For some it would have been torture…
Posted on August 13, 2019 in Front Lines
For some it would have been torture but I recently spent four days with politicians from the 10 states, provinces and territories that collectively make up the Pacific Northwest Economic Region. It wasn’t just politicians there. Also attending were several private and public companies, which were among some of the largest in the region, and they were very impressive. The conference was absolutely one of the best examples of willing partners of different political stripes working together for everyone’s benefit. Yes, there were certainly some politicians that were more interested in hearing themselves talk but there were lots that were passionate about building infrastructure and trade agreements that could make opportunities in Saskatoon more valuable.
Many of the topics discussed were, on the surface seemingly not directly relevant to me or NSBA members, however, a speech from Premier Scott Moe summarized why working with partners and thinking more broadly is critical for our collective success at creating wealth and allowing then for local community improvements. As a landlocked province, we can either be entirely self-sufficient or we need to move our products as exports from the province, and we in turn need to import from other areas with different qualities and expertise.
It seems obvious that our business objectives are to increase exports and strategically import. Our long-term customers (or our customers’ customers in many cases) are not within 50 kilometres. Another speaker put an even finer point on the need for us in Saskatoon to keep ourselves looking for opportunities to export and trade. Murad Al-Katib, President and CEO of AGT Food and Ingredients Inc., spoke passionately about how the rest of the world needs what we have in Saskatchewan. Murad was the NSBA’s “Star” in our 3rd Annual Popcorn & Entrepreneurship Series, presented by EY and he continues to inspire everyone he meets!
This month the NSBA’s 5th Annual Popcorn and Entrepreneurship Series, presented by EY takes place and the event Star is Kay Nasser. If you were lucky enough to get a ticket, I know you will be equally inspired by his passion and dedication.
What have you done recently to support your own or your customers’ efforts to export? Your NSBA is advocating on your behalf for continued improvements in the trade corridors to make your business prosper as the global economy continues to grow despite some short-term impediments. As an example, ask us about our work on advocating for improved transportation routes for Saskatoon!
Thank you for your support of the NSBA! Your support has a significant multiplier effect as we get inspired and in turn inspire others to be courageous and build their business.
Alan Migneault – NSBA Board Chair
