Located in Vaughan, Ontario, the project was completed on September 2020 as part of a redevelopment of the Viva streetscape. The project involved creating areas that support the community and allow for pedestrians to walk more freely. It united pedestrians, motorists, transit and cyclists in the safest way. Toronto Redimix was proud to be a material supplier for the construction of the transit center media, concrete walls, curbs, paving and reconstruction of the pedestrian boulevard including concrete walkways and curbs all on cupolex soil cells.
Over the last several decades, Toronto Redimix has established a reputation for providing exceptional concrete and ready mix concrete products and superior customer service. Continuing to expand to meet the growing needs of the construction industry, Toronto Redimix has built a solid foundation in providing concrete solutions for commercial and residential clients across Ontario.
The Concrete Ontario Awards recognize the talent and effort of the best designers, contractors, suppliers and owners in Ontario. Concrete is one of the most used and innovative construct materials that can be utilized in Ontario construction projects. Concrete Ontario receives hundreds of entries that exemplify the talent, dedication, and innovation of individuals and teams across Ontario.
You can find out more about the 2020 Concrete Ontario Awards and view the rest of the winners at https://www.concreteawards.ca/
New Regulations for SPIF Vehicles
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
Image of Brock Aggregates tri-axe truck
From 2000 to 2011, Ontario introduced a four-phased overhaul of the vehicle weights and dimensions regulations.
The reforms resulted in Highway Traffic Act Regulation 413/05, Vehicle Weights and dimensions (VWD) for Safe, Productive and Infrastructure-Friendly (SPIF) vehicles.
The last phase of the regulatory reforms ended on December 31, 2020.
For non-SPIF vehicles, there are three possible outcomes as follows:
1. If the vehicle is less than 15 years of age, extended grandfathering permits will be issued by the MTO upon request to continue operating in the pre-regulatory reforms’ regime as set out in the Highway Traffic Act until the vehicle reaches 15 years of age
2. The vehicle can be upfitted to become SPIF compliant, and operate at SPIF weight allowance
3. If the vehicle exceeds above age, or no permit is acquired, it may continue to operate at non-compliant weights as set-out in O.Reg. 413/05, Table 32.
Chart of new regulations
Brock Aggregates locations will require all operators to have their Allowable Gross Weight sheet showing SPIF compliance and/or a copy of the grandfathering permit prior to being loaded.
See the Ontario Stone, Sand and Gravel Association’s (OSSGA) website for more information: https://www.ossga.com/news_archive/article.go?article_id=347.
You can also find more information on oversize/overweight permits issued by the Ministry of Transportation here: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/trucks/oversize-overweight-permits.shtml.
G&L – News – Joe Lamanna Announces winner of Mt. Tremblant trip!
Friday, February 19, 2021
G&L was proud to be the presenting partner for Landscape Ontario’s 48th annual Awards of Excellence on February 4, 2021. This is an annual juried competition that recognizes the breathtaking design and master craftsmanship in the landscape construction, maintenance, design, lighting, and irrigation projects created by members! The COVID-19 pandemic may have disrupted an in-person celebration, but we are grateful for the Landscape Ontario team taking the awards celebration virtual (their very first virtual awards!) to showcase all the amazing work done in the industry.
Once again, G&L donated the coveted prize of a one-week stay in a luxurious 3-bedroom condominium in Mont Tremblant, Quebec. In honour of G&L’s 50th anniversary, we were excited to have our founder, Joe Lamanna, announce the winner for the annual giveaway! The winner’s name was randomly drawn from a list of registrants for the President’s Reception.
G&L is a great place to work! Our team is on top of their game which is why we were recently awarded Deloitte’s Gold Status, Canada’s Best Managed Companies. Many of our employees have been with us for decades;. Clearly, they love what they do. We’re constantly growing and always looking for talented people to join our team.
What’s it like to work at G&L? Watch our latest video and hear what our employees have to say.
Draglam Salt Manages Strong Bulk Salt Supply to Support Private Contractors
Thursday, March 21, 2019
Draglam Salt is proud to provide the salt you need to keep roads clear and people safe. Despite consistent precipitation in January, back-to-back winter storms in February, and an industry-wide salt shortage, Draglam Salt’s supply has remained plentiful. We are steadfast in our ability to supply bulk and bagged rock salt to our valued customers. As a result of diligent planning, we have been able to maintain a consistent pick-up list price for the past several months.
After more than 27 years in business, we continue to be humbled by the power of mother nature. While these winter weather patterns are natural, the immense liability placed on snowplow and landscape contractors is not. Salt is the most widely used tool for managing snow and ice on roads, parking lots and sidewalks; the expectation of “black top” in recent years has substantially increased demand for rock salt, quickly depleting local supply. This increased demand could only be met by careful supply management and a dedication to support our customers with the deicing product they need, when they need it. At Draglam Salt, our focus remains clear: to provide quality deicing products and reliable service to the private contracting industry. As a leading distributer of bulk salt, we do not compete with our landscaping and snowplowing customers, but rather support their product requirements so they can fulfill their contracts as efficiently and economically as possible.
We strive to be Southern Ontario’s most reliable source for bulk salt, at the most competitive price. By carefully monitoring inventory levels and strategically allocating salt supply, Draglam Salt was able to fulfill its customer commitments. This inventory management also ensures that in the event of an unexpected spring ice storm, we’re ready to serve.
This winter has reinforced the importance of thoughtful planning and preparation in order to maintain our reliability as your trusted salt supplier. We are thankful to our customers for putting their trust in us to fulfill their salt and deicing needs, and look forward to another exciting season.
Ontario Government Announces Support of Aggregate Industry
Tuesday, March 05, 2019
We’re pleased to announce that Ontario’s Government for the People has recently introduced plans to support the province’s aggregate industry. Announced by John Yakobuski, the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, these plans aim at “creating conditions that will help unleash the resource sector’s potential.”
The aggregate industry is responsible for providing over 20,000 jobs as well as contributing $1.4 billion to Ontario’s economy yearly. With this recent announcement, the Ontario Government has committed itself to ensuring the continued health of this essential economic driver.
As a part of this announcement, the Summit of Aggregate Reform will be held on March 29th as a forum encouraging dialogue and greater cooperation between industry stakeholders and government officials. A new permit has also been granted for Brock Aggregates to build a structure in King City, another step toward ensuring economic stability through growth and job creation.
We are proud of both our contribution to Ontario’s economy as well as our role as a leading provider of the raw materials essential to building schools, hospitals and bridges. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our province’s economy and infrastructure while working alongside the Ontario Government.
G&L Was Proud to be Back as the 2019 Presenting Sponsor at the Landscape Ontario Awards of Excellence.
Thursday, January 10, 2019
G&L was proud to be back again as the 2019 Presenting Sponsor at the Landscape Ontario Awards of Excellence. This is an annual juried competition that recognizes breathtaking design and master craftsmanship in the landscape construction and maintenance industry.
This year’s awards took place on January 8th with this year’s theme of Legacy. Recognizing great work and serving to inspire, the Landscape Ontario Awards of Excellence also stir the competitive spirit and stimulate advancement, achievement and improvement, raising the bar for the industry.
In keeping with the night’s theme, G&L returned to tried and true and gave away a one-week stay at a luxury condo in Mt. Tremblant, Quebec. Congratulations to the lucky winner, Josh, of Twenty Creek Landscaping.
Current Supply Status
Friday, November 23, 2018
Last year’s demanding winter, combined with mine repairs, labour shortages, and an ice storm in late spring, resulted in a shortage of bulk salt. As predicted, the mines’ obligations to municipalities have posed a challenge by reducing or eliminating salt allocations to private contractors.
For over 25 years, Draglam Salt has been working tirelessly to supply contractors with the bulk salt and deicers they need to keep people safe. Despite this season’s unique challenges, we currently have the most bulk salt supply in the private contractor market at the most competitive pick up price.
As we continue to bring in deicing salt from alternative sources, logistics and transportation costs continue to rise. We encourage you to pick up and store as much bulk salt as your facilities allow. This will ensure you are well supplied if the price increases and/or supply diminishes.
We are committed to navigating this challenging season ahead and look forward to being your supplier of choice for bulk salt, bagged salt and environmentally-friendly deicers.
TORONTO REDIMIX GETS A FRESH LOOK
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
We’re excited to share that Toronto Redimix has undergone an entirely new look. Following the rebranding of our parent company, G&L, updating of the logo created almost 15 years has given Toronto Redimix a fresh new look.
Each of G&L’s sub-brands was assigned its own key brand colour, drawing upon the natural elements that inspire the products. Toronto Redimix is red, to ensure consistency and recognition. These colours help to easily identify the brand at a glance, and carve out a more distinct brand presence.
