that sustainability is no longer a nice to have, or just a line on a corporation’s annual report.

As humans, we must continue to become more conscious of the social, economic, and environmental aspects of ways we can sustain our planet. It’s no longer an ‘I’ problem, it is a ‘We’ problem.

NAO: With the future in mind, what are your hopes for the next few years at Women in Sustainability?

SP: My hopes for Women in Sustainability are to educate, empower and develop the next generation of sustainability leaders.

We have seen the shift and loudly hear the importance of how they feel when it comes to nurturing our wellbeing through sustainable actions. I am very hopeful that we will continue to truly provide scalable resources to our future entrepreneurs to continue challenging the societal norms and for women to amplify their voices to create positive change in our world.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 13

ASENDIA USA

The Race to

NET ZERO Doug Longobardi, Executive Vice President and e-commerce expert of Asendia USA, examines how we can cut carbon out of the e-commerce supply chain Written by: Doug Longobardi, Executive Vice President and e-commerce expert of Asendia USA

14 | North America Outlook issue 03

SUSTAINABILITY

T

he recent Suez Canal crisis has attracted rare public attention on the carbon footprint of the international shipping sector. The sheer size and plight of the Ever Given container ship could well encourage consumers and their governments to finally steer shipping onto a more sustainable course.

And with COP 26, the UN’s Climate Change Conference, taking place in November 2021, legislators will be edging closer to including air and sea shipping emissions in their climate action plans.

For growth-hungry e-commerce companies in North America, it will pay to invest now in greener crossborder supply chain strategies, and to clearly communicate their efforts in ESG reporting. Shipping to overseas customers is a competitive opportunity that cannot be ignored by brands selling online.

O

CROSS-BORDER E-COMMERCE IS BOOMING The cross-border e-commerce market is growing at double the rate of domestic e-commerce, according to Accenture, driven by consumers seeking brands or products unavailable in their home country, and more competitive pricing. How can North American e-commerce companies mitigate harmful emissions while still pursuing growth in markets such as China, Europe, and the Middle East?

The good news is that much has already been achieved. North American retailers have worked tirelessly in the last decade to reduce packaging waste, to find the most efficient shipping and delivery routes, to invest in electric vehicles, and to minimize returns. Meanwhile, postal operators and third-party logistics providers (3PLs) are implementing

innovative tech solutions to deal with both increased demand and the need to become carbon neutral.

Together, we are getting greener.

Here are four ways in which carbon emissions can be reduced from the international e-commerce supply chain: 1. Smarter international shipping strategy Academic research into global logistics coordination and practices have led to the adoption of ideas such as Slow Steaming. This involves operating container ships below their maximum speed, thereby cutting fuel usage. Research by the Tyndall Center for Climate Change in the UK found that if you slow a fleet down by 17 percent, you can save 25 percent of emissions from that fleet.

Leading logistics companies are now evaluating shipping routes for

North America Outlook issue 03 | 15

ASENDIA USA ways to reduce fuel consumption, idle time, and other wasteful practices that increase carbon dioxide levels.

At Asendia, we use data analytics throughout our international shipping routes to track performance and drive improvements over time, allowing greener decisions to be made. Our e-commerce clients are then able to benefit from cost and energy efficiencies, increasing transparency on socially responsible practices. In turn, this supports their own ESG strategy, improving the accuracy of the reporting they share with their customers and stakeholders.

E-commerce supply chain specialists are also addressing labor and waste management in fulfillment warehouses, driving efficiencies that can be passed on to their retail clients.

2. Nearshoring with localized fulfillment hubs Nearshoring is moving production closer to end consumers, which again greatly reduces emissions as far less maritime, air, and road transportation is required. While this often refers to manufacturing bases, or call center

16 | North America Outlook issue 03

operations, there is also a trend for specialist e-commerce fulfillment warehouses or shared hubs located strategically around the world. Storing products closer to end customers is more energy efficient in the long term.

It’s more reliable for customers too, as when demand takes off, the product is ready to go.

Large post and parcel operators like Asendia can offer retail clients shipping through international fulfillment hubs – for instance in France and Singapore – to make this possible. From these hubs, we can tailor localized shipping dependent on the speed of delivery the customer requires. Slower delivery options are predicted to grow in popularity in the coming years, as they are often cheaper and more energy efficient. For maximum flexibility in the e-commerce supply chain, we have just developed a new range of international parcel services known as e-PAQ. With e-PAQ by Asendia, online retailers can offer shoppers a choice of trusted delivery options at checkout, boosting conversions and customer satisfaction.

3. Carbon offsetting as a differentiator There’s currently no way to totally eliminate carbon emissions from e-commerce shipping, as most of the transportation industry still relies on fossil fuels. However, with carbon offsetting, a more ethical way of doing business becomes possible. Emissions that aren’t addressed by efficiencies can be offset by purchasing carbon credits.

Carbon compensation, otherwise known as carbon offsetting, is an effective emissions reduction strategy. This can be achieved through financing global conservation projects, which remove carbon from the air, or scaling renewable energy systems to help phase out fossil fuels. Carbon credits provide businesses with scientific evidence to demonstrate their carbon action achievements, offering reassurance to clients and acting as a competitive differentiator in a crowded market.

The most common offset is planting trees, but there’s been an incredible amount of creativity and innovation in the offset space over the last three years. For e-commerce brands and their logistics partners, we will see more complex options in the future.

At Asendia, we offset the carbon footprint of shipments from Europe to other continents, excluding the first and last mile. By investing in a host of environmental projects – including seven wind farm sites in India – Asendia’s offsetting scheme provides cleaner energy and supports local economies. Looking forward,

SUSTAINABILITY we are committed to investing more time and resources to further offset our carbon emissions – something our e-commerce customers greatly appreciate.

4. Technology investment will deliver carbon efficiency The global pandemic has undoubtedly altered the e-commerce business model. It’s forced faster developments in business and customer communication, logistics automation, collaborations between 2PLs and 3PLs, and robotics.

Today, new technologies such as integrated digital platforms and blockchain are emerging. Geofencing and machine learning techniques can be applied to data so that it strengthens, for instance, the capacity to predict the delivery time, or to inform the next party in the supply chain of when the parcel is expected to arrive at their location.

Multiple efforts are also made to enhance the security of trading documents and accuracy of description of the goods (such as certificates of origin and commercial invoices) in the context of stricter customs rules introduced across the globe. New customs regulations include the Synthetics Trafficking and Overdose Prevention (STOP) Act in

the US and Brexit red tape following the late trade agreement signed with the EU. There are also incoming e-commerce VAT rules applied as of July for goods into the European Union.

The use of IoT in the industry, such as digital sensors, will become more prevalent in logistics, enabling a higher degree of transparency, from inventory tracking to RFID tags which measure location, temperature, or humidity. This increased visibility will speed up reaction times and improve decision making. By analyzing demand for goods and delivery services, supply chain companies can streamline their services and plan efficiently for both known peaks in demand and the unexpected.

THE RACE TO NET ZERO E-commerce companies know they must grow sustainability without compromising the convenience that customers have come to expect.

Logistics partners are ideally positioned to advise and report to their clients, and this collaboration should be at the heart of building sustainable e-commerce businesses going forward.

Finding the right supply chain and international postal partners – ideally those that have already made

progress towards carbon reduction and offsetting – is therefore a smart move for socially-responsible e-commerce brands. 2021 is billed as the year the world gets serious about reaching net zero. There’s never been a better time for e-commerce retailers to prove their growth trajectory won’t leave a massive carbon footprint, just when the world is crying out for change.

DOUG LONGOBARDI Doug Longobardi is Asendia USA’s Executive Vice President Sales and e-commerce expert.

Doug has over 25 years of postal, courier, and global distribution experience, with a unique perspective on what e-commerce sellers need to grow their businesses globally and offer better customer experience.

Previously, Doug was the Executive Vice President and Partner of Globegistics, an international e-commerce and mail solutions company he co-founded in 2011, helping grow the brand from nothing to $75 million in sales. He joined the Asendia team in 2018 when it acquired Globegistics.

Doug is a strong and experience leader who keeps his team accountable with a straightforward, fair, and fun leadership style. Over his long career, he has directed several teams and individuals to true success, both personally and professionally.

A true goal-setter, his ethos is to always remain focused on bettering yourself and never letting your foot off the gas pedal. It’s a winning approach he brings to all aspects of his professional and personal life to achieve success.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 17

SAN FRANCISCO

SUSTAINABILITY IN SAN FRANCISCO Spearheading environmental leadership in the United States, we look at San Francisco and the city’s progressive and innovative attitude towards placing people and nature first Written by: Marcus Kääpä

S

ustainability is, and has been, one of the main focal points in the progressive movement towards the future of companies, sectors and countries across the globe.

Environmentally friendly practices are increasingly becoming the norm and standardized within industries. The World Business 18 | North America Outlook issue 03

Council Sustainability Development’s Vision 2050 report foresees huge changes in the industrial sector on top of a 10-fold improvement in eco-efficiency. The report also states that it is expected that companies will have managed the transition into renewable energy usage (as well as finding replacements for fossils fuels) in a practical and applicable manner.

On this international stage, the United States is currently ranked 35th out of 162 countries for sustainable development. Despite this, there is one city that is notorious for its environmentally friendly efforts.

San Francisco stands as one of the greenest cities in North America.

On top of being widely regarded as a beautiful city, it is considered a substantial powerhouse on the

global eco-scene. In the face of ever-growing commercialism and consumerism, San Francisco is one of the leaders of proper waste disposal, lowered carbon emissions, ecological transport and green buildings among others across the entire US space.

San Francisco was the first US city to prohibit the use of plastic bags and alongside this promoted and incorporated the mass-use of reusable tote bags, as well as those made from recycled materials and compostable bags. The city also does not allow the sale of plastic water bottles, avoiding such wastage.

Through this single environmentally friendly action the city has reduced annual wastage to landfills by over 1.6 million tons; a substantial win for the eco-effort. The visual equivalent that

SUSTAINABILITY can be drawn to mind is the fact that the Golden Gate Bridge itself weighs half of this. In this way, San Francisco has negated a considerable amount of waste ending up in landfills each year.

Across the city a substantial 77 percent of municipal waste is recycled, with composting playing a major part in the city’s methods of eco-friendly waste disposal.

Approximately 14 out of 10,000 homes rely on solar energy, an amount that roughly doubles the US average, and a further 1,000 hotels are ranked as environmentally friendly institutions. Even in 2010, San Francisco’s greenhouse gas emissions were positively low sitting at 14.5 percent below its 1990 levels.

Particularly over the past two decades, San Francisco has introduced many aggressive aims and goals that have been set to curb issues such as carbon pollution and plastic waste. However, this has also managed to be economically sound and has in the long term saved the city’s residents money in the process.

December of 2014 saw President Obama recognize San Francisco as a Climate Action Champion. This was because of the city’s steadfast dedication towards climate change issues and spearheading leadership across multiple substantial climate change initiatives.

The Aramis Renewable Energy Project is one example of the great lengths the city goes to reinforce its sustainability vision. This project is the work of Intersect Power, a clean infrastructure company that

provides efficient, innovative, and scalable low-carbon solutions to its customers in energy and commodity sector. The Aramis Renewable Project is the company’s 100-megawatt (MW) solar farm that is planned to feature approximately 300,000 solar panels and has been suggested as starting construction during mid2022, with operations foreseen to begin in mid-2023. It will cover 350 acres of land which will, once built, make it the largest solar farm in the San Francisco Bay Area to date. The project would be revolutionary in the renewable energy and progressive

Being among one of the 10 most sustainable cities in the world is a great achievement. Sitting in fourth place is San Francisco, championing American environmental leadership, with Portland close behind in sixth place respectively.

List of top 10 most sustainable cities worldwide in 2021, according to Neutrino Burst!: • Copenhagen, Denmark • Amsterdam, Netherlands • Vancouver, Canada • San Francisco, USA

environmental space.

On a city-wide scale, San Francisco’s sustainability plans can be seen in its 2021 Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update, which is a comprehensive and equity-based set of climate mitigation targets proposing and following several routes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in line with and supporting the 2016 Paris Climate Agreement.

During the 2018 Global Climate Action Summit hosted in the city, San Francisco pledged itself to achieving a net-zero emissions target by the year 2050. The city aims to reach the target through achieving its goals by 2030 to avoid the worst potential future impacts. These will be achieved through several goals such as reducing municipal wastage to zero, becoming 80 percent sustainable regarding transport (walking and cycling), utilizing 100 percent renewable energy, and nature-based carbon sequestration.

In the increasingly innovative and progressive sustainability stage, San Francisco is setting an incredible example for the rest of the US and indeed beyond. Actively participating in various initiatives to better the environment and leading the front in creating new strategies to promote greener urbanization and livelihoods.

The importance of this sustainability centered focus is clear in the hereand-now, and present efforts towards environmentally friendly practices will echo throughout future generations who follow in the footsteps of those alive today.

• Singapore • Portland, USA • Stockholm, Sweden • Helsinki, Finland • Berlin, Germany • Curitiba, Brazil

North America Outlook issue 03 | 19

Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world.

NORTH AMERICA OUTLOOK is a digital and print product aimed at boardroom and hands-on decision-makers across a wide range of industries on the continent.

With content compiled by our experienced editorial team complemented by an in-house design team, the resultant Outlook Creative Services department ensures delivery to the highest standards in promoting the latest in engaging news, industry trends and success stories across the length and breadth of the US & Canada.

As a bi-monthly publication, North America Outlook constantly has its finger on the pulse of the latest trends, biggest developments and business successes from each corner of the region, epitomised by the diversity displayed across each magazine. It incorporates an annual calendar-tailored front-of-book section, a showcasing segment dedicated to the most fascinating success stories in North America, and an event focus assortment sure to fill executives’ diaries throughout the year. The aligning North America Outlook website is also honed and ready to serve as a host for these facets and much more.

To get involved, please contact Outlook Publishing’s Managing Director, Ben Weaver, who can provide further details on how to feature your company, for FREE, in one of our upcoming editions.

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES | MARTIN BENCHER CANADA TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

w w w. n o r t h a m e r i c a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

OIL & GAS

Issue 03

FREE Marke ti

Opportu ng nity

CARVER COMPANIES Water-based logistics provision

MAVIRO Serving a diverse range of markets in North America

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

Energy

AND Environment The oil & gas giant talks of its progressive environmental, employee and community centered operations

EnergyAND Environment We spoke to Tidewater Midstream about the company’s progressive environmental, employee and community centered operations within the North American oil and gas industry

Writer: Marcus Kääpä | Project Manager: David Knott

2 | North America Outlook issue 03

A

key player within Canadian oil and gas, Tidewater Midstream maintains a vital role in natural gas processing, liquids upgrading, storage and transportation, marketing services and most recently, renewables initiatives to industry customers across the country.

With a mission to become

RENEWABLE AND ENVIRONMENTAL FOCUS IN OIL AND GAS

midstreamer of choice, Tidewater provides creative solutions that ensure optimum flexibility for its customers, resulting in higher returns and better outcomes. And with these enhanced solutions at the forefront of its service, the company is striving to realize full scale value across the entire North American energy value chain.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 3

SNEHA PATEL of NYC’s Women in Sustainability Network Hub discusses the role of women in sustainability and how the landscape is changing

www.northamericaoutlookmag.com/work-with-us

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

EnergyAND Environment We spoke to Tidewater Midstream about the company’s progressive environmental, employee and community centered operations within the North American oil and gas industry

Writer: Marcus Kääpä | Project Manager: David Knott

22 | North America Outlook issue 03

A

key player within Canadian oil and gas, Tidewater Midstream maintains a vital role in natural gas processing, liquids upgrading, storage and transportation, marketing services and most recently, renewables initiatives to industry customers across the country.

With a mission to become

midstreamer of choice, Tidewater provides creative solutions that ensure optimum flexibility for its customers, resulting in higher returns and better outcomes. And with these enhanced solutions at the forefront of its service, the company is striving to realize full scale value across the entire North American energy value chain.

OIL & GAS

North America Outlook issue 03 | 23

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

Prince George Refinery “Our services are used by a wide range of small, medium and large customers with varying needs, so we are a very customer focused team” begins Joel Vorra, CFO of Tidewater Midstream. “In addition to natural gas processing and upgrading various products, we also provide markets with the transportation and processing of natural gas liquids such as propane, butane and condensate.”

Based in Alberta and British Columbia, the company also refines gasoline and diesel primarily for the Western Canadian market and offers various logistics services as well as renewable products, such as biodiesel, with sustainable options becoming increasingly popular.

“The way in which technology has progressed has shaped our future and that of the industry, and our continued focus on how we can improve our business practices for the betterment of serving our customers has driven our company,” Vorra explains.

24 | North America Outlook issue 03

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM AT A GLANCE Tidewater is a Canadian integrated midstream and infrastructure company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. Its operations include: • Refining • Natural gas processing • Liquids upgrading and marketing • Fractionation at Tidewater’s BRC fractionation facility • Crude oil storage and transportation • Rail logistics and terminalling • Gas storage including Tidewater’s pipestone gas storage facility Tidewater is well positioned in some of the most active formations of North America, including the Montney and [Duvernay]. Its main operations and core processing plants are located in the Deep Basin, Edmonton and Montney regions of Alberta and British Columbia.

Tidewater’s strategically positioned assets transport and market hydrocarbons to local and global markets.

OIL & GAS

Pipestone Gas Plant

Dimsdale Gas Storage

Gilby Gas Plant

Sylvan Lake Gas Plant

Acheson Gas Plant

North America Outlook issue 03 | 25

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

FundThrough FundThrough has worked closely with Tidewater and thousands of other companies to help unlock cash flow tied up in accounts receivable.

