Category: Economy

Key Takeaways:

• The BCCA’s Fall 2024 report highlights a 5% decrease in the value of proposed major infrastructure projects since Spring 2024 and nearly a 20% drop over the past five years.
• The industry struggles with persistent workforce shortages, high labor costs, and payment uncertainties, which are exacerbating difficulties in meeting demand. The BCCA emphasizes the need for policies that support workforce development and establish payment certainty to stabilize the construction sector.
• With commitments from political leaders during the recent election campaign, the BCCA urges them to deliver on promises to support the construction sector by facilitating infrastructure investments, improving project approval processes, and providing stronger industry support mechanisms.

The Whole Story:

Statistics in the BC Construction Association’s (BCCA) Fall 2024 Construction Industry Stat Pack demonstrate that while the value of existing projects continues to grow, the threat of poor industry support and declining investments in major projects is alarming.

The association noted that the industry faces intense pressure to meet the current demand due to persistent workforce shortages, high labour costs, and lack of payment certainty.

According to the BCCA, the issue facing the industry is two-pronged. Firstly, the construction industry seeks increased investments in major infrastructure projects. Since Spring 2024, the value of proposed major infrastructure projects has decreased in value by 5% and nearly 20% over the past five years, which makes the future of the industry look problematic as current major projects begin to wind down with no guarantee of being adequately replaced.

“British Columbia’s construction industry will be paramount to building our province’s critical infrastructure and alleviating the housing crisis,” said Chris Atchison, President of the BC Construction Association. “During the election campaign, B.C.’s political party leaders committed to supporting the construction industry. Now that the results have been finalized, we need the government and opposition caucuses to work together to implement policies geared towards payment certainty and workforce development to ensure the construction industry can meet the current and future demand to build BC better.”

Atchison noted that the province is in high demand for major infrastructure projects. Hospitals, schools, multi-unit housing, bridges, and supporting infrastructure across the province must be built. He believes the decreasing value of proposed construction projects suggests that the province is not invested in making these a reality.

The association stated that this decrease in investments is coupled with the concurrent need for more robust support mechanisms to ensure that said projects can be delivered. The underlying factors of payment uncertainty, workforce shortage, and high labour costs pose significant strains on the construction industry, which need to be addressed by political leaders.

The association conluded that despite the need for major infrastructure investments and commitments from every party in that regard during this recently completed election, British Columbians cannot wait and need our political leaders to work together to recommit advancing major projects, attracting external investment, and creating more favourable conditions for significant projects to get approved.

“With the election now behind us, it’s time to get B.C.’s political leaders back to the legislature and to work with industry on the pressing issues impacting construction and the building of B.C.,” said the association.

To consult the Fall 2024 BC Construction Industry Stat Pack, visit www.bccassn.com/2024FallStatPack/

Details regarding data sources can be found at www.bccassn.com/2024FallStatPackSources/.

Key B.C. construction statistics:

• Construction is the No. 1 employer in B.C.’s goods sector.
• B.C.’s construction industry accounts for 10% of the province’s GDP. A 16% increase over the past 5 years.
• 243,000 people rely directly on B.C.’s construction industry for a paycheque.
• Number of workers in trades jobs: 167,300, an increase of 3,400 since Fall 2023 but still a 5-year trend decrease of 7%
• The number of women in construction trades is 9,536 (5.7%), an increase of over 2,100 since Fall 2023 and a 5-year trend increase of nearly 15%.
• Number of construction companies in B.C.: 28,065, an increase of over 200 since Fall 2023.
• The average yearly wage of BC construction employees is $72,200 ($17.5B cumulative annual wage), a slight decrease since Spring 2024 but a 5-year trend increase of 17%.
• Value of proposed construction projects in B.C.: $166 billion, a decrease of $4 billion since Spring 2024.
• The estimated value of current major construction projects underway in B.C.: $170 billion, an increase of $10 billion since Spring 2024 and a 5-year trend increase of nearly 50%.
• Number of construction jobs in B.C. that will be unfilled due to labour shortages by 2033: 6,600, an increase of 600 compared to 2032 forecasts made in Fall 2023.

Key Takeaways:

• The Professional Engineers Government of Ontario (PEGO) is in a bargaining dispute with the Treasury Board Secretariat (TBS), citing insufficient progress in addressing resourcing challenges and inadequate compensation for engineers working on Ontario’s infrastructure projects.
• Engineers are preparing to withdraw services from crucial infrastructure projects, such as Highway 413 and the Bradford Bypass, due to concerns over recruitment, retention, and compensation disparities, potentially leading to delays and disruptions.
• PEGO highlights that its members earn 30% to 50% less than their counterparts in municipalities, other government agencies, or the private sector, and argues that this pay gap is contributing to staffing shortages and jeopardizing Ontario’s infrastructure priorities.

The Whole Story:

A group of professional engineers is preparing to withdraw their services from key Ontario infrastructure projects, including Highway 413 and the Bradford Bypass, due to an ongoing bargaining dispute with the provincial government.

The Professional Engineers Government of Ontario (PEGO), the union representing Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors employed by the Ontario Public Service (OPS), says that progress in collective bargaining with the Treasury Board Secretariat (TBS) continues to be stalled.

Earlier this month PEGO, representing about 600 senior government engineers, began their first strike action in 35 years. The union initiated a work-to-rule campaign on Oct. 8, with members stopping unpaid overtime and ceasing to cover other staff’s responsibilities.

According to PEGO, on October 18 during a mediator-assisted bargaining session, TBS representatives presented a substantially unchanged offer that does not address the resourcing challenge within the OPS to support Ontario’s infrastructure plans.

“The intransigence of Treasury Board negotiators continues to be frustrating and inexplicable to our members. Its latest proposal runs directly counter to the needs of Ontario’s infrastructure development and maintenance agenda.” said PEGO President, Nihar Bhatt, P.Eng. “Without proper investment in Ontario’s vital engineering and surveying functions, this government’s key infrastructure priorities cannot be met on a cost-effective and timely basis.”

PEGO officials argued that the difference between PEGO and TBS bargaining positions is a very small fraction of Ontario’s annual engineering spending of $1 billion and an even smaller fraction of the $20 billion in overall infrastructure costs spent by Ontario every year. They added that they believe a deal is possible and PEGO would strongly prefer this, but to do so “TBS needs to do much better, recognizing the value of Ontario’s engineering and land surveying expertise.”

PEGO stated that it has provided the Treasury Board with an analysis showing that PEGO members earn at least 30% to 50% less than they could earn in the broader Ontario market for their skills by working for municipalities, other government agencies, or in the private sector. 

PEGO officials explained that they are deeply concerned about the challenge Ontario faces in recruiting and retaining expert engineering and land surveying staff. They argued that mounting vacancies could result in impacts and delays on key priorities of the government, including Highway 413, the Bradford Bypass, and others – some of which have been recently designated as priority projects for construction.

Bhatt continued: “The latest proposal from the Treasury Board negotiators is not getting us any closer to a fair deal. Instead, the current proposal ignores the pleas of OPS engineering and land surveying managers for adequate resources as well as the mountain of evidence showing that Ontario will continue to lose highly skilled engineers and surveyors as they find higher-paying opportunities with other levels of government or the private sector.  It will continue to be tough for OPS managers to hire the excellent engineers and surveyors that it needs.”

PEGO says it stands ready to negotiate for a fair deal, but the next step rests with the Treasury Board negotiators to bring back to the table a “significantly improved offer”.  

They advised that the union’s legal work-to-rule action will remain in place, and will shortly escalate to the withdrawal of labour by select PEGO represented employees. 

“While this labour dispute will impact the delivery of Ontario’s key infrastructure commitments and the management of existing infrastructure and operations, PEGO is ensuring its strike is both tightly focused and responsible, reflecting PEGO’s commitment to the people of Ontario and our members’ preference to bargain in good faith towards a new contract that addresses the critical shortage in engineering and land surveying expertise in the OPS,” said the group. 

Key Takeaways:

• Statistics Canada estimates that replacing road and water systems in “poor” or “very poor” condition will require $356.7 billion, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure investment.
• Local and regional governments are responsible for 72% of Canada’s $2.6 trillion transportation and water infrastructure, owning the majority of roads (64%) and public transit assets (76%).
• With Canada experiencing its highest population growth rate since 1957, there has been a marked increase in the installation of water pipes and road construction, yet a significant portion of public transit and active transportation assets remain in unknown condition.

The Whole Story:

Statistics Canada estimates $356.7 billion will be required to replace road and water systems classified as being in “poor” or “very poor” condition, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure investment across the country.

Their latest data shows that the total replacement value of Canada’s transportation and water infrastructure reached $2.6 trillion at the end of 2022, with local and regional government organizations responsible for nearly three-quarters (72%) of this critical framework.

The survey reveals that local and regional governments own 64% of the replacement value of roads, 76% of public transit assets, and 82% of active transportation infrastructure. However, responsibility for bridges and tunnels predominantly rests with provincial and territorial governments, which hold 69% of these structures.

Public transit is undergoing a significant transformation, with municipalities of 200,000 residents or more owning 58% of public transit assets by current replacement value, while provincial governments account for 24%. Other local authorities hold the remaining 18%. From 2020 to 2022, the number of electric buses in public transit rose by 31%, alongside notable increases in biodiesel (+64%), natural gas (+30%), and hybrid buses (+15%). In contrast, the use of diesel buses declined by 16%, reflecting a shift towards greener alternatives.

Statistics Canada noted that as Canada grapples with its highest population growth rate since 1957, the demand for upgraded infrastructure has become increasingly critical. Between July 2022 and June 2023, there was a notable surge in the installation of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater pipes, with 29,100 km added—an average of 9,700 km per year. This pace surpasses the previous decades, where annual installations were significantly lower.

The pace of road construction has similarly increased, with an average of 12,396 two-lane equivalent kilometres completed annually from 2020 to 2022—exceeding previous periods by more than 25%. Rural municipalities own 57% of road lengths, while urban municipalities control the majority (62%) of active transportation infrastructure, including vital bikeways. As of the end of 2022, Canada had 28,122 km of bikeways, with nearly a quarter (23%) completed between 2020 and 2022. However, one-third of Canadian neighborhoods still lack adequate cycling infrastructure.

A significant concern emerges regarding the condition of public transit and active transportation assets. Approximately 17% of public transit assets and 42% of active transportation infrastructure are classified as being in unknown physical condition, with an estimated total replacement value of $45.7 billion. When combined with roads, bridges, and tunnels, this figure climbs to $141.7 billion. The road transportation infrastructure, encompassing roads, bridges, tunnels, and cycling paths, is valued at $1.63 trillion, with $250.2 billion (15%) estimated to be in poor or very poor condition.

Water infrastructure also faces challenges, with its current replacement value estimated at $963.0 billion. Over one-tenth (11%) of this infrastructure is rated as being in poor or very poor condition, amounting to $106.5 billion.

From substantial government investments in critical minerals infrastructure to groundbreaking advancements in sustainable building technology, companies are actively pushing the boundaries of efficiency, environmental responsibility, and expansion. It has been a busy few weeks for the industry.

