Time is of the essence in the certification business, as global supply chains often require a quick turnaround of inspection and testing results. Recognising that a complete understanding of clients' technical requirements is crucial to the certification process, Certispec Services invests time and resources in being nimble and flexible. "We get to know our customers and adapt to their individual needs," says Glen Todd, Certispec's president. "We're able to move more quickly because we don't have the complexity of bigger companies. We can jump in and take advantage of opportunities, while others may not have that option." The company's growth has been opportunity-driven. Starting out by certifying jet fuel shipments for the airline industry in 1992, Certispec has expanded its services to oil and gas, agriculture, mining and a host of manufacturing companies over the past 10 years. As its reputation grew by word-of-mouth from satisfied clients such as Sultran and Shell, so did the breadth of its trade. Offering independent marine surveying, inspection, sampling and laboratory testing services, Certispec is a trusted brand with nine offices across Canada. Its laboratories operate to ISO 17025 standards, the highest competence level for such facilities. Through various industry alliances, Certispec has a global reach. Its work mainly involves bulk commodities cargo, especially minerals, petroleum, potash and sulphur from Canada. With Asia increasingly becoming the destination of these commodities, Certispec is raising its stake in the region. It opened a joint venture in Jiangsu last year to support Asia's commodities and container markets. "Many companies eyeing international trading aren't really familiar with regulations outside of their borders," Todd says. "We aim to provide that second level of confidence to the importer in Canada and the exporter in China that their shipments are compliant in both markets." Certispec is open to forging more joint ventures to tap growth opportunities in Southeast Asia. Certispec Services www.certispec.com