Here’s what some of FundThrough’s customers had to say.

Testimonials Global Pipeline wanted to bid on a $20 million project and build their business. They needed cash flow now, not in 60 days. To get the money they needed, Global Pipeline chose FundThrough.

“Without our partnership with FundThrough, we would not be considering bidding on so many large deals at once.”

Global Pipeline

“The energy industry is a big part of the Canadian economy. We’ve seen it evolve over the years as environmental sustainability and carbon emissions have come more into focus, so it’s definitely impacted all of our lives and has evolved how we do business.”

An increased focus on renewables marks Tidewater’s shift in energy transition and providing cleaner energy to its customers across North 26 | North America Outlook issue 03

America; an exciting and driving element of business.

Since the start, Tidewater has set itself apart in the industry through its innovative nature in thinking outside the box when it comes to providing solutions for its customers.

“Having been founded in 2015, our customers were primarily upstream producers who provided products ultimately for the processing, transportation and sale in a variety of markets,” Vorra tells us. “But at the end of 2014 and into 2015, prices of crude oil, along with many other commodities, fell and it was a very difficult time for producers.

“We started the company with the primary goal to provide our customers with better pricing and alternative market options, as well as providing better customer service. As we had experience moving products to different markets throughout North America, the goal became to bring this expertise to new entities and help our customers access premium markets in Western Canada.”

The owner of Alaska Thermal Fabrications needed cash flow quickly to meet payroll and tax obligations after his company grew to 34 employees in just four years. Alaska Thermal Fabrications chose FundThrough to fund their outstanding invoices, and hasn’t missed payroll or tax payments ever since.

“I needed something simple and to keep track of invoices. I thought it would add more to my plate, but it hasn’t. FundThrough has been great for us.”

Alaska Thermal Fabrications For more than a decade, this Austinbased contracting company faced “Business As Usual” when it came to slow-paying customers and invoicing.

Its founder says that slow-paying customers are simply part of the culture in the Austin construction business.

“If I didn’t have money this easily available, I don’t know what I’d do. I don’t know how I’d pay my guys, my vendors, and for supplies.”

To learn about how FundThrough can help your business, visit www.fundthrough.com

Accelerate Your Cash Flow FundThrough is the most powerful invoice funding platform that lets you access capital on your terms.

Cash Flow Is the #1 Problem Facing Small Businesses Small businesses wait 40 days on average* to get invoices paid by customers. Leveraging technology and customer service, FundThrough cuts that waiting time by 97% and accelerates cash flow for its clients. * Based on FundThrough 2020 client data.

Stop Waiting for Payments FundThrough’s invoice funding platform lets you access unlimited working capital that’s tied up in accounts receivable due to slow-paying customers.

Take On Large Clients Have full confidence knowing you can unlock the full value of your unpaid customer invoices. Fill larger orders and take on bigger customers, on your terms.

info@fundthrough.com | 1-800-766-0460 | www.fundthrough.com

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM This innovative spirit is embodied in the company’s past and present projects. Tidewater is currently undergoing a renewable energies canola co-processing initiative that is aimed to be operational by the end of 2021. This project will see canola being used as a feedstock to produce renewable diesel which will lower the carbon intensity by 80 to 90 percent, a substantial reduction in carbon emissions.

Tidewater is also evaluating a renewable diesel project that has garnered significant support from the provincial government in British Columbia. If sanctioned, the $225 million capital project with approximately $100 million of capital support from the BC Government would equate to approximately 70,000 to 80,000 cars being removed from the road.

TIDEWATER’S MISSION AND VISION The company’s mission is to become the midstreamer of choice by providing creative solutions that ensure optimum flexibility for its customers, thus resulting in higher returns.

Its vision is to be a people focused, growth oriented, high return midstream and infrastructure organization, offering customers and shareholders maximum value by leveraging its strengths of creativity, speed-to-market, integrity and execution.

28 | North America Outlook issue 03

121 Kuusamo Drive, Red Deer County

403-887-5400

AB, T4E 2J5

sales@tri-energy.ca

PROVIDING A PROVEN “FULL SERVICE” SOLUTION

Our success is built on a strong foundation of client partnerships formed over the years with a reputation of delivering superior results. We pride ourselves on our proven “full service” solutions; delivering an effective balance of safety, quality, schedule and cost management. At Tri-Energy our goal is to excel in every service we provide adding value for our clients wherever possible, being a leader in best class solutions.

Our valued and experienced team of professionals have a proven track record, offering innovative and cost effective solutions while maintaining exceptional standards in the industry.

Whether it be construction of new facilities, managing turnaround and shutdowns, additions or repair and maintenance to existing facilities, fabrication or scaffolding requirements, we offer the resources to execute projects with quality workmanship on time and on budget. We are ready to take on any challenge and are committed to successfully meeting the needs of our clients.

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

Wrapex Canada WRAPEX understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to Industrial Insulation, Scaffolding, Products and Services.

Since 1982 WRAPEX has been offering unique turnkey solutions for new construction, expansion, or repair projects based on space, budget, and preferences.

Under its new Management team, WRAPEX combines our time-tested techniques with state-of-the-art equipment, highly experienced and welltrained crews, to offer clients a safe, high quality execution that meets, or even beats, deadlines.

Our experienced teams have serviced major construction and maintenance projects throughout Western Canada.

We have an in-depth understanding of environmental and climatic challenges through the life cycle of your project.

‘ON TOP OF THE COMPANY’S SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES, TIDEWATER IS COMMITTED TO CONDUCTING ITSELF IN A MANNER THAT PROTECTS THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF THE PUBLIC AND ITS WORKFORCE DURING AND THROUGHOUT ITS PROJECTS AND OPERATIONS’ “Project Forest is another great initiative that we joined back in October of 2020,” says Scott McLean, Vice President, Health, Safety, Environment and Regulatory at Tidewater.

“It’s a non-profit organization based in Alberta with the goal of bringing like-minded organizations together and combining efforts to rewind the environmental clock.

Replanting trees and removing carbon from the air naturally is a big driver behind what we want to achieve, and it’s very important to us that we’re participating in initiatives such as this. We have partnered with external businesses and committed 30 | North America Outlook issue 03

to a five-year partnership that will see over 20,000 trees planted throughout Canada.

“Our first planting is aimed to start this summer in Edmonton, Alberta, and we’re going to be planting some 4,000 trees.”

On top of the company’s sustainability initiatives, Tidewater is committed to conducting itself in a manner that protects the health and safety of the public and its workforce during and throughout its projects and operations. The company has a highly skilled workforce and provides ongoing training to maintain the skills and understanding necessary for a safe and healthy work environment.

WRAPEX offers a unique selection of insulation and scaffolding products including glycol tracing, utilidor and acoustic blankets and curtains. These products will ensure the thermal efficiency of any operation, the protection of sensitive infrastructure and the safety of all members on a work site.

WRAPEX Scaffolding Division also designs and installs shrink wrap to support shipping, containments, winterization, and preservation on construction sites.

WRAPEX locations in Edmonton, Lloydminster, Rocky Mountain House and Surrey offer their clients unlimited customization of insulation solutions without compromising safety or operational efficiency. Their highly skilled manufacturing and field measurement teams combined with multiple soft covers manufacturing facilities can handle any size project and arrange delivery to meet the most demanding projects schedules.

• • • • • • • •

Industrial Insulation Utilidor Glycol Tracing Scaffolding Shrink Wrapping Removable Insulation Blankets Tracer Wrap Acoustic Blankets & Curtains

To find our more visit www.wrapex.ca

e are w o h W LEADER IN INDUSTRIAL INSULATION & SCAFFOLDING IN WESTERN CANADA Established in 1982, Wrapex Industrial Services Incorporated is a leader in Industrial Insulation, Glycol Tracing, Utilidor and Scaffolding Services throughout western Canada including in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

Wrapex proudly serves clients in the oil & gas, oilsands, petrochemical, pulp and paper and commercial sectors

Industrial Insulation

Soft cover Blankets

Scaffolding

Shrink wrapping

www.wrapex.ca

info@wrapex.ca 1-800-208-6264 Edmonton - Rocky Mountain House - Lloydminister - surrey

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

TIDEWATER’S VALUES The company’s values reflect how it does its work and develops relationships both in the company and externally, and are reflected in the following: SAFETY: Tidewater is committed to the highest level of safety for its staff, contractors, customers and communities.

INTEGRITY: All Tidewater staff uphold the highest standards of integrity through their actions.

RESPECT: The company highly respects its people, encourages personal development and rewards performance.

ACCOUNTABILITY: It exhibits a strong sense of ownership and a will to succeed and are personally accountable to deliver on its commitments to customers, shareholders and staff.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: Tidewater provides second to none service, builds and maintains relationships and provides creative solutions that make a positive impact on its customers’ bottom line.

TEAMWORK: The company works hard to create a culture that traverses all boundaries to meet customer needs and help the company and its shareholders be successful.

COMMUNITY: The company is an excellent steward of the environment and it strongly supports the communities in which it operates.

Tidewater’s health, safety and environmental policies set an expectation that everyone within the company must share in the responsibility to work safely and responsibly, while meeting or exceeding all applicable laws and regulations.

32 | North America Outlook issue 03

Tidewater regularly reviews its safety performance, conducts safety audits and shares experiences and best practices within the organization and, at times, with others in industry.

The company has adopted a suite of policies, procedures and safe operating practices which it reviews,

FLUID TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR THE ENERGY INDUSTRY

www.nordicenergycanada.com

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

BULLMOOSE CAPITAL Bull Moose Capital has helped its clients grow their businesses by financing, selling and tailor fitting natural gas compression and power generation solutions for over two decades.

Bull Moose Capital owns the largest rental fleet of natural gas compressors and natural gas power generators in Western Canada. It has in house capabilities to properly engineer and deliver quick solutions that accurately fit each application.

Bull Moose Capital takes pride in delivering superior solutions and its customers success. Congratulations to Tidewater on its growth and execution on such a creative business plan.

www.bullmoosecapital.ca

“OUR LEADERSHIP DRAWS FROM CAREER EXPERIENCE ACROSS THE ENERGY VALUE CHAIN, TO DELIVER ON THE TIDEWATER MISSION, VISION AND VALUES, LEADING BY EXAMPLE”

evaluates and updates based on changes in laws and regulations, technology developments, industry standards and the operational needs of its facilities. Tidewater also has formal incident reporting processes, which allow it to, among other things, identify and track incidents and near misses; identify, implement and follow up on appropriate corrective actions; 34 | North America Outlook issue 03

and share learnings. Tidewater also carries out investigations to understand factors that might cause or contribute to incidents and seeks to learn from its experiences, as well as industry learnings, in order to prevent the occurrence or recurrence of an incident. Reports of activities and performance under Tidewater’s health and safety management system are also provided regularly to each of the Corporate Governance, Compensation, Nomination, Health, Safety and Environment Committee and the Board.

JED Environmental JED Environmental is honoured to be a valued business partner of Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure Ltd. As a proud supplier in their environmental supply chain, JED Environmental has been dedicated to the environmental industry for over 15 years.

With our main branch in Penhold, AB and a secondary branch in Lloydminster, AB, our wide range of specialized drilling equipment and years of industry experience can provide the best possible site data for your next environmental, geotechnical or mining drilling project.

AT JED Environmental we bring a firm commitment to achieving excellence at every level of the project cycle.

Thank you to Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure Ltd. and all our valued customers for their continued support.

OIL & GAS

Congratulations to Tidewater Midstream on all of its Success

www.bullmoosecapital.ca

Providing natural gas compression, power generation and, flexible financing solutions since 2004

BULLMOOSE

CAPITAL

WWW.BULLMOOSECAPITAL.CA

A Job Well Done. Every Client.

1-888-878-8895 www.jeddrilling.ca

Every Time.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 35

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM This level of professionalism extends to incorporate every one of Tidewater’s partners and suppliers, each of which are absolutely key to the company’s operations.

“The success of our organization is tied completely to our partnerships and vendors,” McLean assures us.

“It’s really important for us that

we only partner with like-minded organizations that put people and community first, with environmental stewardship coming soon after.

“People are at the heart of Tidewater, as are the vendors that we choose to work with on a daily basis that are typically smaller localized businesses that provide excellent mutual value to either side. These localized partners are incredibly important to the company, and many of them have been with us since the beginning.

On top of this, as our operations run 24 hours a day, we rely heavily on our vendors and partners to make sure that everything’s operating all the time and in a safe manner.”

Where partners and suppliers provide vital services externally to the company, the critical cog in Tidewater’s continuous operation are the dedicated and hardworking employees and the management team that leads them.

Worley Cord Cord’s relationship with Tidewater Midstream began in 2018, when we were contracted to deliver construction and fabrication services for their Pipestone Sour Gas Plant.

We led the fabrication and construction scopes including the precommissioning and commissioning support. We worked closely with Tidewater from the start towards one project goal.

This resulted in an overall successful project in which we hope to leverage for future successes collaborating together.

worleycord.com

OIL & GAS

Construction-led solutions for a more sustainable world

42

years of experience

• Modularization, fabrication, EPC • Fab/mod yards in Edmonton, Blackfalds, Pickering & Houston • Multidisciplinary execution • Robotic welding

worleycord.com

WWW.TYRODINDUSTRIES.COM

Northern Reliability.

Here and Now. Corestock Supply was established in 1998, and has been continually growing and expanding our inventory ever since. We have the largest industrial inventory in Northern B.C., making it possible to meet the demands and deadlines our customers’ require at any given time.

We carry multiple kinds of pipe in various sizes ranging from 1/8” up to 36”, in materials such as 316 stainless, A53, A106 seamless, A333, etc. in schedule 40 up to schedule 160. We also have a large inventory

of flanges up to 1200# and various styles and sizes of valves to match. We also manufacture and sell hoses for almost any application from drinking water to sulphuric acid, and have an extensive inventory of all the different types of hydraulic fittings.

With a focus on service and reliability, our locally owned company has a customer base across a multitude of industries. We strive in building strong relationships with our customers to ensure every visit is personable and easy.

229 Ongman Road, Prince George, B.C, V2K 4K9 Phone: (250) 564-3001 | Fax: (250) 564-3002 Hydraulics contact: cassie.savage@corestock.ca Pipe, valves, fittings: steve.dawson@corestock.ca

Specialising in oil & gas pressure piping systems 580 Richard Rd, Prince George BC V2K 4L3 | P. +1 250-596-1640

North America Outlook issue 03 | 37

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

38 | North America Outlook issue 03

OIL & GAS

OUR SERVICES

INTEGRATED DOWNHOLE SOLUTIONS PROVIDER

PIPELINE

MAINTENANCE

FABRICATION

FACILITY

ELECTRICAL & INSTRUMENTATION

MAC (Metallic Alloy Coating) Product Line PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: MAC coatings provide corrosion and wear protection barriers to metallic substrates. MAC coatings are tailored to specific operating environments. Deposits are low porosity, have inherent lubricity & non-galling characteristics, and operating temperatures up to 880°C. MAC100Cc (Corrosion Control) | MAC200Wc (Wear Control) Micro Hardness of 450-500HV as coated *MAC100Cc. Hardness can be increased for heavy wear use to 1150-1100HV using our proprietary technologies and heat-treatment.

APPLICATIONS: • Tubing, Casing, Sucker Rods • Accessories & parts experiencing corrosion and erosion.

• Water Injection/disposal wells • Paraffin wax, sulphur deposition or scale issues • High wear sections in rod pumping applications • Horizontal and deviated build sections • Hydroelectric turbine components

BENEFITS No ID Restriction | Low coefficient of friction & natural lubricity | Complete protection of tubing string including threads & coupling | Suitable for gas lift, injection & disposal wells, CO2 injection & H2S producing wells | No special running tools (wireline / slick line) | 100% Canadian owned | MAC coatings are ideal for coating projects, components and accessories

info@propipecanada.com | www.propipecanada.com “We empower each and every employee by treating each one like family,” McLean tells us proudly. “We started off as a small organization from the ground up and continued to grow.

“We acquired many facilities in the last five years, and we also acquired the great people that have worked there, in some cases for decades, or even generations. We have one facility in which three different generations of dedicated workers are working together and interacting with the community, and they are each an incredibly vital part of the company.

“Treating them like family starts with respect and compassion, and that’s something that we bring to the table every day across the whole organization and across all levels of leadership and management. It’s an aspect of our work culture that is really ingrained, and we recognize everybody’s efforts from the employees to the management staff.

We are a customer focused solution

CONTACT US 780-542-4834

bobdale@bobdaleoilfield.com

www.bobdaleoilfield.com BOB DALE IS A DIVISION OF STRIKE GROUP

driven organization, and we rely on all these people every day to bring good solutions to the table if they’re encountering a problem, and they’re recognized as individuals just as they are teams for their contributions.”

Tidewater’s employee-centric culture surrounds the company’s success, and communal ownership of the organization reflects this.

“Our employees are aligned with the success of our shareholders, stakeholders and partners, and they are rewarded in turn,” McLean tells us.

“Over 95 percent of our employees are owners of the company through direct ownership of stocks and shares.”

Into the future, Tidewater has plans to increase its environmentally orientated goals. This will be aided by the significant provincial and federal government support Tidewater continues to receive to evaluate and ultimately invest in additional renewable fuels and carbon capture projects.

In line with this, the course of

2021 will see Tidewater’s inaugural sustainability report being published; a large step towards wholly increasing the company’s commitment to environmental support.

On top of this, the company is focusing on increasing job opportunities in areas where it operates, including British Columbia and Alberta, ensuring that the localized regions in which the company’s employees work and live are supported as a whole interconnected community.

Spearheading environmental and community centred operations, Tidewater is moving ahead through the 2020s with progression at the fore.