Notable deals include Giatec’s advancement in AI-powered concrete solutions, Englobe’s strategic acquisition to broaden its services, and Anthem Properties’ pioneering real estate IPO. These updates reflect a dynamic sector, driven by cutting-edge technologies, strategic partnerships, and ambitious infrastructure projects that promise to boost both the economy and sustainable development in Canada. Check out all the business moves below:

Canada has announced up to $60 million in conditional funding through the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) to support two significant infrastructure projects in British Columbia’s Golden Triangle and Yukon. One project involves the Galore Creek Mining Corporation’s plan to build a 43-kilometre access road to its copper mine in Tahltan Territory. The second project focuses on pre-feasibility activities for a 765-kilometre high-voltage transmission line network in Yukon.

Concrete technology company Giatec has secured $17.5 million from the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) to advance sensor technologies and AI-based software solutions aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the concrete industry. This funding will enhance the Giatec SmartMix digital platform, which optimizes concrete mixes for cost efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. Giatec plans to implement these technologies in the world’s first smart ready-mix concrete plant, featuring automated production equipped with sensors and AI solutions.

Engineering and environmental services firm Englobe Corporation has announced the acquisition of Goodkey, Weedmark & Associates Ltd. (GWAL), an Ottawa-based, employee-owned consulting firm specializing in mechanical and electrical engineering. Following the successful close of this transaction, all 100 GWAL employees and leaders will join the Englobe family.

This transaction represents a major milestone in our company’s history, as it will help us expand our reach from local to national. Our team is delighted to join this highly reputed Canadian firm whose client approach and genuine caring for its people, communities and clients closely reflect our own values.

Frank Bann, P.Eng., Managing Principal at GWAL

CAI Capital Partners has announced the successful closing of CAI Capital Partners VII, L.P. and CAI Capital Partners VII (Sponsor), L.P. (collectively known as CAI Fund VII) at $153 million, surpassing its target of $150 million and previous fund size of $125 million. The fundraising, which began with its first close in June 2023 and concluded in September 2024, attracted over 90 investors, including institutional investors, financial institutions, family offices, and individuals.

We are grateful for the tremendous support we received from our existing limited partners as well as from new investors. Raising capital during this cycle has been challenging, but it is in precisely this type of environment that great funds are built. We are very proud to have exceeded our target under difficult market conditions.

Tracey McVicar, Partner, CAI Capital Partners

Vancouver-based Anthem Properties Group Ltd. is set to launch an initial public offering (IPO) aimed at raising up to $82 million for its Citizen project, a 66-storey mixed-use development in Burnaby’s Metrotown. This offering will complement the $269 million already secured from pre-sales for the project, making it the first real estate IPO of its kind in Canada.

31 construction-related businesses made this year’s list of Fastest Growing Companies in Canada, organized by the Globe & Mail.

Egis has announced a strategic partnership with SvN, a Toronto-based multidisciplinary design firm, to enhance its global Architecture Line, which now includes bespoke brands that provide a wide range of architectural services. This collaboration aims to address the climate emergency by promoting sustainable urban design, complementing the existing offerings of award-winning practices like WW+P, 10 Design, Omrania, and U+A.

Sam The Concrete Man, the largest residential concrete company in North America, recently announced they have expanded their operations into Canada. With the opening of franchises in Vancouver and Toronto, Sam The Concrete Man continues its steady growth. 

Spectra Precision has announced its acquisition of Unicontrol, a machine control technology company that has been active in 27 countries since its founding in 2018. The deal brings Unicontrol into Spectra Precision’s portfolio, alongside Seco and Loadrite, under parent company Precisional LLC. The acquisition aims to enhance construction efficiency through a broader range of machine control solutions.

The Canadian Equipment Dealers Association (CEDA) has approved a merger with the Associated Equipment Distributors (AED), set to be finalized by Nov. 1. CEDA President Beverly J. Leavitt, who will become AED’s Vice President, emphasized that AED’s robust dealer education and industry advocacy were key factors in the decision. The merger will grant CEDA’s 160 members access to AED’s extensive resources, including educational programs, industry reports, and advocacy efforts, while maintaining provincial representation in Ontario. Both organizations see the merger as a strategic alignment to strengthen dealer support across Canada.

Monster Industries and First Nations partner, Kitsumkalum, collectively the Monster Kitsumkalum JV (MKJV) has been awarded a 3-year Brownfield Mechanical Contract with LNG Canada. Working alongside the LNG Canada Team, Members of the MKJV will provide safety oversight, quality control, subcontractor coordination, project management and a variety of skilled mechanical tradespeople to support scopes of work involving mechanical fabrication, mechanical installations, support for emergency repairs and general labour as and when requested.

Slate Asset Management, a global alternative investment platform targeting real assets, announced the firm is accelerating its focus on essential real estate. Slate will continue to invest globally across asset classes and the risk spectrum in real estate that supports the non-discretionary needs of day-to-day life, including grocery, residential, industrial and logistics, and healthcare.

Our decision to sharpen Slate’s focus on the theme of essential real estate will allow us to redeploy capital, expertise, and resources to asset classes within our portfolio that we believe are highly defensive and generate the best risk adjusted returns for our investors

Brady Welch, Co-Founding Partner of Slate

AngloAmerican has sold its Peace River Coal operation in northeast B.C. to Conuma Resources, marking a notable shift in Canada’s coal industry. The mine, which has been inactive since 2014 due to declining coal prices, was AngloAmerican’s only coal asset in Canada. The sale also reflects a commitment to sustainability, as AngloAmerican partnered with Conuma and First Nations to contribute to the Caribou Recovery Project, relinquishing part of the mine to protect wildlife habitat. While the sale price and production timeline remain undisclosed, the deal is expected to boost the local economy and job creation.

Grosvenor is moving forward with Phase 1 of its Brentwood Block master-planned project in Vancouver, partnering in a joint venture with an unnamed Canadian pension fund and Westerkirk Capital Inc. This joint venture completes the capital needed for the $1.5-billion development, which will include 1,730 housing units, a multi-storey community centre, and 200,000 square feet of commercial space.

PCL Construction has signed a multi-year deal with safety intelligence software company HammerTech to help make job sites safer and boost efficiencies across global operations. Built on the premise that efficient and effective workflows are key to robust safety programs, HammerTech’s safety intelligence platform will provide PCL with agility and adaptability to changing processes, enhanced reporting and data management, and greater efficiencies when collecting and analyzing safety documentation.

EnviCore, a Calgary-based sustainable materials technology company, announced the successful closing of its seed funding round, raising $4.2 million. The round was led by prominent industry investors, including CSN Inova Ventures (the corporate venture capital arm of Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional, Brazil’s largest fully integrated steel producer), Heidelberg Materials, Techstars, Hillside Ventures, and Angel Investor Mark and Faye McGregor.

Premier Construction Software, a global leader in financial cloud ERP solutions for the construction industry, announced a strategic partnership with Lumber, a modern payroll and workforce management platform.

In today’s fast-moving construction landscape, successful project delivery relies on accurate, real-time data flow and seamless software integration. Partnering with Lumber allows us to build a powerful, well-architected API that drives both efficiency and scalability, ensuring that clients are empowered to make timely, informed decisions across their operations.

Karoline Lapko, CEO of Premier Construction Software

RSG International has announced a new partnership with Mark’s Commercial aimed at providing inclusive personal protective equipment (PPE) to all field employees across its businesses. As part of this initiative, RSG International has been trialling women’s shirts in the Health and Safety department at Powell Contracting, which has achieved accreditation under ISO 45001:2018, the global standard for occupational health and safety.

CDPQ, a global investment group, and Nuveen Green Capital (NGC), a leader in sustainable commercial real estate financing solutions, announced today the launch of a USD 600-million (CAD 830-million) integrated sustainable commercial real estate financing program. This offering combines Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) financing and senior bridge and construction financing aimed at the U.S. commercial real estate (CRE) market.

Canada-based AtkinsRéalis Group Inc. is set to work with the UK’s largest listed water company to deliver a major environmental program. United Utilities has appointed three design and development partners (DDP) in a contract worth a potential £90 million for each DDP over 11 years. AtkinsRéalis’ local delivery teams will create detailed designs for schemes across United Utilities’ water and wastewater sites, as well as bio resource and rainwater management projects.

Lafarge Canada and Geocycle Canada, part of Holcim Group, along with Natural Resources Canada, have opened Geocycle’s first low-carbon fuel plant at Lafarge’s Brookfield Cement Plant in Nova Scotia. The $10-million facility, supported by $3.53 million from Canada’s Energy Innovation Program, will divert 14,000 tonnes of waste annually from landfills to produce low-carbon fuel, reducing the plant’s carbon emissions by over 12,000 tonnes per year.

Canada’s latest Labour Force Survey for September reports an overall employment increase of 47,000 (+0.2%). Employment increased in sectors such as information, culture, and recreation (+22,000; +2.6%) and wholesale and retail trade (+22,000; +0.8%), but there was no specific mention of growth in construction or industrial jobs.

Employment in professional, scientific, and technical services also grew by 21,000 (+1.1%) in September, offsetting a prior decline in August.

Employment gains were strongest in Ontario (+43,000; +0.5%) and Quebec (+22,000; +0.5%), regions. Employment did decline in British Columbia (-18,000; -0.6%) and New Brunswick (-4,100; -1.0%).

Wage Growth and Full-Time Employment Up

Average hourly wages for all employees rose 4.6% year-over-year to $35.59 in September, a positive indicator for workers. Full-time employment saw a robust increase of 112,000 jobs (+0.7%), the largest gain since May 2022. However, part-time work fell by 65,000 (-1.7%).

Broader Labour Market Trends

The unemployment rate edged down to 6.5% in September, driven by lower unemployment among youth, which fell 1.0 percentage points to 13.5%. Despite the slight decline, the overall youth unemployment rate was still up 2.8 percentage points compared to September 2023.

Private sector employment continued to rise, increasing by 61,000 (+0.5%), while public sector employment fell by 24,000 (-0.5%).

Key Takeaways:

• Toronto’s new 10-year economic plan, Sidewalks to Skylines focuses on improving transit, enhancing public safety, and increasing affordable housing, with a goal of building 285,000 new homes by 2031, particularly near transit hubs to create sustainable communities.
• The plan emphasizes revitalizing Toronto’s main streets by supporting small businesses through initiatives like the Main Street Resiliency Fund. Additionally, it seeks to create quality jobs by investing in high-growth sectors such as technology, life sciences, and creative industries to bolster the city’s global competitiveness.
• Recognizing the need for cooperation, the plan stresses the importance of collaboration between the City, provincial and federal governments, the private sector, and community leaders to achieve its goals. This includes securing long-term funding agreements to address infrastructure needs and economic development while fostering an inclusive, equitable economy.

The Whole Story:

Toronto is setting its sights on a future defined by inclusivity and economic growth with Mayor Olivia Chow’s newly unveiled Sidewalks to Skylines: An Action Plan for Toronto’s Economy. The 10-year roadmap aims to tackle some of the city’s biggest challenges: traffic congestion, housing affordability, and growing inequality.

The plan’s vision is this: Toronto must strengthen its economic foundation and leverage its assets to remain competitive globally.

