< PreviousWRITTEN BY GARRETH OWEN A sk any business leader about the greatest challenges they face, and they’ll likely talk about the difficulties staying competitive in a continually shifting global market. A recent McKinsey study estimated the aver- age lifespan of a company to be around 18 years, and many estimate that figure to be even shorter for companies in the construction business. All of which makes Van Horne Construction Ltd.’s 50 years of continued success so remarkable. Like many parts of the world, the construction industry in Ontario has seen its share of changes over the last half century. Technological advancements, evolving regulations, and shifts in environmental priorities have been the leading drivers in this regard. Throughout these changes, Van Horne has managed not only to endure, but to thrive. The company has experienced unprecedented growth in recent years, solidifying its position as a key player in Ontario’s construction industry. In his role as President and CEO of the company, Zeki Mert’s focus is on leading and managing the company to achieve its strategic goals. “Our growth has been marked by strategic initiatives, innovative projects, and a continued commitment to excellence.” As Van Horne celebrates half a century in the construction business, Mert can look back on the last five decades from a position of extraordinary success. In the past five years alone, the company has experienced a staggering 900% growth, a testament to the strong and efficient team work that the company has developed. | 60 NOVEMBER 2023| 61 APEIRON CONSTRUCTIONThings were not always this way. Operating out of its head- quarters in Concord, Ontario, Van Horne Construction Ltd began trading in 1973, and initially the company started working on smaller commercial/retail projects. However, an attention to details and strong work ethic ensured that the company expanded quickly. “As the company grew, we began to take on larger and more sophisticated projects including institutional and multi-level residential buildings.” Central to Van Horne’s early success can be attributed to both its extensive knowledge of the industry landscape and the key players within it that could be relied upon to guar- antee results. “We’re in a unique position having established relationships with many trades, and that provides us with an advantage in securing the most competitive pricing,” says Mert. “We’ve amassed a large database of dependable and qualified sub-trades and suppliers that we’ve vetted and worked with over the last five decades.” Van Horne’s dedication to craftsmanship, excellence, and client satisfaction quickly allowed the company to develop a stellar reputation among its peers in Ontario’s construction industry. Before long, it had a host of clients and suppliers eager to work with a company that was clearly on the rise. “Van Horne has strategically aligned with industry partners including architects, engineers, and subcontractors fostering collaborative relationships that have contributed to the suc- cess of countless projects.” As Van Horne expanded, so too did the company’s project portfolio which now encompasses a diverse range of con- struction endeavors. For Mert and those at the company, this is the result of strategic and focused investment in the latest technology. “We’ve invested heavily in digital tools and software, and we’ve embraced sustainable building practices to position ourselves as a leader in green construction. We’ve also focused on workforce development, nurturing talent, and promoting continuous learning.” This investment has also led to a key strength, and one that has played a key role in the com- pany’s longevity. In having an ability to anticipate and adapt to change in the face of intensifying market competition, the company is an industry outlier. Mert points to the rapid pace of technological advancements as an example of this. “Over the last five decades, we’ve seen the introduction to computer aided design (CAD) software, Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital tools and mobile apps, as well as things like pre- fabrication and modular construction coming to the fore.” In more recent times, environmental concerns have risen in prominence and have fundamentally changed the way in which businesses operate in the industry. “Ontario has seen a growing emphasis on sustainable and environmentally friendly construction practices driven by stricter regulations and an increased awareness of climate change. Green build- ing certifications like LEED have become more common, for instance.” Alongside this, the industry has undergone a sig- nificant shift towards prioritizing the safety of the workforce in construction as well. “Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSHA) regulations have evolved to enforce safety measures, greatly reducing workplace accidents.” Elsewhere, Mert points to demographic changes in the makeup of the workforce as one of the most positive devel- opments in recent years. “Our industry has made significant Zeki Mert President and CEO | 62 NOVEMBER 2023 strides in promoting diversity and inclusion with initiatives aimed at increasing the participation of women, minori- ties, and indigenous people in the workforce. We’ve always embraced inclusion wholeheartedly and we’ll continue to do so in the future.” Over the years, Van Horne has adapted to working across a diverse range of construction projects, instilling a tailored approach to suit different clients and project types. Through excellent teamwork, the company has developed a philosophy of adaptability that has allowed it to work seamlessly with clients across sectors, delivering consistent results no matter the brief. “We begin by recognizing that each project is unique. Each has its own challenges, objectives, and client