Tel: 587-475-0210 info@tidewatermidstream.com www.tidewatermidstream.com

North America Outlook issue 03 | 39

MAVIRO

The Maviro Difference Chris Boase, Senior Vice President at Maviro, discusses the organization’s competitive advantage in the North American market Writer: Sean Galea-Pace | Project Manager: David Knott

M

aviro is an organization with a difference.

The firm prioritizes an approach that is built around safety, reliability and the promise of guaranteed performance.

Maviro’s foundation is driven by a customer focused approach and strategic acquisitions. Formed as a 40 | North America Outlook issue 03

result of the union between three renowned service organizations: Mattawa Industrial Services, Vistec and Envirosystems, Maviro offers specialty industrial services to a wide range of markets within North America, which includes refineries, petrochemical, manufacturing, utility and pulp and paper.

Its services include pigging and decoking, catalyst services, surface prep laser cleaning, specialty chemical cleaning, high-pressure cleaning, and vacuum services. As a result of its expertise and experience, Maviro has become a recognized force in industrial maintenance, industrial projects, as well as major

OIL & GAS

shutdown and turnaround services.

Operating with multiple locations across North America, as well as its corporate headquarters in Houston, Texas, Maviro is well equipped to handle projects across the United States and Canada.

Chris Boase is the Senior Vice President at Maviro. He has more

than 25 years of experience within the industrial services space across a variety of positions and has come through the ranks in a number of different roles from field operations, as well as being a former owner and founder of Innovative Coke Expulsion “ICE” to supporting operations in his current role with one of the leading

specialty industrial services firms within North America.

Having worked in the field since 1993, he provides specialized industrial maintenance and turnaround services to oil refineries, petrochemical plants within Canada and the United States.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 41

MAVIRO Boase believes that what sets the organization apart is its quality equipment and unique bundled specialty service offers which provide immediate benefits for clients. “We are large enough to be effective and responsive with experienced personnel for our customers – however, we are also small enough to have a customized approach that exceeds our clients project expectations,” he explains. “We also cross train our people on multiple service lines so when performing bundled services, we maximize the utilization of our manpower and reduce standby time. Further, our ability to manage and communicate

realistic predictable timelines and cost speaks to our mandates.”

Upon the company’s rebrand, Maviro consolidated all of its SCM functions into Epicor.

“Our management team focuses on improving its efficiency, and the result is a high-performing supply chain which allows for better pricing with vendors for equipment and supplies used on projects,” explains Boase.

“It has allowed us to reduce the overall number of suppliers and standardize our equipment nationally which reduces our training costs and

Blast E&I Supplies/Services Blast E&I Supplies & Services is committed to providing high quality and innovative services within the Industrial Cleaning Industry. By utilizing proven methods, qualified personnel, and adhering to our core values, we afford our partners with the best service value and solutions.

Through effective planning, operational coordination, and a commitment to safety, we conduct our business with the highest level of integrity for our employees, clients and suppliers. Our ensured success is driven by teamwork and living the core values of our company.

Quality | Commitment | Integrity | Safety

THE MAVIRO DIFFERENCE Maviro delivers a number of specialty industrial services to organizations across North America. The organization reviews the needs and requirements of its client and works to identify the best solutions to safely meet objectives. Its approach of pairing the best people and technology translates to safer, more efficient projects, reduced downtime, and a cleaner environmental impact.

SAFETY COMES FIRST – Maviro never puts its people at risk. Strict safety practices, continuous employee training, and the latest automated technology makes the organization an industry leader in safety and compliance.

RELIABLE AND PROFESSIONAL – The company collaborates with safety, planning and scheduling, maintenance, operations, engineering, procurement and subject matter experts to ensure each project is successful.

GUARANTEED PERFORMANCE – Maviro works with its clients from the beginning of the project’s lifecycle and provides consulting, preengineering when needed, on-site planning and on-site management to meet client’s needs.

INNOVATIVE OPTIONS – The organization offers traditional solutions, however, it also provides a number of unique innovative options for applications that requires an alternative approach. These technologies have meant significant time savings.

INTEGRITY AND REPUTATION – Maviro has been providing exceptional service to clients across North America for decades. Its reputation for safe, fast, industrial cleaning and specialty services is something that has been built for over 30 years.

42 | North America Outlook issue 03

ties into our cross-trained workforce model. These efficiencies allow us to be very competitive while bidding projects while also maintaining reasonable job margins.”

Maviro supplies in-depth precommissioning services for plant start-ups, revamps, de-bottlenecking and new construction. From industrial cleaning services which range from formulated chemical cleaning, specialized hydro-lazing, steam blowing and slug flushing to highly controlled pigging and oil flushing.

Maviro’s team works closely with the industry’s leading products and technologies in order to develop effective and measurable cleaning programs for each project.

The Matta-Lift is a new patented Lift technology that accelerates catalyst loading and reduces plant turnaround. The key benefits of the Matta-Lift includes speed, flexibility, safety and savings. It is one of our largest investments’ in

OIL & GAS

North America Outlook issue 03 | 43

MAVIRO newer technologies and continues to transform how traditional catalyst changeout operations are conducted, as demonstrated on a recent project in the US that surpassed expectations.

Matta-lift can save days off a company’s shutdown schedule.

Maviro’s team recently completed an inert catalyst change out at large refinery in the Mid-West. The timeline was tight as a result of a critical path of the turnaround, the planners and engineers inquired about inert inspections. Maviro proposed they perform the API inspections using helmet trained inspectors, to speed up the process and related inspection time.

“The time and cost savings were significant, but the facility had never performed this type of work before,” explains Boase. “Our SME

SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL SERVICES • Catalyst change-outs • Catalyst Tubular loading technology • Pigging and decoking • Chemical Cleaning INDUSTRIAL SERVICES • High pressure water services • Vacuum services • Hydro-excavation CHEMICAL CLEANING • Tank cleaning • COVID disinfecting/ decontamination SPECIALTY SURFACE PREPARATION • Laser services • Vacuum blast services • Dry ice blasting

44 | North America Outlook issue 03

group from Canada, consisting of our Project Manager Tyler Halliday and both the Maviro and Plant Health and Safety departments conducted countless review meetings to have the client HSE and management give authorization to proceed. They did, even a bit reluctantly and with tremendous oversight, the inspection was well executed without incident.

The approach is now considered a best practice within that organization going forward.”

SPECIALTY CHEMICAL CLEANING Maviro and its subsidiary Rocky Mountain Industrial Services (RMIS) have been performing highly specialized chemical cleaning, consulting, and engineering services since 1997. They provide these services for clients in utility, new construction, Pulp & Paper, and food and beverage industries.

These specialty services include Commissioning, Pre-Service

Engineering, Analytical -Off site Tube analysis, Management of wastes generated, Onsite Waste Treatment/disposal, They apply these to boiler cleanings, Piping Systems, as well as, Condensers, Turbines (HP blades foam), Brine Concentrators, Scrubbers, Lube oil coolers, Feedwater heaters and more.

Due to our customer base and familiarity with their needs Maviro is now introducing a new service line to expand our offerings to the major utility market. Slagging is the formation of molten, partially fused, or re-solidified deposits on furnace walls and other surfaces exposed to radiant heat. Over a period of time, a base deposit of slag may also form on boiler tubes. Slag removal can be a constant battle at many solid fuel-fired power plants. Conventional tools include picks, jackhammers, shotguns fired through portholes, hydro-blasting, and CO2-blasting.

In many boilers, soot-blowers, and rapping systems only keep slag

OIL & GAS

Top: Filling / checking five minute escape bottle in Life Support unit.

Above: Maviro six man Life Support unit.

Above right: Levelling Catalyst Training.

Right: “Go” or “No Go” test on clamshell helmet in Life support unit.

Far right: Dual pass Decoking Unit

North America Outlook issue 03 | 45

MAVIRO

Pigging a Vac Heater with water recycling

Laser Cleaning & Surface Preparation: The laser allows the operator precise manipulation of a light beam to clean challenging, highvalue surfaces without water, chemicals, or abrasive materials. The system neither creates nor alters existing profiles or anchor points, leaving irregular or flat substrates like welds, flanges or gasket surfaces in their original state. When activated, the laser’s powerful light-beam removes unwanted coatings with its internal vacuum fume extractor, drawing waste residues into the disposal chamber.

46 | North America Outlook issue 03

OIL & GAS deposits in check until the next major outage, when more vigorous removal methods – such as charges – can be applied. This is when the seasoned experts, using charges to remove up-to ‘Greyhound bus-size’ clinkers can be used. “Choosing the right expert is critical,” affirms Boase. “One Texas utility, for example, reportedly spent $5 million replacing boiler tubes when the efforts of a new, lower priced contractor went awry.

“Charges have been used in units ranging from packaged boilers up to 1,300-MW central stations. Early applications were limited to large clinkers that bridged the throat and blocked the bottom hoppers. After building their confidence in the bottom hoppers, contractors began to use charges more selectively, moving up into the firebox and ultimately to all sections of tube bundles.

Concussion wave deslagging of the boiler has even been performed online, with the unit turned down to low load. Outside the boiler, charges have been used to clean such power plant components as scrubbers, fly ash silos, and precipitators. Every winter, trainloads of frozen coal are blasted to speed up the unloading process.”

Firebox deslagging using the latest binary explosive technology can be achieved without a worker even entering the boiler. Charges are placed on the end of a telescopic pole and inserted through inspection ports and manway doors. The charges initiate a concussion wave, sonic

Maviro employs over 300+ people, operating multiple strategic locations across the US and Canada

cords effectively remove slag from the gas path, as well as from the horizontal surfaces between the tubes, with no tube damage.

OUR PEOPLE - OUR SAFETY

Bill Deering, CEO, Maviro

“WE ARE A SPECIALTY SERVICE PROVIDER THAT LEVERAGES OUR EXTREMELY TALENTED AND EXPERIENCED WORKFORCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND STATE-OF-THE-ART EQUIPMENT TO ENSURE POSITIVE RESULTS FOR OUR CLIENTS REGARDLESS OF THE DIFFICULTIES OF THE JOB” - BILL DEERING, CEO, MAVIRO energy, and vibrations that together fracture the slag deposits and allow them to fall into ash extractors in manageable chunks. Firebox deslagging can begin while the boiler is still cooling down around 300F, which by itself cuts a substantial amount of plant downtime.

In tube-bundle regions, remotely placed binary or dynamite charges are not precise enough. Instead, detonation cords, filled with granular explosives in calculated concentrations, are draped throughout the gas path and are ignited in a sequence of time-delayed blasts. If set properly, the detonation

Talent management is a key pillar to all companies across the world. However, to Boase, the company’s staff are a key component to achieving longterm success.

“We believe they are the biggest strength we have as an organization,” says Boase. “Empowering our teams instead of micromanaging them improves accountability and customer service, improves job satisfaction and helps you to solve problems faster than in the past.

“We have robust safe work procedures that we follow, but if an employee has an idea or suggests a better way of doing something we encourage this through our ‘Bright Idea’ program. In this program we reward people for thinking out of the box if it results in a safety, operational efficiency, or completely new service line. Our management structure is very flat, and we expect our managers to be visible in the field.”

With the future in mind, management has a clear idea about what the next few years will look like at Maviro.

“Obviously, the number one goal is to finish the year with a strong safety record and ensure everyone goes home safely,” he sums up. “With the increased workload due to a large number of projects being delayed from 2020, we look forward to increasing our presence and service offerings to our client base.”

MAVIRO Tel: 713-485-5193 www.maviro.com

North America Outlook issue 03 | 47

SHAWCOR

Energy Evolution We examine the energy industry within North America and speak with Steve Mims, Vice President and General Manager at Shawcor, to find out more Writer: Sean Galea-Pace Project Manager: David Knott

48 | North America Outlook issue 03

The energy industry in North America is in unique times.”

That much is clear. For Steve Mims, Vice President and General Manager in Shawcor’s Integrity Management Group, he is well aware of how much the sector has changed in recent years.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant pullback in activity during 2020.

“In recent years, the US has strived to become a leader in energy export,” explains Mims. “That focus has shifted into a more conservative approach after the COVID-19 pandemic and the change in political landscape. Energy infrastructure will always be a need across North America. It will continue to evolve and the companies that can evolve with it will be successful.”

Shawcor is a leading energy and

OIL & GAS

infrastructure technology firm that specializes in products, services and solutions utilized in oil and gas, water and wastewater, fuel, transportation and industrial applications.

Mims, who leads Shawcor Inspection Services (SIS), has over 15 years of experience in the oil and gas industry and possesses extensive nondestructive examination capability with a robust technical background.

He is a proud US Army Veteran who served two combat tours in Afghanistan in 2002 and 2004.

Mims points to the recent construction of a 900-mile, 20-inch NGL pipeline as being a particularly influential project. The pipeline spans across Montana, Wyoming, Colorado and Kansas.

“Our Real-Time Radiography (RTR) system was chosen as the primary

inspection tool, differentiated by its digital package,” he says. “It is a proprietary, state-of-the-art system that provides high quality digital images of welds with reduced radiation.”

To Mims, it is clear that field service remains a key priority. “We put a focus on integrity, quality, safety and technology.

“Our field service personnel are constantly in front of our clients with North America Outlook issue 03 | 49

SHAWCOR

QSA Global.

OpenVision DX Inspect large amounts of piping in environments such as refineries and petrochemical plants onshore and offshore in a fraction of the time.

OpenVision DX is rugged and reliable.

A rugged aluminum and carbon fiber c-arm house a robust x-ray source, controller , battery, and a CMOS imager. Battery life is 3+ hours of operation and data is securely stored on the internal hard drive or remote tablet.

Minimize missed calls with OpenVision DX . High resolution live digital video allows operators to minimize missed calls. Direct download of highresolution images and videos provide quick transfer into reports for rapid reporting.

SHAWCOR INTEGRITY MANAGEMENT AT A GLANCE ASSET INSPECTION • Pipeline Girth Weld Inspection • Spoolbase Fabrication • Offshore Pipelay • Onshore right-of-ways • Fabrication Shops • Plant Inspections • Drilling Rigs • Mechanical Integrity • Consultation and Planning • Preparation • Field Data Gathering • Documentation • Project Delivery • Completion Review • Inspection Services • Automated Ultrasonic

50 | North America Outlook issue 03

Access tight spaces with OpenVision DX. A 30% thinner imager and a repositionable c-arm increases access to tight spaces.

unique challenges in adverse working conditions,” he adds. “Therefore, we hold ourselves to the highest standards to operate with the utmost integrity, and we equip our team with training and tools that allow them to perform their duties and deliver quality results in a safe working environment.”

Shawcor continues to evolve as a company in order to better reflect its enduring values of integrity, technology and execution to meet the needs of tomorrow. Shawcor is set to advance its ESG performance, both internally and externally by evaluating its footprint, actioning improvements and innovating to enable its customers to reduce their footprint.

Mims’ division, Shawcor Inspection Services (SIS), recently achieved a significant safety milestone which saw one year without a recordable injury. For over 365 days, not a single SIS team member incurred an injury which required medical treatment beyond basic first aid.

Maximize probability of detection with OpenVision DX. New ergonomic features support multiple configurations to facilitate both vertical and horizontal inspections at various heights, enable access to tighter spaces, and lessen operator fatigue.

A patented combination of a c-arm, mounted 70 kV x-ray source, and digital imager allows you to: • Observe external defects as small as 0.010-inch (250 micron) on insulated piping.

• Record high-resolution still images and video directly onto OpenVision DX’s internal storage or remotely from the wireless monitor.

• Review images and videos in real time or download for integration into client reports.

6765 Langley Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70809 USA +1 225-751-5893 +1 800-225-1383 (toll free)

qsa-global.com

SHAWCOR This milestone underlined SIS’s commitment and intention to provide a workplace that is safe for all employees and clients.

This commitment is showcased through the Incident and Injury Free philosophy designed to provide consistent guidance and instruction to its global operations. This achievement is a direct result of SIS employees’ ongoing commitment to safety awareness and practices.

INTEGRITY MANAGEMENT Integrity Management is a division within Shawcor that provides inspection and nondestructive testing within the energy industry with a primary focus in midstream and upstream. As part of Mims’ role, he is responsible for the US nonunion land business.

The organization consists of three major business lines: conventional, major project, and pipeline integrity and advanced businesses. Its conventional business operates out of nine regional offices across the United States.

Its major projects business line is operated out of its Houston facility and supports bigger capital projects through dedicated project management.

These projects leverage conventional radiography, in addition to other more specialized services like X-Ray Crawlers, Real-Time Radiography and Automated Ultrasonic Testing. Its pipeline integrity and advanced business provides inspection on in-service pipelines and advanced manual inspection on facilities.

52 | North America Outlook issue 03

“Our team makes safety a priority every day, which ultimately ensures the safe completion of projects and the return of each of our employees to their families,” says Mims. “Safety remains the ultimate bottom line.”

The pipeline infrastructure of North America has continued to expand rapidly for over 100 years. At the same time, it has continued to age with much of it over 30 years old.

Shawcor helps operators to expand its pipeline networks safely, repair them effectively and reduce failure-related downtime considerably.

The organization works closely with global operators, contractors and manufacturers of oil and gas

production facilities, pipelines and utility systems in order to reduce risk, maintain integrity and extend the service life of client assets.

SIS identifies and resolves points of failure quickly and effectively regardless of the stage in the asset’s lifecycle, from the design phase to decommissioning.

Through engineering design, non-destructive testing (NDT), innovative inspection techniques, continuous monitoring and data management, the firm evaluates pipeline failure or the potential of failure which determines the safest limits of operations. SIS analyzes mechanical damage, defines the safest conditions,

OIL & GAS identifies roadblocks to long-term operation and helps ensure they are accounted for before installation or repair. The company provides full-service integrity assurance for every element of your gathering, processing and transmission infrastructure.

