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As one of Canada's leading national general contractors, Bird Construction continues to cover the country from coast to coast with its construction projects. Founded in 1920 by H.J. Bird in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, the company has evolved into seven national branches and is actively involved in institutional, commercial and industrial construction.
On August 31, 2011, Bird marked another milestone in its corporate history as the company completed a $78.5 million purchase of the outstanding shares of H.J. O'Connell, Limited. H.J. O'Connell has been a leader in the heavy construction, civil construction and contract surface mining sectors since 1931 with operations in Newfoundland and Labrador, Northern Quebec and Manitoba. H.J. O'Connell operates a large fleet of heavy civil and mining equipment in support of its construction operations.
The acquisition is important for both companies to continue their growth in the Canadian construction industry as Brian LeMessurier, President of H.J. O'Connell says, "We are pleased with our growth over the past number of years, but in order to continue with our strategy without placing undue pressure on our resources, we searched for a strategic partnership. In Bird, I am pleased that we found a partner close to home."
Bird and H.J. O'Connell share many similarities including their core values of safety and sustainability, and their deliberate operating style; however, the most notable aspect of the acquisition is that each firm's market exists independent of one another - thereby, uniting two companies free of geographic sector overlap.
Looking forward to the enhanced growth prospects for the combined business of the two companies, Tim Talbott, President and CEO of Bird says, "We will be able to offer a broader range of services to particular clients within each of our operating areas, while providing interesting project opportunities for our valuable employees as the organization grows."
Through the respective strengths that each firm possesses, both organizations will be able to capitalize on the anticipated growth in the markets they serve. |