“Toronto is now at a crossroads,” the report states. “Prosperity and wealth creation have not been equitably distributed, with significant disparities emerging.”

The report calls for action to address these challenges, emphasizing the need to “Get the Basics Right” by focusing on housing affordability, public safety, and efficient transit. According to the plan, failure to act now could lead to “losing our global position as the best place to live and invest.”

Tackling Congestion and Improving Transit

One of the most pressing issues the plan seeks to address is traffic congestion, which has long plagued Toronto. The Congestion Management Plan outlined in the action plan includes improving enforcement of bylaws that slow traffic, using new technologies, and creating strategic traffic mitigation measures.

According to the report, “we must tackle congestion head-on,” highlighting how transportation inefficiencies are draining both time and productivity in the city.

Housing Affordability Front and Centre

With Toronto’s housing market increasingly out of reach for many residents, the action plan focuses heavily on increasing the supply of affordable homes. The City aims to build 285,000 new homes by 2031, prioritizing affordable housing units near major transit hubs to create “complete communities.”

The report acknowledges that housing costs have become a severe issue, threatening Toronto’s ability to retain and attract talent.

“The average cost of a home in Toronto in 2023 was more than $1.1 million,” the report notes, underscoring the urgency of addressing this crisis. The city will work with provincial and federal governments to ensure housing developments are prioritized, while streamlining approval processes to get homes built faster.

Strong Main Streets and Quality Jobs

The action plan also stresses the importance of revitalizing Toronto’s main streets, which are crucial to the city’s economic vitality.

“Toronto’s unique small business neighbourhoods are vital anchors for vibrant, prosperous communities city-wide,” the report says. To support local businesses, the City will introduce a Main Street Resiliency Fund to help mitigate the impacts of rising rents and construction disruptions.

Additionally, the plan sets its sights on creating quality jobs and fostering a more inclusive economy. Investing in high-growth sectors like technology, life sciences, and creative industries is a priority, with the goal of making Toronto a top global competitor. “Investing in an inclusive economy that adds good jobs and leverages the diverse talent… of people who live here” is central to the strategy.

Collaboration with All Levels of Government

The plan makes it clear that the City cannot succeed alone. “This Action Plan is the City’s, but the City cannot do it alone,” the report states. Chow and her administration are calling on the provincial and federal governments, as well as the private sector and community leaders, to collaborate on efforts to make Toronto’s vision a reality. A long-term funding agreement with these partners will be crucial for addressing infrastructure needs, housing shortages, and economic development.

Path to Global Competitiveness

Ultimately, the goal of Sidewalks to Skylines is to make Toronto a more prosperous, inclusive city that can compete globally.

“It is our ultimate aspirational goal that, taking all these actions together, Toronto will be on a path to double its GDP in 25 years,” the report says.

With annual progress reports planned, Toronto’s leadership is set to provide regular updates on key outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

• The federal government is set to launch the Housing Design Catalogue in December 2024, featuring up to 50 standardized designs, including row housing and accessory dwelling units.
• The project has received $11.6 million in funding from Budget 2024 and involves collaboration with architects like MGA | Michael Green Architecture and LGA Architectural Partners Ltd., alongside regional experts.
• The Housing Design Catalogue aligns with the government’s broader strategy to address the housing crisis by integrating various housing programs and supporting an Industrial Strategy for Homebuilding. This approach aims to improve construction efficiency, reduce costs, and provide detailed, permit-ready design packages by early 2025.

The Whole Story:

Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, unveiled plans for the Housing Design Catalogue, a key initiative aimed at expediting the construction of new housing across Canada. The first iteration of the catalogue, set to launch this December, will feature up to 50 standardized conceptual designs, including row housing, fourplexes, sixplexes, and accessory dwelling units, intended to streamline the design, approvals, and construction processes.

“We need to build more homes, faster to end Canada’s housing crisis and ensure that everyone has a safe and affordable place to call their own,” said Minister Fraser. “The Housing Design Catalogue will help get us there by expediting approval processes and building times, and reducing the cost of building.”

The design contracts were awarded to MGA | Michael Green Architecture, which will cover British Columbia, and LGA Architectural Partners Ltd., which will collaborate with five regional teams to develop designs for Alberta, the Prairies, Ontario, Quebec, the Atlantic, and the North. In addition, an open submission process has been launched, inviting industry members to contribute existing prefabricated housing designs, with submissions due by November 8, 2024.

The government is also preparing to launch a competition in November for innovative mid-rise building designs, which will inform future iterations of the catalogue. The initiative aligns with Budget 2024, which allocated $11.6 million for the development of the catalogue, underscoring the federal commitment to tackling the housing crisis through collaboration with provinces and municipalities.

With the aim of integrating other housing programs, the Housing Design Catalogue is expected to support an Industrial Strategy for Homebuilding, expediting construction methods while reducing costs. Detailed construction packages, compliant with building code requirements, will be made available in early 2025, further facilitating the development of new homes.

The Housing Design Catalogue is a recent initiative by the Canadian federal government, announced in late 2023 as part of efforts to address the country’s housing crisis. This project draws inspiration from a post-World War II program run by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) between the late 1940s and 1970s, which provided standardized house designs to speed up construction.

The modern iteration, supported by Budget 2024 with $11.6 million in funding, aims to provide pre-approved, standardized housing designs that can be used across the country to accelerate construction and reduce costs. The government began targeted consultations with industry professionals, technical experts, homebuilders, non-profit housing providers, and various levels of government in January 2024 to inform the catalogue’s development.

In July and August 2024, the federal government invited multidisciplinary design teams to submit proposals for the first iteration of the catalogue, focusing on low-rise designs. The initiative is expected to feature a variety of housing types, including accessory dwelling units, multiplexes, and small to medium-sized buildings, with potential expansion to higher-density constructions and innovative building methods like modular and prefabricated homes.

Key Takeaways:

• Nearly 70% of crane activity across North America is focused on residential and mixed-use developments, signaling strong demand in these sectors.
• Calgary saw a significant 20% increase in crane numbers, driven by major infrastructure projects like the Green Line LRT and affordable housing developments.
• Toronto’s crane count increased slightly, with 83 cranes in the downtown core, highlighting a recovery in construction activity following a slowdown earlier in the year.

The Whole Story:

North America’s construction industry is showing resilience despite a slight downturn in activity, according to Rider Levett Bucknall’s (RLB) Crane Index for Q3 2024.

Published biannually, the index tracks the number of operating tower cranes across 14 major U.S. and Canadian cities, providing a snapshot of the industry’s workload.

While the report shows a modest 5% decrease in crane activity since Q1 2024, the construction sector remains active, particularly in residential and mixed-use projects, which make up nearly 70% of all crane activity.

Of the 14 cities surveyed, seven experienced an uptick in crane numbers, four saw significant declines, and three held steady, showcasing the ebb and flow of urban development across the continent. The mixed-use sector, which blends residential, commercial, and retail spaces, continues to drive much of the growth.

Canadian cities: Calgary leads, Toronto shows steady growth

Calgary emerged as a standout in the Q3 report, experiencing a 20% rise in crane numbers, bringing the total to 24. This growth is largely attributed to major projects like the $1.2 billion Calgary Events Centre and the $5.5 billion Green Line LRT project. Additionally, residential construction to address affordable housing needs is ramping up, with $550 million allocated to new projects.

Meanwhile, Toronto, long known for its bustling construction scene, saw a slight increase in crane numbers, with the count rising to 83 cranes in the downtown core. Residential developments continue to dominate, with 43 cranes dedicated to housing projects. This resurgence follows a slowdown earlier in 2024, suggesting renewed growth across various sectors, including healthcare and education.

International trends: Mixed-use and residential dominate

Across the United States, mixed-use and residential projects remain the key drivers of construction. Cities like Seattle, Denver, and Los Angeles are seeing stable activity, although some regions, such as downtown Portland, are feeling the effects of high office vacancy rates, resulting in fewer cranes.

Boston, which saw a 22% reduction in crane count, continues to focus on mixed-use developments and educational projects. The city’s construction remains robust, despite the overall decrease.

Looking ahead

The Crane Index points to a dynamic and evolving construction landscape. Though some areas face challenges, such as high office vacancy rates, the ongoing demand for residential and mixed-use developments indicates a strong future for North America’s urban infrastructure.

With major infrastructure projects continuing and capital investments flowing into healthcare, education, and public-sector initiatives, the industry is expected to remain resilient despite market fluctuations.

Key Takeaways:

• BC Conservative Leader John Rustad emphasized cutting red tape, with a promise to reduce government regulations by 25% in the first term and introduce a red tape reduction law to ease the regulatory burden on the construction industry.
• He pledged to eliminate the federal carbon tax and outdated fuel standards, which would lower fuel costs for construction companies, along with streamlining the permitting process to speed up project approvals.
• Rustad committed to several major infrastructure projects, such as bridge replacements and highway expansions, while also addressing the labour shortage by simplifying accreditation for internationally trained workers and opening up procurement processes.

The Whole Story:

BC Conservative Party Leader John Rustad addressed the construction sector this week, outlining his vision for the construction industry in B.C. Rustad’s speech at the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association’s Construction Innovation Summit highlighted his party’s focus on cutting red tape, reducing the cost of doing business, and supporting significant infrastructure projects to boost the construction sector.

Rustad stated that a BC Conservative government would prioritize reducing barriers for the construction industry, starting with a commitment to reduce government regulations by 25% in its first term. “We need to get government out of the way,” Rustad said, emphasizing the need for a more efficient regulatory environment to help the private sector thrive. He also proposed introducing a red tape reduction law to ensure that for every new regulation implemented, existing regulations would be removed.

Highlighting the challenges faced by construction businesses due to high fuel costs, Rustad promised to eliminate the carbon tax and outdated carbon fuel emission standards, which he claimed would reduce costs for construction companies by approximately 36 cents per litre of fuel. He cited an example from a construction site in Surrey, where the carbon tax on fuel used to dig a housing foundation added $40,000 to the project’s costs.

Rustad also pledged to accelerate the permitting process for building projects, working with municipalities to reduce approval times for building permits and business permits. He cited concerns from contractors regarding lengthy and complex processes that slow down construction, particularly in urban areas like Vancouver.

On infrastructure, Rustad committed to several major projects, including the replacement of key bridges and expansion of highways. Notable projects mentioned included a new bridge across Okanagan Lake, replacement of the Taylor Bridge in Peace Country, replacing the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge, fast-tracking the George Massey Tunnel replacement project, and upgrading Highway 19 in Nanaimo. He also stressed the importance of expanding Highway 1 to six lanes from Vancouver to Chilliwack to alleviate congestion, calling it a “critical link” for the province. He would also extend permits for LNG infrastructure projects.

“They would have to go back to the environmental assessment process. That would take probably 10 years and we would lose another generation of opportunity for LNG,” he said.

The

In terms of labour, Rustad acknowledged the industry’s ongoing struggle to find skilled workers and pledged to reduce barriers for internationally trained workers to obtain accreditation in BC. “We need to ensure people can get to work right away, rather than being held back by long, cumbersome processes,” he said.

