Association of Canadian Port Authorities Media Release
THUNDER BAY, ON.- On Thursday, the Association of Canadian Port Authorities (ACPA) presented Richardson International Limited, a pioneer in the grain industry, with the prestigious ACPA Medal of Merit Award at the 58th annual ACPA conference.
Richardson International Limited has contributed to Canada’s economic growth for more than 150 years and has evolved into the country’s largest agribusiness, bringing Canadian agriculture to the world since 1857.
The company, that is often referred to as the longest continually running, family-operated business in Canada, was the first to handle western grown grain and to build elevators in many Prairie communities.
The company’s first elevator set a new precedent for grain terminals with its expedited handling and loading capabilities.
“Richardson International Limited is truly a Canadian-grown success story.
The company recognizes the value in marine shipping and has invested heavily in a transportation system that relies on marine terminals for export and transshipment.
The company plays a significant role in several ports across Canada with port terminals in Vancouver, Hamilton, Sore, Prince Rupert and Thunder Bay, which is the host community of this year’s ACPA conference,” said Wendy Zatylny, President of ACPA.
This year marks a century since James Richardson selected the site for the Richardson terminal to be built in Thunder Bay. The company unloaded its first railcar of grain on January 3, 1919, and has since become the largest grain storage capacity of any operator in Thunder Bay.
“Richardson has had a presence on the Seaway System for over 150 years and a significant presence in Thunder Bay;” said Tim Heney, Thunder Bay Port Authority CEO. “The company has consistently been among the top shippers of cargo from the Port of Thunder Bay, becoming a major economic driver in the city, contributing to local jobs, local spending and industrial tax revenue.”
Six generations of the Richardson family have been instrumental to the company’s success. The company is involved in every stage of agriculture and continues to stay true to its pioneer spirit. "On behalf of the Richardson family, I extend a sincere thank you to the Association of Canadian
Port Authorities for bestowing Richardson International with the Medal of Merit.
It is a testament to the men and women of our organization whose hard work and dedication to our Thunder Bay facility have kept it thriving for nearly 100 years," said Hartley T. Richardson, President & Chief Executive Officer of James Richardson & Sons, Limited and Chairman of Richardson International Limited.
The Medal of Merit recognizes outstanding works or service on a national platform by an individual, institution, or organization in the port, shipping or Maritimes fields. ACPA has awarded the Medal of Merit annually since 1975.
Follow the Association of Canadian Port Authorities Annual Conference on Twitter @ACPA2016. For more information, please visit acpa2016.ca.
