J. D. Irving

J. D. Irving

J. D. Irving is a Canadian conglomerate company based in New Brunswick, Canada. It is one of the largest privately-owned companies in Canada, with operations in various industries including forestry, shipbuilding, transportation, and retail. The company was founded by James Dergavel Irving in 1882 and has since grown into a diversified group of companies.

History

J. D. Irving was established in 1882 by James Dergavel Irving, who started the company as a small sawmill operation in Bouctouche, New Brunswick. Over the years, the company expanded its operations and diversified into different industries. Today, J. D. Irving is a major player in the Canadian economy, employing thousands of people across its various subsidiaries.

Operations

J. D. Irving operates in several industries, including:

Forestry

The company has a significant presence in the forestry sector, with operations in both softwood and hardwood lumber production. It owns and manages vast forest lands in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Maine, ensuring a sustainable supply of timber for its mills. J. D. Irving is committed to responsible forestry practices and has received certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for its sustainable forest management.

Shipbuilding

J. D. Irving is also involved in shipbuilding through its subsidiary, Irving Shipbuilding Inc. The company has a long history of building various types of vessels, including naval ships, commercial vessels, and offshore structures. Irving Shipbuilding Inc. is a major supplier to the Canadian Navy and has been awarded contracts to build several Arctic and offshore patrol ships.

Transportation

J. D. Irving operates a transportation division that includes trucking, logistics, and distribution services. The company has a fleet of trucks and trailers that transport goods across North America. It also provides warehousing and distribution services to its customers, ensuring efficient and timely delivery of products.

Retail

In addition to its industrial operations, J. D. Irving has a retail division that operates various retail stores across Canada. The company owns and operates several brands, including Kent Building Supplies, a leading home improvement retailer in Atlantic Canada.

Corporate Social Responsibility

J. D. Irving is committed to corporate social responsibility and sustainability. The company actively supports community development initiatives, education, and environmental conservation efforts. It has established the J. D. Irving, Limited Community Fund, which provides financial support to various community projects and organizations.

See also

• List of conglomerates
• Economy of Canada