President's Message

The need for workforce skills development cuts across all of our councils. Elaine Gerrie-Valentini, COO of Gerrie Electric Wholesale Limited, a member of the Supply & Distribution Council worked with other wholesale distributors in the Golden Horseshoe to convince Mohawk to produce a program to train students on distribution which was needed. Their success in the Hamilton area is now on-line and becoming a success all across Canada.

The other day I received an invitation from a Mohawk alumnus to attend the Second Annual President’s Dinner. I was keen to learn more about the college that is until I found out that the dinner coincided with the Russia-Canada hockey game. A commitment aside, I was glad I attended.

They get it, by that I mean they understand what industry needs and provide practical job oriented skills which will enhance the productivity and competitiveness of enterprises. Rob Mac Isaac, President of Mohawk College announced the establishment of Mohawk College Enterprise dedicated to Corporate Training & Partnership.

The hockey game ended as it should and congratulations to Elaine and Mohawk for their good work.

Affiliated Distributors Appointment - Chris Scott

Congratulations goes to Chris Scott for his appointment as Vice-President of Electrical Supply and Distribution Canada with Affiliated Distributors.

Announcement: Jim Taggart, Vice President, Vendor Relations, Sonepar Canada

Keith Moss, President & CEO, Sonepar Canada Inc. is pleased to announce that effective February 22nd, Jim Taggart joined Sonepar Canada as Vice President, Vendor Relations.

Jim has an extensive background in the electrical industry, initially with T&B where his14 year tenure included various sales and marketing positions, culminating with being appointed the Vice President of Marketing for the electrical division, based in Memphis, Tennessee. More recently, he was President of Legrand Canada since 2000, where he had overall responsibility for all aspects of their operations in Canada. Jim is also the current chairman of the board of Electro-Federation Canada, where he has been an active participant for the past ten years.

In his new role, Jim will be responsible for building and developing relationships with all key vendors in Canada, while working closely with all of the operating companies to ensure that they can maximize their joint efforts in the most effective and efficient manner.

EFC wishes Jim all the best with his new role.

UN Warns Developing Countries of Growing E-waste

Developing countries need to prepare for an avalanche of e-waste generated by PCs, consumer electronics and appliances, the United Nations said in a study released Monday.


By 2020, the e-waste levels from old computers will jump by 500 percent in India and by 200 percent to 400 percent in countries like South Africa and China from the 2007 levels, the study said. E-waste from discarded mobile phones in 2020 will be about seven times higher than 2007 levels in China and about 18 times higher in India, the U.N. said. Read more.

Osso Electric Supplies Announcement - Mark Bergeron

Jim Wamsley, General Manager, Osso Electric Supplies is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Bergeron to the position of Branch Manager for our Osso Markham Location. Mark has held various positions in the electrical industry for 20 years, including Sales, Branch Management, Regional Management and Vendor Relations. EFC wishes Mark well with his new endeavor.

Announcing Appointment of Robert Harvey as President of Kenwood Electronics Canada Inc.

Kaz Aigami, President of Kenwood Corporation in Japan, and Junji Kobayashi, President of Kenwood U.S.A., are pleased to announce the appointment of Robert Harvey as President of Kenwood Electronics Canada Inc.

For the past eight years, Mr. Harvey has been General Manager, Communications Division, served on the company’s executive committee and participated in the action planning at Kenwood U.S.A. From 1997 to 2003, Mr. Harvey was the National Sales Manager, Communications. Prior to joining Kenwood, Mr. Harvey held various senior management positions both in Canada and in the United States. Read more.

There is still time to nominate an industry leader for the IRA!

EFC members have until Friday, March 19th to nominate a deserving individual for the Industry Recognition Award. Click here to nominate!

Mail or fax to:

Industry Recognition Award 2010

Electro-Federation Canada

180 Attwell Drive, Suite 300

Toronto, Ontario M9W 6A9

Confidential Fax: 416-679-0311

Who is eligible to be nominated?

• Any individual who has influenced the Canadian electrical, electronics, appliances, or telecommunications industry either as a current or retired industry delegate or as an industry supporter. 

• This award is not restricted to EFC members. 

• The nominee must demonstrate strong leadership through their personal and professional industry involvement over a period of years. He/she must also symbolize dedication, balance, and achievement in regional, national and/or community activities. 

Click here to view a list of past recipients.

EFC's Annual General Meeting & Business Program

April 8th, 2010 is Electro-Federation Canada's Annual General Meeting which begins at 1:15pm (registration opens at 12:45pm) followed by a reception and dinner where the Industry Recognition Award will be presented. 