Rustad also touched on procurement policies, promising to implement an open procurement process for qualified contractors and workers, which would provide greater opportunities for local construction businesses. Additionally, he emphasized the need to expand industrial land availability to support manufacturing and construction growth in the province.

“It’s time to get this province back up and running,” Rustad declared, emphasizing that his party’s approach would focus on unleashing the potential of the private sector while reducing government intervention. He concluded by stating that a BC Conservative government would “bring common sense back” to B.C.’s construction industry, enabling companies to succeed and pay good wages, which in turn would address affordability issues.

BC Premier David Eby has also been busy courting the province’s construction sector as election day approaches. Eby recently announced several key policy initiatives aimed at enhancing the construction sector and addressing housing needs. He pledged to fast-track the factory-built home construction sector by streamlining regulations and creating a province-wide framework for municipalities, which includes approving “ready-to-use” designs to expedite the permitting process.

Eby also unveiled a $36-billion investment plan for BC Hydro infrastructure over the next decade, expected to support 10,500 to 12,500 jobs annually while expanding the electrical system for industrial development and housing. Additional commitments include eliminating ‘no pet’ clauses in rental buildings, subsidizing insurance for small landlords, and building new long-term care facilities. Furthermore, he proposed a new streamlined approval process for electricity projects and plans to establish an addictions treatment center specifically for construction workers.

Canada’s construction industry is exploding and these companies are leading the charge. A recent list of fastest growing companies in Canada saw the nation’s industrial sector featured heavily. These businesses are reshaping the landscape, tackling diverse sectors from residential and commercial building to infrastructure and specialized services. As demand for sustainable and efficient construction continues to rise, these standout firms are driving growth, creating jobs, and setting new standards in the industry. Here’s a look at the top companies that are making waves across the Canadian construction scene.

Cairo Development – Calgary, Alta.

Cairo Development, located in Calgary, specializes in multi-family residential projects and construction management. Founded by Ash Mahmoud, the company has completed over 8,000 multi-family and commercial units. Cairo Development is currently involved in 10 multi-family projects across Alberta, including River’s Edge on 8 Street SE and Kings Landing on 67 Ave SW. The firm focuses on delivering value-engineered construction services and has established a presence in both Calgary and Edmonton to meet the demand for new developments in the region.

MMEnergy – Sherwood Park, Alta.

MMEnergy, an electrical contracting company based in Sherwood Park, Alberta, specializes in providing comprehensive electrical services for industrial and commercial projects. With a strong emphasis on safety, reliability, and quality, MMEnergy offers a wide range of solutions including equipment installation, power distribution, lighting systems, and preventive maintenance. The company is known for its expertise in optimizing electrical operations to enhance efficiency and performance across various sectors.

HKC Construction – Mississauga

HKC Construction is a prominent national general contractor, specializing in commercial, industrial, and institutional construction projects. With over a decade of industry experience, the company offers a comprehensive range of services, including general contracting, construction management, and design/build solutions. Their work includes office renovations, school renovations, restaurant build-outs, and warehouse construction.

Astro Excavating Inc. – Toronto, Ont.

Astro Excavating Inc., located in Toronto, Ontario, is a specialized contractor renowned for its expertise in excavation, site grading, and environmental remediation. The company is fully unionized and boasts a skilled team dedicated to delivering high-quality results across various construction projects. They have been working on excavations for developments such as Y9825 in Richmond Hill, a 22-storey mixed-use project by Metroview Developments, and a 37-storey mixed-use building at Spadina subway station in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood.

Dragon Industrial Services – Leduc, Alta.

Dragon Industrial Services Ltd. is a privately-owned Canadian company specializing in refractory installations and high-angle stack work. Founded to provide an open-shop alternative in the refractory market, the company’s expertise extends to providing complete project solutions, from design and procurement to refractory dry-out, utilizing an extensive library of refractory products to ensure modern and technical installations. Recently, Dragon Industrial Services expanded its service offerings by launching Dragon Ice Blasting Ltd., a new division focused on dry ice blasting for industrial cleaning needs.

Giffen Consulting – Vancouver, B.C.

Giffen Consulting Ltd., is a specialized engineering and design company providing innovative solutions for the mining, utility, and heavy industrial sectors. The company’s expertise spans various areas, including electrical engineering, instrumentation, and control systems design. Giffen has been involved in many significant projects, including the design and implementation of power distribution systems for major mining operations and the development of advanced control systems for industrial facilities.

Rain City Industrial – Vancouver, B.C.

Rain City Industrial is one of Western Canada’s premier design-build firm specializing in industrial workspaces. The company offers custom solutions for offices, warehouses, and specialty construction workspaces, catering to diverse industries including manufacturing, cold storage, warehouse and distribution, life sciences, and agritech. Founded in 2017, Rain City Industrial has expanded its services to include Rain City Cold Storage & Controlled Environments and Rain City Racking, providing comprehensive in-house resources. The company’s unique capability as the only design-build contractor in Canada with a warehouse racking and storage dealership allows for seamless integration of storage solutions within overall project designs. Recently, Rain City Industrial has been involved in several significant projects, including work for PBX Logistics, Molicel, and Pattison Food Group.

Orion Construction – Langley, B.C.

Orion Construction is a rapidly growing design-build contractor specializing in industrial, commercial, and multi-family construction projects across Western Canada. Founded by Joshua Gaglardi, the company has established itself as an innovative force in the construction industry, offering comprehensive solutions from project conception to completion. Orion Construction has been involved in several significant projects recently, showcasing their expertise and growth. In July 2024, they broke ground on the Cade Barr Business Park in Mission, B.C., a major development spanning over 400,000 square feet across four buildings. Additionally, Orion has been working on various industrial and commercial projects, including the Cedar Coast South Surrey development in the Campbell Heights Business Park and the Hayer Business Centre Phase II.

SitePartners – Abbotsford, B.C.

*SitePartners is a specialized marketing agency focusing exclusively on serving the industrial sector. Founded in early 2018, the company has experienced rapid growth, earning recognition as the 35th Fastest-Growing Startup Company in Canada by Canadian Business and Maclean’s in 2020, with a remarkable 1061% revenue growth. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including marketing, branding, advertising, video production, digital solutions, and communications, tailored specifically for construction, manufacturing, and resource-based industries. The company recently moved into SiteHQ, a fully renovated space in Abbotsford, B.C. that boasts the country’s first ever industrial production studio and is home to Site’s growing list of diverse services. SitePartners’ commitment to the industrial sector and its innovative approach have positioned it as a leader in specialized marketing services, recognized as the #1 Industrial Specialized Agency in Canada and the 12th fastest-growing agency by Adweek.

*SiteNews is part of the Site group of companies

Shift – Victoria, B.C.

Shift Energy Group is a leading provider of comprehensive clean energy solutions, specializing in solar panel installation and clean tech innovations. Founded in 2010, the company has established a strong presence across Western Canada with offices in Victoria, Vancouver, and Nanaimo. Shift Energy Group’s mission is to make clean, affordable energy accessible to everyone while protecting the environment for future generations. The company offers a wide range of services, including solar panel installations for residential, commercial, and industrial clients, as well as energy storage solutions. Recent projects include a 54.18kW solar installation for the Township of Esquimalt in Victoria, featuring 126 panels, and a large-scale 180.18kW commercial project in Cedar, BC, comprising 396 panels.

Ace of Decks – Beaconsfield, Que.

Ace of Decks, based in Canada, is a premier provider of decking solutions specializing in residential and commercial projects. Known for their commitment to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, the company offers a wide range of services, including deck design, installation, and maintenance. Recently, Ace of Decks has expanded its portfolio with several notable projects, including custom outdoor living spaces that integrate innovative materials. Their dedication to sustainability is reflected in their use of eco-friendly materials and practices. With a reputation for excellence and attention to detail, Ace of Decks continues to be a trusted partner for clients looking to enhance their outdoor environments.

ESW Building Services Inc. – Mississauga, Ont.

ESW Building Services is a comprehensive provider of construction and facility management solutions, specializing in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services for various sectors, including commercial and industrial clients. Recently, ESW Building Services has expanded its portfolio by undertaking significant projects such as the installation of advanced HVAC systems in large commercial buildings and the retrofitting of energy-efficient lighting solutions for industrial facilities.

Novarc Technologies

Novarc Technologies Inc. is a pioneering robotics company specializing in collaborative robots and AI-based machine vision solutions for automated welding applications. Their flagship product, the Spool Welding Robot (SWR), is designed to semi-automate pipe welding, significantly increasing productivity and quality while reducing costs. Founded in 2013 by engineers Reza Abdollahi and Soroush Karimzadeh, Novarc has established itself as an industry leader in welding automation technology. Recently, the company launched NovEye Autonomy (Gen 2), an AI-powered vision processing system that fully automates the pipe welding process. This innovation represents an industry first, leveraging years of machine learning data. Novarc’s technology has been adopted in 38 countries, with their SWR demonstrating productivity increases of 3-5x for carbon steel and up to 12x for stainless steel projects.

Peter Lucas Project Management – Saskatoon, Sask.

Peter Lucas Project Management is a specialized project delivery company that provides services for industrial and commercial projects, founded by Peter Lucas. The company invests in people, community, and cutting-edge technology to ensure efficient project management, often starting project delivery in as little as three weeks. With a focus on industrial environments, Peter Lucas Project Management has gained recognition for its comprehensive support throughout the project life cycle.

Black Tar Construction – Ottawa, Ont.

Black Tar Construction is an Ottawa-based company specializing in asphalt paving and foundation repair services. Founded in 2013, the company has built a reputation for outstanding customer service and quality workmanship. Black Tar offers a wide range of services including residential and commercial paving, asphalt maintenance, pothole repairs, and driveway installations. With a team of over 50 paving professionals, Black Tar Construction prides itself on its core values of accountability, teamwork, and customer focus. The company stands out for its 5-year maintenance warranty on driveway paving and its dedication to using cutting-edge technology and environmentally conscious practices in their operations.

Elvaan Group Inc. – Mississauga, Ont.

Elvaan Group Inc. is a specialized construction equipment supplier with over 30 years of experience in the industry. The company offers a comprehensive range of services including sales, rentals, maintenance, and parts supply for a wide variety of construction equipment. Elvaan Group Inc. is known for providing new equipment solutions from leading global brands in the Canadian market, as well as offering certified rebuilt units with warranties. Their expertise extends to HVAC installation and maintenance, electrical systems, plumbing, and fire protection services. Recently, Elvaan Group Inc. has expanded its focus on sustainable building practices and smart building technologies.

Blackline Safety – Calgary, Alta.

Blackline Safety is a global leader in connected safety technology, specializing in gas detectors, area monitors, and lone worker devices. Founded in 2004, the company has evolved from its origins in consumer GPS tracking to focus on industrial safety solutions. Blackline’s innovative products leverage cloud-connected technology, data analytics, and real-time monitoring to ensure worker safety across various industries, with flagship offerings including the G7 series of connected safety devices and the G7 EXO area monitor. With its technology deployed in over 70 countries, Blackline Safety protects more than 150,000 workers worldwide.

Cornerstone Timberframes – Steinbach, Man.