Furthering this was the creation of each sub-brand’s individual icon, based upon G&L’s legacy round logo, but modernized to convey each brand’s unique product offering. Toronto Redimix’s icon is made of oblong, ovulary circles representing the exposed aggregate found in concrete. The icons serve as another method to unify all brands under the G&L umbrella while creating a unique pattern distinct to each sub-brand. Our goal with this rebranding was to create something enduring that would appear contemporary today, yet be timeless enough to last throughout the next decade. We’re extremely happy with the result and look forward to rolling out our new look.
DRAGLAM SALT GETS A FRESH LOOK
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
We’re excited to share that Draglam Salt has undergone an entirely new look. Following the rebranding of our parent company, G&L, updating of the logo created almost 15 years has given Draglam Salt a fresh new look.
Each of G&L’s sub-brands was assigned its own key brand colour, drawing upon the natural elements that inspire the products. Draglam Salt is light blue, representing winter. These colours help to easily identify the brand at a glance, and carve out a more distinct brand presence.
Furthering this was the creation of each sub-brand’s individual icon, based upon G&L’s legacy round logo, but modernized to convey each brand’s unique product offering. Draglam Salt’s icon is made of small squares to convey the cube structure of rock salt when seen under a microscope. The icons serve as another method to unify all brands under the G&L umbrella while creating a unique pattern distinct to each sub-brand. Our goal with this rebranding was to create something enduring that would appear contemporary today, yet be timeless enough to last throughout the next decade. We’re extremely happy with the result and look forward to rolling out our new look.
EARTHCO SOIL MIXTURES GETS A FRESH LOOK
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
We’re excited to share that Earthco Soil Mixtures has undergone an entirely new look. Following the rebranding of our parent company, G&L, updating of the logo created almost 15 years has given Earthco Soil Mixtures a fresh new look.
Each of G&L’s sub-brands was assigned its own key brand colour, drawing upon the natural elements that inspire the products. Earthco Soil Mixtures is green, representing plants and trees. These colours help to easily identify the brand at a glance, and carve out a more distinct brand presence.
Furthering this was the creation of each sub-brand’s individual icon, based upon G&L’s legacy round logo, but modernized to convey each brand’s unique product offering. Earthco Soil Mixtures’ icon is made of circular shapes reminiscent of soil particles. The icons serve as another method to unify all brands under the G&L umbrella while creating a unique pattern distinct to each sub-brand. Our goal with this rebranding was to create something enduring that would appear contemporary today, yet be timeless enough to last throughout the next decade. We’re extremely happy with the result and look forward to rolling out our new look.
BROCK AGGREGATES GETS A FRESH LOOK
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
We’re excited to share that Brock Aggregates has undergone an entirely new look. Following the rebranding of our parent company, G&L, updating of the logo created almost 15 years has given Brock Aggregates a fresh new look.
Each of G&L’s sub-brands was assigned its own key brand colour, drawing upon the natural elements that inspire the products. Brock Aggregates is grey, representing stone and gravel. These colours help to easily identify the brand at a glance, and carve out a more distinct brand presence.
Furthering this was the creation of each sub-brand’s individual icon, based upon G&L’s legacy round logo, but modernized to convey each brand’s unique product offering. Brock Aggregates’ icon is made of sharp, geometric shapes reminiscent of crushed stone. The icons serve as another method to unify all brands under the G&L umbrella while creating a unique pattern distinct to each sub-brand. Our goal with this rebranding was to create something enduring that would appear contemporary today, yet be timeless enough to last throughout the next decade. We’re extremely happy with the result and look forward to rolling out our new look.
G&L GETS A FRESH LOOK
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
We’re pleased to share that G&L has undergone an entirely new look. Rebranding both G&L – no longer called G&L Group – in addition to its sub-brands, this clean, modern style places a greater focus on the sub-brands, tying them back to the parent brand with the line “A G&L Company.”
Updating the logo created almost 15 years ago and bringing it into the modern day, the wordmark was refined, making it more contemporary while preserving elements of the brand’s legacy. Choosing navy blue as the primary G&L colour, brand traits like confidence, strength and stability are conveyed, and its combination with pristine white makes marketing material appear simple, crisp, and clear.
Using “Driven” as the powerful new brand campaign message, this notion drives (pun intended) all the creative, from the visual choices made to the headlines. Headlines specific to the sub-brand, such as “Driven to Keep Roads Clear and People Safe”, and “Driven to Build a Solid Foundation” – boldly state the mission of the sub-brand while maintaining the unified G&L message.
Key photography used throughout marketing material is centered around motion. Showcasing movement in both vehicles and people, speed, power, and forward momentum are visually conveyed. These striking images combined with arresting colours and powerful headlines form a compelling new direction for G&L – one that makes the brand stand apart.
DRAGLAM WASTE & RECYCLING GETS A FRESH LOOK
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
We’re excited to share that Draglam Waste & Recycling has undergone an entirely new look. Following the rebranding of our parent company, G&L, updating of the logo created almost 15 years has given Draglam Waste & Recycling a fresh new look.
Each of G&L’s sub-brands was assigned its own key brand colour, drawing upon the natural elements that inspire the products. Draglam Waste & Recycling is navy – a key colour in the former Draglam logo. These colours help to easily identify the brand at a glance, and carve out a more distinct brand presence.
Furthering this was the creation of each sub-brand’s individual icon, based upon G&L’s legacy round logo, but modernized to convey each brand’s unique product offering. Draglam Waste & Recycling’s icon is made of triangles, the international recycling symbol. The icons serve as another method to unify all brands under the G&L umbrella while creating a unique pattern distinct to each sub-brand. Our goal with this rebranding was to create something enduring that would appear contemporary today, yet be timeless enough to last throughout the next decade. We’re extremely happy with the result and look forward to rolling out our new look.
Be Prepared.
Monday, November 05, 2018
The salt supply shortage has persisted and we are continuing to source bulk salt from alternative suppliers. We anticipate this season to be busier than normal, so we’re taking extra steps to speed up wait times at our scale houses. New for the 2018/2019 season, it will be mandatory for all pick-up customers to present their Salt Card™ at the scale house in order to pick up salt. To ensure that we prioritize our loyal customers this upcoming season, only customers who present a Salt Card™ will be served.
To secure supply and mitigate this industry-wide shortage, Draglam Salt has sourced bulk salt from unconventional sources all over the world. We have performed thorough testing on all variations of rock salt, but all the product testing we’ve done can’t replace common sense. It’s important to take extra precautions to protect your equipment:
- Never leave salt in your salter.
- Wash your salter more often throughout the winter to keep the salt from building up.
If you need a Salt Card™ or have questions about your salt supply this season, contact your Account Manager or call 416.798.7050.
NEW LOCATION
Wednesday, September 12, 2018
We are excited to announce our newest location in Orangeville! Located just south of Hockley Road and 5th Side Road at 673271 Hurontario Street, this newly acquired pit will produce A Gravel, B Gravel, Concrete Sand and ¾ Round Gravel. We look forward to servicing your projects throughout the GTA with this close-to-market aggregate source.
Salt Supply Challenge
Friday, September 07, 2018
This upcoming season is shaping up to be one of the most challenging winters yet. A multitude of factors are leading to a supply shortfall. Here’s what we know today:
• Last season was a demanding winter. Precipitation was consistent throughout the winter and an unexpected ice storm in April spanned several days which depleted most stockpiles throughout North America.
• A labour dispute at one salt mine led to a 3-month strike. This labour shortage has undoubtedly affected the amount of salt allocated to the landscape and commercial markets.
• Another mine is undergoing significant repairs, leading to production delays which affect the supply available to our commercial market.
• The US market is contributing to Canadian supply issues due to the strong American dollar which is directing supply away from the Southern Ontario market.
What does this mean for you?
• Draglam Salt has taken every effort to secure salt for this coming season. However, salt from unconventional sources inevitably comes at a higher cost. We are doing our best to find efficiencies and have been working throughout the summer to secure supply.
At Draglam Salt, we know that salt is essential to ensure safety, and we take our responsibility seriously. We encourage you to pass on this update to your customers and communicate with them regularly to ensure they are aware of the situation.
We are committed to navigating this challenging season ahead with the support of our suppliers and customers. In the coming weeks, you’ll find out more about the status of the market supply, the look and feel of rock salt from all over the world, and the prices you need to secure contracts.
We look forward to partnering with you to conquer Winter 2019.
Sincerely,
The Draglam Salt Team
G&L Group Donates $15,000 for Construction & Engineering Technologies Scholarships
Wednesday, February 14, 2018
On February 14th, G&L Group proudly presented George Brown College with a cheque for $15,000 in support of Construction & Engineering Technologies. Faculty and staff of George Brown joined with members of G&L Group to celebrate this donation made in honour of Joe Lamanna, G&L Group's Founder and President of Aggregates.
