The day-to-day operations of Penner International will not be changing even though they have been purchased by the sixth-largest trucking company in Canada.

Read more: Penner International Acquired By Company From Quebec

On Monday, it was announced that a Quebec Incorporation called C.A.T. Global had bought the Steinbach firm with the hope of further extending its reach into western Canada. Penner International President Allan Penner says, as he begins considering his retirement, he wanted to pass the company off to one with similar values and ambition. He believes C.A.T. is that company.

“I was hoping to be able to sell to someone who believes in and instills family culture and treats their employees with respect,” says Penner, “and I wanted to ensure that whoever would be my successor had proven experience to grow our business. C.A.T. will be a very good fit for Penner International.”

On the outside, Penner notes, everything will appear the same; current branding will remain and all employees will be encouraged to stay. The only difference for Steinbach will be more available jobs. Penner says additional staff and trucks will be needed as the company continues to expand.

This transition will bring Penner International’s 97-year reign as a family-owned business to a close. C.A.T., meanwhile, has been family owned and operated since its inception 40 years ago and has been recognized as one of Canada’s best-managed companies for five years in a row. With this in mind, Penner feels they are in good hands.

“We are very pleased that C.A.T. saw the potential in our business and chose to acquire our company. We look forward to focusing on new growth and being part of this new team.”

Penner says he will continue serving as president of the Steinbach division for the time being.