MBiz

21 MBiz | november 2015 room and fitness centre help make staff feel appreciated. Furthermore, the work-friendly environment gives everyone space to work more efficiently. "We had nearly 120 people in our old location and prior to our move had moved a trailer on the grounds to accommodate the overflow of staff," Depres says. "Now, our new building can handle 150 people comfortably." The Group's head office houses Corporate Services as well as the Ag Industrial and Sunstone business units. Energy and Bulk Material Handling business units are housed in the company's Calgary and Vancouver offices respectively. "We've improved our focus, creating the strategic resources necessary to pursue select target markets wherever opportunities arise," says Depres. "There are separate management teams in all four business units. It's just part of the overall corporate structure that we've adopted." The strategic direction not only involves increasing market share in Canada, but venturing farther afield, employing the same business model that has brought FWS Group success to date. "Our service, which allows clients to deal with just one party from the earliest stages of project development through to completion, resonates well with our existing client base. We're hoping it will resonate equally well with new target markets. We've met some aggressive targets, and hope to continue that success," Depres says. As has been the case in the past, FWS' entry into new markets will be sector-specific. However, the company has not yet identified the geographic markets it will target. "We know we have a business model that works, and are now doing research to see where it will best fit with other markets," Depres says. "The market in Canada has been strong for a number of years, but we all recognize that conditions are constantly changing. Our research will provide an understanding of where we may need to look next, whether in North America or elsewhere internationally." While the idea of expanding into new markets is exciting, there's no rush to pull the trigger, he adds. "To do it right, we need to plan ahead, do our research and be careful that our vision is clear." For now, the management team at the FWS Group is committed to improving efficiency and building strength in established Canadian markets. Then, as appropriate international opportunities arise, the company plans to be prepared to seize the day. "Our executive has been very focused on creating the right business structure to sustain and add capacity for future growth," says Depres. "Now, it's a matter of making the right decisions as we move forward." Learn more at www.fwsgroup.com. ■ ag iNdusTrial: 275 Commerce drive winnipeg MB r3P 1B3, Canada Tel 204-487-2500 Bulk MaTerial haNdliNg: suite 20 - 2920 Virtual way Vancouver BC V5a 4N7, Canada Tel (604) 454-2476 eNergY: #6 3419-12th street N.e. Calgary aB T2e 6s6, Canada Tel (403) 717-0422 suNsToNe: 275 Commerce drive winnipeg MB r3P 1B3, Canada Tel 204-487-2500

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