The following speakers are lined up:

• Elyse Allan, President & CEO, GE Canada
• Bob Branscombe, President, Independent Electric Supply  Inc.
• Jayson Myers, President & CEO, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME)
• Sean Brady, Director, Demand Response and Industrial Programs, Ontario Power Authority

Click here to register. For further information, please contact Sue Adler at 647-258-7476.

Standard Pro Named One of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies

Congratulations to Standard Products for being named one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Company's!

According to Standard's CEO David Nathanial, “It starts with our employees because unless they are challenged and have the right tools at their disposal, the best laid plans will never materialize. From a market perspective, we are investing the majority of our sales resources on demand creation which entails relationship building with end users, contractors, and specifiers. Simultaneously, we are building strategic relationships with distributors who appreciate the value that we provide and are interested in participating with us to drive growth. Last but certainly not least, are the relationships we continue to build with our manufacturing partners around the world.”

Read the full Press Release.

Click on the National Post Ad.

Ottawa Takes Important Step in Managing Its Electronic Waste

The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, announced, February 22nd, that the Government of Canada has introduced new measures for the environmentally sound recycling of federal surplus electronic and electrical equipment that has reached its end of life, thereby supporting the e-waste recycling industry in Canada.

"The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that its electronic waste is disposed of in a safe, secure and cost-effective manner," said Minister Ambrose. "The government takes this issue very seriously. A key element of the government's greening operations agenda is the implementation of a strategy to ensure federal e-waste is being disposed of in an environmentally sound manner." Read more.

President's Message

April 8, 2010 has been set as the date for the Annual General Meeting of Electro-Federation. We begin with the formal AGM where a State of the Federation Report is provided to members, required resolutions are tabled, and a new Board of Directors is elected.

This is followed by a business program; we have confirmations from Elyse Allan, President & CEO, GE Canada, Jay Myers, President & CEO, Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, and Bob Branscombe, President, Independent Electric Supply Inc. W are also recruiting a speaker on the Ontario Green Energy Act.

Next is a business networking function, and the presentation of the Industry Recognition Award. A reminder, the deadline for nominations is March 19, 2010.

The focus of the business program is to highlight new business opportunities, bring members up to date on the latest developments in Canadian economy, manufacturing competitiveness and trade issues.

OSRAM Enters Joint Venture with LED System and Solution Specialist Traxon Technologies

OSRAM has strengthened its portfolio in the field of professional LED systems and solutions by setting up a joint venture with Traxon Technologies Ltd. The new company, in which OSRAM has the majority share, is one of the leading providers in the fast-growing market for LED technology in the field of architectural, hospitality and retail. The company operates globally in Asia, Europe and North America. Read more.

Minister Van Loan Marks Coming-into-Force of Canada-U.S. Agreement Waiving Buy American Provisions

The Honourable Peter Van Loan, Minister of International Trade, today made the following statement to mark the implementation of the Canada-U.S. agreement on government procurement:

“Today marks an important day in Canada and the United States—the coming-into-force of the agreement on Buy American that we announced two weeks ago. The respective governments have ratified the deal, which took effect on February 16. Read more.

E.B. Horsman & Son named one of “Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies” for 2009

E.B. Horsman & Son is proud to announce that it has been named as one of “Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies” for 2009. This prestigious award is sponsored by Deloitte, CIBC Commercial Banking, National Post, and Queen’s School of Business.

The Best Managed program celebrates its 17^th anniversary this year, and winning companies continue to raise the bar for Canadian business success, by showcasing their adaptability and sustainability. Read more.

Epson Voted Number One Overall Home Video Company by inside track for Third Year in a Row

Epson, the number one selling projector brand worldwide, announced that it has been ranked the number one Home Video company in the annual Supplier Loyalty Report by inside track for the third consecutive year. The report is based on an independent survey of consumer electronics retailers and custom installers throughout North America.

Of the four product-related categories, Epson received top-tier grades in three, including an A in Product Reliability, an A- in Product Innovation and an A- in Product Performance. Epson also received top marks for Resolution of Service, Quality of Sales Representatives and Ease of Doing Business. Read more.

StatsCanada Monthly Survey of Manufacturing - December

Manufacturing sales rose 1.6% in December to $43.0 billion. The gains were mostly concentrated in the transportation equipment industry. This was the sixth increase in overall manufacturing sales in seven months and the highest level since December 2008. Gains in the aerospace product and parts, the motor vehicle and the petroleum and coal product industries were largely responsible for December's increase. Constant dollar manufacturing sales increased 2.1% in December. Read more.

Ideal Supply Company Ltd is Requalified as a “Best Managed Company”

Ideal Supply Company Ltd. is proud to announce that for the third year in a row it has earned the status as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies. The company was a winner of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies program in 2007 and continues this excellence as a Requalified member again in 2009. Read more.