At the cheque presentation event, Pat Lamanna, President of Salt, Soil and Waste, and son of Joe Lamanna, President of Aggregates, noted the importance of supporting dedicated and passionate workers in the construction sector. "For the last 47 years, I have seen my mom and dad work tirelessly to create and build G&L Group. My dad would start at 5 a.m. and work until 10 p.m., six days a week. His dedication to my family, our customers and over 250 employees is evident in all of the work he does. We want to recognize students who share similar values as my dad. We hope to encourage students to continue working hard so that they can give back to our community in the same way, one day."
The G&L Group Scholarship Award in Honour of Joe Lamanna will be awarded to two full-time students each year for the next three years. Each student will receive a $2,500 scholarship.
The 45th Annual Landscape Ontario Awards of Excellence
Friday, February 09, 2018
G&L Group was proud to be the 2018 Presenting Sponsor at the Landscape Ontario Awards of Excellence, an annual juried competition that celebrates achievement in construction, maintenance, and design in the landscape industry.
This year’s awards took place on January 9th with a Miami beach nightlife theme dubbed “The Heat Is On”. Recognizing great work and serving to inspire, the Landscape Ontario Awards of Excellence also stir the competitive spirit and stimulate advancement, achievement and improvement, raising the bar for the industry.
With Frank “Frankie Flowers” Ferragine as master of ceremonies, it was a fun-filled evening. G&L Group held a social media contest at the event, giving away a trip for two to Miami. Congratulations to the winner, Evan Kalentzis of Royal Stone Group!
The 58th Concrete Ontario Annual General Meeting & Convention
Saturday, September 16, 2017
Concrete Ontario, formerly the Ready Mix Concrete Association of Ontario, held its 58th Annual General Meeting & Convention at the JW Marriot in Muskoka from September 14 to 16, 2017. This year’s theme was Venice in Muskoka. President of Toronto Redi-Mix, Robert Zanetti, is the Board’s newly appointed Chairman. Rob has rejoined the board after several years since his tenure as Chairman in 2004. As the keynote speaker, Rob delivered an informative speech on the recent changes in the industry and the focus for Concrete Association over the next year. Some highlights and key points of focus are the following:
- Eco-certified, environmentally-friendly concrete plants
- Development of EPD program (Environmental Product Declaration)
- Addressing the challenges associated with 6 & 12 storey wood structures
- Tackling the significant issue of seasonal load restrictions
- Working with Ministry of the Environment to formally recognize our ECO Certification
For more information on Concrete Ontario, please visit: www.rmcao.org
Earthco Soil Mixtures celebrates its 20th Season
Monday, May 01, 2017
This year, Earthco Soil Mixtures celebrates its 20th anniversary. Founded in 1997, Earthco Soil Mixtures began with one screening plant and a single dump truck.
As the years passed, the business grew, supplying notable projects along the way, from the Toronto Airport Expansion, Pan Am Athletes Village and Aquatic Centre, to West Don Lands and Ontario Place.
Today we have 13 screening plants, make over 250 soil mixes, and are continually adding the latest equipment and technology to our fleet. The soil industry has evolved over the past 20 years, and environmental regulations and stringent soil specifications from Landscape Architects have become the norm.
Earthco Soil Mixtures has adapted to provide the support and consultation our customers need to navigate these complicated regulations. Today, we are proudly leading the soil industry in Southern Ontario as the experts in custom soil blends, amendments, and consultation.
G&L Group Creates Scholarship Fund at George Brown’s School of Construction & Engineering
Friday, April 21, 2017
G&L Group has successfully awarded the inaugural scholarships in the name of its founder, Joe Lamanna, to two deserving students of George Brown’s School of Construction & Engineering Technologies. The $5,000 scholarship was split equally between one student of the Residential Construction Management Program and one student of the Civil Engineering Technology Program. Eligible students were required to maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and exhibit a passion for their field of study.
The first of two $2,500 awards was presented to Eghosa Igiehon in November 2016. Eghosa’s interest in construction began in Nigeria where he delivered building materials to construction sites. After arriving in Canada, Eghosa joined the carpenter union (Local 27) and later decided to go attend College – a first in his family.
On Thursday, April 20, 2017 at Artscape Wychwood Barns, Pat Lamanna, President-Salt, Soil, Waste, awarded G&L Group’s second scholarship of $2,500 to Temiloluwa “Mufasa” Fashina. Mufasa recently completed his advanced three-year diploma and looks forward to a career in construction both in Canada and abroad.
G&L Group was proud to attend the Student Awards Ceremony to give back to the community and foster the same love of the construction industry that has driven the company’s success to date.
Presto Disposal Services joins Draglam Waste
Saturday, April 01, 2017
We are pleased to announce that Presto Disposal Services is joining one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies to provide you with the service and customer care that you deserve. Effective April 1, 2017, Presto Disposal Services has joined the G&L Group under the Draglam Waste & Recycling banner.
Presto, like Draglam Waste, was built on strong family values in delivering committed and reliable customer service. We’re excited to welcome Presto’s drivers to the Draglam Waste team, who will provide the same courteous service and experience that you’ve come to know.
We are grateful for the trust that Presto established by providing timely delivery of services and personalized, experienced removal of waste and recycling. As part of the G&L family, we can build on that trust. Draglam Waste & Recycling fulfills your waste collection, waste transfer and recycling services needs in the Greater Toronto Area.
G&L Group Presents Landscape Ontario's Paint-the-Town-Green-themed Awards of Excellence
Tuesday, January 31, 2017
The G&L Group is honoured to have been presenting sponsor of Landscape Ontario’s Awards of Excellence held on Tuesday, January 10, 2017. Congratulations to all the winners.
This year the theme of the event was “Paint the Town Green.” To reinforce the theme, art students from OCAD University were on site painting green landscapes, and more than 600 attendees were greeted by a glowing green ice sculpture custom created for The G&L Group.
As the presenting sponsor, the G&L Group encouraged landscape suppliers and contractors to look to G&L Group, not just for salt and soil, but for all their supply needs.
The Awards of Excellence event was hosted by Breakfast Television’s Frankie “Flowers” Ferragine. Popular Gardening expert Mark Cullen, a spokesperson for Home Hardware and a Toronto Star columnist, received an honorary lifetime membership to Landscape Ontario for his dedication in promoting the green professions.
A social media contest encouraged attendees to enter for a chance to win one week at a three-bedroom condo in Mont Tremblant, Quebec. In order to enter, guests were asked to post event photos to Instagram or Twitter using the hashtag #LOawards and tag G&L Group.
The social media contest was a big success, with the winning photo — “The Green Alternative” receiving more than 1,000 likes. The winners were happy for the “much needed vacation for our family” and were “grateful for this wonderful gift. A special thank you to everyone from the G&L Group.”
Follow G&L Group on Instagram (@GandLgroup) and Twitter (@GandLgroup) to join the conversation and search #LOawards to see all the fantastic entries from our contest.
Celebrating 25 Winters in Business
Friday, October 21, 2016
This season Draglam Salt is celebrating 25 years as a leader in the bulk salt and deicing industry.
When we opened our first location in Toronto in 1991 on Bowes Road, we were the only company offering 24/7 deicing service at the time. Though we did not yet offer delivery service, customers could pick up the bulk salt and deicers they needed, anytime. In fact, the bulk salt was not stored in the quality assured facilities we have today. One single pile of rock salt was situated in the middle of the yard, tarped. Each time a customer arrived at the yard, the Draglam Salt employee would have to pull back the tarp, load up the customer’s truck, and re-tarp the pile. With our limited resources, we were able to service about one customer per hour.
Since then, we’ve grown the business through our commitment to supplying the best possible products and services. We now deliver across Ontario and can service an average of 30+ customers per hour, per yard. We have 14 convenient locations servicing the entire GTA and all surrounding cities. We now have permanent structures: covered, weather-proof domes piled high with salt.
So how did we get here? For one thing, Draglam Salt has always been an innovative leader in the industry. Through strategic partnerships, we strive to always be in the know about new products and industry news.
Over the past quarter century, we’ve been introducing new bulk salt, ice melters and deicing salt products and services while ensuring our customers receive the supply they need, even in the most severe weather. We’re also proud to provide environmentally friendly alternatives in addition to more traditional forms of snow and ice melting products.
Most importantly, it’s our commitment to service excellence and continual improvement that have enabled us to reach our 25th anniversary, still leading the industry. We look forward to servicing your needs for another 25 winters.
G&L GROUP NAMED ONE OF CANADA'S BEST MANAGED COMPANIES
Wednesday, March 09, 2016
Source: The National Post
One night in March, 2009, sometime around midnight, G&L’s phone rang. It wasn’t surprising that someone was calling so late, because it was still winter and one of G&L’s companies, Draglam Salt, which specializes in bulk salt, is open 24/7. What was surprising was that the caller was from Canada Blooms, the country’s largest flower and garden festival, hosted in Toronto.
