Helical Works Expands Product Line to Meet Western Canada's Bulk Handling Needs

Helical Works Company Ltd., an Abbotsford-based manufacturer, is set to become a significant player in the bulk and material handling industry across Western Canada. The company, a subsidiary of Mainland Machinery, has announced plans to expand its product line with pre-manufactured helical and conveyor products, aiming to provide customers with quicker access to high-quality components.

This strategic shift represents a notable development in the industrial supply chain for Western Canada's bulk handling sector. By offering a complete line of ready-to-ship products, Helical Works is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for local, reliable suppliers in the region. The move is expected to benefit various industries, including ports and terminals, mining and minerals, oil and gas, and industrial agriculture.

Paul Hiebert, General Manager of Helical Works, emphasized the company's commitment to serving local needs: "We are local to Western Canada, we will manufacture here, we will stock our parts here, and we will deliver here. If customers in Western Canada are looking for bulk handling parts and equipment, Helical Works Co will be their local supplier." This localized approach could lead to reduced lead times and potentially lower costs for businesses in the region.

The company's expansion builds upon a strong foundation of industrial expertise. Helical Works benefits from the 50-year legacy of its parent company, Mainland Machinery, and combines this experience with modern manufacturing processes and business strategies. The involvement of multiple generations in the family-owned business, including 83-year-old founder still actively working, suggests a unique blend of traditional knowledge and contemporary innovation.

Helical Works' new focus includes three main product categories: helical flights, replacement augers, and screw conveyors, with plans to add more components in the future. This comprehensive offering aims to fill a critical gap in the Western Canadian market, providing a one-stop solution for bulk and material handling equipment needs.

The implications of this expansion extend beyond Helical Works itself. For the bulk handling industry in Western Canada, having a local supplier of high-quality, readily available parts could lead to improved operational efficiency and reduced downtime for end-users. It may also stimulate local manufacturing and potentially create new job opportunities in the region.

Furthermore, the company's ability to offer both customized solutions and off-the-shelf products demonstrates adaptability to market demands. This flexibility could prove crucial in an industry where both specialized equipment and quick replacements are often needed.

As industries across Western Canada continue to grow and evolve, the availability of reliable, locally-sourced industrial components becomes increasingly important. Helical Works' strategic repositioning reflects a broader trend of localizing supply chains, which has gained momentum in recent years due to global supply disruptions.

The success of Helical Works in this new direction could serve as a model for other regional manufacturers looking to expand their offerings and capture a larger market share. It also highlights the ongoing importance of family-owned businesses in driving innovation and meeting specific regional needs in the industrial sector.

As Helical Works embarks on this new chapter, its impact on the bulk and material handling industry in Western Canada will be closely watched by competitors, customers, and industry analysts alike. The company's ability to deliver on its promises of quality, availability, and local service will be key factors in determining its success and the broader implications for the region's industrial landscape.