With its comprehensive range of services, the company is an experienced, hands-on technological and problem-solving resource for pipeline operators in high consequence areas as well as wide-open spaces.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

“WE HAVE THE TECHNOLOGY, EXPERIENCE AND SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS TO SUPPORT OUR CLIENTS WITH SOLUTIONS NO MATTER HOW BIG, SMALL OR UNIQUE THEIR CHALLENGE MAY BE” Steve Mims, Vice President and General Manager at Shawcor

As oil and gas fields are developing away from final consumption markets, onshore gathering, transmission and distribution pipelines aren’t just getting larger but are increasingly put in a range of different challenging and remote locations.

Oil and gas also continue to be sourced from offshore fields. Offshore pipelines are growing in number and length and are being laid deeper, with increasingly high operating temperatures. To ensure consistent, safe and efficient performance in these extreme environments, Shawcor provides a comprehensive range of products and services.

Shawcor works closely with global operators, contractors and manufacturers of oil and gas production facilities, pipelines, and utility systems to reduce risk, maintain integrity and extend the service life of client assets. Shawcor delivers the technology and service required to boost reliability and assure flexibility, speed and performance. Through Shawcor, operations can go further and deeper than ever before.

Mims is clear about what sets his organization apart from competitors.

“We focus on being a dependable and valuable partner for our clients,” he says. “We have the technology, experience and subject matter experts to support our clients with solutions no matter how big, small or unique their challenge may be.”

North America Outlook issue 03 | 53

SHAWCOR

ILINE DATA-EMPOWERED SOLUTIONS WEB PORTAL FOR PROJECT DASHBOARDS Gain total visibility into pipe coating processes and live access to all documentation throughout the project lifecycle, including installation data, field reports, tickets and training status.

MOBILE FORMS AND DATA CAPTURE Access the detailed technical information needed across the project at all times from anywhere. This allows clients to easily set pricing and specific data that goes beyond the limitations of a datasheet.

REAL-TIME DATA FOR PROCESS IMPROVEMENT Reduce operator errors and streamline processes across the facility by gaining ongoing visibility to data from cycles, events and sensors, ensuring proper product selection and improving safety.

LIFE CYCLE ASSET MANAGEMENT Consolidate data from manufacturing and construction, inspections, tests, metallurgy and operating conditions in a single cloud hosted portal.

Integrate knowledge to reduce costs and extend asset life.

OFFSHORE INSPECTION SERVICES Shawcor ensures pipeline assets run reliably and efficiently for the duration of the offshore operation. From initial install through project completion, its full suite of inspection and monitoring services mitigates the risk of failure by better deflecting points of failure on assets such as offshore risers, trunklines and flowlines. Shawcor’s market-leading NDT services and expertise help maximize safety and operational uptime through even the most challenging and disruptive environments. Through its automated ultrasonic testing, Shawcor’s new generation platform features automatic sizing, calibration and set up functions which reduces time and helps repeatability. Its next generation

OIL & GAS real-time radiography equipment offers improved sensitivity and accelerated speed of inspection.

ONSHORE INSPECTION SERVICES Shawcor conducts non-destructive testing and inspections of gathering pipelines, highly-regulated interstate large-diameter pipelines, wellheads, well pad assets, gas plants, stations and other energy infrastructure to ensure they are maintained as safe, efficient and dependable as the day they were installed.

As regulations expand to encompass more assets, there is an increasing demand for inspection personnel. However, finding additional resources is becoming more challenging. This is where iLINE iLINE is a digital solution with built-in expertise that optimizes construction processes, enhances safety and achieves lower costs

comes in. iLINE data-empowered solutions utilize digital technologies with built-in expertise to get operations on the right track.

Time spent travelling to and from the sites consumes valuable resources, as well as more people onsite adds to HSE exposure. iLINE Weld Advisor allows personnel already on-site to capture the data necessary for an inspector to do a remote analysis. iLINE is a digital solution with built-in expertise that optimizes

construction processes, enhances safety and achieves lower costs.

Inspection images are transmitted to the cloud, which reduces field personnel while enhancing efficiency. iLINE Weld Advisor enables its clients to provide feedback to the in-field inspection crew.

The instant feedback is available in a traceable form-based inspection report, and the audit is verifiable with a readily populated report routed for approval. The whole process

ensures the weld inspection process is complete. “iLINE Weld Advisor is an exciting new technology and proprietary software for Shawcor,” explains Mims.

“With this solution, we are able to provide remote real-time access to results from our digitally enabled weld inspection systems so that the asset owners can securely view and audit data from anywhere in the world.”

With the future in mind, Mims is clear where his priorities lie over the coming years.

“One of our key priorities going into 2021 will be to continue the evolution of our digital platform and service offerings,” he says. “We see a number of clients with a growing need to support the integrity and condition of their existing infrastructure, and we will continue to innovate to deliver on this need.”

Tel: +1 281 886 2350 www.shawcor.com

North America Outlook issue 03 | 55

U.S. ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

OIL & GAS

ENERGY at the FORE Looking into the North American energy space, we spoke to U.S. Energy Development Corporation’s executive team about the firm placing its employees and investors at the front and center of operations Writer: Marcus Kääpä | Project Manager: David Knott

T

he energy sector keeps us moving in this busy world.

The North American region is particularly enabled and reliant on the broad access to abundant and affordable energy. A clear notion, and one reinforced by the U.S. Department of Energy in a 2019 Energy Resilience Model report, the nation’s modern electric power system drives its digital economy, as well as elevating the health, safety and overall standard of living within the country; without a functioning power grid almost each element of critical infrastructure in the country, from banking to telecommunications, would halt.

And for those working in such a space, the energy sector is both critical and exciting.

“I could call it nerve-wracking and euphoric,” begins Matthew Iak, Executive Vice President and Director of U.S. Energy Development Corporation. “The way I would describe the energy sector is to have two worlds running simultaneously,

legacy assets which require much higher prices in juxtaposition to recent and forward-looking investments, some of the best we have ever seen and are largely available because prices are lower.

“There has been a past decade of price volatility across multiple markets, but the technological revolution that has come through full cycle has created exciting opportunities, as well as increased efficiencies and reduced costs.”

Mr. Iak was a financial advisor on Wall Street in the brokerage industry prior to his entry into the energy sector. After leaving New York City with his wife in 2001, they moved upstate closer to family members, one of whom owned an oil and gas company. The mixture of curiosity and personal experience in the financial field drove them both towards the energy space, and in 2005 they started to build up the oil and gas investment firm – the move that led Iak to his current position.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 57

WE MAKE BETTER WELLS

Delivering second by second fracture measurements and fracture guidance, Giving you the necessary data to boost fracture surface area.

We MEASURE.

REAL TIME COMPLETIONS

CLOUD COMPUTING PLATFORM WITH

COMPLETIONS METRICS

CONNECT TO YOUR COMPLETIONS IN A MODERNIZED WAY.

You IMPROVE. www.ShearFRAC.com

U.S. ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

COMPANY VISION, MISSION & VALUES U.S. Energy’s corporate motto, “Strive for Excellence” is more than a phrase - it is a way of life.

For more than four decades, U.S. Energy has pioneered a unique project development approach that focuses on the development of energy projects throughout onshore North America, but only invests in projects that the company’s collective experience determines have the greatest probability of repeatable and predictable success for its stakeholders.

U.S. Energy has a reputation for integrity, objectivity and professional excellence. The company looks forward with tremendous optimism that direct energy investments will continue to be an attractive option for high-net-worth investors looking for asset diversification, income

Established in 1980, U.S. Energy is an exploration and production (E&P) firm which provides direct investment opportunities for accredited investors and institutional partners in energy.

Originally founded as an Appalachianbased operator in the northeast, over the past 40 years the firm has invested in, operated and/or drilled more than 2,400 wells in 13 U.S. states and Canada, and has deployed more than $1.5 billion on behalf of its partners.

“We look at the investment world within the energy sector through two lenses,” Iak adds. “These are as an operating company, but simultaneously as an investment firm.

And our mission is to bring the best direct energy investments to investors therefore, everything we do is through this lens.

60 | North America Outlook issue 03

“It’s not just the practice of looking at pure growth or trying to hit a certain return on investment, everything we do reflects our mission to be the best direct energy investment firm.”

Mr. Iak is part of a professional executive team that manages and oversees varied and vital areas of U.S Energy operations and encourages this mentality of providing the best possible outcomes for all stakeholders.

“This is one of the many qualities that truly places U.S. Energy at the forefront of the North American energy investment space as a recognized direct energy investment sponsor,” Todd Witmer, Vice President of Corporate Development, elaborates.

potential and significant tax advantages.

To fulfil its mission of providing world-class direct energy investments, U.S. Energy has built its corporate culture on six specific core values. These core values not only dictate its day-to-day activity and decision-making processes, but also ensure the entire company is aligned in its purpose to provide superior results for its partners through performance and communication.

Company values: • Investors first • Trustworthy and sincere • Collaboration • A responsibility to all stakeholders • Innovation • Passionate and driven

“When evaluating a potential investment opportunity, our primary focus is on the returns provided to our investors. ‘Investors First’ is a Core Value of U.S. Energy. Additionally, our goal is to align our interests with our joint venture partners. U.S. Energy does not have a predetermined exit strategy as it relates to any individual deal, therefore, we have a great amount of flexibility in the way we are able to structure deal terms, which sets us apart from many others in the industry.

“This flexibility allows us to tailor the deal structure to the specific needs of our project partners” he tells us.

“Our preference is to build longterm relationships with our partners.

Structuring the deal around mutual benefit builds trust early on. Success

C

ompletion design drives production.

Production increases when the number of fractures created during hydraulic stimulation is improved. Improving shear and tensile fracturing, improves fracture surface area, which improves production. ShearFRAC™ developed a cloud computing platform to measure and improve the numbers of fractures in every single stage of a frac job.

The development of ShearFRAC™ began back in 2010 with the recognition that underlying patterns in treatment pressure can tell us how the rock is breaking. Treatment pressure is the only direct measurement of what is happening in the reservoir.

Our founders realized that the pressure signals are very different when the moment tensors from microseismic data displayed shear fracturing versus when they displayed tensile fracturing. Pressure fluctuations from second to second can be separated into mechanical and pumping noise and breaks in the rock. Our platform displays the fracture measurements in real-time.

ShearFRAC™ measures fractures created in the reservoir through industry-standard wellhead pressure gauges. By understanding how unconventional rocks fracture and watching the measurements in real-time, completion engineers can improve fracture surface area by making small, on the fly, rate, and proppant concentration adjustments to improve the completion effectiveness of each stage. Clearly, if the completion engineer can view and improve shear and tensile fracturing in realtime, they would have a hand in making every stage the best it could be.

Shear and tensile fracturing differ depending on the basin and formation bench of the well. A well in a highly fractured, organic-rich, laminated formation will shear fracture more than a semi-conventional, fine sandstone formation. One fracture in a more permeable, fine sandstone will produce more than one fracture in an impermeable shale. Comparison to industry standard, stage-level measurements, such as MSE logs, oil tracers, and fiber optics correlate strongly with fracture measurements. The strongest correlation, however, is found between the number of shear fractures and production. Improving shear and tensile fracturing improves well production.

ShearFRAC™ has been successfully deployed in several basins in North America. We found a balance of proppant concentration and rate to take advantage of the organic-rich horizons in the Wolfcamp Formation of the Delaware Basin.

ShearFRAC™ contributed savings of nearly $100,000 in water usage per well, improved fracture surface area in real-time, while increasing the well’s productivity by 35 percent over offsets. The highly laminated Eagle Ford allowed a faster rate ramp than the Wolfcamp of the Delaware Basin, and proppant concentrations were increased with the use of a high viscosity friction reducer (HVFR).

Water savings amounted to upwards of $40,000 per well and increased productivity by 17 percent with improved fracturing. The naturally fractured Duvernay Formation required far lower average rates, inducing fracture tip screen outs to divert fluid from leaking off. There, the use of ShearFRAC™ saved over $50,000 in water per well and increased productivity over offsets by 37 percent. ShearFRAC™ measures and improves the number of fractures on every single stage of a frac job, resulting in improved production.

T 888-544-1526 | E info@shearfrac.com | www.ShearFRAC.com

U.S. ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

U.S. ENERGY AND SUPPLY CHAIN U.S. Energy regards its third-party supply chain services highly and as vital partners of the firm.

With projects often consisting of more than 50 contractors and services, U.S. Energy treats its vendors with mutual respect and fairness, ensuring to maintain positive working relationships.

The mindset of mutual respect, collaboration and listening to partner recommendations leads to efficiencies that result in cost reductions and the improved overall success of the firm’s projects.

In this sense it is safe to say that U.S. Energy is a supply chain and people-centric business.

OIL & GAS

breeds success, hopefully leading to more opportunities for future wins. This approach has led to many partnerships that U.S. Energy has developed that have lasted decades.

We view this as a real sign of success.

“On top of this, our multi-basin focus, expertise in the sector, and our ability to acquire projects across asset classes, along with our ability to operate and willingness to be a nonoperating partner, allows us to align our needs and requirements with that of our partners,” Witmer continues.

“I think one of our key strengths is the reputation the firm holds in the industry. We are known for our speed of evaluation and surety of closing deals due to our prioritizing of clients and investors, reinforcing the great relationships we maintain with industry partners.”

These differentiating qualities are incorporated in every level of U.S. Energy’s processes. The firm’s various acquisitions showcase the professional level of operations across the board.

“WE HAD A VERY BUSY YEAR DURING A COMMODITY PRICE COLLAPSE COVERING 2020; RECENTLY WE COMPLETED A PROJECT IN THE PERMIAN BASIN AND A SIX-WELL PAD IN EAGLE FORD, SOUTH TEXAS... WE DID ALL THAT WORK AT 24 PERCENT LESS THAN OUR GIVEN BUDGET” U.S. Energy has achieved long-term growth through the acquisition and development of oil and natural gas projects throughout North America.

The firm has invested or been active in most major U.S. basins and currently owns interest in 300,000 acres which are held by production (HBP), allowing for potential future oil and natural gas development.

In 2020, U.S. Energy deployed over $93 million in capital, which includes $40 million in fast cycle, high-grade non-operated projects and $53 million in operated projects. Kevin Duncan, Vice President of Operations, explains further.

“We had a very busy year during a commodity price collapse covering 2020; recently we completed a

project in the Permian Basin and a sixwell pad in Eagle Ford, south Texas,” he affirms. “We did all that work at 24 percent less than our given budget.

We also partnered with a company called ShearFRAC which has a patented technology to monitor frack performance in real time.

“ShearFRAC’s input, with real time evaluation, allowed us to significantly reduce our water usage and carbon emissions during the completion stage of development. This positively aligned with our environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals, an important initiative of the firm. On top of this, we have made significant strides in the minimization of our natural gas flaring in Eagle Ford, adding to our sustainability aims.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 63

U.S. ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION “We’ve accomplished a lot to date, but it’s our goal by year end 2021 to reduce our gas flared by 98 percent, as compared to 2020.”

Over the past 12 months U.S. Energy has closed approximately 10 projects, which are projected to amount to $120 million of capital deployed in the Delaware Basin and Permian Basin, setting the firm up for a successful 2021.

U.S. Energy’s projects mark the level of quality and professionalism that the firm executes, and it is due to the hard-working employees of the company that such projects see the light of day. Jordan Jayson, Chief Executive Officer, elaborates.

“In a constantly changing environment motivating our employees is front and center of our internal focus,” he tells us. “We rolled out an employee alignment program this year that aligns the board of directors, executive management team and every U.S. Energy employee with our investors.

“Outside of that, we also are very active in promoting continuing education throughout the firm. We encourage our employees to join different industry associations and attend conferences to further their careers and education. That’s part of our DNA and it has been for the past 40 years.”

“And we can’t forget the small things. On a daily basis we motivate and urge our employees to challenge themselves through innovation and encourage them to learn from their mistakes, aiding in the development of a more cohesive work environment.”

Alongside an employee-focused working sphere, U.S. Energy is increasing its overall environmental efforts. In late 2019 the company established its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Committee which was based upon the vision that energy production and ESG do not have to be opposing practices, but instead can coexist.

OIL & GAS

“Energy production doesn’t need to come at a cost to the environment, and our team has recognized that companies with strong ESG principals show stronger performance,” Iak adds.

“There is a fair amount of research that supports this notion, and our pursuit of International Organization of Standardization (ISO) and Environmental Management System (EMS) certifications are just some of the early wins associated with our company. An EMS certification ensures that U.S. Energy will maintain a strategic framework for the entire organization to follow, with a focus on improving environmental performance, the efficient use of

resources, and the reduction of waste. The principles of CSR line up well with our core company values and work with each other to improve profitability and reduce negative environmental impact.”

The rest of 2021 and beyond will see U.S. Energy uphold these key values in every aspect of its operation, as well as prioritizing its investors and employees above all else. Continuing to drive strong results for its investors is paramount to maintaining the firm’s quality and professional provision, alongside its impressive ESG goals and practices. This notion of ESG is shaping the way U.S. Energy is operating through the growth of

numerous ESG centric projects, amid the continued demand for traditional channels.

“Year-by-year, and quarter-byquarter, we challenge one another and ourselves to be transparent and generate a better and more resilient company for the future of the industry and the region,” Iak finishes.

Tel: (682) 305-2868 www.usedc.com

North America Outlook issue 03 | 65

HAFFNER’S

FUELING New England Our customer service and follow-through are the best in the industry,” states Pat O’Connell, Executive Vice President at Energy North Group (ENG) and Haffner’s.