Due to an unexpected glitch, they were in desperate need of 300 tonnes of quality sand or they would not be able to put together a display for the show. The G&L employee who answered the call quickly came up with a solution: Toronto Redi-Mix, a G&L Group company and one of Ontario’s largest independent ready-mix producers, had sand. “Around 3 a.m., I got a call from someone at Landscape Ontario asking if I could help them out,” says Pat Lamanna, G&L’s senior vice-president. “But our staff had already taken care of it and arranged for a driver to get them the sand.”
When Lamanna says his company’s greatest strength is that everyone in it, from the owners to the frontline workers, is passionate about what they do and go the extra mile, he is not exaggerating. “We do all kinds of incentive-type things and try to foster the culture, but it’s not about that. It’s just genuine,” he says. “I think what has developed this culture is that we’re grounded in who we are, naturally. If we screw up, we own it and we seriously try to help each other fix it.”
Since 1970, when Joe Lamanna and his wife Lucy, Pat Lamanna’s parents, started G&L with only one truck to deliver concrete and stone, the company has grown into multiple companies with more than 20 locations across Ontario. These include Brock Aggregates, Earthco Soil Mixtures and Draglam Waste & Recycling, which provides waste management and waste removal services in the GTA.
Together, the G&L Group of Companies has served a wide array of customers in the landscape and construction sector. In 2013, the company was signed on by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) to supply shotcrete for the Toronto-York Subway extension project.
“Our quality-control team developed a customized concrete mix for the tunnel,” says Lamanna. “We’re very proud of that.”
The company also supplied all the soil for Toronto’s waterfront renewal project. “Soil is not so simple these days,” says Lamanna. “Everything has to be tested and meet specifications. The waterfront wasn’t easy because we had three different levels of government to satisfy, and each level has their own specifications. So we worked with them all and designed soil mixes to meet their requirements.”
Despite a thriving construction sector in the province, “We’re very careful with everything we do, whether it’s extending credit to customers or purchasing assets and equipment, but we’re not afraid to make investments because we have the confidence in our vision,” Lamanna says. “We’re in a good market in Canada and it allows us to grow — so long as you have the right people. We could not have done what we’ve done without our people.”
G&L Group Named as One of Canada’s Best Managed Companies
Wednesday, March 09, 2016
Concord, ON – March 9, 2016 – G&L Group was named one of Canada's Best Managed Companies in 2015 for excellence in business performance. The Best Managed program recognizes Canadian-owned and managed companies with revenues over $10 million demonstrating strategy, capability and commitment to achieve sustainable growth.
"Best Managed companies embrace innovation, seize opportunities and inspire talent. They really set the bar high," said Peter Brown, Partner, Deloitte and Co-Leader, Canada's Best Managed Companies program.
As GTA's major construction material supplier of over 45 years, G&L Group holds true to its corporate vision to serve clients with a passion for excellence and a commitment to customer satisfaction. The family-owned and operated firm relies on a solid industry network to deliver ready mix concrete, aggregates, soil, salt, and waste services to their clients across the construction, contracting and landscaping sectors. A forward-thinking approach of acquiring strategically located manufacturing sites, depots and receiving docks throughout Southern Ontario, together with a passion for innovation, have been pivotal in positioning G&L Group as an industry leader.
Established in 1993, Canada's Best Managed Companies is one of the country's leading business awards programs recognizing Canadian-owned and managed companies that have implemented world-class business practices and created value in innovative ways. Applicants are evaluated by an independent judging panel on overall business performance, including leadership, strategy, core competencies, cross-functional collaboration throughout organization, and talent.
G&L Group is especially grateful to its employees for this achievement. Pat Lamanna, Senior Vice President, notes, "We're in a good market in Canada and it allows us to grow – so long as you have the right people. We're so thrilled to be recognized as a winner of this prestigious award. We could not have done what we've done without our people."
"CIBC congratulates G&L Group on being named one of Canada's Best Managed Companies – a reflection of its strong leadership, sound business planning and focus on growth," said Jon Hountalas, Executive Vice-President, Business and Corporate Banking, CIBC. "We're proud to celebrate this outstanding achievement and applaud the entire team for their contributions to the Canadian marketplace."
2015 winners of the Canada's Best Managed Companies award, along with Requalified, Gold Standard, Gold Requalified winners and Platinum Club members will be honoured at the annual Canada's Best Managed Companies gala in Toronto on April 12, 2016. On the same date, the Best Managed symposium will address leading-edge business issues that are key to the success of today's business leaders.
The Best Managed program is sponsored by Deloitte, CIBC, National Post, Smith School of Business and MacKay CEO Forums.
About Canada's Best Managed Companies
Canada's Best Managed Companies continues to be the mark of excellence for Canadian-owned and managed companies with revenues over $10 million. Every year since the launch of the program in 1993, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies have competed for this designation in a rigorous and independent process that evaluates their management skills and practices. The awards are granted on five levels:
1) Best Managed winner (one of the new winners selected each year);
2) Requalified winner (award recipients that have re-applied and successfully retained their Best Managed designation for two additional years, subject to annual operational and financial review);
3) Gold Standard winner (After three consecutive years of maintaining their Best Managed status, these winners have demonstrated their commitment to the program and successfully retained their award for their 4th consecutive year);
4) Gold Standard requalified winner (Award recipients that have applied and successfully retained their Gold Standard designation for two additional years, subject to annual operational and financial review);
5) Platinum Club member (Winners have maintained their Best Managed status for seven years or more).
Program sponsors are Deloitte, CIBC, National Post, Smith School of Business and MacKay CEO Forums. For further information, visit www.bestmanagedcompanies.ca.
About G&L Group
For over 40 years, G&L Group has proudly provided quality products and services to the construction, landscaping and contracting industries that build communities from the ground up. Through its Group of Companies, including Toronto Redi-Mix, Brock Aggregates, Earthco Soil Mixtures, Draglam Salt, and Draglam Waste & Recycling, G&L is proud to be a part of the roads that take you to work, the playgrounds your children love and the places you call home. Together, these companies form the GTA's premiere source for quality products, innovative solutions and exceptional service.
Today, with over 250 employees and growing, G&L Group's head office and central dispatch is located on Bowes Rd., Concord, with several depots and manufacturing facilities across southern Ontario.
G&L Group Presents Landscape Ontario's Disco-themed Awards of Excellence
Monday, January 18, 2016
The G&L Group is proud to have been presenting sponsor of Landscape Ontario’s Awards of Excellence held on Tuesday, January 12, 2016. Draglam Salt and Earthco Soil Mixtures had co-sponsored the event in past years but a refreshed one-stop-shop campaign encouraged landscape suppliers and contractors to look to G&L Group, not just for salt and soil, but for all their supply needs. A new corporate video highlighting G&L Group’s offering of soil, salt, waste bin services, ready-mix concrete and aggregates was well received by the crowd of over 650 attendees.
A custom hashtag was created to encourage social posts for a chance to win one week at a three-bedroom condo in Mont Tremblant, Quebec. In order to enter, guests were asked to post event photos to Instagram or Twitter using the hashtag #GandLOdisco.
The overwhelming response to the social media contest was better than anticipated and G&L Group will continue the social media dialogue for weeks to come. Follow us on Instagram (@GandLgroup) and Twitter (@GandLgroup) to join the conversation and search #GandLOdisco to see all the fantastic entries from our contest.
Congratulations to all of the Awards of Excellence winners.
Click here to view the corporate video and on-stage appearance at the 2016 Awards of Excellence.
Thank you for helping us drive the holiday cheer this season. Over 300 toys were collected for CTV’s Toy Mountain in support of Salvation Army, providing children across Ontario with their own little Christmas miracle. We are happy to give back to our communities and were excited to donate our toys live on CTV.
We would like to extend a special thanks to the G&L Group employees, our customers and suppliers for their generous donations. Sincerest thanks to our partners who collected toys on our behalf, including Landscape Ontario, Progressive Waste Solutions, LafargeHolcim and The Brand Factory.
(The video appears on the right side column named “2015 Toy Mountain Finale” and G&L Group’s donation appears at 7:07.)
Wishing you all the best in 2016.
G&L and CTV's Toy Mountain Toy Drive
Thursday, December 10, 2015
The G&L Group has partnered with Santa and CTV’s Toy Mountain to drive the holiday cheer this season, collecting unwrapped and unused toys in an effort to make this Christmas a special one for girls and boys in need.
Unwrapped toys can be dropped off at the G&L Group Head Office located at 401 Bowes Road in Concord, Ontario, or any G&L location across the GTA. G&L Group has also reached out to various business partners and friends, providing them with Less Mess bags to fill with toys in an effort to spread the Toy Drive’s reach. Toys can also be delivered to the following locations:
The deadline for donations is Wednesday, December 18th. To set up a drop off bin and drive holiday cheer in your own office, please call G&L Group at 416.798.7050.
