JACKSONVILLE, Fla., July 14, 2010 – W&O, the United States’ largest supplier of marine valves, pipe, fittings, engineered products and valve automation systems, is now incorporated in Canada and has opened a new facility in Vancouver, BC Canada. The new facility will directly service Canadian customers and support W&O’s overall growth in the Canadian maritime market.
“W&O has serviced Canadian marine customers for many years; however, establishing W&O Canada will make it easier for all Canadian customers to do business with us,†said Jack Guidry, President and CEO of W&O. “Our business is focused on delivering exceptional marine solutions and products to our maritime customers. Incorporating in Canada and opening the facility in Vancouver is the next step in the evolution and continued international growth of W&O.â€
The new Vancouver facility and dedicated staff combine resources and experience to develop customized maritime solutions for ship owners/operators, shipyards and marine engineers. The products, experience and solutions coupled with Vancouver’s geographic position, serving as a Canadian logistics hub and major shipping point for Asia, positions W&O for continued international growth.
“Our location on Annacis Island in Vancouver is central to the major transportation arteries in the region, providing increased efficiency for all customers serviced by our Vancouver branch,†said Bruce McLachlin, Regional Manager of the Pacific Northwest for W&O.
With a comprehensive product offering similar to W&O’s U.S. branches, the Vancouver branch offers Lloyds-approved pipe, valves and fittings along with American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)-certified and Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS)-certified marine products.
“Our Canadian customers have told us they have been looking forward to the opening of our Canadian branch in Vancouver. Offering inventory priced in Canadian dollars offers increased convenience in delivering needed product in a specified timeline without the concerns over fluctuations in the Canadian dollar’s exchange rate,†said Steve Talbot, Vancouver Branch Manager for W&O. “Opening the Canadian location during this current economic climate illustrates W&O’s commitment to the Canadian market and the value W&O delivers to our Canadian customers.â€
ABOUT W&O
Founded in 1975, W&O is the United States’ largest supplier of valves, pipe, fittings, engineered products and automated valve systems for the marine and offshore industries. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, the company has 15 U.S. stocking locations and three international locations in Antwerp, Belgium; Rotterdam, The Netherlands; and Vancouver, Canada. W&O is committed to providing integrated solutions for the marine industry, including the U.S. Navy, commercial shipping companies, barge owners, cruise companies, offshore industry and shipyards all across North America, South America, Europe and Asia. For more information about W&O, visit www.wosupply.com.
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