As the leading wholesale distributor of fuel across New England and Upstate New York, ENG leverages its proprietary brand, Haffner’s, to extend its reach across Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Southern Maine with the distribution of oil, propane and HVAC services.

Above all, the Haffner’s brand is most known for its network of car 66 | North America Outlook issue 03

Haffner’s and Energy North have been energizing communities throughout New England for almost a century with their car washes, gas stations, convenience stores and delivery services. We caught up with Pat O’Connell, Executive Vice President of Haffner’s parent company, Energy North Group, following a decade of expansion Writer: Phoebe Harper | Project Manager: David Knott

washes, gas stations and convenience stores throughout the Merrimack Valley and Southern New Hampshire.

“Our retail sites offer c-stores, car washes and national brands for food service, but also proprietary delis and our newly opened franchise, Sal’s Pizza,” O’Connell outlines.

ENG also extends these services through its secondary proprietary gas and diesel brand, Tradewinds. A trusted fuel retailer of quality, ENG offers all of the leading fuel brands, including: Mobil, Exxon, Gulf, Sunoco and Citco, amongst others.

“Our company (ENG) is very

OIL & GAS

diversified with retail, wholesale, heating operations and a supporting fleet that keeps us well balanced,” he explains.

Although ENG acquired Haffner’s in 2015, the brand is no new feature on the Massachusetts and New Hampshire oil and gas scene and enjoys an established reputation that dates back almost a century.

What began in 1925 as a small filling station set up by Jack Haffner and his wife Emma, has since ballooned significantly.

Haffner’s longevity and rich history attests to its dependability, making it an asset for a similarly family-oriented business—ENG, founded in 1981.

“Haffner’s has been around since 1925. When the Black family acquired the company in 2015, keeping it

family oriented was a priority,” states O’Connell. Fittingly, Jeff Black, the current owner of ENG, is the second generation of his family to take the helm.

For O’Connell, it is working with this dynamism between Haffner’s history and the modern-day context of North America’s oil and gas sector that is so stimulating.

“It is exciting taking an older industry and moving into the 21st century with design, programs and infrastructure,” he states.

The sector today is defined by a variety of factors and prevailing industry trends, including the increasing demand for propane and the consolidation of the oil business.

It’s obvious that the pride in customer service expressed in

O’Connell’s opening statement is paramount to all aspects of Haffner’s operation, geared as it is towards customer comfort, convenience and servicing the community. This people-oriented outlook is matched entirely by ENG as an extension of the brand.

Unsurprising for a company with a family mentality, ENG places great value on the people behind the brand and recognizes its workforce as an extension of that family structure.

O’Connell himself found his way into the industry when he joined ENG in 1996, using his experience as a Managing Director at Fujitsu to help grow the company. Over the past 25 years, he has turned a hand to most roles within ENG, prior to his current position as Executive Vice President.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 67

HAFFNER’S

Haffner’s and Energy North Group • Regional Leader in Retail, Wholesale Supply, Car Wash, Residential and Commercial Heating Oil, Propane and Burner Service • +50,000 Oil and Propane Customers • +200 Vehicle Fleet • +750 Employees • +65 Company Operated Locations • Company Operated Franchises – Subway, Sal’s Pizza, Aroma Joe’s Coffee and 11 Deli Locations • 225 Wholesale and Distributor Locations • +100 Controlled Properties in Real Estate Portfolio • +50 Tenants (Dunkin’, Subway, Longhorn and others)

68 | North America Outlook issue 03

From the field to the corporate headquarters, every staff member is valued and acknowledged as a vital part of the company.

“Our people make the difference, as well as our experienced and youthful management team. All suggestions are taken at the table so we can figure out ‘best practices’,” O’Connell explains.

Employee contribution is valued and investments are made to attract and retain employees. Office events are a key part of the company culture to motivate and foster the community spirit amongst staff.

“We hold events that help to bring our employees together, so that everyone including store associates and drivers feel a part of the family.

We empower our employees to

make their decisions and have a flat management structure to promote this,” O’Connell explains.

In recent years, the company has invested significantly in its corporate office to create the right kind of environment to complement its community-centric ethos.

“Over the past two years we made a major upgrade to our Corporate Office to entice prospective workers.

State of the art IT, work rooms, health club, kitchen and other amenities have been added to give the community feel,” he adds.

Enticing prospective workers is all part of the Haffner’s strategy of expansion, necessitating an increased workforce to accommodate this.

“As we hire new people, we are competing with the other big

OIL & GAS

PHILANTHROPY IN PRACTICE

INNOVATION THAT WORKS. The JF Petroleum Group is the leading turnkey solutions provider to the U.S. fueling infrastructure industry.

ENG Tackling Muscular Dystrophy • ENG has just marked its 17th year in partnership for joint fundraising with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).

EQUIPMENT Featuring Gilbarco Dispensers, POS Systems, Fuel Management Systems, EV Chargers and More!

• The funds raised are used towards the research and care initiatives for those living with muscular dystrophy and to send children to the MDA Summer Camp

CONSTRUCTION Offering layout consultation, construction, and full turnkey installation at your site.

• As a record year, ENG made its largest donation to the organization, totalling $108855 for 2021.

• ENG raised the funds through the sale of MDA Shamrocks across ENG and Haffner’s gas stations and c-stores. $5 was also donated to the charity for every car wash package purchased.

industries and need to show that we are on the leading edge, which we have done with our fully-renovated corporate office.”

Haffner’s and ENG pride themselves equally on their working relationships with vendors and partners, pursuing

24/7 SERVICE On-Call Technicians, 24/7 Maintenance. Call or submit a service request online!

Stop by your local branch or visit us online at jfpetroparts.com for filters, hoses, nozzles, & much more!

jfpetrogroup.com | 800.286.4133 |

stable procurement relationships that foster loyalty.

“Our relationships with all the terminal operators, brands, supply and partners are very important to our overall success. We treat vendors as partners to grow our

relationships. This has paid off directly in the procurement of products and services.

“Our partners often participate in country events like Driver Rodeos, Chilli Cook-Offs, Manager Prepared Breakfasts, etc.,” O’Connell informs us.

It is this concrete foundation and robust infrastructure that enables Haffner’s and ENG to continue to grow.

An inescapable obstacle, ENG was forced to adapt to the challenging coronavirus pandemic. The majority of the energy group’s workforce were able to continue working as frontline workers, whilst the restrictions that have become so familiar for us all were quickly implemented for office staff.

“The challenges of office people working remotely and ensuring everyone was wearing masks and socially distancing was eye-opening but it taught us a lot,” O’Connell states.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 69

HAFFNER’S

HAFFNER’S TODAY A Word from ENG President, Ken Black “Energy North/Haffner’s is one of the largest family-owned and operated businesses in the oil marketing space throughout New England and Upstate New York. Consolidation has been at the forefront of our industry across the country over the last 10 years. In New England, Energy North/ Haffner’s has been a leader in acquiring c-stores, car washes, heating oil and propane companies.

From wellhead to gasoline nozzle, the industry has undergone major changes over the past decade—starting with lowering our carbon footprint. Every decision that we make takes into account the impact that the new and ever-changing energy policy has on our business.

Secondly, consolidation is the name of the game in both the gasoline and the c-store space, as well as the heating/propane business. Companies are selling at record multiples. With the cost of doing business ever increasing, bigger seems to be better as companies leverage their size to maximize their operations.

Finally, customer service. For some, this seems to be a lost art. We at Energy North/Haffner’s place huge importance on how we interact with our customers. So much so that we have a dedicated customer service department that works across all facets of our business operation.

This is a truly exciting time to be in the energy industry and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

70 | North America Outlook issue 03

As a provider of essential services, the pandemic’s impact on operations was relatively minor and rather presented an opportunity for Haffner’s to perform in an area where its accustomed to excelling—caring for and supporting the community.

“We realized there was an opportunity for us to serve our community members during the pandemic. As a result, we focused a great deal on giving back to front line workers and local hospitals throughout 2020,” O’Connell comments.

As part of this, 250 Haffner’s gas gift cards were delivered to Lawrence and Lowell General Hospitals, whilst Haffner’s also offered free car washes to first responders and hospital staff on certain days. The company also distributed free box lunches and snack bags to local shelters and hospitals.

“2020 was an important year of giving back to the community. We managed many programs to benefit our local communities and nonprofit partners like MDA, Lazarus House and Esperanza Academy,” he continues.

Although 2020 presented exceptional circumstances, charitable initiatives are not a new practice for ENG and Haffner’s, where philanthropy has long been naturally embedded into the company as a responsible corporate citizen.

Acquisitional growth has been the defining theme for ENG over the past decade. As O’Connell describes, acquisitions have been “front and center”.

Through March 2021 alone, ENG acquired 11 key sites across Massachusetts from local familyrun brand VERC Enterprises, which included tenancy from contracted vendors Dunkin’ and Subway.

“The acquisition of VERC Enterprises, Tradewinds, Putman Oil and all their tenants have helped grow our footprint in all businesses and marketplaces,” O’Connell explains.

OIL & GAS

Despite this period of concentrated growth, O’Connell ensures that they never lose sight of the people at the center of it all by strategically selecting companies that mirror their own values.

“Retention of customers is a single focus while growing new business continues,” O’Connell explains, returning to the core beliefs that drive acquisition. The prioritization of the customer remains central.

One particularly promising new site that looks set to flourish under ENG’s ownership is the Airport Country Store and Deli, comprising a c-store, Dunkin’, deli and a Haffner’s brand gas station, which makes it an increasingly attractive stop for New Hampshire locals and travellers alike.

“Real estate and location are still a priority as ‘convenience’ will always be needed for consumers,” O’Connell states.

Bolstered by reputation and longevity in the sector, ENG and Haffner’s will continue to expand operations over the coming years.

Currently, the company is engaged in four ground-ups throughout Maine and Massachusetts, which comprise one raze and rebuild site and multiple new-to-industry sites.

“Our four ground-ups are in the pipeline along with moving forward with our exclusive Sal’s Pizza rollout,” he adds.

The recent partnership with popular brand Sal’s Pizza involves the incorporation of the brand into future ENG sites and presents a welcome opportunity of growth for both parties.

Extending their footprint across America’s Northeast with the support of a robust infrastructure, ENG and Haffner’s guarantee a future for themselves and the communities they service.

“We will continue to look for acquisitions within the New England and Upstate New York marketplace. Our growth continues and will continue. We are in our second generation of ownership and the future is bright,” O’Connell concludes.

T: 866-It-Kicks F: 978.683.6132 www.haffners.com

North America Outlook issue 03 | 71

CARVER COMPANIES

72 | North America Outlook issue 03

SUPPLY CHAIN

Continental Operation With the logistics industry vital to the operation of projects across North America, we speak to the Carver Companies team about providing water-based logistics solutions throughout the region Writer: Marcus Kääpä Project Manager: Tom Cullum

L

ogistics is key to the successful operation of companies and sectors nationally, regionally and internationally.

This fact is reinforced historically as much as it is to this day. We can compare the success of armies and conquests thanks to well thought out and efficient supply chains. Thoughts of the Romans spring to mind, and their highly efficient goods transport allowing them to conquer territory at

a rapid pace with well organized and freshly supplied soldiers leading their frontier.

At the same time, we can look to the necessity of logistics through the challenges of business’ adaptability over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially its major impact during 2020. In the present, COVID19 has shown the world how vital logistical operations are to the overall fluidity and success of companies

North America Outlook issue 03 | 73

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET THE JOB DONE

Serving You For Over 40 Years.

At Tracey Road total customer satisfaction is our number one priority and can only be achieved through dedication and commitment to excellence. Anyone who comes in contact with our people, products, or services will receive a professional and timely response – the Tracey personal touch.

We continuously strive to provide our employees with ongoing training programs, personnel empowerment, and incorporate a team building, proactive philosophy into our daily efforts.

SALES • PARTS • SERVICE RENTAL • LEASING & FINANCING

SYRACUSE ALBANY BINGHAMTON QUEENSBURY ROCHESTER UTICA WATERTOWN

TRACEYROAD.COM | 800.872.2390

PORT OF COEYMANS Coeymans, New York

Liebherr produces an extensive range of earthmoving equipment including, hydraulic excavators – both crawler and wheeled, crawler tractors, crawler loaders, wheel loaders, and material handlers. High quality is assured with the in-house production of major sub-assemblies. Liebherr develops and manufactures the entire driveline and control technology including the diesel engine, hydraulic system, and transmission product groups.

You can find the full line of Liebherr earthmoving and material handling equipment at all seven Tracey Road locations throughout New York.

CARVER COMPANIES

with the likes of Amazon in a prime position and being able to answer the demand for delivered goods while government-imposed lockdowns forced the high street to cease temporarily.

North American logistics becomes a paramount aspect of smooth operation across the continent, be it by land or sea. Currently, with increasing regulations for land-based trucking transport, various forms of water logistics are becoming recognized as a cheaper mode of freight. Inland water transport, via barges for example, are growing in popularity due to the nature of water transport avoiding the urban congestion usually found with trucking transport and increasing the cost-effectiveness of moving cargo.

Carver Companies specializes in three key areas of operation: transportation logistics including maritime and by land, construction and aggregates.

With approximately 600 employees 76 | North America Outlook issue 03

covering four different states and Canada, Carver operates around fifty barges, nine tugboats, over 100 trucks and provides a quality and efficient service for customers who wish to move cargo.

“We’re a one-stop shop company, and we believe our philosophy is to give a cradle-to-grave business opportunity to our clients,” says Stephen Kelly, President of Sales and Business Development at Carver Companies. “We can solve all their logistic problems and that’s what makes us as a special; that’s how we’ve grown so quickly in the last decade.”

The owner of family-run Carver Companies, Carver Laraway began in the construction industry with a focus on heavy municipal work. After learning of the availability of New York States last running brick plant, Carver purchased it, with plans to renovate and modernize. Two years later his vision shifted to a deep water Port.

Carver Laraway, Owner

CARVER COMPANIES “Seven years later we received approval for the operation of a private port,” Laraway explains. “We became a service for a lot of customers as there was a great need for private ports.”

For over 30 years, Carver Companies’ fundamental belief has been to provide unparalleled service all while maintaining its values of honesty and integrity both on land and sea. Carver prides itself on its unmatched logistics services and superior products to its customers, partners and tenants. The company works hard to inspire its diverse, wellrounded workforce and management team to always perform at the highest levels of safety and professionalism.

“THE PIONEER OF INTEGRATIVE SOLUTIONS ON LAND AND SEA” Carver Companies has a longterm vision of growth that will transform the way its clients respond to challenges. Carver becomes a business partner in comprehensive project management. The company provides resources unlike any other organization, and in turn can respond quickly to its client’s needs, no matter how unique.

This swift, professional and adaptable ability to respond to individual client needs is showcased

CARVER CONSTRUCTION Founded in 1989, Carver Construction was the first in the family of Carver Companies. Originally a single crew digging cellars, Carver Construction quickly diversified into all types of developmental site work. Today, we continue with our site work and cellar excavation roots; and have expanded to meet many other needs in the construction industry, including sewer, water and storm line construction and repair, roads and subdivisions, excavation and earthmoving and much more.

Carver has more than: - 30 years in the industry - 130 years of management experience - 2,000 pcs of equipment Services include: - Marine construction - Water, sewer, storm line construction and repairs - Earthmoving - Clearing, grubbing and erosion control

Clemente Latham Concrete Established in the 1930’s, Clemente Latham Concrete quickly became the premier Ready Mix Concrete producer in the Upstate New York region. The company has supplied material for some of the largest projects in New York State, including the NYS Capitol Plaza. Acquired

by Oldcastle Materials (now CRH Americas Materials) in 1993, Clemente Latham Concrete became a division of another renowned materials producer in the area, Callanan Industries, Inc. Callanan Industries Inc, is a leading supplier of paving materials and construction services in New York State. Founded in 1883, Callanan provides a complete range of highquality aggregates, asphalt paving, and ready-mix concrete products to every sector of the construction industry, including DOT, commercial, and residential projects.

With a corporate office located in Albany, NY, Callanan has approximately 500 employees at its locations across New York State and is able to provide construction services and materials for projects of any size.

Callanan was acquired by CRH in 1985.

With a strong set of core values, the company is dedicated to building stronger communities by putting safety first, acting with integrity, and supporting the people and organizations in its operating regions.

With a team of experts that truly understand their customer’s needs, Clemente Latham Concrete and Callanan Industries continue to provide world class customer service and top tier products to their customers.

- Roads and subdivisions - In-place paving - Sewage treatment pump station installation and repairs - Emergency infrastructure repair work - Municipal and NYSDOT projects - Demolition - Dredging

78 | North America Outlook issue 03

www.callanan.com

Call Today!

1-888-473-9649 Hot Mix Asphalt Crushed Aggregate Ready Mixed Concrete Asphalt Emulsion - Tack Coat Construction Paving Services

BUILDING NEW YORK’S INFRASTRUCTURE SINCE 1883

1-800-446-8649 Corporate Office: 8 Southwoods Blvd, 4th Floor Albany, NY 12211 www.callanan.com | www.facebook.com/callananindustries | 518-372-2222

CARVER COMPANIES

in the company’s range of past and present projects.

Pier 55 was one large-scale project during which Carver Companies aided in the construction and logistical efforts. The project itself is called Little Island; a public park that is designed to provide a one-of-a-kind relationship between nature and art.

Made up of individual pieces, or ‘tulip pots’ of artificial land each standing on its own reinforced pile, Little Island is a unique construction project that will stand in above the water over Pier 55, and Carver is one of the collaborative teams helping bring the park to life.

Made up of delicate and tricky precast pieces and requiring on-site welding and to be shipped a substantial distance, Carver provided professional barge transportation from upstate New York all the way down to New York City.