New Earthco Location in Milton
Thursday, October 29, 2015
Earthco has opened up a brand new site in Milton. Conveniently located at the northwest corner of Highway 25 and Britannia Road, load up on stockpile topsoil, screened topsoil, 50/50 planting soil, and commercial triple mix, all in one stop.
On the Outside Looking In: What do they think about us?
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
In the last newsletter we highlighted
Walker employees’ first-hand accounts
of how we live out the company values
we’re so proud of. Those perspectives
were insightful, honest, and uplifting; truly
affirming that our culture is very special!
But what would others say about us?
Do the people we do business with think
the Walker experience is as special as
we do?
With a roll of the dice, we turned the conversation
outward, curious to see what some of our most
valued partners would say about working with Walker
Industries. We invited customers, collaborators, and
suppliers to have a conversation about our working
relationship, and had an overwhelming response
from people eager to participate. It’s easy to pick
out the things that Walker has in common with these
businesses: many started as family companies,
they are committed to service excellence, company
employees are valued for their contributions and
many are devoted to putting the community &
environment first. The similarities revealed a pattern
of trusting us and enjoying productive, respectful,
and caring relationships. As refreshing as it is
inspiring, many of the Walker partners we spoke to
were keen to discuss what it’s like to do business
with us, highlight the values they see our team carry
out, praise our people and elaborate on what keeps
our working relationship strong.
The Walker Experience
Most of the people we spoke with had little
difficulty describing how they would define the
‘Walker Experience’ to someone else; there was
an astounding consistency to the responses. From
the people and products, to service and innovation,
there was no shortage of appreciation for the Walker
Way.
“Walker has been there for us for the last 20 years
now, and we’ve always had good results with
their products,” says Gordon Adams - Technical
Director/Environmental Coordinator, ARAUCO
- North America. He suggests that innovation,
quality of service and integrity are highlights of
the professional relationship his company has with
Walker and cites several occasions where the two
companies have come together to solve an issue
through testing, critical thinking and commitment
to excellence. For example, when there was an
opportunity to improve the wax that was used in
the final ARAUCO wood board products, Walker
Emulsions did some testing and was able to
improve the wax to withstand higher temperatures,
ultimately solving a lot of production issues. “I’m
not sure if we were instrumental in that innovation,
but Walker Emulsions provides great alternatives
and solutions, like the high temperature wax. We’ve
been with Walker since day one, starting in trials,”
Gordon remembers from his initial days working in
the lab and describes the longstanding relationship
like a partnership. Especially in terms of testing
and innovation, he feels like their collaborative
efforts have been instrumental to development and
automation of their products. Gordon shares that,
“[Walker] has gone above and beyond to do a lot of
extra testing for us which has helped us with costs
and resulted in a lot of good things.”
Gordon also gives a nod to the level of service that
the Walker team provides saying, “Their people are
responsive and a pleasure to work with… We don’t
have that much contact - but that’s a good thing,”
noting that when needed, Walker is there, but
otherwise he’s happy everything runs seamlessly!
Gordon insists Walker people - from the sales team
to the professionals in the lab, and all those working
in the field, senior management and everyone in
between - have got great insights, advice, and can
be trusted to team-up and deliver solutions. “We
offer each other a lot of advice, and it’s paid off.”
The G&L Group, another valued associate, shared
similar thoughts on what it’s like to do business
with Walker calling the relationship, “fantastic!”
With ties that span nearly more than two decades,
Senior Vice President, Pat Lamanna, says doing
business with Walker is a pleasant professional
experience where there’s a reciprocal exchange,
and shared appreciation for the way they both do
business. Marketing Manager, Stephanie Moore
explains, “The G&L Group
started as family company.
We’re a full service organization
with five companies that deal
in sectors like aggregate,
soil, and waste,” pointing out
similarities between The G&L
Group and Walker. They say that
their dealings with Walker grew
as The G&L Group expanded
their lines of business, and
Pat celebrates the strength
of their bond, revealing,
“Between our companies,
related businesses exist. But
it’s a trusting relationship with
no competition, or we don’t
feel the friction of competing
against each other. There’s an
underlying loyalty that we’re
proud of.” And who wouldn’t
be proud of that? Loyalty is a
strong trait that develops over
time, generally reserved for the
most special partnerships.
And it seemed easy for Pat
and Stephanie to describe
what makes their partnership
with Walker special. Stephanie
acknowledges the feeling that
the two companies share a
similar approach and seem aligned in values.
“Without knowing exactly how their values are
written, Walker runs a trusted business, upholds the
best interest of the customer, employs impressive
people, and makes everyone feel special,” Pat
added. Both recall meeting members of the Walker
family and team leaders from the organization
and emphasize their commendable experience
and commitment to service; they feel that Walker
people instill confidence in the relationship. They
even highlight the impressive longevity employees
have with the company, but quickly pointed out -
AS DID EVERYONE ELSE WE SPOKE WITH! - how
flawless the transition is when someone new joins
the Walker team. “I’m not sure how they do it,
but it’s impressive when people can come and go,
yet never have it interfere with business or valued
relationships.”
To further emphasize the success they’ve had in
carving out a valued collaborative partnership, Pat
eloquently sums up what keeps The G&L Group
working with Walker: “Walker always treats us
like we’re special… and we’re very inclined to do
business with them. Walker keeps us competitive in
the market, and we’re grateful for that. Our tagline
is, ‘Partners in your performance,’ and we feel that
Walker is our strategic partner in our performance.”
Living the Values
There’s a saying, “How can you form your tribe if
you don’t show people your vibe? (D. LaPorte)” That
feels so relevant to the way Walker has fostered
long-standing, mutually beneficial, and trusted
partnerships. As simple as the old, like-attracts-like,
theory, let’s assume the Walker “tribe” is our network
of professional relationships, and the Walker “vibe”
is the way in which we live out our values. How have
we established a vibe that resonates with the tribe
we’ve created?
From his almost 20 years of doing business with
Walker Industries, Brent Clarkson, Partner &
President of MHBC Planning, says that Walker is
a collective of great people to work for that treat
people with respect, “They just have a genuine way
about them.” He says, “They’re demanding, but
very fair, and understanding when challenges arise.”
Brent is very well aware of the ever-present ‘Walker
Experience’ citing that he’ll ask his team, “Would
that be consistent with the Walker Way?” to evaluate
whether their decisions are consistent with the
company’s guiding principles.
Brent’s company offers expertise as
land use planning consultants and
works through sensitive situations
with Walker where core values can
greatly impact the outcome of a
project. He says, “Trust is key in our
relationship. We work in challenging
fields and a lot of the projects
deal with ‘sorting things out’ with
neighbours and problem solving.
These things require a mutual
confidence.” To further illustrate
his point, Brent adds, “Walker is
committed to their values and
excellence. They’re not a quick-andcheap
kind of company which is very
important considering the work we
do, and the impact it can have on the
community.” Brent says of the many
collaborations with Walker, “Walker
has always insisted on making a site
better than it was before we arrive.
Community always comes first and
anything that impacts that objective
is addressed up front.”
A shared respect for the community
and the environment creates a
mutual respect between these
two companies, and Brent speaks
earnestly about the back-to-basics approach that
makes the relationship more like a friendship,
“It’s best described as a feeling. Instead of being
acquaintances, we’re friends. Walker invites you
in as a partner. You’re invited into their culture
to collaborate and participate in their initiatives.
Whether it’s charitable drives or a waste reduction
challenge, it creates a ripple effect…. As time has
gone by, the trust in each other has soared and
we’ve been able to get results while achieving their
corporate objectives in doing so. Hopefully they
see it as a positive relationship and we certainly
do as well.”
Above and Beyond
Like most of the people we spoke to, Brent was
generous with his people-focused acclaim asserting
that, “Walker must have the most perceptive HR
people… they are ALL generously talented and
committed individuals.” This tidbit of popular
opinion couldn’t be a more perfect segue into
the insights from the experienced full-service HR
support consultants at ThorSight Solutions. In fact
the owner, Brad Thorman, could probably identify
with Brent’s notion about Walker’s back-to-basics
approach. Brad describes the level of trust he’s
cultivated working with Walker, and proudly affirms,
“It just feels like a family company… A handshake is
sufficient.” Lori Stephenson Wilson, Management &
Training Consultant with ThorSight Solutions adds,
“It’s not a typical supplier relationship. Walker
treats us like a partner. It is a collaboration where
they make us feel like we’re walking side-by-side.”
Brad and Lori work with Walker in a capacity that
has them acting as an extension of our HR
team. In order for their work to be successful,
they’ve had to really get to know Walker on a
deep level that includes operations, people,
values, and service. In supporting Walker
with hiring, training, career development,
and facilitation, Lori and Brad have had
up-close-and-personal exposure to Walker
people living the values, and going above
and beyond. Brad energetically boasts, “The
company cares about the employees, their
families, and the community. The team also
extends that care to partners, suppliers, and
customers.” While Brad describes this as
the ‘legacy’ of the company, Lori suggests
it’s also the benchmark that Walker sets to
achieve exceptional results. She offers, “The
way Walker does business is extraordinary.