Cornerstone Timberframes is a family-run business dedicated to building custom timber frame structures for clients across the USA and Canada. With over 25 years of experience, the company specializes in a diverse range of projects, including homes, cottages, mid-rise residential buildings, and large commercial spaces. Cornerstone Timberframes embraces innovative techniques and materials, particularly in the growing field of mass timber construction, which offers faster build times and lighter foundations. The company actively participates in industry events such as the Mass Timber Group Summit, showcasing its commitment to collaboration and excellence in timber frame design and installation.

VPAC Construction Group Ltd. – Vancouver, B.C.

VPAC Construction Group Ltd. is a general contractor specializing in preconstruction, construction management, and general contracting services for commercial, multi-family, tenant improvement, and senior housing projects. With over two decades of experience, the company has built a reputation in Vancouver for delivering exceptional quality builds. The company prides itself on guiding clients through every step of the construction process, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. VPAC’s system is built on experience, enhanced by technology, and executed by a dedicated team of project managers. Recently, VPAC joined Procore, a construction management software platform, in May 2024, demonstrating their commitment to leveraging technology for improved project coordination and management.

EastPoint – Halifax, N.S.

EastPoint is a multidisciplinary engineering and construction firm that specializes in providing innovative solutions across various sectors, including commercial, industrial, and institutional projects. The company integrates practical hands-on construction experience into its design philosophy, ensuring that projects are managed from inception through to completion. EastPoint’s expertise encompasses a wide range of services, including fire suppression, electrical engineering, project management, and site development. Recently, the firm joined Procore in June 2024, enhancing its project management capabilities and commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology. EastPoint is known for its collaborative approach, involving Indigenous-owned businesses in the procurement process and emphasizing community engagement to ensure projects align with local culture and values.

Industra Construction Corp. – Langley, B.C.

Industra Construction Corp. is a leading design-build and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services provider specializing in industrial, municipal, and First Nations markets across Western and Central Canada. The company is known for its single source of accountability, budget management, and commitment to quality control, ensuring faster project completion with reduced risk for owners. Industra offers a comprehensive range of services including water treatment, wastewater treatment, sewage lift stations, and modular construction solutions. With a focus on innovative practices, the company has successfully completed projects in challenging environments, such as remote locations requiring barge or ice road access. Industra’s dedication to community engagement and sustainable practices has positioned it as a trusted partner for complex infrastructure projects in diverse sectors, including petrochemical, power generation, and renewable energy.

Cambium Inc. – Peterborough, Ont.

Cambium Inc. is a multi-service consulting and engineering company founded in 2006, providing high-quality expertise throughout Ontario. The firm specializes in environmental engineering, geotechnical solutions, building sciences, and construction quality verification. Cambium’s team includes experienced engineers, hydrogeologists, ecologists, and technicians who collaborate to deliver innovative and practical solutions grounded in a sound conservation ethic. Recently, Cambium has expanded its capabilities by operating a CCIL-certified materials testing laboratory for soils, aggregates, concrete, and asphalt analysis.

Gator Construction Group Inc. – Canada

Gator Construction Group Inc. is a dynamic construction firm specializing in concrete solutions and comprehensive project management services. Originally established as Gator Concrete, the company has expanded its expertise to include a wide range of construction services, from initial consultation and design to final installation. Gator Construction is known for its nimble and adaptable approach, allowing them to tackle projects of all sizes while minimizing downtime for clients.

Crozier Consulting Engineers – Collingwood, Ont.

Crozier Consulting Engineers is a leading multidisciplinary consulting firm dedicated to delivering exceptional engineering and land development services primarily in the private sector. The firm offers a comprehensive suite of services, including civil, water resources, transportation, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering, alongside hydrogeology, environmental consulting, utility infrastructure, landscape architecture, and building science. Crozier emphasizes collaboration with top universities for research initiatives and actively engages in community development through various philanthropic efforts. Recently, the company established the University of Guelph C.F. Crozier & Associates Inc. Scholarship to support future engineering students.

Triumph Roofing and Sheet Metal Inc. – Toronto, Ont.

Triumph Roofing and Sheet Metal Inc. is a prominent provider of roofing and building envelope solutions with over 36 years of experience in the industry. Based in Toronto, the company specializes in a wide range of services, including roofing, waterproofing, cladding, glazing, and restoration, catering to both commercial and residential clients across Canada. The firm emphasizes sustainability in its projects, ensuring that materials and practices align with environmental standards.

RAM Consulting – Vancouver, B.C.

RAM Consulting is a project delivery firm founded in 2007, specializing in engineering, project management, construction management, and safety management services for some of Canada’s largest infrastructure projects, including highways and pipelines. With a team of dedicated professionals, RAM offers innovative, solution-oriented expertise throughout all phases of project delivery, ensuring clients receive comprehensive support from initial planning to project completion. The firm has worked on notable infrastructure projects such as the Vancouver Airport Fuel Delivery Project and the New St. Paul’s Hospital.

Britespan Building Systems Inc. – Wingham, Ont.

Britespan Building Systems Inc. is a leading authority in fabric buildings across North America, specializing in innovative solutions for commercial, municipal, public works, and agricultural industries. With over 28 years of experience, the company designs, engineers, manufactures, and delivers top-quality structures tailored to meet diverse client needs. Britespan offers a range of customizable options for permanent, temporary, and portable fabric buildings that comply with site-specific codes. Their services include sales, re-covers, repairs, maintenance, and accessories, ensuring comprehensive support throughout the building lifecycle. The firm is ISO 9001 certified and operates through a network of localized dealers who provide expertise and customer service.

Giatec Scientific Inc. – Nepean, Ont.

Giatec Scientific Inc. is an innovative Canadian company revolutionizing the concrete industry with advanced non-destructive testing technologies and IoT solutions. Founded in 2010 by Pouria Ghods and Aali R. Alizadeh, Giatec specializes in developing devices and software for concrete quality control and condition assessment, including wireless sensors for real-time monitoring of concrete properties such as temperature, humidity, and strength. The company’s flagship products include SmartRock and BlueRock, which provide critical data to ensure optimal curing conditions and structural integrity.

Ehrenburg Homes – Saskatoon, Sask.

Ehrenburg Homes is a home builder based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship since its founding in 1983 by Joe Ehr. The company has built a reputation for producing homes through expert workmanship, outstanding service, and the use of premium materials. Named in homage to Ehrenburg Castle in Germany, the firm embodies the regal aspects associated with its name, offering deluxe features and refined details in every project.

Weston Forest Products – Mississauga, Ont.

Weston Forest Products is a leading distributor and remanufacturer of softwood and hardwood lumber, as well as specialty panel products, serving the industrial and construction sectors throughout North America. Founded in 1953 as a family business, Weston has grown into a dynamic organization recognized for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Recently, Weston expanded its manufacturing capabilities with the acquisition of Kings Wood Products, enhancing its product offerings for industrial customers. The firm specializes in providing tailored solutions such as crating, packaging, pallets, and niche wood products essential for various construction processes.

Key Takeaways:

• Toronto is seeking input from post-secondary students, faculty, and staff to address housing shortages, as part of its broader housing strategies.
• This outreach is linked to the City’s HousingTO 2020-2030 Action Plan and Housing Action Plan (2022-2026), which aim to ensure equitable access to affordable housing for all residents.
• The City will gather insights through an online survey, interactive campus sessions, focus groups, and expert interviews, encouraging participants to discuss housing challenges and explore affordability strategies.

The Whole Story:

The City of Toronto is asking academia for new ideas to address housing shortages.

The city announced it is inviting post-secondary students, faculty and staff to share their thoughts about their housing challenges, ideas and expectations for the future.

“Students, faculty and staff have the best advice when it comes to building housing to serve the academic community,” said Mayor Olivia Chow. “I look forward to hearing from students, teachers and all members of Toronto’s academic community on how we can align with the City’s housing targets, and how we can work together to engage the provincial and federal governments to build more homes.”

The outreach is part of the Academic Housing Strategy, a priority under the City’s HousingTO 2020-2030 Action Plan and the Housing Action Plan (2022-2026) to address housing challenges and ensure equitable access to affordable housing options for all Toronto residents.

The engagement will include an online survey, onsite campus interactive sessions, focus groups and interviews with leading experts to gather insights, share information and develop innovative solutions to address the housing concerns affecting Toronto’s post-secondary community. Participants will have the opportunity to:

• discuss current housing challenges and opportunities
• explore strategies for improving housing access and affordability
• contribute ideas to all orders of governments and academic institutions to improve housing outcomes.

Post-secondary students, faculty and staff are invited to share their experiences, insight and ideas by participating in an online survey  available until Friday, November 1 on the City’s website.

In-person engagement sessions will be held at eight college and university campuses across the city. The full schedule and location details of the drop-in sessions are available on the City’s Academic Housing Strategy webpage.

Toronto’s housing crisis is marked by soaring home prices, with the average home costing around $1.2 million, a 40-50% increase in the past five years. Rent has surged, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging over $2,500 per month, a 15% rise from the previous year, while vacancy rates remain extremely low at 1-2%. The city has over 80,000 households on waiting lists for affordable housing and wait times often exceed 10 years.

Anthem Properties Group has launched an initial public offering on its 66 storey, mixed-use development, Citizen, located in the heart of Metrotown in Burnaby, B.C.

Units in the IPO will be issued through the newly created Anthem Citizen Real Estate Development Trust.

CIBC Capital Markets will act as sole agent for the IPO and has successfully completed real estate development IPOs for US assets. Anthem anticipates raising up to $82 million which will be added to other funding sources already secured on the project. Officials stated that the partnership model on Citizen is not new to Anthem, who has financial partnerships on many of its projects.

“Policy changes, increased costs, shifting market cycles and more create an ongoing challenge for developers hunting for capital which requires innovative and creative thinking to get projects off the ground,” said Anthem core-founder & CEO, Eric Carlson. “Doing things differently is at the core of what we do at Anthem, and this IPO is a great way to continue to push the boundaries of what is possible and take a new approach to making housing happen.”

The project includes mix of market, rental and affordable homes, anchored by a hotel and supported by retail space. The project has rezoning approvals and entitlements complete, with construction expected to begin at the close of the offering.

In the thriving construction industry material suppliers play a crucial role, ensuring that materials, tools, and services that fuel the sector’s growth are where they need to be. These firms, ranging from plumbing suppliers to building material manufacturers, are a critical support piece in Canada’s construction supply chain.

As the sector faces challenges and opportunities, these companies are at the forefront of innovation and adaptation, helping to shape the future of construction in Canada. Let’s get to know some of them a little better.

Doman Building Materials Group Ltd.

Headquarters: Vancouver, B.C.

History: Formerly known as CanWel Building Materials, Doman was founded in 1989. The company has grown into one of Canada’s largest national distributors of building materials, hardware, and lumber products. In 2021, the company rebranded as Doman Building Materials Group to better reflect its diverse operations.

Recent News: In 2021, Doman expanded its operations by acquiring Hixson Lumber Sales and L.A. Lumber Treating, broadening its footprint in North America. Just this year that acquired assets from Southeast Forest Products.

Groupe BMR

Headquarters: Boucherville, Que.

