MISSISSAUGA, Ontario — Manitoulin Group of Companies announced today that it has purchased Ridsdale Transport Ltd. of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The acquisition augments Manitoulin’s existing coverage capabilities in the province, positioning it as Saskatchewan’s largest transportation and logistics provider, with the most comprehensive portfolio of services.
“We have had our eye on Saskatchewan for coverage improvement for some time,” said Gord Smith, chief executive officer, Manitoulin Group of Companies. “We have been looking for the right company to meet our exacting standards and our strategic business needs. Ridsdale not only provides the routes, the equipment and the human resources we desire, but demonstrates a culture of service excellence and dependability that we and our customers expect. Manitoulin is now Saskatchewan’s largest transportation company, with the significant competitive advantage of being able to provide customers with the technology, the global reach, and all the transportation and supply chain offerings they depend on to grow their business.”
A family-owned firm, Ridsdale Transport has been in business since 1949. It has an extensive LTL service in the Saskatchewan market with additional service offerings in Alberta and Manitoba. Operating with approximately 400 pieces of equipment within its network, Ridsdale provides service to more than 200 Saskatchewan points of service via scheduled less-than-truckload (LTL) and truckload (TL) lanes, as well as a dedicated expedited pickup and delivery service to meet non-scheduled transportation requirements. Ridsdale also provides courier service and other specialized service offerings, including warehouse storage, container service and contracted transportation.
Ridsdale Transport Ltd. will operate as a separate business unit within the Manitoulin Group of Companies under the leadership of Greg Ridsdale, vice-president. Wayne Ridsdale, the former president of Ridsdale Transportation Ltd., will remain in a consulting role.
“We built our business from the ground up and are very proud of where we are today,” said Greg Ridsdale, vice-president, Ridsdale Transport Ltd. “By joining Manitoulin, I know what we have created will flourish and that our customers will benefit from the many additional services that the Manitoulin Group of Companies can provide them. I’m thrilled about the future as we continue to evolve.”
“We are excited about Ridsdale’s merge with Manitoulin and the positive outcome it brings to customers,” said Smith. “Manitoulin continues to seek out customer-focused businesses that will contribute significantly to our service capabilities. Ridsdale’s motto ‘we carry through’ speaks to the reliable service the company has provided since 1949 and its pursuit of excellence. Ridsdale is a solid addition to the Manitoulin family and we encourage their customers to explore the many additional services that Manitoulin can offer them. “