“Here the pieces were transported via our trucks to our port facility,” Kelly elaborates. “It was then assembled by 80 | North America Outlook issue 03

our highly trained and skilled welders who specialized in stainless steel welding. Once complete, the pieces were floated via barge down into New York City to Pier 55 where it was offloaded by crane and installed.”

The Tappan Zee Bridge, now named the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, is another one of many examples displaying the skill and capacity of Carver Companies. The company is currently looking at providing services for offshore wind. These projects can take advantage of a 900-ton marine travel lift on site to help load offshore wind components to barges transported via water to the lease sites; loads that land-based transport such as rail would not be able to handle. The smooth and efficient operation that Carver provides its customers saves both time and money during necessary logistical periods of project development. In this way, Carver Companies identifies itself as a unique and multi-purpose business designed to provide specific

“MADE UP OF DELICATE AND TRICKY PRECAST PIECES AND REQUIRING ON-SITE WELDING AND TO BE SHIPPED A SUBSTANTIAL DISTANCE, CARVER PROVIDES PROFESSIONAL BARGE TRANSPORTATION FROM UPSTATE NEW YORK ALL THE WAY DOWN TO NEW YORK CITY”

Distribution

Consumption

Process

Design

Residual Waste

Raw Materials

Recycled Materials

INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR A CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Our patented technology, which can be deployed at the waste site to reduce the impact of transportation, is configurable to address specific waste streams. Once these streams have been treated / beneficiated, we re-introduce the products generated back into the economy as raw materials.

153 South Main Street, Newtown, CT 06470 info@mercutek.com | Tel: 203.270.3316

CARVER COMPANIES

Mammoet The ever-increasing size of turbine and foundation components within the USA offshore wind industry has significantly impacted the heavy lifting, loading, transportation, and installation of offshore wind turbines.

Before fabrication of the components has begun, our engineers can advise on their design, ensuring that anchor points on the objects are compatible with the frames and transportation methods used to move them. These large and heavy parts often push the limits of domestic ports. With Mammoet’s abnormal load expertise, we can help clients find the most suitable ports, overcome bottlenecks, and comply with local regulations while finding significant efficiencies.

“WE KNOW THAT SAFETY LEADS THE WAY, RESULTING IN A SAFE DAY, A SAFE TOMORROW, A SAFE YEAR, AND A SAFE CAREER” solutions to each and every customer they collaborate with.

“I like to see the company as an industrial park on the water,” Laraway tells us proudly. “Customers can bring in goods from overseas and we export and find methods of transport for such goods, providing clients services from approximately four different points in the US, and another in Canada.”

And ingrained into each aspect of operation is the core mission to maintain the safety and wellbeing of all employees involved.

Carver’s commitment to safety defines the company. It strives to 82 | North America Outlook issue 03

instil safety awareness among its employees, subcontractors, tenants, and surrounding community. Carver is committed to maintaining a safety program that actively involves all employees in identifying, preventing, and correcting workplace safety issues, and through effective training programs including classroom training, virtual, hands-on, and simulation training, Carver is able to provide the most reliable and safe services to its customers. The company’s belief is that all injuries can be prevented, and that the responsibility for company-wide safety begins with the individual.

Of those programs, the classroombased training sees company Safety Managers perform daily and weekly safety meetings prior to work shifts and yearly safety courses making use of the best management practices.

The virtual training involves a Carver employee portal with training videos for the continuation of education and refresher courses when needed.

A prime example is a relationship between the Port of Coeymans and Mammoet. Together, we demonstrate the port’s strategic advantages while utilizing the local workforce and allowing the end client to have access to our expertise and largest pool of heavy-lift and transport equipment in the race to even larger turbines.

Mammoet provides solutions to any heavy lifting or transport challenge.

We have a unique global network and an unparalleled fleet of equipment.

Mammoet USA is a subsidiary of Mammoet and has over 30 years of experience in the USA. Mammoet has over 1500 local employees in North America and a central office South of Houston in Rosharon, TX as well as supporting offices not only in North America but also across the globe.

In addition, Mammoet also has a yard facility in Coeymans, NY, and a regional branch office in the North East in New Jersey.

www.mammoet.com

LOCAL EXPERTISE

Mammoet provides solutions to any heavy lifting or

Clients trust us to help them achieve feats that were

transport challenge. We aim to develop long term

once considered impossible, and we have often

relationships with our clients in order to understand

broken records in doing so.

their businesses and challenges. By working closely with our partners, we realize the most efficient and cost-effective approaches.

We have a unique global network and an

Some dream about a future that is Smarter, Safer and Stronger. We actually build it.

unparalleled fleet of equipment. Our extensive

Mammoet USA South, Inc.

engineering expertise and high quality and safety

281 369 2200

standards deliver value to a wide breadth of industry

sales.america@mammoet.com

sectors and projects.

www.mammoet.com

CARVER COMPANIES

CARVER MARITIME Carver Maritime crosses various divisions across the company.

Carver quickly developed into strategic port locations known for its shipping and warehouse storage operations along the entire east coast specifically in New York, Massachusetts, South Carolina and Florida. With deep-water piers for loading and offloading ships and barges and large warehousing and laydown space, Carver Maritime is rapidly becoming prominent industrial parks on the water.

Carver Maritime Charleston has: - Dry dock capability - Over 240,000 square feet under one roof - Dual served rail 20-acre marine terminal

The hands-on training is on-site and includes employees performing water rescue training, crane safety training, and confined space training, all the while Carver is aiming to provide its employees with simulated training in the form of the new Vortex Advantage Immerse Training simulator. This will allow its employees to train on loaders, cranes and ship cranes, excavators, bulldozer, haul trucks, and other pieces of industry equipment to best reinforce each individual’s safety knowledge and know-how.

In the business of providing such quality and efficient services Carver’s supply chain becomes a critical element. With a promise to its customers of handling processes from the start to end, Carver ensures that working alongside the correct business partners is a key aspect of its operation.

“We make sure to promise that we can meet the needs of our customers,” 84 | North America Outlook issue 03

Services include: - Stevedoring - Terminal handling - Warehousing - Tug and barge - Cargo types handled - Staging area with indoor/outdoor storage - Bulk storage - Specialised equipment rentals - Ship and barge repair - Property rentals - Dredging - Recycling - Port-to-port services - Transporting/trucking - Foreign trade zone availability

Cason Transport Over the course of 30 years, Cason Transport, LLC has had the privilege of a close partnership with the Carver Companies.

We have provided a level of customer service and reliable support that we are proud of.

We have been fortunate to benefit from the numerous business ventures The Carver Companies have embarked on.

These ventures (both domestic and international) have fostered invaluable economic growth within neighborhoods and communities.

We are excited to continue our relationship with the Carver Companies as one of their most trusted transportation and logistical resources.

- Lay berth - Riprap waterway repair

www.casontrucking.com

North American Packaging

North American Packaging LLC is located at the Coeymans Industrial Park across from the Port of Coeymans. NAP utilizes horizontal form, fill and seal bagging machines.

Our filling capabilities include poly bags, pails and bulk totes. Inline automated liquid and dry blending is available. Palletizing is accomplished by high-speed Fuji EC-201 robots.

Order fulfilment services.

518-365-3020 518-756-7900 NAcopacker@gmail.com

SUPPLY CHAIN

Flatbed, dump trailer, and specialized hauling throughout 48 states and Canada. Dedicated freight brokerage services throughout 48 states and Canada.

Phone: 518-895-5815 | Email: cason@casontrucking.com www.casontrucking.com

North American Packaging LLC is located at the Coeymans Industrial Park across from the Port of Coeymans. NAP utilizes horizontal form, fill and seal bagging machines.

Our filling capabilities include poly bags, pails and bulk totes. Inline automated liquid and dry blending is available. Palletizing is accomplished by high-speed Fuji EC-201 robots.

- Order fulfilment services - Bulk storage is available with 70,000 sq ft. buildings - Rail siding and Bulk ship services are available 518-365-3020 | NAcopacker@gmail.com | 518-756-7900

North America Outlook issue 03 | 85

CARVER COMPANIES

CARVER SAND AND GRAVEL In 1996, Carver Sand and Gravel was established to form a natural transition between product and service. We started with a small sand and gravel pit, purchased a rock quarry and our customeroriented company launched into the Aggregate Industrial Business we are today.

Over the next several years Carver Sand and Gravel has grown by obtaining additional quarries, sandpits, blacktop plants and a fleet of trucks to keep it all moving. The newest addition to the sand and gravel family is a granite quarry in New Brunswick, Canada.

Carver’s Sand and Gravel division includes: - 15 locations serving two coasts (Atlantic and Gulf) - Over 100 trucks available for deliveries - Products approved by D.O.T. in NY, MA, SC & FL CARVER PRODUCTS Crushed Stone: - Fine - Quarter inch to four-inch stone - Crusher run - Riprap Sand and gravel: - Fine - Coarse - Base coarse Specialty: - Fine - Coarse

86 | North America Outlook issue 03

Kelly tells us. “From equipment companies to trucking companies and manufacturers, we have exceptionally good industry partners and vendors that help us achieve the best outcomes for all involved.”

On top of this, Carver’s employees are vital to the success of the business.

“Most people don’t call us with an answer they call us with a problem, and we’ve trained our staff to look at all requests as an opportunity to showcase what we can do,” Laraway affirms.

“Organization and commitment are key, and we also ensure to recognize our employees’ efforts by promoting from within where we can. As most of our staff are boots-on-the-ground workers leadership skill is more than just office management. On-site leadership and professional and experienced individuals fuel our operations, and alongside our dedicated sales team Carver provides and achieves the quality level of work shown in our past projects across the board.”

Marshall & Sterling Founded in 1864, Marshall & Sterling has become the name synonymous with unparalleled insurance protection and service for the commercial construction industry.

With 36 offices nationwide and throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands, Marshall & Sterling has the size, scale and experience to insure virtually any large project.

Representing well over 200 carriers and maintaining a block of business at Lloyds of London, we offer a unique blend of local expertise and global insight.

As a 100% employee-owned company, we offer a wide array of coverage and service options.

www.marshallsterling.com

SUPPLY CHAIN

great equipment. better service.

North America’s Largest Rebar Fabricator with more than 70 locations across the United States and Canada to serve you better!

Scott Henricks | Sales Manager shenricks@harrisrebar.com +1-518-376-9430 ALBANY,NY

MIDDLETOWN,NY

NEW AND USED EQUIPMENT | RENTAL | PARTS | SERVICE

North America Outlook issue 03 | 87

CARVER COMPANIES

The company hosted a holiday toy donation drive in which toys are donated to the local communities including children’s hospitals

88 | North America Outlook issue 03

SUPPLY CHAIN

Congratulations Carver Sand and Gravel.

We look forward to delivering your Lowest Overall Driving Cost as you serve your customers with honesty, integrity, and service.

TCI of NY is your one-stop management solution for recycling, disposal, and repair of transformers and other oil-filled electrical equipment.

ContiConnect® Yard Reader

Digital Tire Monitoring with Web Portal

PO Box 936 | 99 Coeymans Industrial Park Lane | Coeymans, NY 12045 Office: (518) 756-9997 | Fax: (518) 756-9979 | www.tci-ny.com

With its people at the heart of company operations Carver makes sure to incorporate the local community in what they do. The company is family-owned and run, and so people and communities become an integral part to the nature of Carver and where it operates.

Sydney Kane, Marketing and Branding Specialist at the company, elaborates.

“Carver strives to help out the local community in any way it can,” she tells us. “We have hosted a holiday toy donation drive in which toys are donated to the local communities including children’s hospitals. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also a core part of our company values and we mark this by doing things such as wearing pink shirts on Fridays, and on top of this we collaborate with many other local businesses to host community events and outreach programs across each of our locations.”

On top of this Carver makes

Continental Truck and Bus Tires | www.continental-truck.com

sure that its operations remain environmentally compliant in all aspects. For employees, tenants and subcontractors, it is imperative for Carver that they comply with governmental rules, regulations, and permit requirements, as well as conducting operations in a way that is protective of the environment by reusing and recycling materials, minimizing waste and assisting company customers to efficiently achieve environmental business goals.

These efforts include maintaining the necessary permits for operation as well as enveloping community responsibility. Carver has established a Safety Director to provide expertise, guidance, and resources to its employees due to the company operating across multiple highly regulated and specialized industries.

The company’s employees are expected to understand and comply with all laws and regulations, to seek guidance for any questions or

concerns, and to report any known or suspected non-compliance condition.

Moving forward into the rest of the year and beyond, Carver has its sight set on the in-house development of its employees. The company is looking to build a training center with the capacity of 500 individuals, and on top of this is looking into providing training certifications with which to certify external client businesses in the sector.

With flexible and professional services at its disposal, it is worth keeping an eye on Carver Companies and its logistics solutions.

Tel: 518-756-2164 info@carvercompanies.com www.carvercompanies.com

North America Outlook issue 03 | 89

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES

SAFETY FIRST

As an historic family-owned transportation company, Wadhams Enterprises is steeped in heritage. We speak with Steve Wadhams, President of the organization, to dive into operations Writer: Sean Galea-Pace | Project Manager: Tom Cullum

The industry is exciting, scary, and unpredictable all at once.”

Those are the words of Steve Wadhams, President of Wadhams Enterprises.

Today, the North American market is dynamic and challenging in equal 90 | North America Outlook issue 03

measure. Steve believes it’s important to be agile and adapt to the latest trends quickly in order to be ahead of the competition.

“It is exciting if you like change as it is changing fast and it’s hard to keep up,” he explains. “Technology is moving very quickly, and it is

unpredictable. And sometimes, people say that they want something before they really need it.”

Wadhams Enterprises is a familyowned and operated transportation firm. The company combines the flexibility and capacity of a large business, with the personal, friendly

SUPPLY CHAIN

and service-orientated approach of a family-run business.

In 1949, Earl (Red) Wadhams began the business upon the acquisition of his first milk hauling truck. Today, his sons Rick and Steve work with more than 750 employees while maintaining a fleet of over 430

trucks and 600 trailers. Over the past 72 years, Wadhams has grown and formed three distinct divisions: ARG Trucking Corporation, Earl T. Wadhams Inc. and RIST Transport Ltd. “Our three divisions complement the other from an admin side of

things,” explains Steve. “Wadhams Enterprises itself gets a lot of buying power from the companies operating under one umbrella, the resources that we use, our safety department manages all the different companies and business units. Our HR department covers all of them.”

North America Outlook issue 03 | 91

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES The company believes in establishing a foundation of respect, reliability, flexibility, integrity and customer service in order to thrive throughout the years regardless of any industry changes. For Steve, there was never a question over which direction his career would take.

“Both my brother Rick and I spent our childhoods riding with our dad

and drivers on the milk routes, and then later before we were old enough to get our licenses, we both worked in the shop,” he recalls. “We spent time in dispatch operations, and the administrative back-office side as we grew. As we expanded into other areas of transportation such as petroleum and freight so did our personal growth.”

North America Outlook: In terms of working alongside your brother, how challenging is this or does it benefit the overall business due to your relationship?

Steve Wadhams: “We have always had our space we worked in, so I think that has had its benefits, but we have also always got along. We are always going to have some disagreements, but our personalities are different, so it does mean that we complement each other. Things are always changing, and we are adjusting especially with other family members involved now but Rick has always managed the equipment needs for all divisions and also ran the Earl Wadhams milk business whereas, I have been more involved in the admin and the dry van freight and Petroleum divisions.

Recently, in the last couple years, things have started to change with our kids beginning to play a big part in the business. And these have duties and changed. We also have some dedicated long-term employees from drivers to management that make things happen.”

The Wadhams Family, with brothers Steve (left) and Rick at the fore 92 | North America Outlook issue 03

SUPPLY CHAIN

Propane Gas Services for Home & Business DiSanto Propane has been serving the clean energy needs of upstate New York homeowners, businesses and homebuilders since 1937. As a family-owned company, we have developed a reputation for reliability and dependability that is the envy of the propane industry.

www.disantopropane.com | +1 (800) 752-4574 North America Outlook issue 03 | 93

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES

Thompson & Johnson Equipment Wadham’s and Thompson & Johnson’s relationship encompasses both the supply of Toyota forklifts to operate in their terminals, and the leasing of a staging area for trailers in the Elmira area.

From a personal standpoint, Steve and Rick are candid and men of their word, which makes conducting business a pleasure.

With a rich family connection, Steve believes that it is his father’s mindset and mantra which has acted as the catalyst for the success the company enjoys today.

“Ever since 1949, there hasn’t been one minute when everything is shut down or we’re off duty and that includes Christmas Eve and Christmas Day,” he explains. “We grew up with that mentality because we realize that we can’t fail the farm community that we service, and I think that carried over to the other businesses. My dad led by example. He never asked anyone to do what he wouldn’t do.

“I think Rick and I have tried to be the same as him but it’s harder now because a lot has changed and it’s almost impossible to know it all. We have had to learn to trust and put faith in others.”

“Safety is our biggest concern.

Finding enough qualified drivers isn’t a new story but it is a continuing one.

But it’s not just drivers. We must find the techs that will be on call when a driver has a problem at night, or a road service company that will have the techs that will go out at night on a road service call.”

The COVID-19 pandemic meant companies had to transform 94 | North America Outlook issue 03

sales@thompsonandjohnson.com

Tallmadge Tire operations almost overnight. For Steve, he acknowledged his company had to do things differently to mitigate the impact of the virus.

“It certainly did change our operations because we had to make a lot of adjustments, particularly in our office,” he says. “We were sending a lot of our LTL traffic and customer service people to work from home and set people up to ensure that we had the proper office set up. We had to do this across all our facilities because ultimately, safety is the key.