Whirlpool Corporation Inks Deal to use Collaborative Cost Management Software

Appliance manufacturer Whirlpool Corporation has inked a deal to use collaborative cost-management software from co-eXprise, the solution provider has announced.

Whirlpool, the world's largest manufacturer of appliances, will use the software-as-a-service CX4 software solution, which is aimed at capturing the increased efficiencies associated with collaborative cost management for sourcing direct material and complex indirect spend categories via a secure Web-based solution. Read more.

President's Message

Last Friday, Supply & Distributions' Ontario Region organized a successful Valentine’s dance. The atmosphere was upbeat, and the turnout was very respectable. What struck me the most was that there were many members that I did not recognize. My first reaction was that I am hopelessly out of touch, however, upon reflection I realized the positive side and that is that the event was successful in attracting people for the member companies who otherwise might not get involved in the association. 

One of the goals behind establishing the Ontario Region has been to reach deeper into member companies with networking events and relevant guest speakers so that the next generation of industry leaders can build on the success of senior members of the Federation.

We were also pleased to see guests from Toronto Hydro.

IPEX Announcements

Retirement Announcement – Alain Lanthier

After 32 years of distinguished service and dedication contributing to the success of the IPEX Group, Mr. Alain Lanthier will be retiring on March 1, 2010.

Organizational Announcement – Russ Morgan

The IPEX Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Russ Morgan to the position of Vice-President, Sales & Marketing - Canada. Mr. Morgan will be celebrating 25 years of service with IPEX this year.  For the past ten years, Russ has held the position of General Sales Manager for Eastern Canada.

GE Launches Project Assistant

New Web-based tool delivers plans for engineers in 15 minutes
Over the past two years, GE Energy's Electrical Distribution Division has developed a Web-based tool. Project Assistant allows engineers to gather electrical distribution specs, drawings, and budget prices for a building in the planning stages in about 15 minutes. This process can normally take hours, days, or even weeks to complete. Read more.

New Lighting Agents for Hubbell Canada

Debbie Drozda, Director of Sales & Marketing Lighting of Hubbell Canada LP announces the new agent Turkil Sales Limited. Effective February 4th, Turkil Sales Limited will represent Hubbell Lighting in the Ottawa area replacing W.S. Sales Assoc. Ltd. The Principal is Gilles R. De Grandpre and the contact information is as follows:

Address: 1775 Courtwood Crescent, Suite 202, Ottawa, ON K2C 3J2

Tel:          613-728-7094

Fax:         613-728-3494

Also, effective January 23rd, AFS Agency will represent Hubbell Lighting in Atlantic Canada. The Principal is Mark Sadofsky and the contact information is as follows:

Address:  6310 Cornwall Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3L 3M6

Tel:          902-483-1885

Fax:         888-316-5855

EEMAC Lighting Section Update

The EEMAC Lighting Section has elected Chris Scott on as Chair. Chris is the VP of Sales and Marketing at OSRAM SYLVANIA and has been an active supporter of EFC. He has also served as Chair of the Supply & Distribution Council.

Linda Menheere, Marketing Manager of Beghelli Canada Inc. was elected Vice Chair of the Lighting Section

Wayne Edwards, VP of EEMAC and the section members thanked Martyn Timmings of Philips Canlyte for his many of dedicated service to the Lighting Section and industry. Martyn will continue as a member of this Section.

OSRAM SYLVANIA -- 2010 Training Course Schedule Now Available

OSRAM SYLVANIA is pleased to present the 2010 course offering for LIGHTPOINT Canada. They are committed to providing the highest quality of lighting education by offering courses designed to deliver pertinent information in an atmosphere conducive to learning. Courses that are being offered this year include; Lighting Essentials, LED Lighting Application Workshop, an online L.C. Examination Study Workshop and a  timely course entitled Lighting for Tomorrow - Going Green Workshop. All sessions will occur within the April to September timeframe. 

Attached you will find a brief summary of the courses being offered in Mississauga. Detailed information and registration for your readers is available in the attached brochure and online at http://www.sylvania.com/Lighting101/LearnLighting/LIGHTPOINT/CourseCatalog. If you require additional information about these illuminating courses, please contact Laura Fuller, Manager, Communications and Marketing Services at 905-671-5620 or laura.fuller@sylvania.com.

Motorola Targets First Quarter 2011 to Separate into Two Independent, Publicly Traded Companies

Motorola, Inc. announced the Company is targeting the first quarter of 2011 for its planned separation.  Motorola intends to separate into two independent, publicly traded companies. One will include the Company’s Mobile Devices and Home businesses, and the other will include its Enterprise Mobility Solutions and Networks businesses. 

