Seven aftermarket companies named to Best Managed list

Seven automotive aftermarket companies have been named to Deloitte’s Best Managed Companies list.

The annual list showcases management excellent at privately-owned Canadian companies with annual revenues over $15 million.

There 47 new winners in 2019.

Among those that have won the distinction in the past and are on the list again this year, are seven aftermarket companies:

• Point S Canada/Unimax Tire
• Spectra Premium
• Surewerx
• Fountain Tire
• Mister Lube Canada
• Wakefield Canada
• Groupe Deschenes Inc. (Ideal Supply)

Bruno Leclair, president and CEO of Boucherville, Que.-based Point S Canada/Unimax Tire, said Point S/Unimax Tire made the list for the second straight year in recognition of its overall performance and sustained growth.

With over 850 independent retailers and over three million tires sold every year, Point S/Unimax Tire Ltd. shifted its focus to retail three years ago when it turned its main brand, Unipneu, into Point S.

“We’re upgrading our network and now have auto centres in seven different Canadian provinces. In addition to Point S, we’ve launched two other tire and automotive service banners—V1 and Otobox—that each address specific needs among our customers,” he said.

It is the 10^thyear on the Best Managed list for Wakefield Canada, the long-time distributor of Castrol lubricants in Canada, putting it in “platinum” status.

“I am proud of our team, our accomplishments, and this recognition,” said Wakefield president Dave Fifield. “I believe this Platinum Club status serves to remind us that we continue to make great progress in moving our business forward with significant accomplishments year after year.”

According to Deloitte, this year’s companies attribute success to an increased focus on investment in technology and talent, innovation, and cross-border business. Best Managed winners also make future planning a priority by actively identifying and preparing for new challenges on the horizon.

“Every year the bar set by this elite roster of Best Managed companies is raised higher,” said Peter E. Brown, national co-leader of the Canada’s Best Managed Companies program and Partner, Deloitte Private. “Now 26 years since the program’s inception, Best Managed companies are taking their successes global. Not only are winners securing Canada’s place on the world stage, they’re also proving to be more productive and sustainable across borders.”

Applicants are evaluated by an independent judging panel comprised of representatives from program sponsors in addition to special guest judges. The 2019 Best Managed companies share commonalities that include a clear strategy and vision, investment in capability, and commitment to talent.

“Best Managed” is a flagship program presented by Deloitte Private, a division of Deloitte. The Best Managed Companies network continues its expansion beyond Canadian borders, now with presence in 14 countries globally.

https://www2.deloitte.com/ca/en/pages/canadas-best-managed-companies/articles/meet-our-winners.html