Our History - Continued
Empire Stevedoring continued to thrive throughout the 1970’s until high inflation resulted in a global recession by the close of the decade. The world economy was hit hard, but the shipping industry was especially shaken as raw and semi-finished products exported from many countries - including Canada – were simply too expensive for other countries to import. Economic uncertainty and periodic recessions continued into the next decade as the 1980’s brought a new level of competitiveness to the marine industry. Empire Stevedoring had to maintain its competitive advantage by improving efficiencies in the loading, discharging and handling of cargoes, reducing costs for its customers and sustaining and expanding its operations. Empire Stevedoring’s philosophy to adopt best practices in all facets of its business enterprises and embrace technological advancements put the company firmly ahead of its competition.
Empire Stevedoring continued to grow with the construction of the Prince Rupert Grain terminal, which was completed in 1985. Since that terminal’s inception, Empire has been its in-house stevedore and after more than thirty years, Empire maintains an exclusive agreement with Prince Rupert Grain Terminal. In addition to grain commodities, Empire handles logs and project cargoes in Prince Rupert.
In 1999 Empire Stevedoring formed its exclusive grain division now known as Empire Grain Stevedoring Ltd. From its early days to present, Empire Grain Stevedoring Ltd. continues to be Western Canada’s top grain stevedore expertly overseeing the loading of various commodities and leading the industry in service and expertise.