QSL, a Quebec-based company specializing in port terminal operations, stevedoring, marine services, logistics, and transportation throughout North America, has announced its recent partnership with the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC) and Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority (HOPA Ports). QSL will operate SLSMC’s Wharves 5 and 6, with access to the Welland Canal. The 55 acres of combined SLSMC and HOPA land will be used for handling and storage of cargo in Thorold, Ontario.

“I’m proud and excited to add Thorold Wharves 5 and 6 to our 64-terminal network. This partnership strengthens our Ontario presence and reinforces our collaboration with two (2) key stakeholders, SLSMC and HOPA Ports. Furthermore, this strategic alliance aligns perfectly with QSL’s determination to be a paramount player in the Seaway and Great Lakes corridor,” stated Robert Bellisle, QSL’s President and CEO.

The Niagara Region is strategically located in Canada’s manufacturing heartland, on the doorstep of the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area, which is connected to Class-1 North American rail lines and offers direct access to ports around the world through the Welland Canal and Great Lakes Seaway system.

QSL actively participates in growing the Canadian and U.S. import and export markets with its extended network of strategically located marine terminals offering clients agility and flexibility in mapping out the best multimodal solutions in North America.

“We are delighted to have QSL expand their operations on the Welland Canal, which we expect will result in the increased movement of cargo through the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway system,” said Terence Bowles, SLSMC President and CEO. “The SLSMC recently invested $7 million to upgrade Wharves 5 and 6, and more upgrades are planned in the near future.  This investment is part of our commitment to maintaining and upgrading the binational Seaway and strengthening Canada’s national supply chain.”

“We welcome the expertise of stevedoring provider QSL,” said Ian Hamilton, President & CEO of HOPA Ports. “Niagara’s maritime sector is thriving and will benefit from the addition of QSL’s technical expertise and diverse international customer base. We look forward to working as partners to grow the logistics capacity and supply chain resilience in the Great Lakes region.”

(Photo of Welland Canal wharves from HOPA)