Norda Stelo Inc. acquires Vancouver-based CWA Engineers

QUEBEC CITY, QUE. – Quebec-based engineering consulting firm Norda Stelo Inc. has acquired CWA Engineers (CWA) in Vancouver.

Norda Stelo’s background is in automation, port and rail infrastructure design, and liquid/gas material handling, which a Norda Stelo release stated “aligns seamlessly with CWA’s deep knowledge in bulk material handling.”

Together the two companies will shape a “site-to-port” strategy by fortifying their value chain from resource extraction to national and global distribution.

“With CWA, we have an opportunity to enhance our service offering to long-term client partnerships from both companies and to expand our reach with significant projects nationally and in foreign markets, focusing on the U.S.A. and beyond,” Norda Stelo president and CEO Alex Brisson said in a statement.

After the conclusion of the six-month acquisition period the combined firms will operate under the Norda Stelo brand. The acquisition will incorporate over 100 engineers, technologists, designers, and support staff into the company’s existing 750 employees and locations and leadership will remain consistent, the release said, with CWA CEO Raymond Chu assuming the role of vice-president for Western Canada and the U.S., operating from the former CWA offices in Vancouver.

CDPQ also participated in the merger with a $12 million loan.

“CDPQ is proud to support the expansion of this Québec company and support its entry in the western Canadian engineering market. This initial investment by CDPQ in Norda Stelo will help drive the company’s activities to its next stage of growth. In addition to more broadly promoting its industrial engineering expertise, this transaction will also open international doors for the company with new contracts in various regions,” stated CDPQ vice-president and head of Quebec Kim Thomassin.

The transaction is part of CDPQ’s Ambition ME strategy, which involves supporting medium-sized companies with strong development potential and driving their next stage of growth, the release said.