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President's Message Summer 2019

June 26, 2019
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Canada is becoming a global leader in autonomous adoption as Canadian mining companies focus on efficiencies in their mining operations, and SMS Equipment is leading the way.
We are committed to supporting the successful implementation and delivery of new digital technologies into the marketplace. Our goal is simple: to reduce our customers’ operating costs and improve overall productivity.
 
As part of that commitment, in April, SMS Equipment deployed the first Komatsu 980E-4AT, the largest autonomous truck in commercial operations in the world, into production in Canada.  Mike Brown, EVP, Innovation and Advanced Technologies led the development of an experienced team of autonomous mining specialists dedicated to supporting our customers’ needs from inception through to implementation and continuous improvement.
 
Digital solutions are not limited to autonomous mining technologies. SMS Equipment is also investing heavily in the development of Smart Construction solutions, delivering Komatsu’s integrated intelligent machine control (IMC), increasing our front-line support, and expanding our customers’ opportunities with bolt-on aftermarket technology.
 
Last year, we announced the introduction of the Takeuchi compact equipment line. We have positioned additional regional sales personnel to improve your access to the quality range of compact equipment products that we have in stock for your specific requirements.  Reach out to them increase efficiencies in your business with the combination of this quality equipment and our full-service approach.

 
The Takeuchi TL6R track loader with Paladin-McMillen X1975 auger attachment operates in the Acheson Demo Yard during a week-long training event in June featuring Komatsu loaders, excavators, dozers and graders as well as the Takeuchi line of equipment. 
The Takeuchi TL12V2 track loader with hydraulic grapple arms moves brush at the Acheson Demo Yard during a week-long training event in June featuring Komatsu loaders, excavators, dozers and graders as well as the Takeuchi line of equipment.
The mid-year economic outlook appears positive. Although risks around trade remain, stable inflation, low unemployment, and the shrinking trade deficit are good signs for the Canadian economy. A slightly slower economic growth for 2019 at 1.9% as compared to 2.1% in 2018 is expected. 
 
Growth is broad-based, driven by investments and exports.  Canadian jobs have grown by 219,000 over the past 12 months, with the majority being full-time positions. The overall unemployment rate fell to 5.4%, the lowest in several years.
 
While oil price predictions of US$55 to US$75 have not materialized, the price may move to the upper part of that range driven by the new supply cut agreed between OPEC and Russia and increased tensions between the U.S. and Iran. 
 
Canada’s oil will continue to trade at a discount as limited pipeline capacity continues to weigh on our ability to export, though the federal government’s approval of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion in June will help strengthen prices. 
 
As your business works through development opportunities this season, SMS Equipment continues its firm commitment to improving customer productivity and reducing operating cost, regardless of industry, with solutions tailored to your needs.

Yours truly, 

Mike Granger
President & CEO