History: BMR was founded in 1967 and has grown into a major retailer and distributor of building materials and hardware products, primarily serving Quebec and the Eastern Canadian market. A subsidiary of Sollio Groupe Coopératif, BMR includes more than 275 home renovation centers and hardware stores across Quebec, Ontario, and the Maritime provinces. In addition to its role as a wholesaler, Groupe BMR runs 14 corporate stores, primarily in the Greater Montreal area.

Recent News: In 2022, BMR launched its first fully automated distribution center in Varennes, Que., enhancing its logistics and distribution capabilities.

TimberMart

Headquarters: Mississauga, Ont.

History: Established in 1967, TimberMart is a national buying group that supports independent lumber and building material retailers across Canada. It provides members with access to a wide range of products and services to compete in the retail market. TimberMart says it is the largest national member-owned buying group in the country.

Recent News: TimberMart continues to expand its network of independent dealers, with recent partnerships to help small and medium-sized retailers compete with larger national chains.

RONA (Part of Lowe’s Canada)

Headquarters: Boucherville, Que.

History: Founded in 1939 as a cooperative of independent Quebec hardware retailers, RONA has become one of Canada’s largest home improvement retailers. It was acquired by Lowe’s in 2016, but the RONA brand remains a cornerstone of Lowe’s Canadian operations. It boasts a network of more than 375 stores includes both corporate stores and independent affiliated dealers.

Recent News: In 2023, Lowe’s announced plans to sell its Canadian operations, including RONA, to private equity firm Sycamore Partners. The move is aimed at streamlining Lowe’s global operations.

Taiga Building Products

Headquarters: Burnaby, B.C.

History: Taiga Building Products has been operating since 1973 and is one of the largest independent wholesale distributors of building materials in Canada. The company offers a variety of products, including lumber, panels, and insulation.

Recent News: Taiga has continued to expand its North American operations, acquiring new distribution centers and enhancing its product offerings, particularly in sustainable building materials.

Wolseley Canada

Headquarters: Burlington, Ontario

History: Wolseley Canada is a division of Ferguson PLC, one of the world’s leading distributors of plumbing and HVAC products. Established in Canada over 100 years ago, Wolseley serves contractors and retailers with plumbing, heating, and building materials.

Recent News: In 2023, Wolseley Canada launched several new e-commerce tools aimed at simplifying product orders for contractors and retailers, reflecting a growing trend toward digital solutions in construction.

Castle Building Centres Group

Headquarters: Mississauga, Ontario

History: Castle Building Centres was founded in 1963 as a buying group for independent lumber and hardware retailers. Today, it operates a network of over 300 locations across Canada, offering a wide range of building materials and home improvement products.

Recent News: Castle has been focusing on expanding its dealer network and providing marketing and digital support to independent retailers, allowing them to compete effectively with larger chains.

EMCO Corporation

Headquarters: London, Ont.

History: Founded in 1906 as the Empire Manufacturing Company Limited in London, Ontario, EMCO Corporation has grown to become one of Canada’s largest integrated distributors of products for the construction industry. With over 110 years of business success, EMCO has weathered two world wars and the Great Depression. The company operates through a network of over 250 Profit Centres across Canada, offering products in distinct categories such as plumbing, waterworks, industrial, and HVAC.

Recent News: In February 2024, EMCO Corporation announced a partnership with ALDES North America, a manufacturer of ventilation systems. This strategic alliance aims to expand EMCO’s presence in the Canadian residential market by offering a complete range of ventilation products across the country. 

Würth Canada

Headquarters: Guelph, Ontario

History: Würth Canada was founded in 1971 in Montreal as part of the global Würth Group, which originated in Germany in 1945. The company moved its headquarters to Mississauga in 1986, and then to a state-of-the-art facility in Guelph in 2014. Würth Canada has grown to become a major supplier of fasteners, tools, and other products for the automotive aftermarket, as well as expanding into the metalworking and construction industries.

Recent News: In February 2024, Würth Canada announced the opening of its first flagship store in North America, located in Vaughan, Ont. This new store features a 24/7 concept, allowing authorized business customers to access the store at any time using their Würth eShop account. Additionally, Würth Canada is pursuing an aggressive expansion plan, aiming to open 40 stores across Canada within the next five years as part of its strategy to become a national industrial distributor.

IHL Canada

Headquarters: Woodbridge, Ontario

History: IHL Canada was founded in 1985 by contractors for contractors, with the aim of helping construction businesses grow by providing exceptional products and services. For nearly four decades, the company has evolved and innovated within the construction industry. IHL Canada has focused on research and development to bring breakthrough products that combine technology with expertise to improve job site efficiencies and facilitate contractors’ work.

Recent News: In May 2024, IHL Canada announced its commitment to fighting against forced labor and child labor in supply chains, demonstrating the company’s focus on ethical business practices. Additionally, IHL Canada has been expanding its presence in Southern Ontario, with two modern stores serving the construction industry. The company operates locations in Woodbridge and Innisfil, providing extended hours of service to meet the needs of contractors.

MY Construction Supply

Headquarters: Brantford, Ontario

History: MY Construction Supply is a manufacturer and distributor of concrete accessories, fasteners, and building products. The company was founded with a focus on serving the construction industry, particularly specializing in providing supplies and accessories for forming and development companies working on large-scale projects across Canada. MY Construction Supply has positioned itself as a customer-oriented company, known for high-quality products, competitive pricing, and excellent customer service.

Recent News: MY Construction Supply continues to expand its operations. The company operates from a 30,000 square foot warehouse, which is continuously growing to meet the increasing needs of its clients. MY Construction Supply maintains a strong presence in the construction industry, particularly in the realm of high-rise condominiums, but also serves projects including low-rise condos, transit centers, and hospitals.

Star Building Materials

Headquarters: Winnipeg, Man.

History: Star Building Materials has been serving the construction industry for over 60 years. Founded in 1965 in Calgary, the company has grown to become a trusted supplier of building materials for residential and commercial builders, renovators, and homeowners. Star operates locations in Winnipeg and Calgary, offering a wide range of products including lumber, deck and fence materials, mouldings, tools, and more.

Recent News: In 2023, Star Building Materials continued to expand its presence in Southern Ontario. The company has been focusing on providing innovative solutions for the construction industry, including state-of-the-art technology for producing modern and efficient building materials.

Canada is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of wood products, including lumber, plywood, and engineered wood. The country’s vast forest resources covering about 38% of our land area.

Wood products are essential in the Canadian construction industry, particularly in residential building. Wood is used for framing, flooring, roofing, and interior finishes due to its versatility, strength, and environmental benefits. Recent advancements in engineered wood products, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), are expanding the use of wood in large-scale and high-rise construction.

We have put together a list of some of the nation’s biggest suppliers of wood products that enable the construction sector to keep building.

West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd.

Headquarters: Vancouver, British Columbia

Number of Mills: Over 60 mills across Canada, the U.S., and Europe

West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd., founded in 1955 in B.C., has grown to become one of the largest lumber producers in the world. The company operates over 60 mills across Canada, the U.S., and Europe, producing a wide range of wood products, including softwood lumber, plywood, OSB, and engineered wood. West Fraser has a strong focus on sustainable forest management and responsible operations. Recently, the company has been expanding its footprint through strategic acquisitions, including the purchase of Norbord in 2021, a global leader in OSB production. West Fraser continues to adapt to market demands, with ongoing investments in mill modernizations and environmental initiatives.

Canfor Corporation

Headquarters: Vancouver, British Columbia

Number of Mills: 26 sawmills across Canada, the U.S., and Europe

Established in 1938 and headquartered in Vancouver, Canfor Corporation is one of Canada’s largest integrated forest products companies, with operations in Canada, the U.S., and Europe. Canfor specializes in the production of softwood lumber, pulp, paper, and engineered wood products, serving markets worldwide. The company is known for its commitment to innovation and sustainable practices, including achieving 100% certification of its forest operations under internationally recognized standards. In recent news, Canfor has been navigating market volatility and environmental challenges, with efforts to diversify its product mix and expand into higher-value wood products, while also investing in green energy projects.

Resolute Forest Products

Headquarters: Montreal, Quebec

Number of Mills: 16 wood product facilities in Canada

Resolute Forest Products, with roots dating back to 1820, is a global leader in the forest products industry, headquartered in Montreal. The company operates 40 facilities across North America, including 16 wood product mills in Canada, producing a diverse range of products, including market pulp, tissue, wood products, and paper. Resolute is recognized for its sustainability initiatives, including responsible forest management and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. In recent years, Resolute has focused on restructuring its operations to improve profitability, including the sale of its Fort Frances mill in 2021 and continued investments in tissue production. The company remains a key player in the North American wood products market.

Interfor Corporation

Headquarters: Vancouver, British Columbia

Number of Mills: 21 sawmills across North America

Interfor Corporation, founded in 1963 and based in Vancouver, is one of the largest lumber providers globally, with 21 mills across North America. Interfor’s operations span British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and the U.S. South, producing a wide array of wood products, including softwood lumber and engineered wood. The company has a strong reputation for efficiency and product quality, supported by continuous investments in modernizing its facilities. Interfor has been active in expanding its operations, including the recent acquisition of four sawmills from Georgia-Pacific in 2021, positioning it as a major player in the North American lumber market.

Tolko Industries Ltd.

Headquarters: Vernon, British Columbia

Number of Mills: 14 wood product facilities in Canada

Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Vernon, British Columbia, Tolko Industries Ltd. is a family-owned company that has grown into a significant player in the North American wood products industry. Tolko operates 14 wood product mills across Western Canada, producing lumber, plywood, OSB, and engineered wood products. The company is known for its commitment to sustainable forestry and community engagement. Tolko has recently focused on diversifying its product offerings and improving operational efficiencies. In 2023, Tolko made headlines with the launch of a new mass timber facility, positioning itself as a leader in the growing market for sustainable building materials.

Weyerhaeuser Company

Headquarters: Seattle, Washington (U.S.)

Number of Mills: 35 manufacturing facilities in North America, including in Canada

Weyerhaeuser, founded in 1900 and based in Seattle, Washington, is one of the largest private owners of timberlands in the world, with significant operations in Canada. The company manages over 13 million acres of timberland and operates 35 manufacturing facilities across North America, including in Canada, producing a wide range of wood products, including softwood lumber, OSB, and engineered wood products. Weyerhaeuser is known for its strong environmental stewardship and innovative approach to forest management. Recently, the company has focused on expanding its presence in the Canadian market, particularly in Alberta and British Columbia, while also investing in sustainable forestry practices and renewable energy initiatives.

J.D. Irving, Limited

Headquarters: Saint John, New Brunswick

Number of Mills: 11 sawmills in Eastern Canada

J.D. Irving, Limited, established in 1882 and based in Saint John, New Brunswick, is a diversified conglomerate with extensive forestry operations in Eastern Canada. The company operates 11 sawmills and wood product manufacturing facilities, supplying lumber, plywood, and other wood products to the construction industry. J.D. Irving is committed to sustainable forest management, with over one million acres of forest land under its care. The company has been involved in several initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint, including reforestation efforts and investments in energy-efficient technologies. In recent news, J.D. Irving has been expanding its operations, including the modernization of several mills to increase capacity and improve product quality.