It did affect us, and we had to think differently.”

As the pandemic took hold, areas such as Northern New Jersey and New York, where one of RIST biggest terminals were based, were one of the areas that were hardest hit initially because of COVID.

We have enjoyed a great 40+ year working relationship with Wadhams Enterprises.

Their family owned, family oriented business has grown extensively over those years allowing ours to grow as well.

We provide all three trucking operations with new tires, retreads, wheels, tire service and alignments.

Many of the local employees bring their personal vehicles to us as well.

With two other independently owned locations in Cortland and Binghamton, we are able to extend our coverage area to help out Wadhams and our many other large fleets with any roadside needs.

Tallmadgetire@yahoo.com

SUPPLY CHAIN

WE ARE LEADERS IN QUALITY, DELIVERING OUR PROMISE

Thompson & Johnson Equipment Co. 6926 Fly Rd East Syracuse, NY 13057 Sales@thompsonandjohnson.com Tel: 315-437-2881

SERVICES OFFERED: • Commercial, passenger/light truck, farm, industrial and garden tire service.

• Commercial truck tire retreading.

• Passenger and Commercial vehicle alignments • Brake service • Oil changes • Full mechanical service for passenger and commercial vehicles.

• 24 hour emergency truck tire road service.

Tallmadge Tire founded in 1932, Geneva location opened in 1976 (moved to current Waterloo location in 1997)

Email: Tallmadgetire@yahoo.com | Phone: 315-539-1168

North America Outlook issue 03 | 95

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES

DeCarolis Truck Rental DeCarolis Truck Rental is proud of our relationship with Wadhams Enterprises.

Our partnership began over 40 years ago at our Geneva location.

Wadhams’ growth and expansion over the years was a testament to their hard work and expertise in the industries they serve. As they grew and expanded their footprint, we continued to support that growth with our other locations.

“I thought they were going to shut everything in that New Jersey county down at the time. I didn’t know what we would have done if that was the case because that is one of our major hubs,” explains Steve. “We weren’t taking any chances. Early on, masks were difficult to come by and were extremely overpriced. Fortunately, we found a local vendor here that we got our first masks from and acquired our first 10,000 masks. But our drivers and operations people on the front lines haven’t missed a beat. They’ve stood up to the challenge and have been very diligent.

“The cost has been significant both from a supply standpoint and the time required. We’re already drivers and staff short so we lose productivity with contact tracing when our drivers get told to isolate. But it’s something we’ve just had to deal with.”

For Rick and Steve, they are not used to resting on their laurels and standing still. It’s a mantra instilled in them by their father and one they follow closely today.

“Since our dad founded this business, we haven’t missed a day of operation,” Steve affirms. “Of course, we’ve been hampered by bad weather and other challenges but there hasn’t been one minute that we haven’t had something happening. I believe this is our competitive advantage. To service our customers in the right way, you have to be there 365 days a year. It 96 | North America Outlook issue 03

doesn’t end.”

Establishing key, strategic business relationships with partners is essential to long-term success. To Steve, he points to his company’s collaboration with Idelic as a key example of a mutually beneficial partnership.

“It’s a relatively new relationship, but they’ve asked me for a number of years to work together,” he explains.

“Their software is something that brings together a lot of the tools that we have already here with our onboard computer software and bring in our drive cam data and our in-house data that brings all of this safety information together almost instantaneously. This allows us to look at our high-risk drivers and enables our supervisors to identify quickly which drivers we need to address, coach and discipline to mitigate risk.

DeCarolis is proud to provide and maintain vehicles to support their operations.

We wish Wadhams Enterprises continued growth and success!

www.decarolis.com

We are excited about this project and investment.”

As digital transformation has started to transform the logistics and trucking industry, Steve recognizes that the space isn’t like it used to be and he has had to adapt, but stresses that his partners have played an influential role in helping his company remain a major player.

SUPPLY CHAIN

800-276-1169 decarolis.com

Serving Businesses Since 1938

Proud to partner with Wadhams for over 40 years as Upstate New York’s premiere provider

RENTAL

PARTS

LEASING

SERVICE

Congratulations Wadhams Enterprises on all your success!

MAG ONLY

PITTSBURGH-FAYETTE EXPRESS, INC.

A family-owned and operated trucking company since 1978 PROUD TO SUPPORT

Rist Transport LTD (724) 929-2220 office@pfep.com

www.pfep.com

Loans and Leases Tax Services Payroll Services Business Consulting Record-keeping Country Home Loans FarmStart for New Businesses Real Estate and Equipment Appraisals

Proud to support Northeast agriculture all along the food chain FARMCREDITEAST.COM 800.562.2235

North America Outlook issue 03 | 97

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES

WADHAMS CORE DIVISIONS

ARG Trucking Group

RIST Transport

Service stations, manufacturing plants, home heating suppliers and other bulk businesses count on ARG’s professionalism, efficient delivery and exceptional service.

Its primary services area includes Upstate New York, Western Massachusetts, Southern Vermont, with authority to pull product from Montreal, Quebec, Toronto, Ontario and Northern Pennsylvania.

The firm has terminals in Albany, Rochester, Phelps and Buffalo with satellite locations in Syracuse, Utica, Watertown, Plattsburgh and Binghamton. It services the industry with nearly 100 tractors and 150 trailers. The trailers consist of both light oil tanks and insulated heavy oil tanks. ARG also services the propane industry with several propane trailers in key areas.

Truckload: With industry-leading equipment and technology, experienced drivers, dispatchers and managers, RIST Transport offers efficient shipping solutions to across the Northeast, Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions.

98 | North America Outlook issue 03

Less-than-truckload: Operates 10 cross dock terminals located in New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Wadhams provides next-day and second-day delivery for customers throughout those direct points. The firm also offers service throughout New England and the Southeast with partner carriers.

Some of the services offered include alcohol permitted vehicles, Container freight station pickups and delivery, IDAC certifications with 235 tractors and 480 trailers.

Earl T Wadhams Inc, (ETW) ETW is renowned as a leading provider of farm pick-up and transportation services for bulk milk from farms in New York, Vermont, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts that utilizes a fleet of 85 tractors and 100 milk trailer tankers. Its terminals are stationed in Phelps, Canastota, Elmira and Cambridge while also possessing a terminal in Allentown and East Earl, Pa and in Granby Ma. The division is actively seeking to expand its routes and purchase other existing operations from retiring carriers.

Its services include reliable daily pickup from dairy farms; consistent on-time delivery of raw milk from dairy farms to processing plants often located in the North-eastern States, which are dependent on flexibility of delivery locations and schedules.

SUPPLY CHAIN

With safe, on time, next day service in the Northeast, and extended service throughout the US, AMA Transportation’s friendly staff is ready to make you and your customers happy, where ever they are.

www.amatrans.com +1-800-322-3210

“Technology and equipment is moving fast,” he says. “Our trucks and trailer equipment vendors are vital to us and our partners that help keep us competitive are important.

I can’t emphasize that enough.

In my opinion, all the new truck manufacturers struggle with the downtime of the new equipment.

Sensors and check engine lights coming on and shop time needed to evaluate all causes lost productivity.

Back in the old days, you bought a new truck and it just ran but that isn’t the case anymore with all the new technology. It’s not as simple as it used to be.”

Recruiting and retaining the right staff is an essential component of any business, but even as a family-run organization, Steve acknowledges the need for great employees to lead and surround the company with talent.

“Between my brother and I, five of our eight children work in the business,” he explains. “They are all working in different departments and

are learning different things.”

However, when it comes to bringing in new employees, Steve is adamant that potential employees must showcase the right characteristics.

“This job isn’t for everyone,” he says simply. “Hiring the right people that are loyal and have dedication to the business is our first priority. But, it’s not nine until five and it’s not for everyone. Safety is essential and you can’t just turn the switch off at five in the afternoon.”

It is fundamentally clear that safety comes first to Wadhams and as such, the firm is upgrading its Lytex drive cameras to allow for better visibility over driver operations and more coaching opportunities.

“This will even further make the Idelic software even better for us,” says Steve. “Safety is an ongoing task and it’s tough for supervisors who really need to be promoting safety if they’re so tied up in operations all the time to do their homework to

talk intelligently about safety. Idelic streamlines this process and allows our supervisors to thrive with the information they’re given in real-time.”

With the future in mind, Steve is keen to continue ensuring that safety remains the priority and is constantly seeking ways to scale it further.

“We’re seeking continued growth in some areas of the business,” he stresses. “I believe in the LTL and in the milk hauling markets because there are some opportunities there to grow with some major Northeast LTL carriers that have exited the business and with our flexibility in the milk hauling market. With our service, this will give us an advantage over a lot of our competitors. I believe the future is bright.”

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES Tel: 315-789-8871 www.Wadhams.com

North America Outlook issue 03 | 99

MARTIN BENCHER CANADA

Logistics MADE EASY The mining industry is picking up and the renewable energy sphere is full steam ahead, as is the oil and gas sector, and the power industry that continues to develop. It’s a very exciting time to be working in the project logistics industry.”

This is the promising reality of North American logistics at present, and 100 | North America Outlook issue 03

With an international foothold, we spoke to Ryan Clancy, Managing Director of Martin Bencher Canada, about the company’s regional projects and wider global presence Writer: Marcus Kääpä | Project Manager: Tom Cullum

Martin Bencher Canada stands as a key player within the space.

The Canadian branch is a subsidiary of the international Martin Bencher Group and works very closely with its US counterparts. It is a professional project forwarding company with a global footprint and a focus on innovative and technical solutions designed to address moving oversized freight

SUPPLY CHAIN

to destinations all over the world.

The company transports cargo from various industries and specializes in the handling of heavy project cargo – everything from paper mills to power plants, renewables and oil and gas projects.

Martin Bencher provides professional worldwide services to each of these industries while

ensuring that its core company focus remains its clients. These high-quality services sit within project shipping and transport with a particular focus on risk management and cost procurement, and are managed through 31 international offices, carried out by over 150 hard-working employees, in over 23 countries.

“We have great team players

globally and we utilize our company network and partnerships to ensure reliable and innovative ways to move projects along efficiently and economically,” says Ryan Clancy, Managing Director of Martin Bencher Canada, and iterator of the opening statement.

Originally, Clancy didn’t aim to enter the logistics industry. It was after a chance opportunity granted North America Outlook issue 03 | 101

MARTIN BENCHER CANADA by a friend that he began working in logistics in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2002. Starting from the bottom and working his way up, Clancy gained industry knowledge and experience, and afterward also increased his continental experience by overseeing an office in Zambia.

Then, in 2008, an opportunity arose. Clancy moved to the Middle East to work for a heavy lift transport company in Abu Dhabi, and that’s

COMPANY PROJECT FORWARDING AND SHIPPING Martin Bencher serves many different industries globally, maintaining its position as a professional organization with a great focus on its clients’ core business. The company’s mission is to deliver innovative, high quality services within project shipping and transport with a key focus on risk management and cost procurement.

Martin Bencher offers the following services: • Door-to-door delivery worldwide by sea, truck, air, and rail • Barge transport solutions • Project management • Turnkey projects and operations including positioning on site if required • Cargo handling, warehousing, crane work, and rigging solutions • Stevedoring, customs clearance, and loading and discharge surveys • Ships chartering and planning

102 | North America Outlook issue 03

where his career in the heavy transport project field began.

“Exposed to the international market, I was able to see how everything functioned within the industry including large scale projects, large oil and gas refinery projects, power projects and more,” Clancy tells us. “I spent the next four years in the land-based transportations space before one of my clients helped open up my experience to the global ocean transportation market around 10 years ago. This included local marine movements via barge and landing craft.”

After moving through multiple positions, that included working in the UK, and moving back to Dubai, Clancy moved to Canada. Today, he sits as the Managing Director for the Canadian branch of Martin Bencher, overseeing multiple regional projects that span entire industries.

Martin Bencher’s global reach is one of the many aspects of the company

BELLEMARE Transport Bellemare International is committed to providing safe and precise transport of oversized loads thanks to our 60 years of experience in the heavy haul industry.

The dedication and creativity of our team will allow us to find the right solution for any problem.

With our shared values and consistent innovation, the partnership between Martin Bencher and Transport Bellemare ensures a high quality of service on every single delivery, becoming a key part of the logistics process of any major project.

sales@groupebellemare.com

SUPPLY CHAIN

Always available to inspire the best solutions!

Dimensional or heavy loads, we have the solution! Transport Bellemare International specializes in transportation for the wind power, mining, energy, and industrial sectors.

Contact us at sales@groupebellemare.com or 1-800-567-8654 to discuss your specialized project needs.

that sets itself apart from its industry peers. The communication and collaboration between its multiple offices and quality management allow the company to consistently be informed and up to date, as well as share a global breadth of knowledge to any one location. This level of in-house company support allows Martin Bencher the freedom to think outside the box when it comes to projects or business developments, providing the organization a high level of thought, preparation and organization to best enact its aims and goals.

Engineering is also a large part of Martin Bencher Group and makes it what it is. With its engineering concept division, the company can make 3D concepts and videos of a transport solutions. This enables the client to understand concepts and even use it as training prior to the realtime project execution.

These company elements are

clearly seen in the many projects that Martin Bencher has to showcase.

In the past two years alone, the company has carried out many plans including the LNG Canada Project.

During the span of this project in 2020, Martin Bencher was fortunate enough to help one of its local clients manage over 27,000 cubic meters of cargoes of modules from China through to Canada.

“That was a very good project for the company in terms of working closely with our Chinese colleagues on a large-scale project and helping the client deliver on time,” Clancy elaborates. “We have also carried out various power projects such as delivering various sized Power Transformers ranging up to 80 metric tons for our clients in Europe, and so the power sector is a very important part of our business. In the past 18 months we have completed multiple component shipments for renewable projects within and beyond Canada.”

Martin Bencher also supplies a multitude of clients with machinery and components for the paper mill industry. Only recently the company delivered large components into Alberta from Europe on a very time sensitive project and has multiple related projects in the pipeline. A prime example of the company’s projects within the paper mill industry is Martin Bencher’s 2015 milestone project – the largest in the company’s history.

One part of this successful project involved the transportation of evaporators from China to Indonesia, with the evaporators a total of 58 packages, 34,000 meters-cubed and 4,400 tons, including nine heavy pieces (200 to 465 tons each).

Another land-based transportation project in this sphere was Martin Bencher’s successful delivery of a rougher back up roll in January 2021.

The cargo arrived from Japan and Martin Bencher Finland handled North America Outlook issue 03 | 103

MARTIN BENCHER CANADA

MARTIN BENCHER SUSTAINABILITY Martin Bencher is committed to sustainability and celebrates initiative, team effort and innovative thinking. The company acts with integrity and respect to others and the environment.

Its approach to sustainability is based on economic, environmental and social performance. The company strives to improve its procedures and performance. Martin Bencher’s overriding focus is on ensuring profitability, providing environmentally sound services and ensuring responsible business conduct.

Martin Bencher delivers quality operations, safety for everyone working with it and focuses on minimum impact on the environment.

To help the company in this effort, it has established MB Standards, which are implemented globally at each of its offices. To test the strength of its MB Standards the company has chosen to maintain a QHSE certification.

Martin Bencher is certified according to the most recent standards for QHSE, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018. The company’s standards are annually audited by its certifying body DNV.GL. Internally, Martin Bencher has established a global QHSE organization.

This organization supports the company’s Project Managers and General Managers during the company projects, to ensure that the company constantly fulfils its client’s expectations, MB Standards and local legislation. By doing this, Martin Bencher can ensure that sustainability and QHSE are reflected in its performance.

104 | North America Outlook issue 03

the local transportation. Cargo was transported from the southern to the northern part of Finland. The rougher back up roll weighed 86.35 tons and in total 29,839 cubic meters was transported.

A more recent example of Martin Bencher’s professional services are two in-house record-breaking projects. Within the project logistics industry ‘high and heavy’ usually describes oversized and heavy cargo shipped on a RoRo vessel. Martin Bencher expanded the concept somewhat and broke a couple of internal records along the way. During the past few weeks, the company has handled a couple of remarkable shipments that involved extreme height, extreme weight, and many working hours of careful planning and execution by the company’s experts and employees.

The first was the transportation of the highest piece of cargo to date in Martin Bencher history, a 130-metertall ship-to-shore crane, moved between two ports in the Baltic region.

SUPPLY CHAIN The second, the transportation of the heaviest piece of cargo in company history. This was a 19,800-ton jack-up drilling rig from Asia to the Middle East.

On top of this, Martin Bencher’s projects envelope the oil and gas industry, in which the company exports modules, skids and compressors to countries including Australia, and the mining sector and the delivery of components with a very promising pipeline.

The success of each of these projects is largely due to the quality and reliability of Martin Bencher’s supply chain partners.

“Our partners are vital to company operations,” Clancy affirms. “Our partners include ocean carriers, crane operators, truckers, rail operators and port crews, without which we cannot function.”

Martin Bencher understands the critical nature of supply chain relationships to the success of the company and celebrates each and every relationship it has with external businesses and services. As Martin Bencher acts as the project forwarder in the logistics operations, it relies on the expertise, experience and equipment of external companies to complete the supply chain process.

In this way the partners and suppliers

Ryan Clancy, Managing Director

Martin Bencher chooses to work with are pivotal to the overall result of industry projects.

And each of these projects are spearheaded by teams of dedicated and hardworking employees who utilize their skills, knowledge and industry experience to ensure the best outcomes for the company and its clients. In light of this, Martin Bencher recognizes every individual and the efforts they put in to keep the company running.

“They are good at what they do and incredibly valuable,” Clancy tells us proudly. “We give them the freedom to do what they do and how they do it, because they have gained the trust of the company and are both experienced and extremely reliable.

