SAAM Towage Canada signs historic agreement to form a strategic alliance with Coast Tsimshian Enterprises Ltd.

SAAM Towage Canada and Coast Tsimshian Enterprises Ltd. are proud to announce the signing of a strategic alliance agreement. This is the first of its kind for the Canadian Pacific Rim trailer industry and is the result of years of collaboration and dialogue between the parties. It is a true example of how industry and indigenous communities can work together for mutual benefit.

“Today’s announcement reflects our ongoing commitment to reconciliation and building trusting, respectful and meaningful relationships with local Indigenous communities,” said Sander Bikkers, General Manager of SAAM Towage Canada. “We have been very honored to live, work and participate in the traditional territory of the coastal Tsimshian peoples. “Many members of the community have made significant contributions to SAAM, serving in roles such as captains, mechanics, deckhands and others. We hope this announcement will lead to further opportunities, partnerships and understanding,” Bikkers concluded.

Through this long-term alliance, SAAM Towage Canada will provide high-quality vessel towing, berthing and escort services in the traditional territory of the coastal Tsimshian, including the ports of Prince Rupert and Prince Edward. In addition, the alliance will establish long-term sustainable benefits for the Lax Kw’alaams and the Metlakatla First Nation and provide access to education, training and employment opportunities for its members.

“I am pleased that we have been able to formalize our relationship,” said Lax Kw’alaams Mayor Garry Reece. “We value SAAM Towage’s contributions to our community members over the years and are confident that with our support SAAM Towage will prosper in our territory.” Harold Leighton, Executive Director of the Metlakatla Development Corporation, agrees, noting “I appreciate the opportunity that this alliance between Coast Tsimshian Enterprises and SAAM Towage represents. We hope this represents many years of cooperation and success.”

The agreement is effective immediately.

About SAAM Towage

SAAM Towage is the leading company in towing services on the continent. It is part of SAAM, a multinational company that provides services to international trade through its three business divisions: Port Terminals, Tugboats and Logistics.

With 60 years of experience, SAAM is present in 14 countries in North, Central and South America, generating employment for some 8,500 workers.

About Coast Tsimshian Enterprises

Coast Tsimshian Enterprises Ltd. is a 100% indigenous-owned collaborative business divided between the Lax Kw’alaams and the Metlakatla First Nation. Our mandate is to promote and develop business opportunities for the benefit of our shareholders. Since our inception in 2011, Coast Tsimshian Enterprises has a history of partnering with world-class organizations to promote the development and implementation of opportunities for Lax Kw’alaams and the Metlakatla First Nation.