Purolator announces $1 billion investment plan

Purolator has announced plans to invest more than $1 billion through its five-year “delivering the future” growth and innovation strategy.

In a statement issued on Tuesday (25 June), Purolator said that its plan is focused on four key areas: transforming its network and fleet; accelerating the digital experience for its customers; creating the safest and best place to work; and “driving growth for businesses of all sizes throughout North America and globally”.

The company said that its national investments include a new $330 million, 430,000-sq-ft national super hub set on 60-acres in Toronto, set to open in 2021. According to Purolator: “The facility will triple capacity and step-change Purolator’s network with world-class automation to help more customers get even more packages to their destinations quickly, safely and reliably.”

Purolator added that it has created 2,500 new jobs over the past three years – increasing in its workforce by 20% – and it has been investing in upgrading its fleet. “In 2019 and 2020, more than 1,000 new vehicles with advanced technology will be introduced across the country to improve delivery performance and safety,” said Purolator. The company plans to roll out its first wave of fully electric vehicles in 2020 to complement its hybrid electric fleet.

Purolator also reported its new $8.5 million, 110,000-sq-ft terminal in North York will open in this September “in time for peak season”.

John Ferguson, President and CEO, Purolator, commented: “Purolator has experienced record growth over the past three years. We picked up and delivered over one-quarter of a billion packages in 2018 and we expect our growth trajectory to continue. We have consistently evolved over our 60 years to stay one step ahead of change and this investment will solidify our position to deliver the future for generations to come, creating opportunities at home, across North America and around the world for businesses, consumers and employees.”