Phoenix Truck & Crane: The Importance of Networking for Partnering Opportunities
Publish Date: August 2009
Phoenix Truck and Crane has a flair for Winter Games related projects. And partnerships are the key. Whether it’s transporting team equipment between sporting venues, hauling power supplies to Cypress Mountain for the World Cup Snowboard Competition, or providing platforms for camera crews during the Cross Country Skiing test event in Whistler, Phoenix Truck and Crane depends on partners.
“These ongoing experiences have been a significant opportunity for us,” says Bill Dick, president of the Coquitlam-based company. “They’ve opened the company up to partnerships that have provided this unique work, as well as work to come in the future.”
Phoenix Truck and Crane first worked as a subcontractor on a Games-related opportunity during the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing. The company secured a contract on the strength of its commitment to obtain and operate a Container Sideloader, which is a crane-like vehicle used to efficiently transport containers without relying on additional lifting equipment.
By partnering with Schenker Global Sports Events, Phoenix was able to provide logistics support to a major American broadcaster, while extending its reputation as a dependable firm into the international market. And the networking done by a Phoenix representative in Beijing is delivering continuing returns, as many of those contacts have become partners on current Games-related projects.
Now that the Winter Games are coming home to Vancouver, Phoenix has expanded its fleet of heavy machinery with the purchase of a second Container Sideloader – distinguishing itself as the only company in B.C. to own and operate these specialized vehicles.
When asked what advice he would give other local businesses for successfully winning bids, Operations Manager Derek Warnock emphasizes the value of the partnerships the company has formed - which he in turn attributes to seizing networking opportunities, initiating contacts with buyers and other businesses, and keeping informed of potential Games-related work.
Phoenix’s inclination to partnering also extends beyond business to embrace community involvement. In an effort to support sustainable development, Phoenix participates in two major province-wide initiatives: Growing Champions and The Law Enforcement Torch Run.
Growing Champions matches businesses with B.C.-based athletes, offering them financial support as they train and compete in their sports. The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) is an international movement that raises over $30 US million each year for Special Olympics in Canada and other countries around the world.
Phoenix also supports several non-profit partners in the tri-cities area, including the Crossroads Hospice, Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Eagle Ridge Hospital, and the Burnaby Express Hockey Team. Without a doubt, Phoenix’s willingness to make connections is resulting in returns on investment that reach far beyond the balance sheet.
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