“Our teams can also voice any concerns or ideas whenever a shipping project comes along.

Operating in Canada, it’s the second

largest country on the planet, so we have many obstacles that come along with the territory; mountains, lakes, freezing temperatures, the list goes on. So, we are in the business of constantly thinking of new ways of doing things and my team is very aware that their say counts. The top management of the company are always looking for new and innovative ideas, and so we celebrate teamwork as a core part of Martin Bencher.”

Into the second quarter of this year, 2021 looks to be on the road back towards a relative normality for many industries. Following Martin Bencher’s opening of two branches across Turkey and Spain in 2020, the company has recently also formed a branch in Holland and has further expansion plans for the future.

Providing professional project forwarding services across North America, and with an ever-growing international presence, it is worth looking out for Martin Bencher Group.

Tel: +1 (604) 283 3786 / 4378 canada@martin-bencher.com www.martin-bencher.com

North America Outlook issue 03 | 105

ARROW TRUCK SALES

Driving Quality Paul Stephens, VP of Purchasing and Wholesale at Arrow Truck Sales, discusses the current state of the trucking industry today Writer: Sean Galea-Pace | Project Manager: Tom Cullum

This is a very exciting time to be in sales because of the demand for used trucks,” explains Paul Stephens, VP of Purchasing and Wholesale at Arrow Truck Sales.

In the United States, trucking is responsible for most of the overland freight movement, with the industry

106 | North America Outlook issue 03

worth over $791 billion.

Stephens has been at Arrow Truck Sales since 2007. Since then, he has served the firm in several different positions and now works as Vice President of Purchasing and Wholesale. Equipped with this plethora of experience and know-how, he recognizes what sets Arrow apart

from its competitors.

“The longevity of Arrow speaks for itself, and to the capabilities of our strong sales staff to build excellent customer outcomes,” explains Stephens.

“We are transparent, and we stand behind the product we offer. Transport Funding, our financing company,

SUPPLY CHAIN

has helped over 50,000 customers finance a piece of equipment that enables them to have their own business.

Our repeat and referral business are strong, and something we take very seriously.”

Founded in 1950, Arrow Truck Sales has become one of the major forces in the used heavy and medium duty

trucks trade in North America. The company provides quality, pre-owned trucks to the trucking sector and is Arrow’s core business.

Arrow’s inventory is made up of all makes and models, including Volvo, Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Mack and International. It is a sales-focused organization that is set on creating

strong customer relationships without service or parts departments. Arrow excels at acquiring, reconditioning and remarketing the equipment in a transparent manner. The firm also provides financing, extended service contracts and a list of other products that enriches its customers experience as used truck owners.

North America Outlook issue 03 | 107

ARROW TRUCK SALES

RoadsideMASTERS.com Seven years ago, in a move to provide unparalleled benefits and services to its customers, Arrow Truck Sales, a leading source of pre-owned heavy and medium-duty trucks in America and Canada formed a strategic partnership with RoadsideMASTERS. com, the nation’s largest Mechanical Breakdown Membership Program for Truckers.

ARROW TRUCK SALES: COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE Since its founding over 70 years ago, Arrow Truck Sales has become the leading source of pre-owned medium and heavyduty trucks in North America. The firm is renowned for delivering high-quality but used vehicles to customers that want to maximize the value of purchasing dollars.

Arrow is committed and passionate about delivering reliable and robust trucks across all makes and models, while priding itself on its unparalleled customer service and strives on providing a personalized experience.

Paul Stephens, VP of Purchasing and Wholesale

108 | North America Outlook issue 03

In 2017, Arrow Truck Sales partnered with Women in Trucking (WIT) in a bid to encourage the employment of women in the industry. Arrow now provides WIT’s members with pre-negotiated pricing on its value-add products and financing.

“Arrow believes in WIT’s mission and values the relationship tremendously,” explains Stephens.

“We’ve had the honor of working tradeshows with WIT, helping them with their strategic planning, and donating equipment to support their cause.”

In 2018, the organization donated a late model Volvo truck to Women in Trucking to give to a deserving female driver during the 2018 Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event in Louisville, KY. Arrow Truck has since gone on to donate another truck for the upcoming 2022 event. In addition, Women in Trucking members have access to Arrow’s PRIME program and receive exclusive free benefits when purchasing a truck. Speaking at the time, Ellen Voie, WIT president and CEO, commented: “We are grateful for their commitment to bringing greater opportunities for women in transportation and helping them succeed. I am thrilled to offer the chance of a lifetime to another one of our hard-working and deserving members through their generous donation.”

A partnership that has helped thousands of Arrow Truck Sales customers receive emergency roadside assistance on the go, in the United States and Canada. In RoadsideMASTERS.com, Arrow Truck Sales has a partner with the experience in providing mechanical breakdown solutions to commercial vehicles in the heavy-duty segment.

With a RoadsideMASTERS.com Membership, routine driver issues are quickly resolved. RoadsideMASTERS. com proprietary GPS locater technology quickly locates and dispatches the closest vendor to the driver’s breakdown location.

Furthermore, RoadsideMASTERS. com Membership Program immediately removes the “overhead” burden and gives members access to RoadsideMASTERS.com proprietary vendor network with dramatic prenegotiated savings.

RoadsideMASTERS.com is here to help make roadside assistance simple and accessible for the nation’s commercial vehicles. We continue to make extensive and ongoing investments in the latest technology, people, training and processes in order to provide the best service we can, to commercial fleets, truckload carriers, heavy, medium, and light duty trucks, buses, and vans, both in the United States and Canada, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

To find out more about RoadsideMASTERS.com comprehensive membership benefits visit www.roadsidemasters.com.

www.roadsidemasters.com

DOWNLOAD THE ROADSIDEMASTERS.COM APP

ARROW TRUCK SALES

National Truck Protection The Respected Leader in Aftermarket Commercial Used Truck Warranties, Since 1983

INSIDE THE US TRUCKING INDUSTRY There are three main types of trucking in the United States.

These are: FULL TRUCKLOAD CARRIERS Full truckload carriers are the organizations that haul substantial amounts of homogeneous cargo, usually enough to fill an entire semitrailer or container. Fleets in the FTL industry can be either privately owned or available on a for-hire basis. These generally offer additional logistics and transportation services, such as intermodal transport options.

LESS-THAN-TRUCKLOAD CARRIERS LTL carriers transport shipments that are larger than parcels, but not big enough to fill an entire trailer. Many LTL carriers will transport a number of shipments simultaneously to optimize operations and be more efficient.

COURIERS The courier industry consists of carriers of non-palletized and light goods, such as parcels.

110 | North America Outlook issue 03

With the impact of COVID-19 felt around the world, Arrow Truck Sales recognized the importance of responding quickly to the disruption and prioritized the well-being of its employees.

“We are taking extra steps to ensure that we deliver trucks to our customers in a safe manner. Our staff is ready to listen to our customers unique needs and provide assistance in person, over the phone and online,” says Stephens.

“For our customers who prefer to stay home and connect with us digitally, we have a full range of solutions in place to facilitate social distancing during their truck-buying experience. Some of these solutions include virtual walk arounds, virtual test drives, touchless delivery, and extra sanitation of the equipment.

All of our employees wear face protection of some form and we offer free masks to our customers at our locations.”

Indeed, Arrow has offered a touchless truck buying experience which allows its customers to easily search its inventory and shop from the safety of their homes. Customers can choose the truck they like online and will subsequently be sent detailed pictures and videos for review. Buyers can then complete a streamlined online credit application and Arrow will call or email to discuss the chosen option further.

For nearly 40 years National Truck Protection (NTP®) has partnered with all the major OEM’s, independent dealer groups, smaller dealerships and non-traditional used truck re-sellers and finance companies to offer the most comprehensive warranty programs in the industry that cover major mechanical equipment failure.

We call our re-sellers “partners” because their customers are our customers, from single truck owneroperators to the small and mediumsize fleets. Simply said, we’re in business to keep them in business, protecting their truck and their livelihood.

Our approach is a little different than others in our space. We believe in transparency, telling our customers exactly what each warranty program covers and promising that if you have coverage on a failed part, we’ll pay for it to be repaired. When they need us, we don’t settle for anything less than providing the highest levels of customer service because we know when a truck isn’t on the road, that owner/driver isn’t making any money.

Our strong partnership with over 3,000 repair centers across North America allows us to get trucks in and out as quickly, and as safely as possible. In the end, our goal is to give our customers a little peace of mind knowing we’re with you every mile.

For more information, visit ntpwarranty.com, or to contact us, visit ntpwarranty.com/contact.

ntpwarranty.com

A Partnership We’re Proud Of National Truck Protection (NTP®) has offered used truck aftermarket warranties to dealers and owner operators since 1983, longer than any other aftermarket commercial used truck warranty brand in North America. Over those nearly 40 years, NTP has built a solid leadership position in the trucking industry by providing used truck dealers the best, most comprehensive equipment warranties to offer their customers to protect their truck and their business, when catastrophic equipment failures occur.

That way of doing business is why NTP and Arrow Truck Sales have such a solid, long-time partnership. We both think alike when it comes to the quality products we sell and the promises we make to our shared customers. We know that its not what we say, but it’s what we do that will develop the same trusting and long-term relationship for the long haul.

We’re proud to call Arrow Truck Sales our partner and want them to know we’re with you, every mile.

For more information, visit ntpwarranty.com, or to contact us, visit ntpwarranty.com/contact. © 2021 National Truck Protection

ARROW TRUCK SALES

“I believe the market will stay robust in the first half of 2021, and in the second half of the year we could see the used market taper off just a little as supply constraints loosen” – Paul Stephens, VP of Purchasing and Wholesale In an attempt to mitigate contact, Arrow is restricting walk-ins across its locations and removing it completely in some of the most impacted markets.

Upon purchase, customers can pick up their truck curbside or have delivery to a location of choice arranged.

Operating with an agile and lean mentality is a key part of Arrow’s mindset. Over the past three years, the company’s marketing efforts have experienced considerable success in driving customers to the website and social media platforms.

“On our website, we launched a 112 | North America Outlook issue 03

new chat feature in 2020 that has increased our customers’ ability to contact us immediately,” he explains.

“We are available for them to ask questions and we truly feel it has allowed us to build value to the customer experience.”

Another essential part of Arrow’s vision for long-term success is partnerships. The firm possesses years of experience working alongside its key vendors across corporate and branch locations. Stephens acknowledges how vital these strategic relationships are to his organization.

“Our vendors are a key component to our success and we’re grateful for the relationships that we have,” he explains.

“Many of our vendor partners have years of experience working with our corporate and branch locations. The used truck industry requires trust at a very high level and our vendor partners excel in this area for our customers.”

Staff play an influential role in the success of all businesses; however, Stephens affirms that without his organization’s employees, success would be impossible.

SUPPLY CHAIN

“Without our passionate and dedicated employees, we would not be the company that we are today,” he explains.

“We value all input and go the extra mile in trying to create a healthy environment in every area. Even though our company is large, our locations themselves are relatively small. Each location has the ability to make decisions based on their particular market and we value that input from our sales staff and management team. We are proud of all our employees!”

The future of the trucking industry

looks bright. Despite a challenging 2020, it is hoped that the trucking freight market could bounce back and reach pre-pandemic levels, according to forecasts from FTR Transportation Intelligence. With the next few years in mind, Arrow has outlined its intention to continue to grow at scale and make an impact on the sector.

“We have a very aggressive agenda in order to continue making a huge imprint in the market and grow our market share,” he explains.

“Every successful organization has goals, and each area within Arrow has

identified specific objectives to help support the strategic vision of our company leaders. I believe the market will stay robust in the first half of 2021, and in the second half of the year we could see the used market taper off just a little as supply constraints loosen.”

Tel: 800-827-7694 Info@arrowtruck.com www.arrowtruck.com

North America Outlook issue 03 | 113

THE FINAL WORD To round off each issue, we ask our contributing business leaders for their views on the same question

The Wadhams Family - Wadhams Enterprises

What or who has been a source of inspiration for you during your career?

Steve Wadhams President, Wadhams Enterprises “For my brother Rick and I, there have been a number of people that have been influential in our careers. Without the backing of our wives and families, achieving goals are difficult so they have been a key inspiration for us.

“Without the love for them, the strives for success are meaningless.

I also think much of our inspiration comes from the people we work with.

Our business isn’t an easy one and to see how dedicated and hard-working our employees are certainly motivates us. We don't want to let them down. In business you also develop many friends both in and outside the industry. All of these relationships become points of inspiration for us to 114 | North America Outlook issue 03

feed off and drive us to new levels.

But I would say the most inspirational for us would be examples set by our parents.

“My mother Alice Wadhams and our father Earl "Red" Wadhams both worked very hard and were smart. My mum kept the household in order and many times not only fed the family but also fed employees during snowstorms that were working long hours.

My dad would never ask anyone to do something he wouldn't do and worked long hours. He was respected and regarded as a fair and honest businessman. He taught us the business from the ground up.”

Ryan Clancy Managing Director, Martin Bencher Canada “The industry itself and the opportunities that arise within it are inspiring. I find that travel is a large part of my inspiration, and as the Martin Bencher family has grown

across the world, the benefits of travel are that I get to visit all these different parts of the world. I find that this has inspired me throughout my career.”

Matthew Iak Executive VP, U.S. Energy Development Corporation “We have had great mentors around us. My greatest mentors in my life were the founders of our company, my father-in-law and mother-in-law. In their own unique ways they have both influenced me in every way possible even before my career with them at this company.

“There were also my original mentors on Wall Street, and every day I think about the lessons they taught me, and finally our company mantra itself. We operate under the practice of internalizing investments and educating and training employees whenever we can, because our employees are so important to the company.”

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

OIL & GAS

See page

00 22 TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

EnergyAND Environment We spoke to Tidewater Midstream about the company’s progressive environmental, employee and community centered operations within the North American oil and gas industry

Writer: Marcus Kääpä | Project Manager: David Knott

A

key player within Canadian oil and gas, Tidewater Midstream maintains a vital role in natural gas processing, liquids upgrading, storage and transportation, marketing services and most recently, renewables initiatives to industry customers across the country.

With a mission to become

midstreamer of choice, Tidewater provides creative solutions that ensure optimum flexibility for its customers, resulting in higher returns and better outcomes. And with these enhanced solutions at the forefront of its service, the company is striving to realize full scale value across the entire North American energy value chain.

RENEWABLE AND ENVIRONMENTAL FOCUS IN OIL AND GAS 2 | North America Outlook issue 03

OIL & GAS

Pipestone Gas Plant Prince George Refinery “Our services are used by a wide range of small, medium and large customers with varying needs, so we are a very customer focused team” begins Joel Vorra, CFO of Tidewater Tidewater is a Canadian integrated midstream and infrastructure Midstream. “In addition to natural company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. Its operations include: gas processing and upgrading various products, we also provide • Refining markets with the transportation and • Natural gas processing processing of natural gas liquids such as propane, butane and condensate.”

• Liquids upgrading and marketing Based in Alberta and British • Fractionation at Tidewater’s BRC fractionation facility Columbia, the company also refines gasoline and diesel primarily for • Crude oil storage and transportation the Western Canadian market and • Rail logistics and terminalling offers various logistics services as well as renewable products, such as • Gas storage including Tidewater’s pipestone gas storage facility biodiesel, with sustainable options Tidewater is well positioned in some of the most active formations becoming increasingly popular. of North America, including the Montney and [Duvernay]. Its main “The way in which technology has operations and core processing plants are located in the Deep Basin, progressed has shaped our future and Edmonton and Montney regions of Alberta and British Columbia. that of the industry, and our continued | 3 transport and market North America Outlook issue 03 assets Tidewater’s strategically positioned focus on how we can improve our hydrocarbons to local and global markets. business practices for the betterment

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM AT A GLANCE

of serving our customers has driven our company,” Vorra explains.

Dimsdale Gas Storage

Gilby Gas Plant

Sylvan Lake Gas Plant

Acheson Gas Plant

4 | North America Outlook issue 03

North America Outlook issue 03 | 5

Renewable and environmental focus in oil and gas.

Tidewater Midstream has told its story.

Now, why not tell yours? Our bi-monthly magazine North America Outlook is essential reading for business executives wanting to keep up with the latest in global news and trends affecting US and Canada businesses across all industries.

Reaching ever increasing audiences across the continent and beyond, your company can take advantage of this global exposure with a FREE article and FREE digital brochure, as well as access to further digital and print-based marketing tools that could transform your business.

To share in this unrivalled opportunity, contact one of our project managers today!

WADHAMS ENTERPRISES | MARTIN BENCHER CANADA

w w w. n o r t h a m e r i c a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

CARVER COMPANIES

Issue 03

www.northamericaoutlookmag.com/work-with-us Water-based logistics provision

MAVIRO

Serving a diverse range of markets in North America

TIDEWATER MIDSTREAM

Complementing the production of North America Outlook, APAC Outlook, EME Outlook and Africa Outlook magazines, Outlook Publishing’s awardwinning in-house team is now utilizing these same

Outlook Creative Services

specialist production skills to offer a full and bespoke range of editorial, design and marketing services via its new Outlook Creative Services division.

For more information on how we can work with you in providing a plethora of completely flexible and customizable production services, please visit: www.outlookpublishing.com/creative-services

DESIGN:

E D I TO R I A L :

Stephen Giles +44 (0) 1603 363 634 steve.giles@outlookpublishing.com

Sean Galea-Pace +44 (0) 1603 363 654 sean.galea-pace@outlookpublishing.com

Devon Collins +44 (0) 1603 363 656 devon.collins@outlookpublishing.com

Marcus Kääpä +44 (0) 1603 363 653 marcus.kaapa@outlookpublishing.com