They set their standards beyond what is
necessary - their safety culture is a great
example of that - and people live up to it!”
Lori also thinks that, “regardless of their
position, all Walker employees act in a manner
that is always in alignment with the company
values,” citing professionalism, respect, and
“going the extra mile” for others as examples.
Both Brad and Lori feel it’s a privilege and
delight to participate in the various Walker
projects that come their way. With a passion
for developing businesses and
their people, they appreciate
Walker’s commitment to growing
careers and fostering a sense of
community inside and out of the
organization.
And while commitment to community was something
Dan Romano, Senior Service Contract Manager with
Loblaws Companies Limited, also called out as an
attribute that keeps partners like him engaged and
doing business with Walker, he listed several others
that describe a depth to their trusted relationship.
Right off the top Dan begins, “The people are
amazing! The account, finance, and billing teams
are flawless; there’s seamless transitions between
old and new talent; I think senior leadership is
tremendous as well as the board members I’ve had
the pleasure of interacting with.” He energetically
expresses Walker’s commitment to excellence and
appreciates how the team directly contributes to the
success of his business. “Organic Resource & Walker
are wonderful supports to Loblaws. They provide
onsite training and support for their products and
are committed to a collaborative relationship.” And
collaboration is important, especially when both
companies are committed to the environment and
share the same mindset to divert as much waste as
possible. Nearing close to a 30 year relationship,
Dan says, “Walker continues to bring us new ideas,
they are budget friendly, and we are confident in
the expertise they offer. With their help we’ve met
our waste objectives. They’re the best there is in the
business… they’re forever improving as a company
and our ROI is secured.” And with that, the most
tried and true, by-the-book measure of a successful
partnership: the bottom line! Clearly a great balance
has been found here where objectives are met, and
creativity is encouraged.
Whether it’s an emotionally driven response speaking
to Walker’s people and values, or a dollars-andcents
perspective about profits, savings, products
and service, these conversations suggest that our
partners find value in doing business with us. And
the consistencies that continue to come up create
a meaningful testament to the Walker Experience
being special, indeed. We should feel proud and
humbled at the great things our partners had to
say - the feeling of respect, gratitude, commitment
and privilege are echoed back to these individuals
and their organizations. Walker proudly conducts
business with many other companies, and there are
additional stories we’d like to tell. Because of the
overwhelming initial response to participate, we are
fortunate to be able to feature more of these insights
from different businesses in upcoming newsletters.
The hope is that these stories and glimpses into
what makes our relationships special will remind us
what we do best, and inspire us to continue going
Above and Beyond for others.
We thank our suppliers who took the time to talk
about their Walker experience. Their insights are
helpful to us in understanding how successful
we’ve been at living out our values. As a family
company, Walker is proud of the affiliations that
have been established over the years. It’s clear that
we’ve created a tribe that matches our vibe - we
are stronger because of the relationships with our
‘extended family'
Draglam Salt and Earthco collaborate on new video
Friday, January 23, 2015
To highlight the exceptional products that both Earthco Soil Mixtures and Draglam Salt offer, the two G&L Group companies joined forces to produce a short informational video.
Sean Yong, Senior Sales Manager, explains how Draglam Salt became the largest de-icing distributor in Ontario: "There was a need in that area for a 24/7 operation, and they were the first in the industry to do so."
"We grew from one location to over ten locations across southern Ontario," said Pat Lamanna, Senior Vice President. "[We are] providing the same reliable, convenient service to snowplough contractors and property maintenance companies."
In the video, Lamanna takes the viewer to one of the several Earthco locations throughout the GTA.
"We provide Southern Ontario's landscaping and construction industries with amazing soil products," said Lamanna. "Our customers get the best uniformly blended products for their projects [and] we always ensure prompt delivery of superb products that meet all environmental standards."
Watch the video below for a better understanding of what makes The G&L Group the best in the business.
The Awards Of Excellence 2015 Was A Hit!
Monday, January 12, 2015
Tuesday, January 6th marked Landscape Ontario’s 42nd Annual Awards of Excellence. Presenting sponsors Draglam Salt and Earthco Soil Mixtures were in attendance to support the outstanding achievements our industry accomplished in 2014.
The late-night talk show theme led the awards show, from an opening monologue by Frankie Flowers to a round of Landscape Ontario’s own “Plant Password”. For a memorable end to the evening, Jay Leno joked about all things cold and assisted in a draw for the prize of the evening: a one week stay at a 3-bedroom, luxury condo in Mt. Tremblant, Quebec. Congratulations to the lucky winner, Kimberly from Parklane Nurseries!
We extend our sincere congratulations to all of the Award of Excellence winners and thank you for bringing to light the wonderful accomplishments and hard work of Landscape Ontario’s industry members.
To view a clip of G&L at the Awards of Excellence CLICK HERE To view the entire Awards of Excellence CLICK HERE
Early forecasts continue to promise a repeat of last year's winter for Ontario
Thursday, November 27, 2014
In a recent article from The Globe and Mail, the Weather Network’s chief meteorologist, Chris Scott, has advised Ontarians to expect a winter similar to last year’s.
While we should expect below-average temperatures and near-normal precipitation for most of the region in January and February, “December is going to be a very tumultuous month. A lot of roller-coaster weather patterns, ups and downs in temperatures,” said Scott.
Ensure you are ready for the season by choosing Draglam Salt as your Partner in Performance this season. Call 416.798.7050 or contact your Account Manager today!
Earthco contributes to award-winning sustainable park
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
The G&L Group’s Earthco Soil Mixtures has been a part of a revolutionary sustainable park development in West Don Lands since 2007, and is excited to report that Corktown Common has just won an international award presented by renowned magazine Popular Science.
Every year, Popular Science highlights innovation around the world in their "Best of What's New" list. Corktown Common, as a park that recycles rainwater, received a nod in the Green category.
"[We] look for things that are truly innovative--creative solutions to seemingly intractable problems. Corktown Common fit both of those criteria, while also turning an industrial area into a green space that benefits both people and wildlife," said Jennifer Bogo, Executive Editor at Popular Science.
G&L Group has always been a champion of sustainability in all our businesses, and is proud to be a part of this award-winning environmental marvel. Earthco looks forward to continuing our work with Corktown Common and the entire West Don Lands revitalization project.
Earthco Donates To June Callwood Park
Thursday, October 23, 2014
Earthco Soil Mixtures is proud to have donated soils to the new June Callwood Park, which opened on Saturday, October 4, 2014.
The 0.4-hectare park, located at 656 Fleet Street in the Bathurst/Lakeshore area, fills a narrow strip of space between condominium towers in the Fort York community.
Earthco got involved when Landscape Ontario approached the company to donate soils for the gardens, planted by the Garden Club of Toronto.
Earthco is happy to support this park in honour of the late June Callwood, a celebrated Canadian journalist, author, and activist who died in 2007 after making major contributions to the cultural scene in Toronto.
Salt at the source: A day in a Lake Huron mine
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
We visited the world's largest salt mine, following the mineral from the tunnels under Lake Huron to our dinner tables and driveways. Read More ...
Spread too Thin?
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Laura Zilke takes a look at how the snow is affecting businesses across Toronto.
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Additional Services to Serve You Better.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
NEW! Snow Dump Facility located at 69 Freshway Drive (Highway 7 and Jane St.)
Dump a tri-axle load of snow for $50 per load.
Contact Rob at 416-891-7263 for dump tickets.
Did You Know? G&L Group offers Truck Rental Service. Arrange tri-axle truck rentals with our Dispatch Department for $90 per hour with a 4 hour minimum. Call 416-798-7050 for details.
Salt tough to access for some industry members
Friday, February 07, 2014
In the wake of one of the biggest ice storms and continual snow falls in Ontario, there's an unprecedented demand for both bulk and bagged salt and all de-icers.
"It's created a system-wide shortage," says Fred Persia, director of sales and marketing at Innovative Surface Solutions in Ajax.
Pat Lamanna, owner of Draglam Salt in Concord, says, “There is an unprecedented demand for both bulk and bagged salt and all de-icers, after Toronto experienced the biggest ice storm in history.”
Lamanna went on to say that salt mines are running at capacity and cannot keep up with demand. “They are putting restrictions on orders and some have cut customers off completely.”
Suppliers are currently serving regular customers first, with priority given to prepaid customers who secured their allocation in pre-season. Municipalities are on top of the list, with small contractors the first to feel negative influences on supply.
Persia says the problem is short-term, and doesn’t expect it to last much longer. He added that he was pleased to see that nobody in the industry is ‘gouging’ and taking advantage of the situation.
