editor’s
letter
We’re coming to the end of another year, and it seems fitting to wrap
up 2016 by highlighting some of Canada’s exciting business success
stories.
This issue’s cover story this issue puts the spotlight on a vision care
company that takes eye health well beyond exams and glasses.
IRIS
The Visual Group
, founded in 1986, has locations in several provinc-
es and is focused on a future brimming with innovation and growth.
The independently-operated IRIS Ophthalmology Clinic in Laval,
Quebec, for example, offers surgical procedures that can significantly
improve various types of vision issues.
Now that winter is upon us, we can only hope that power outages
don’t impact the holidays, but it’s nice to know that companies like
Powerline Plus
are ready just in case Mother Nature strikes. In 2013, residents of Toronto were
pummelled by weather that left thousands in the dark just before Christmas. Teams from Powerline
Plus were quickly assembled and ready to help Toronto Hydro get the situation under control.
Each issue, we like to feature a not-for-profit group that is having a positive impact on Canadians,
and often the world around us. This month, we spoke with Andria Spindel, president and CEO of
March of Dimes Canada
. This inspiring and innovative organization is making a difference in the
lives of Canadians with disabilities, offering help to anyone with a physical disability no matter its
origin. From celebrity spokespeople to fun-filled events, March of Dimes Canada is always finding
new ways to entice and engage their donors.
Finally, we interviewed Garry Flett, president and CEO of one of the largest Aboriginal-owned com-
panies in Canada. Though the business began with a single pickup truck and a handful of employ-
ees,
Acden
has grown to encompass 17 different companies with a staff of more than 3,000.
From all of us at Business Elite Canada, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season. We look for-
ward to bringing you more articles next year featuring Canadian businesses that are succeeding in
today’s competitive economic climate!
Cheryl Long
Editor
DECEMBER 2016
H
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