expecta- tions. We embrace flexibility in our project management. Even though we have standard processes, we’re always prepared to modify them to align with our client’s specific needs.” Van Horne prides itself on its client-centric mindset, and when asked about this aspect of its approach, Mert is quick to stress the importance of communication. “We customize our communication style and frequency to match our client’s preferences. Some clients prefer regular detailed updates while others prefer periodic summaries.” For Mert and the team at Van Horne, this doesn’t end with the project’s com- pletion either. “With each completed project we conduct a post-project evaluation with the client to understand what went well and what could be improved and to apply these insights on future projects.” This approach has allowed Van Horne to be proactive rather than reactive, building for the future with confidence. “We focus on creating long-term relationships with clients and partners rather than solely pursuing short-term gains.” But while the company’s clients will always be a priority, Mert also recognizes the importance of looking after its workforce for the long-term as well. “Investing in the training and devel- opment of our employees means we can retain a skilled and motivated team while we look ahead to what’s next.” “Even though we have standard processes, we’re always prepared to modify them to align with our client’s specific needs.” | 63 APEIRON CONSTRUCTIONIn an industry that can be tumultuous and difficult to navi- gate, it is refreshing to find a company that has had the skill and foresight to anticipate change. For Van Horne, this skill, and the success it has delivered, can be attributed to several underlying principles that have guided the company through 50 years in the industry. “We believe in consistency, integrity, and honesty in everything from project bidding and comple- tion. Being able to build trust allows us to retain satisfied clients and have them recommend our services to others.” While these principles can contribute to the competitiveness of a construction company, Mert and his team recognize that sometimes that simply isn’t enough. Unfortunately, the construction industry can be influenced by factors outside the company’s control. “Regional issues, economic condi- tions, market dynamics… They all require additional strate- gies that evolve over time.” However, he sees this ability to pivot as a vital element of its ongoing growth. “The ability to adapt to changing industry trends, regulations, and client needs is crucial for long-term success. Prudent financial management and a strong financial position helps us to weather economic downturns and to seize growth opportu- nities as and when they arise.” As Van Horne looks to the future, the company has plans to maintain the rapid growth it has experienced recently. “We’re expanding our operations overseas as we continue to monitor the changing landscape in the Ontario construction market.” Asked about these changes, Mert highlights two key areas. “We have an aging population and a growing demand for affordable housing, so those are two high demand sectors that we’ll continue to focus our attention on.” Mert | 64 NOVEMBER 2023confirmed that Van Horne is already hard at work on several projects that answer the province’s construction needs. “We’ve secured a number of long-term care facility builds in eastern and western Ontario and we’re looking forward to collaborating with partners on some exciting projects in the coming months and years.” Backed by strong relationships in the industry, an engaged and strong workforce, and a growing reputation as a mar- ket leader in Ontario, the future looks bright for Van Horne Construction Ltd. Whatever the next 50 years have in store, it’s not hard to imagine Van Horne being able to adapt to any changes that comes its way. | 65 APEIRON CONSTRUCTIONWRITTEN BY MANUELA ARMINI T he concept of agile methodology in project manage- ment, manufacturing, and construction may be a familiar one. However, the idea of an agile mindset? Maybe, not so much. An agile mindset is rooted in the principles of collaboration, innovation, and putting customers first. It's a flexible way of thinking that empowers individuals and teams to respond to dynamic situations swiftly— a far cry from the rigid bureaucracy of traditional old-fashioned firms. Tony Mitro, owner and managing director of Toronto-based general contractor Neutral Contracting Group, follows this philosophy to the core. Mitro believes his company's success relies heavily on the flexible and reliable attitude of its management, staff, suppliers, and trades. “We have to say a big thank you to our clients for trusting us to always deliver top-quality work on time and within budget. But this wouldn’t be possible without the best- in-class people in every area.” | 66 NOVEMBER 2023| 67 APEIRON CONSTRUCTIONThe benefits of this agile, quality-driven approach create, in essence, a domino effect with the company’s customers passing these benefits on, and so forth. Neutral Contracting Group's own journey, however, began in 2005 as a small painting company. After the 2008 financial meltdown, the Canadian residential market experienced sustained growth, creating the need for more contractors that could offer qual- ity work at competitive prices. This led to Mitro seizing the opportunity to expand his business into a general contract- ing firm. In 2010, it started offering bespoke construction services to institutional property management firms under the name Neutral Contracting Group. For the past 13 years, Neutral Contracting Group has been working with Canadian housing providers, property managers and owners to deliver high-standard multi-residential projects and suite upgrades. The company provides a wide range of