Eacom Timber Corporation

Headquarters: Montreal, Quebec

Number of Mills: 8 sawmills and 1 engineered wood products facility in Canada

Eacom Timber Corporation, founded in 2008 and headquartered in Montreal, is a major producer of softwood lumber in Eastern Canada. Eacom operates eight sawmills and one engineered wood products facility, primarily in Ontario and Quebec. The company has a strong commitment to sustainable forestry and is certified under several environmental standards. In 2021, Eacom was acquired by Interfor Corporation, which has since integrated Eacom’s operations into its own, further expanding its presence in the Eastern Canadian market. Eacom continues to play a vital role in supplying wood products to the construction industry, with a focus on high-quality lumber production.

Domtar Corporation

Headquarters: Fort Mill, South Carolina (U.S.)

Number of Mills: 12 manufacturing facilities in Canada

Domtar Corporation, originally founded in 1848 as Dominion Tar and Chemical Company, has evolved into a leading provider of fiber-based products, including pulp, paper, and wood products. Headquartered in Fort Mill, South Carolina, Domtar operates in Canada primarily through its wood products division in Quebec and Ontario. Domtar operates 12 manufacturing facilities in Canada. The company is known for its strong commitment to sustainability and innovation in manufacturing processes. In recent years, Domtar has undergone significant restructuring, including the divestment of its personal care business in 2021 to focus on its core pulp and paper operations, while also exploring opportunities in bio-based products and renewable energy.

Tembec Inc. (now part of Rayonier Advanced Materials)

Headquarters: Jacksonville, Florida (U.S.)

Number of Mills: 14 facilities in Canada, including sawmills and pulp mills

Tembec Inc., founded in 1973 in Quebec, was a major player in the Canadian forestry industry, known for its production of lumber, pulp, and paper. In 2017, Tembec was acquired by Rayonier Advanced Materials, a global leader in cellulose-based products, now headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. The company’s operations have since been integrated into Rayonier’s, with a focus on producing high-purity cellulose, paperboard, and lumber. Rayonier manages 14 facilities in Canada, including sawmills and pulp mills. Tembec’s legacy in sustainable forestry continues under Rayonier, with significant investments in environmental stewardship and energy efficiency. The company has also been expanding its product offerings to include more value-added wood products, catering to the growing demand for sustainable materials in the construction industry.

Key Takeaways:

• A prolonged rail worker strike could severely impact the Canadian economy. Some experts say it has the potential cause a recession.
• The construction industry is highly dependent on a healthy economy to generate demand.
• There is significant pressure on the federal government to intervene and prevent the strike.

The Whole Story:

The federal government is facing pressure to help avoid a rail worker strike set to begin on Aug. 22 that could cripple the Canadian economy.

Jock Finlayson, chief economist at the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA), explained that a protracted rail strike could be devastating to the construction sector. The initial impact of not being able to receive materials would pale in comparison to the effects it would have on drive demand.

“The Canadian economy is barely growing right now. If this ballooned into a multi-week shutdown, it would likely throw us into a recession,” Finlayson said. “This is in the federal government’s bailiwick. It is their responsibility and they need to use all the tools.”

Finlayson noted that Canada exports more than $700 billion of goods every year, and it import goods worth almost as much. Both exports and imports are vital part of Canada’s $3 trillion national economy. Many traded goods, at some point, are moved by rail. Today, some $380 billion of goods are shipped by Canadian rail carriers every year.  He noted that avoiding a strike is particularly important right now as the economy is posting very sluggish growth and Canada’s prosperity is declining as measured by real GDP per capita.

“in recent years, Canada’s ranking in global competitiveness surveys has been slipping, and our reputation as a reliable and efficient supplier of traded goods has suffered one blow after another,” said Finlayson. “A rail strike would compound these problems, potentially doing incalculable harm to our economy.”

CN Rail, CPKC and Teamsters must do the hard work necessary to reach agreements at the bargaining table and prevent a full work stoppage.

My statement on their ongoing negotiations: pic.twitter.com/ABbKLaQBIt

— Steven MacKinnon (@stevenmackinnon) August 19, 2024

He explained that the construction industry ultimately depends on a vibrant, productive and growing Canadian economy to create demand for the work done and the services provided by it. 

“If the economy stalls, falters and is rendered less efficient as a result of labour disputes, construction companies and their workers will suffer,” he said.

The federal government also faced criticism from officials in Alberta, who accused Ottawa of creating a labour crisis.

“First the British Columbia ports, then WestJet, now the railways. It is one strike after another,” said Devin Dreeshen, Alberta’s minister of transportation & economic corridors. “These continuous strikes are eroding Canada’s reputation around the world as a reliable trading partner. The federal government must fix the labour problems it has created and exercise its responsibility to ensure labour stability within federally regulated transportation workplaces.”

Federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon released a statement Monday saying that collective bargaining negotiations belong to CN Rail, CPKC and TCRC workers alone, but their effects will be borne by all Canadians.

“The parties must do the hard work necessary to reach agreements at the bargaining table and prevent a full work stoppage. Canadians expect the parties’ efforts to be equal to the trust conferred on them,” he said.

After negotiations collapsed, 9,000 unionized rail workers from the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) are set to walk off the job, effectively bringing the nation’s rail system to a standstill and disrupting a critical link in the supply chain for nearly everything.

Parties involved, include:

• Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC): The union representing over 9,000 rail workers at both major Canadian railways.
• Canadian National Railway (CN): One of Canada’s two major freight rail companies.
• Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC): The other major Canadian freight rail company, formed in 2023 through a merger.
• Federal Government: Represented by Labour Minister Steven Mackinnon, who has called on the parties to negotiate but has not indicated willingness to intervene directly.

The main points of contention between the union and the rail companies include:

• Safety and Fatigue: The union claims both companies are trying to reduce safety provisions related to worker fatigue.
• Work Conditions: CN is accused of proposing changes that would require workers to relocate across Canada for extended periods.
• Contract Negotiations: Labor agreements for both railway companies expired at the end of 2023, and negotiations have been ongoing since then.

The impact of strikes can have on Canada’s construction industry and the broader economy are massive. A 2023 strike by port workers in B.C. reduced Canada’s gross domestic product by between $730 million and $980 million, and affected merchandise shipments having a total value of $10 billion.

The strike caused major delays in receiving construction materials and equipment imported through the Port of Vancouver. Many construction projects faced shortages of essential supplies, leading to slowdowns or temporary halts in work.

But Finlayson noted that a rail strike would be vastly larger in scale.

“We are talking about the entire national freight network,” he said. “This country is incredibly dependent on linear infrastructure, including rail. We are geographically huge and need efficient transportation infrastructure operating 24/7. The federal government needs to do its job.”

Key Takeaways:

• Over two-thirds of Ontario small businesses have been disrupted by local construction projects in the past five years, with 23% reporting major impacts.
• These disruptions have led to an average revenue loss of 25% during the most significant projects and additional costs of around $10,000 for cleaning and repairs.
• The top issues faced by these businesses include traffic congestion, dust, noise, difficulties in customer and staff access, logistical disruptions, and decreased sales, all of which contribute to significant stress for business owners.
• The CFIB is advocating for government compensation for businesses severely impacted by public construction projects.

The Whole Story:

According to new analysis by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) over two-thirds (67%) of Ontario small businesses have experienced disruptions due to local construction projects in the past five years, and 69% have been affected by multiple projects during the same period.

The report, titled Hard hats and hard times: Public construction impacts on small businesses, found that of small- and medium-sized enterprises in Ontario that were affected, 23% (or 104,362) report that construction disruptions have had a major impact on their business. On average, Ontario small firms have been forced to endure 481 days of construction-related disruptions, which represents 26% of the time over the past five years.  

“Infrastructure needs continue to increase with our growing population and aging infrastructure,” said Julie Kwiecinski, CFIB’s director of provincial affairs for Ontario. “Everyone – including small business owners – loves a finished project, but small firms have to survive to the project’s end before they can benefit.”

“Small businesses face a myriad of issues when local construction projects take place, from traffic congestion and dust and debris, to losing customers and navigating logistical disruptions,” said Emily Boston, CFIB senior policy analyst and an author of CFIB’s report. “A large portion of construction costs can be avoided with better planning and execution, and by giving more consideration to the realities of local businesses.”  

Ontario small firms lost on average 25% of their revenues during the most significant construction project affecting them over the past five years, and on top of that, spent around $10,000 in extra expenses such as cleaning and repairs. 

While each construction project is unique in its duration, scale and disruptiveness, the top construction impacts affecting Ontario small businesses are traffic congestion, dust, debris or noise (61%), customers and staff having trouble accessing their business or finding parking (52%), delivery and logistics disruptions (49%), sales decreases (42%), and business owners suffering significant stress (25%).  

Over two-thirds (69%) of Ontario small businesses say they should be compensated by government when a public construction project has a major impact on their business operations. CFIB urges governments to establish comprehensive construction mitigation plans with compensation to offset costs for impacted businesses, improved planning and communication strategies, and clarified roles for all levels of government involved.  

“In Ontario, we’re asking the province to create a clear legal path for municipalities to provide direct funding or property tax holidays to small businesses for revenue losses caused by major municipally-funded construction projects,” said Kwiecinski. “At the same time, the Ontario government should introduce a small business construction mitigation fund for provincially-funded and controlled construction, like Metrolinx transit projects.” 

*Editor’s Note: Emails, video calls, regular calls, paperwork, site visits—most construction professionals don’t have hours to go through press releases and news articles detailing the latest business deal in the industry. But we do. Each month we distill all that information into a pure, concentrated product called Business Moves. 

WSP has agreed to acquire POWER Engineers, a U.S. consulting firm specializing in the power and energy sector, for $2.44 billion. WSP officials stated that the acquisition will position them at the forefront of the energy transition. Based in Hailey, Idaho, POWER has approximately 4,000 employees, including approximately 900 shareholders.

Flatiron and Dragados have announced plans to merge operations in North America, powering the two companies’ joint growth potential in the market. ACS Group and HOCHTIEF, the respective owners of Dragados and Flatiron, have agreed on key terms for the combination of the two companies, with ownership of the integrated company held 61.8% by ACS Group and 38.2% by HOCHTIEF. The company will be managed by Peter Davoren as chairman (in addition to his current role as chairman, CEO & resident of Turner) and the current CEO of Flatiron, Javier Sevilla, as CEO. The transaction closing is expected during the second half of 2024.

Arkansas-based Montrose Environmental has acquired Paragon Soil & Environmental Consulting. Headquartered in Edmonton, Paragon’s work spans across Western Canada, bolstering Montrose’s presence in the region while adding additional environmental expertise in select soil and reclamation services. The acquisition also includes Paragon’s active limited partnership, Paragon Infinity which is operated in conjunction with Infinity Métis Corp., a wholly owned Indigenous corporation with the McMurray Métis Local 1935 community in the Wood Buffalo region in northeast Alberta.

Paragon’s partnership with Infinity Métis Corp. is aligned with our commitment to Indigenous relations in the communities where we live and work. We look forward to future involvement with projects in Alberta that provide a material benefit for the local Indigenous community.

