Milgram & Company Ltd., established in 1951, was a Canadian integrated logistics services provider specializing in customs brokerage, freight forwarding, and surface transportation. Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, the company operated six offices across Canada and one in the United States, employing approximately 330 individuals. In 2017, Milgram & Company Ltd. was acquired by C.H. Robinson Worldwide, a leading global third-party logistics provider.
Background
Milgram & Company Ltd. was founded in 1951 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The company specialized in customs brokerage, international freight forwarding, and North American surface transportation. Over the years, Milgram expanded its services to include consulting and trade advisory, warehousing, and distribution capabilities. The company's mission was to provide comprehensive logistics solutions, ensuring efficient and compliant movement of goods across borders. Milgram was recognized as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies and ranked among Quebec's top small and medium-sized enterprises.
Key Strategic Focus
Milgram & Company Ltd. focused on delivering integrated logistics services, emphasizing:
- Customs Brokerage: Facilitating the import and export of goods by ensuring compliance with customs regulations.
- Freight Forwarding: Coordinating the shipment of goods across various modes of transportation, including air, ocean, and road.
- Surface Transportation: Providing reliable ground transportation solutions across North America.
- Consulting and Trade Advisory: Offering expertise in trade regulations, tariff concessions, and duty relief programs.
The company targeted a diverse clientele, including manufacturers, retailers, and distributors, aiming to streamline their supply chain operations.
Financials and Funding
In the fiscal year ending May 31, 2017, Milgram & Company Ltd. reported gross revenues of approximately $155.3 million CAD (approximately $124 million USD). On August 31, 2017, C.H. Robinson Worldwide acquired Milgram for approximately $62 million CAD (approximately $50 million USD) in cash. This acquisition was financed through C.H. Robinson's existing revolving credit facility.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Milgram & Company Ltd. was an early adopter of technology in the logistics sector. In 2010, the company launched a real-time business-to-business tracking service for iPhone, later expanding to BlackBerry in 2011. This innovation provided clients with enhanced visibility and control over their shipments.
Leadership Team
Prior to its acquisition, Milgram & Company Ltd.'s leadership team included:
- Jay M. Goldman: President & CEO
- Joel S. Milgram: Chief Financial Officer
- Laury Gross, LLB: Chief Legal Officer
- Melanie Bedard: Vice President, Canadian Customs Operations
- Nick Imbriglio: Vice President, Sales and International Transport
- Mina La Rocca: Chief Strategy Officer
This team was instrumental in driving the company's growth and maintaining its reputation in the logistics industry.
Competitor Profile
In the logistics and freight forwarding industry, Milgram & Company Ltd. faced competition from several key players, including:
- Traffic Tech: A global logistics provider offering a range of services, including freight brokerage and supply chain solutions.
- Coyote Logistics: A third-party logistics company specializing in truckload, less-than-truckload, and intermodal services.
- Expeditors International of Washington: A global logistics company providing freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and supply chain solutions.
- Brown Line: A logistics company focusing on temperature-controlled transportation services.
These competitors offered similar services, making the logistics industry highly competitive.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Milgram & Company Ltd. was a member of several industry associations, including:
- Intermodal Association of North America (IANA): Focusing on promoting the growth of efficient intermodal freight transportation.
- Canadian Society of Customs Brokers (CSCB): Representing the interests of customs brokers and promoting compliance with customs regulations.
- Canadian International Freight Forwarding Association (CIFFA): Advocating for freight forwarders and providing industry education.
- Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA): Serving as the voice of the third-party logistics industry.
These affiliations enhanced Milgram's industry presence and facilitated strategic collaborations.
Operational Insights
Milgram & Company Ltd. distinguished itself through a commitment to technological innovation, customer service, and comprehensive logistics solutions. The company's early adoption of mobile tracking technology and its recognition as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies underscored its operational excellence.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
The acquisition by C.H. Robinson Worldwide in 2017 provided Milgram & Company Ltd. with opportunities to expand its global reach and integrate into a larger network of logistics services. This strategic move aimed to enhance service offerings and leverage C.H. Robinson's extensive resources and technology platforms.