interior finishing ser- vices, and in addition, it offers commercial services acting as a single point of contact for any construction and main- tenance needs and offering a 24-hour contact center. In the past 20 years Greater Toronto Area has seen an incredible boom in the construction of condominiums. As they naturally age they also deteriorate due to factors like weather, poor construction and other factors leading to buildings experi- encing deterioration, fire and flooding incidents. To fulfill this market niche, Neutral Contracting Group the opportunity to add emergency and restoration services to its existing suite of services. These services include fire and water damage restoration, electrical and mechanical upgrades, heating, ventilation and air conditioning repair, and round-the-clock emergency response in case of floods and fires. With over a decade of experience working in the industry, Neutral Contracting Group has garnered valuable insights into the Greater Toronto Area residential market. Lessons learned are listening attentively to clients needs and respond in a prompt manner as timing is of essence. Mitro and his team use this knowledge to shape and streamline its operations, making sure materials and labor are always available. With its 16,000-square-foot warehouse, Neutral Contracting Group has the capacity to order construction supplies in excess. Even when faced with supply chain disruptions and other external challenges, this forward-thinking approach allows the com- pany to service jobs on time and at competitive costs. at the guest suite renovation project at 44 Charles Street in the heart of Yorkville is a testament to the efficacy of this strategy. The project commenced and finished during the pandemic. Neutral Contracting Group was hired to upgrade and transform the residential units into high-end four-season-like suites. Due to COVID restrictions slowing down the supply chain, and the pandemic affecting the health and safety of staff members, this project was particularly challenging. However, stock sur- plus and clever staff management allowed Neutral Contract- ing Group to work without interruptions, meet deadlines, and exceed client expectations. "We have multiple crews, so if a staff member got sick, we were able to remove the entire crew and replace it with another team," says Mitro. “With over a decade of experience working in the industry, Neutral Contracting Group has garnered valuable insights into the Greater Toronto Area residential market.” | 68 NOVEMBER 2023Neutral Contracting Group encourages team members at all levels to adopt an agile mindset and to learn, adapt, and improve processes following customers' feedback. “We try to be innovative and creative, from sourcing suppliers and nego- tiating pricing to storing excess materials.” The company’s culture is based on collaboration and good communication, both internally and externally. Mitro attributes most of the company's achievements to this open and ongoing dialogue among all the parties involved. "We're a people's company. We strive to set clear expectations and manage them diligently." Good and honest communication has also helped Neutral Contracting Group create long-lasting partnerships with its suppliers. This is a key factor in its ability to maintain competitive prices. The same approach has also earned the company multiple contracts with many big names in the GTA residential market. "We have proven, and we're still proving, that we can deliver excellent work on time. That's why we are trusted partners of some of the major players in the industry like QuadReal, Morguard, GWLRA." Confident of its abilities and good reputation, Neutral Con- tracting Group plans to open additional offices across Canada over the next five years. Drawing on its experience, expertise, and flexibility, the company is eager to work on new projects and onboard new clients. Having worked with many property management firms, Neutral Contracting Group is well-posi- tioned to adapt its processes to different visions and design packages, offering advice and tailored solutions to meet new and existing customers' needs. "Our company is well-known to the institutional property management firms in the coun- try. We want to see organic growth without compromising on our core values which are providing best-in-class bespoke services, meeting deadlines, and offering competitive prices.” Striving to be an invaluable asset to any project, Neutral Con- tracting Group takes great pride in playing an active role in its customers' success. The latest example is the ongoing upgrade of The Galleria Apartments on 77 Finch Avenue East in Toronto for one of the premier property management firms in the country. This residential complex consists of 3 build- ings comprised of1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom rental units, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a sauna, and other amenities. Neutral Contracting Group is working closely with its client to execute the full design vision. "We see our- selves as an extension of our customer's team, and we are proud to say that we are on time and budget and that the transformation this site is undergoing is incredible. Tenants will be very happy to see the premises turned into modern and aesthetically pleasing, yet functional spaces." As the industry moves into a new era, where sustainability, affordability, and excellence are all demanded in equal mea- sure, Neutral Contracting Group is in a good position. The company has established and built a reputation for high quality and trust. They say that in construction, only change is certain. With an ability to plan ahead and an unrivalled level of skill and professionalism in-house, the company is here, serving its customers, for the long haul. | 69 APEIRON CONSTRUCTIONNext >