The last salt supply issue came in 2008, when supplies drastically declined. Issues back then prompted Landscape Ontario to create a Standard Form Snow and Ice Maintenance Contract that offered some defense against slip-and-fall liability during a salt shortage.
The contract states, “The contractor will not be responsible to apply ice melting products unless the ice melting products are commercially and reasonably available to the contractor.”
Toronto attorney Robert Kennaley, who drew up the contract, says “The reason why we say commercially available is that sometimes the client says ‘what do you mean you can’t get salt? I can walk down to the corner store and buy it in a half kilogram bag for five bucks. So pull your truck up to the door and buy all the little bags of salt that they have and come back.’ That’s NOT commercially available.”
With regard to reasonable price, Kennaley adds, “We didn’t get more detailed about that [because] the price of salt is a delicate issue. The owner or property manager might want the contractor to assume the risk of a price escalation. But any contractor concerned that the price of salt might go through the roof may want to consider a more specific or detailed price escalation clause that says if the price exceeds X dollar amount per tonne, then our cost per application or per tonne or per pass will be increased by a certain percentage.”
To strengthen the slip-and-fall defense, Kennaley encourages contractors to place the decision squarely on the property owner as to which ice-melting method (if any) to use in the event of a salt shortage. This requires discussion of various alternatives and owner’s written consent. “We want contractors and owners to understand, and make clear in their maintenance contracts, that the contractor is only hired to do what he or she is paid to do. Where the owner ‘makes the call’ and decides to pay for an option that does not best manage the risk of a slip and fall, the responsibility for that decision should lie with the owner,” he explains.
Ontario salt mines are found in Goderich and Windsor. Goderich is the largest salt mine in the world.
GTA road salt supplies dwindling in the face of a harsh winter
Saturday, February 01, 2014
Salt Shortage Update
Friday, January 31, 2014
Dear Valued Customer,
Firstly, we wanted to thank you for choosing Draglam Salt as your preferred deicing partner during the 2013 – 2014 winter season. Our winter season has been unrelenting following Toronto’s Ice Storm, hailed as one of the city’s most damaging storms. Freezing rain and ice blanketed the city and surrounding areas. As a leader in the deicing industry, we have been on hand to assist our clients with their deicing salt needs.
Due to the unprecedented nature of our winter season, and the amount of bulk and bagged deicing salt needed to effectively combat the weather, Draglam Salt is currently facing a salt shortage. Local supply has been depleted and we are exploring all of our alternatives at this time. Draglam Salt is working diligently with our suppliers located throughout North America to help us meet the needs of our customers, continuing to work tirelessly in order to receive new shipments of salt and deicing products. However, due to the rise in our transportation costs and the ever-growing demand for product, we have been forced to increase our salt prices. We acknowledge the inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.
During this time of demand, we suggest looking to alternative products to offset the limited supply of bulk rock salt. Consider applying Sand/Salt Mix to roads, parking lots and walkways which works to improve traction. We also have bagged deicers and calcium chloride products stocked and available for sale which are often more effective in these deep freeze temperatures.
We thank you for your patience and sincerely appreciate your business.
Warm Regards,
Your friends at Draglam Salt
Draglam Salt & Earthco represent G&L Group as Presenting Sponsors at Landscape Ontario Awards of Excellence
Monday, January 06, 2014
On the night of Tuesday, January 7th, Draglam Salt and Earthco Soil Mixtures
took to the stage as presenting sponsors at Landscape Ontario's annual
Awards of Excellence. The juried competition is a night dedicated to
recognizing and inspiring industry professionals in the advancement,
achievement and improvement of landscape design and construction.
Over the years, the Awards of Excellence have allowed companies to market
and set themselves apart from the competition. The awards also allow
companies to support and recognize their peers within the industry, working
towards better staff retention and employee morale.
The Awards handed out this year included, Best Landscape Construction, Best
Landscape Maintenance, Best Landscape Design, Best Landscape Irrigation,
Best Interior Plantscaping, Best Garden Centre and Best Growers.
Draglam Salt, Earthco Soil Mixtures and the G&L Group family were honoured
to be part of a night celebrating our industry peers, and look forward to
next years' awards and festivities.
The Ontario Construction Report Announces TRM’s Thirty Years In The Business
Monday, October 21, 2013
The Ontario Construction Report, Ottawa’s leading news wire for contractors, sub-trades, architects, engineers and suppliers, has profiled Toronto Redi-Mix’s thirty years in the concrete business. The half page article highlights the concrete company’s last three decades as one of the largest independent ready-mix producers in Ontario.
The article showcases TRM over the years, and how they have revolutionized their product lines and performance to meet and exceed the evolving demands of the concrete industry. Robert Zanetti, Senior Vice President at G&L Group, explained how TRM’s work with the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) led to the development of a new concrete mix. After intense trials and testing the mix proved successful for the project and the TRM team now hope to put the mix forward for an award.
Zanetti also explained in the article how TRM’s success is directly linked to their long-standing employees. “This year we have 20 employees who will be getting their 15-year award with us, joining the 30 who have already celebrated this milestone.” The company will also celebrate its own 30-year milestone with a client and staff celebration as well as by adding a 30-year logo design to most if its trucks.
Toronto Redi-Mix partners with city to construct TTC Toronto-York Spadina Subway Extension
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Toronto Redi-Mix, one of the largest independent ready-mix producers in Ontario, has been awarded the shotcrete supply contract for the TTC Toronto-York Subway extension project. With a project completion date set for the end of 2015, TRM will spend the next two years working closely with the city to create a new passageway for GTA commuters.
Toronto Redi-Mix celebrates thirty years in the concrete business
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Toronto Redi-Mix, one of the largest independent ready-mix producers in Ontario, is celebrating thirty years in the concrete business. Toronto Redi-Mix began as a small family-run business established in 1983. Over the last three decades, the company has established a reputation for exceptional quality and superior customer service while expanding to meet the growing needs of the construction industry in the GTA.
TRM would like to thank their loyal customers for continuing to choose Toronto Redi-Mix as their leading concrete supplier. As an enduring partner in your performance, TRM looks forward to working with our current business partners, forging new relationships and creating innovative and value-added products.
Draglam Waste Merges with Alpha Waste
Monday, August 12, 2013
Draglam Waste is excited to announce a new partnership with Alpha Waste. The Alpha Waste merger partners two companies both built on strong family values, dedication, sustainability and a tireless work ethic. Together, both Draglam and Alpha Waste will combine their resources, offering a more dynamic service to their customers.
Committed to excellence in all areas of environmental management, Draglam and Alpha Waste will work side by side to fulfill waste collection, waste transfer and recycling services in the Greater Toronto Area.
Introducing a new partnership between Progressive Waste Solutions and Draglam Waste
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Draglam Waste has partnered with Progressive Waste Solutions (BFI Canada Inc.), supporting their new Freshway Recycling Facility. This initiative will dramatically decrease the amount of construction and demolition waste sent to landfills every year.
In addition to our Bowes and Wentworth transfer stations, you can also use the Freshway Facility for your construction and demolition waste disposal.
Draglam Salt Video Release
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Draglam Salt proudly releases its new Corporate Video. Learn more about all that Draglam has
to offer.
Watch videos on: YouTube
Draglam Salt is pleased to announce twelve locations to serve our clients in Toronto and surrounding
areas throughout Southern Ontario. New this Season, Hamilton Mountain.
Landscape Ontario Magazine Feature
Friday, August 17, 2012
G&L Group’s Sr. Vice President profiled in August 2012 issue of Landscape Ontario Magazine.
G&L Group continues to proudly support Landscape Ontario and the green industry.
Read stories on: Landscape Ontario Magazine Online
Less Mess Donates to WBCA
Monday, June 04, 2012
Less Mess proudly donated premium topsoil and compost, small river stones and mulch to
Wychwood Barns Community Association (WBCA) in Toronto. They will be recreating 3 garden
styles typical of the World War 1 Era (1910-1921) the Victory Garden, the Formal Flower Garden
and the Cottage Garden. This project will demonstrate an important part of Toronto’s historic
architecture and increase the appeal of the landscape surrounding the community Gallery.
Earthco Donates to Mud Run
Sunday, June 03, 2012
Less Mess and Earthco Soil Mixtures proudly donated to a local event that ends
with a dirty twist. The Mud Run is an annual 1.5 K, 5K and 10K trail run
which inspires fitness and fun by ending in a huge mud pit!
Read stories on: The Mud Run Website
Draglam Waste Expands Fleet
Monday, May 28, 2012
Draglam Waste & Recycling announces the addition of a fleet of 10 “walking floor”
tractor trailers to its operation. The new fleet of trailers will transport
waste directly to landfill. Adding them to the current operation enables
Draglam Waste to control operational costs and external obstacles,
allowing us to provide a higher level of service to all customers.
