Nexans North America’s 100 year history is intertwined with Fergus, and it seemed only fitting to throw a party last weekend.
A July 9 open house was held at the plant for employees, retirees and their families. And from the crowds on site, it seemed many of them were ready to make a day of it.
Inside, there were displays and plant tours, while outside there were even more displays, face painting, and a barbecue, complete with a tented seating area for those wishing a bit of shade.
The company that became Nexans North America, founded on Feb. 11, 1911 as Canada Wire & Cable, began operations by supplying power cables to the burgeoning hydro market in Ontario.
Today, the company has 11 facilities and more than 1,500 employees throughout North America as it continues its tradition of innovation and excellence.
The construction of the first hydro-generating plant in Niagara Falls 100 years ago presented the challenge of developing an economical means of bringing that energy to southern Ontario.
Five entrepreneurs recognized the opportunity to develop the cable technology required, and Canada Wire & Cable was created.
In 1965, the Fergus facility was built as a joint venture between Canada Wire and Cable and Essex Wire.
Construction was completed in 1966. The operation, called Fergus Cables, Ltd., employed 160.
In 1968, Canada Wire and Cable bought out Essex’s share of the Fergus Cables, Ltd., and formed a subsidiary company called Canwireco Ltd.
Nexans North America continues to design and manufacture a wide range of power cables and also provides products in markets as diverse as building, industrial, oil and gas, military, aerospace, renewable energy, power networks and more.
Earlier this year Steve Hall, president of Nexans North America, said, “Not many companies make it to 100 years, and those that do all have the same characteristics: the ability to innovate and provide relevant products, a focus on customer service, operational excellence, and most importantly, exceptional people. We are proud of our 100 year history, but we are already focused on our next 100 years.”
A separate event on July 11 was held for its VIP customers.
At that time, Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott extended his congratulations on the 100th anniversary of Nexans North America.
“Your entire team, management and employees alike, deserve enormous credit for your successes through the years.
“Few things have remained static in Ontario’s business environment during the last century. The main constants have been change, and more change. Yet through the vision of your leadership and the continuous innovation of your dedicated staff associates, you have thrived through the years.”
He later added, “You are well positioned to leap into your second century of operation with confidence and pride.”