Dr. Sanjay Jha, co-chief executive officer of Motorola, Inc., will serve as chief executive officer of Motorola’s Mobile Devices and Home businesses effective immediately.  This business will offer a comprehensive portfolio of mobile converged devices, digital entertainment devices in the home, and end-to-end video, voice and data solutions.  Working with network operator partners, the company will also enable more advanced personalized services that leverage the capability of expanding wireless and wireline broadband availability. Read more.

Audiovox Acquires Mobile Video Leader INViSiON Industries

Audiovox Corporation announced that it has acquired the assets of Invision Industries Inc., a leading manufacturer of rear seat entertainment systems to OEMs, ports, and car dealers. The assets were acquired by a new subsidiary of Audiovox, Invision Automotive Systems Inc ("IAS").  

Invision has been a significant supplier to the mobile entertainment industry with a focus on developing innovative and award-winning rear seat entertainment systems primarily for the OE marketplace and the acquisition includes a robust patent portfolio. Read more.

President's Message -- Buy American Amendment

Due to recent negotiations, The Buy American Act of 2009 has been amended.

EFC has worked within Manufacturing Coalition spearheaded by CME on the removal of the barriers to Canadian Exports stemming from the provisions of the Buy American Act.

Although change to the Act is still required, the agreement is a positive step towards removing barriers and exports to the United States.

For more information, click on the following links from the Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada site:

Buy America Backgrounder
Press Release: Canada and United States Reach Agreement on Buy American

~ Milos Jancik

Consumer confidence reaches 23-month high, Conference Board reports

The Index of Consumer Confidence rose 13.8 percentage points in January to 23-month high, according to the latest survey conduced by the Conference Board of Canada.

"The index is over 40 points higher than it was one year ago. This suggests that Canadians are seeing a light at the end of the recession tunnel," said Pedro Antunes, director of the board's National and Provincial Forecast.

The Index of Consumer Confidence now stands at 96.6 (2002 = 100).

Read more.

CSA Standards announces the Canadian adoption of "ISO 31000 Risk Management - Principles and Guidelines" Standard

CSA Standards, officially announced Canada's adoption and availability of the ISO 31000 Risk Management standard. CAN/CSA ISO 31000 Risk Management – Principles and Guidelines is a national standard that provides principles, framework, and process for managing risk in a transparent, systematic and credible manner. ISO 31000 is not specific to any country, industry or sector and can be used by any public, private or community enterprise, association, group or individual. Read more.

Fluke Awarded $1.4M US Federal Grant To Establish Smart Grid Calibration Technology

Goal Is to Increase Electrical Reliability and Reduce Power Interruptions

Fluke Corporation will receive $1.4M in federal stimulus funding, made possible by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, to ensure the Smart Grid is reliable and stable, and ready to accept power from renewable resources including wind and solar. Read more.

Samsung Surpasses HP as the World’s Biggest Technology Company

The Financial Times reported that Samsung surpassed HP as the world’s biggest technology company based on sales. This was achieved by achieving annual sales in 2009 of $117.8. Billion over HP’s $114.6 Billion. Even putting into consideration that 2009 was technically a recessionary year, Samsung still managed to grow and grab the coveted #1 spot. While this comes as little surprise to most who have been following the South Korean giant, it has been a long time in the making. Read more.

Electric consumer goods manufacturers named greenest companies in the world

Consumer electronics companies Sony and Nokia were among five international businesses named the greenest companies in the world in 2009.

Sony Europe was named Greenest Company of 2009 for its pro-active attitudes towards manufacturing environmentally friendly electronics products, creative green community projects and its ongoing efforts to actively reduce its carbon footprint said Sony in a February 1 press release. Read more.

Harris Stratex Changes Company Name to Aviat Networks

Name Selected to accentuate the Company's Position as the Wireless Expert in Solutions for Advanced IP Network Migration

Marking the third anniversary of the merger between the Microwave Communications Division of Harris Corporation and Stratex Networks, Inc., Harris Stratex Networks, Inc. announced that it has changed its name to Aviat Networks, Inc. Along with the name change, the Company's ticker symbol will change to AVNW and its common stock will continue to trade on NASDAQ. Read more.

Shareholders approve restructuring plan -- Thomson becomes Technicolor

The Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of Thomson was held January 27th, chaired by Frederic Rose, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, in the presence of the Board of Directors and of Thomson’s senior management.

Shareholders of the Group approved all resolutions, including those pertaining to the Restructuring Plan made public by Thomson on 9 December 2009, and already approved by all creditors’ committees (Suppliers, Lenders and Noteholders) on 21 & 22 December 2009. Read more.