Supporting a Community Garden
Friday, May 25, 2012
G&L Group, Earthco Soil Mixtures and Less Mess are proud to support the
incredible moms and families at The Rail Garden Project. It has been
our privilege to provide a complete regrading of the space and all of our
top-quality Earthco Soil Mixtures for the new gardens.
Read stories on: The Rail Garden Website
Team Canada Brings Home the Gold
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
As a longtime supporter, the G&L Group would like to Congratulate Team Canada in bringing home the gold. The Special Olympics were held in Las Spezia, Italy. Team Canada was 1 of 67 teams that participated in the sport bocce. Congratulations Youth Bocce Team Canada for a job well done!
Earthco Announces New Location
Monday, April 02, 2012
Earthco is pleased to announce their new location
in Markham, open April 2012. The 2011 Richmond Hill location has now
closed. Click here for Earthco Location Maps.
Aggregates Are Vital to Life
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
Media Release: Brock Aggregates initiates public education on the use of aggregates in our everyday lives. Press Release: For Immediate Release January 31, 2012
Honored for Hospital Contributions
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
In recognition for the fundraising and contributions made to York Central Hospital, G&L Group is proud to announce our founder Mr. Joe Lamanna and his wife were recently honored by a special presentation event. Their contribution generously funded a new high tech X-ray suite which was unveiled at the event.
Time Lapse Video of St James Park
Friday, December 09, 2011
Landscape Ontario Time Lapse Video of St. James Park Revival. Soils proudly
donated by G&L Group's Earthco Soil Mixtures.
Watch videos on: YouTube
St James Park Restoration Continues
Thursday, December 08, 2011
St. James Park volunteer work continues. Amazing show of landscape
industry support. Soils proudly donated by G&L Group's very own, Earthco Soil Mixtures and Less Mess.
Watch videos on: CityTV, CTV News
Earthco donates to St James Park
Wednesday, December 07, 2011
Earthco Soil Mixtures donates over 300 yards of sand/compost mix and slinger
truck service to repair damage to St. James Park in Toronto caused by
the 40 day Occupy Toronto protest. Landscape Ontario contacted Earthco
last week and has successfully organized a number of landscape industry
contractors to work together to restore the park.
Watch videos on: CTV News
Read stories on: CityTV, Newstalk1010, The National Post
Draglam Announces 2 New Locations
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Draglam Salt is please to announce the addition of two(2) New Pick-up locations to serve our clients better in Pickering and Oshawa.
G&L Supports Evergreen Brickworks
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
G&L Group is pleased to announce our recent contribution as one of Evergreen Brickworks newest Partners In Sustainability. The G&L Group including Brock Aggregates, Earthco Soils and Less Mess provided sand, soil, mulch, compost and seating stones toward building the foundation for Evergreen Brickworks' Children’s Garden in Chimney Court. Read stories on:Evergreen Brickworks, Evergreen Newsroom
Draglam Announces 2 New Products
Thursday, September 01, 2011
Draglam Salt announces 2 New Products: Bulk Sacks (bulk sacks info, click here) and Salt
Domes (salt domes info, click here)
Draglam Southern Ontario Expansion
Monday, August 01, 2011
Draglam is pleased to announce our expanded service area beginning in the 2011/2012 season. Now serving the needs of de-icing contractors throughout Ontario.
Toronto Redi-Mix Donates to Park
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Toronto Redi-Mix Donates to Etobicoke 8th Street Skateboard Park. The city provided $500,000 for the park and Toronto Redi-Mix kicked in about $100,000 to build the bowl when the project looked like it was going to go over budget. Skateboard parks contribute to the overall economic and social health of a community and Toronto Redi-Mix is proud to contribute. WHERE: Eighth Street Park, Eighth Street and Birmingham Street (just west of Islington and Birmingham).
Brock & Earthco Support Evergreen
Friday, July 01, 2011
Brock & Earthco materials to help bring nature and kids together at the Evergreen Brickworks.
Draglam Salt New Location
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
New Location Announced! Conveniently servicing our west of the GTA and west GTA customers. New Yard in Oakville.
Draglam Salt Celebrates 20 Years!
Friday, October 01, 2010
Draglam Salt recently celebrated their 20 year anniversary. In honour of the occasion they invited loyal customers and friends to a fun party complete with prize draws and yummy refreshments.
Open House
Saturday, September 25, 2010
OPEN HOUSE at our Bradford Site! Everyone Welcome.
A White Christmas on CityTV!
Friday, September 03, 2010
Draglam Salt helped CityTV give a family a white Christmas! Watch videos on: CityTV
G&L Supports Hospital
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
G&L Group proudly raises over $55K in support of York Central Hospital.
Landscape Supplier of the Year!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Earthco proudly accepts Award of Excellence 2010 from Landscape Ontario for CANADA BLOOMS Hard Landscaping Supplier of the Year.
Earthco Saves the Day!
Friday, March 13, 2009
Earthco Saves the Day at Canada Blooms! When an unexpected last minute issue arose regarding sand supply at this year's Canada Blooms, Landscape Ontario contacted Earthco Soil Mixtures. As a long-standing member, Earthco proudly stepped up to help out. On short notice, Earthco was able to open one of their depots during the night to supply the show with 300 tonnes of quality sand. As a result, The Canada Blooms gardens were completed on time for this year's show. The Earthco Team is dedicated to contributing to our clients' success by ensuring prompt and efficient customer service and we are proud to have contributed to the success of The Canada Blooms Gardens this year.
Toronto Redi-Mix Milestone
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Toronto Redi-Mix celebrates our 25th Anniversary!
Earthco Offers CU-Soil
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Earthco Soil Mixtures meets all requirements for and is sub-licensed to produce & sell CU-Structured Soil® (CU-Soil™/Cornell University Urban Tree Mix)
Draglam Takes over World Waste
Monday, October 01, 2007
Draglam Waste is pleased to announce that on October 1st, 2007, we successfully won the bid to take over operations of World Waste Systems Corp. An independently owned disposal company from Maple, Ontario, World Waste Systems provided service to a variety of construction and ICI clients. The merge of the two companies will increase Draglam Waste’s existing fleet by two trucks and 75 containers. This transition has taken place successfully with no service interruptions to any World Waste clients. Furthermore, it will lead to expanded, effective operations for all customers with the continued high-level of service all clients have come to expect from Draglam Waste. We welcome all customers and staff who have now joined us at Draglam Waste.
Brock Continues to Innovate
Friday, June 01, 2007
Brock introduces their new underwater mining operation consisting of an 800 series link belt, excavator on a barge equipped with a 6 yard clamshell bucket, a de-watering screen and a floating conveyer system.
Brock/Earthco Help HGTV Green Force
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
In a 2-part series, HGTV's Green Force Show team refurbishes St. Charles Elementary School playground with the help of community businesses. Brock Aggregates proudly donated labour and materials to this project which aimed at bringing back the green to a desolate urban schoolyard in our community.
Sunderland Pit in full Operation
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Sunderland Pit begins its own Full-scale Production Processing operation.
Earthco Opens New Site
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Earthco opens new site location in Richmond Hill.
Brock Innovates
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Innovative Under Water Operation developed at Sunderland Pit. Expected to be in full operation Early Spring 2007.
Draglam Salt New Location
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
New Location Announced! Scarborough/Markham. Easy access makes this location a convenient pick up spot for our clients servicing east and central GTA properties.
DraglamSalt Offers Discount Card
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Draglam Salt launches the new Preferred Discount Card to better serve the supply and pricing needs of our clients.
DraglamSalt.com New Site Launch!
Friday, September 01, 2006
New & Improved Website! This season we've improved Draglam Salt online with you, our valued customer in mind. Along with our new online look, we've made all site information succinct and easy to access to serve you better ... browse our website regularly for all your de-icing needs this winter season.
New Transfer Station Opens
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Draglam Waste & Recycling officially opens their second Transfer Station at 401 Bowes Rd, in Concord to complement its existing services and provide additional convenience to its customers.
Earthco Announces New Site
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Earthco announces a New Toronto site location opening Fall 2005.
Draglam Offer New Service
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Draglam Waste & Recycling introduces Front End Bin service at competitive rates with scheduled service guarantees.
Draglam Announces Toronto Location
Monday, November 01, 2004
Draglam announces new Etobicoke location: The new Etobicoke (or Toronto West) location will be situated on Horner Avenue, which is north of Lakeshore, at Horner & Kipling.
Earthco Awarded Airport Contract
Thursday, January 01, 2004
Earthco awarded second phase airport construction project.
Toronto Redi-Mix Innovates
Sunday, June 01, 2003
Toronto Redi-Mix opens the 1st Computer Color Batching System in Ontario making them the 1st ready-mix supplier able to batch accurate colour concrete from a ready mix plant.
draglamsalt.com wins website award!
Sunday, June 01, 2003
draglamsalt.com wins 2003 Golden Web Award for creativity, integrity and excellence on the web.