Vijay Manthripragada, President and Chief Executive Officer of Montrose Environmental Group

Boundary Electric has been acquired by SABRE and Ampere Alliance. Boundary has 77 years of experience in electrical integration and manufacturing. With offices in Grand Forks and Trail, B.C., Boundary is known for its expertise in supplying low, medium, and high voltage transformers, designing unitized substations and switchgear, and providing advanced solutions for Crypto and AI data centers.

This strategic acquisition, which adds to Ampere Alliance’s existing portfolio of SABRE and Summit Electric, strengthens our capabilities in the data center and high voltage sectors, reinforcing our commitment to driving the green energy transition and meeting the evolving needs of the High Power Computing industry.

SABRE

Vancouver-based Mercer International Inc., a market pulp and solid wood products company, has expanded its reach into the mass timber industry with the launch of a new installation division under its U.S. subsidiary, Mercer Mass Timber LLC. The new division, Mercer Mass Timber Construction Services, based in Spokane Valley, Washington, offers on-site installation and project consulting to support clients transitioning to mass timber construction.

ACCIONA has acquired Darby International Capital’s high-voltage transmission line business in Peru for €220 million, strengthening its position in Latin America. The acquisition includes over 1,200 kilometres of transmission lines and 30 substations, as well as the 30-year concession project “Machupicchu-Quencoro-Onocora-Tintaya,” which will enhance electricity connectivity in southern Peru by 2028.

EllisDon has announced the addition of a new Technology Ecosystem Strategic Partner, Crewscope. The productivity application aligns hourly incentives with project outcomes to increase employee engagement. This announcement follows recent additions of both StruxHub and Touchplan to cement EllisDon’s long-term technology strategy, led by the Data & Digital Engineering Division.

NEXII Inc. has completed the acquisition of Nexii Building Solutions’ assets setting the stage for the relaunch of NEXII’s products. NEXII specializes in precision-manufactured structural wall and roof panel systems for the building industry, addressing rising construction costs, the demand for shorter schedules, and the need for a reduced carbon footprint. 

Alberta-based energy company, Pieridae Energy Ltd., has sold its assets on Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore, where it had once planned to build a natural gas export facility, to an Irish company interested in pursuing a renewable energy project. The $12-million sale includes 108 hectares of coastal property in Goldboro, Guysborough County, along with a construction permit granted by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board, which approved the permit’s transfer earlier this month. Pieridae had spent over a decade working on plans to develop a natural gas liquefaction plant to pipe in gas from across North America before reconsidering the project last year.

Global diversified professional services and investment management company, Colliers has acquired Englobe Corporation, a multi-discipline engineering, environmental and inspection services firm for US$475 million. Englobe’s senior leadership team and employee shareholders will remain shareholders in the business under Colliers’ unique partnership model. Headquartered in Laval, Que., Englobe’s 2,800 professionals provide civil, buildings, geotechnical, and environmental engineering, material testing and related consulting services to public and private sector clients primarily in the transportation, water, buildings, and power end markets.

TC Energy Corporation has announced an equity interest purchase agreement with an Indigenous-owned investment partnership for a minority equity interest of 5.34% in the NGTL System and the Foothills Pipeline assets for a gross purchase price of $1 billion. This partnership will enable up to 72 Indigenous Communities closest to the partnership assets to become equity owners in the 25,000-kilometre highly integrated network of natural gas infrastructure assets spanning western Canada.

Cloverdale Paint has a new exclusive distribution agreement with Tnemec Company, Inc., a 100 year-old manufacturer of heavy duty industrial coatings for oil & gas, chemical, petrochemical, water & wastewater treatment, water storage, industrial process, resinous flooring, and high performance architectural metal and masonry. Cloverdale will have exclusive distribution rights for B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon and North West Territories. 

We are excited to be expanding our product range and customer reach with this new partnership.  Tnemec is a company we have known and respected for years and this is an excellent fit for our business and our customers

Tim Vogel, Chairman and CEO of Cloverdale Paint

Full-service technology consulting firm SiteTechnology has officially launched to serve the industrial sector. The firm is focused on building long-term partnerships with clients, helping them identify and implement technology solutions that make a real difference to their bottom-line. If you are interested in learning more about SiteTechnology and starting your digital journey, visit SiteTechnology.com

Turner Construction Company has agreed to acquire 100% of Dornan Engineering Group, a specialist mechanical, electrical, instrumentation and commissioning engineering contractor with operations in Ireland, the UK, Continental Europe, and the Nordics. Dornan delivers services on complex large-scale projects for blue-chip clients in the advanced technology sector, including data centers and biopharma facilities.

WZMH Architects has launched of Giraffe, an independently owned software company dedicated to revolutionizing the architectural-engineering-construction sectors. Although Giraffe draws on WZMH’s extensive industry expertise, it operates as a separate entity with its own software suite designed to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and collaboration in building design and construction.

Giraffe isn’t just about envisioning the future; we’re building it with solutions born from deep industry understanding and not just IT expertise. With the DNA of Giraffe rooted in WZMH Architects, we bring over 60 years of experience, more than 250 million square feet of designed and constructed buildings, and over 10 million hours of IP production and expertise.

Giraffe

 Darabase Canada, a technology company specializing in immersive media for the spatial web, has forged a strategic partnership with Venturon Ltd., a Canadian-owned investment group focused on real estate technology start-ups. With the rise of augmented reality (AR) enabled devices and advances in the spatial web, the two companies will collaborate to unlock new value for property owners across Venturon’s client and partner network.

Ontario-based Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp has agreed to sell its renewable energy business, excluding its hydropower assets, to developer and independent power producer LS Power for up to US$2.5 billion.

Calgary’s Carbon Upcycling, a decarbonization and carbon capture & utilization technology provider for hard-to-abate industries, has achieved B Corporation certification by the B Lab. The prestigious recognition underscores Carbon Upcycling’s ongoing commitment to meeting rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability and deep commitment to being a powerful force for good.

Key Takeaways:

• WSP has agreed to acquire POWER Engineers, a U.S. consulting firm specializing in the power and energy sector, for $2.44 billion.
• The acquisition of POWER Engineers is expected to enhance WSP’s existing core sectors—transport and infrastructure, property and buildings, and earth and environment—while creating new cross-selling opportunities and driving accelerated growth in the power and energy sector.
• The acquisition is a key step in WSP’s long-term strategy to lead the global energy transition.

The Whole Story:

Global professional services firm WSP has entered into an agreement to acquire POWER Engineers, a U.S. consulting firm that focuses on the power and energy sector, for $2.44 billion.

WSP stated that POWER stands out with its nearly 50-year legacy of innovation and technical excellence, a highly respected brand, and a reputation for delivering on complex projects. Based in Hailey, Idaho, POWER’s team of approximately 4,000 employees, including approximately 900 shareholders, has a track record of serving the most prominent power utilities in North America.

The proposed acquisition is a strategic move in alignment with WSP’s vision to expand and enhance its power and energy services.

Once the proposed acquisition is closed, the integration of POWER is expected to complement WSP’s existing three core sectors: Transport and infrastructure, property and buildings, and earth and environment; it will also create extensive cross-selling opportunities. WSP officials noted that welcoming POWER to their power and energy platform, which will be led globally by Holger Peller, the current president and COO of POWER, is anticipated to drive accelerated growth.

WSP officials stated that the proposed acquisition underscores WSP’s commitment to its long-term vision and 2022-2024 Global Strategic Action Plan, marking a pivotal step in building a leading global power and energy franchise.

“The acquisition will mark a transformative step that will position us at the forefront of the energy transition. This opportunity brings forth a wealth of strategic benefits, including an expanded suite of innovative solutions for our clients and continuous professional growth opportunities for our employees,” commented Alexandre L’Heureux President and Chief Executive Officer of WSP. “By uniting WSP’s extensive global network and POWER’s deep technical expertise, we are poised to provide exceptional solutions and service quality to foster significant advancements in the communities we serve. The trust of our shareholders and our commitment to excellence will empower us to influence the future of the energy sector as we plan to expand our reach and power a sustainable future across the globe.”

Also commenting on the Acquisition, Jim Haynes, Chief Executive Officer of POWER said: “POWER and WSP truly are stronger together. By joining forces, we can supercharge our ability to help clients and communities around the world adapt to the changing energy landscape—and provide more opportunities for our team members to work on the most challenging projects. We’re looking forward to building success together with WSP.”

Key Takeaways:

• Flatiron and Dragados, owned by ACS Group and HOCHTIEF respectively, are merging to form one of the largest civil engineering and construction firms in North America.
• The merged company, Flatiron Dragados, will be owned 61.8% by ACS Group and 38.2% by HOCHTIEF.
• The integrated business has a backlog of USD 17.2 billion as of H1 2024, with revenue of USD 6.1 billion in 2023 and USD 3.1 billion in H1 2024. It operates in 24 U.S. states and eight Canadian provinces.
• The merger aims to create significant synergies and economies of scale, offering a strong platform for organic growth in North America.

The Whole Story:

Two North American construction giants are merging to create one of the largest civil engineering and construction firms on the continent. 

Flatiron and Dragados have announced plans to merge operations in North America, powering the two companies’ joint growth potential in the market. 

ACS Group and HOCHTIEF, the respective owners of Dragados and Flatiron, have agreed on key terms for the combination of the two companies, with ownership of the integrated company held 61.8% by ACS Group and 38.2% by HOCHTIEF. The company will be managed by Peter Davoren as chairman (in addition to his current role as chairman, CEO & resident of Turner) and the current CEO of Flatiron, Javier Sevilla, as CEO. The transaction closing is expected during the second half of 2024.

The integrated business has a backlog of USD $17.2 billion H1 2024, with revenue of USD 6.1 billion in 2023 and USD 3.1 billion in H1 2024. It has a long-standing presence in 24 states of the United States and eight Canadian provinces.

“Bringing together Flatiron and Dragados creates a strong platform for organic growth in North America,” said Juan Santamaría, CEO of HOCHTIEF. “They have the expertise, the long-term clients and are geographically complementary, providing significant synergies and economies of scale. We differentiate our commercial offering through our superior technical resources and skills.”

Santamaría added that Flatiron and Dragados North America employees have a long history of working together.

“The new company will have the most respected and recognized value proposition in its sectors, having delivered renowned projects across the United States and Canada, and can look forward to an even stronger future,” he said.

The company, named Flatiron Dragados, will continue to serve clients across its existing markets and support strong community and stakeholder relationships.

The company’s order backlog of USD 17.2 billion H1 2024 is weighted towards collaborative projects, with approximately 40% secured under this model.

Officials explained that the transformation into a new entity creates synergies and economies of scale. The simplified structure will ensure a consistent approach to operations, including tender processes, procurement strategies and risk management, and be value accretive for shareholders of ACS Group and HOCHTIEF.

The integrated company has a strong track record in civil engineering and construction (including roads and bridges, airports, railways, ports, dams and water treatment plants as well as tunneling projects).

Recently, through a joint venture, the companies have been working on the $1.2-billion Harbor Bridge project in Corpus Christi, Texas. It is currently slated for completion in 2025.