Bison Transport is among the leading trucking companies in Canada. From humble beginnings in 1969 to becoming North America’s most respected logistics player, Bison Transport is synonymous with reliability, innovation, and scale.
Origins and Growth
Founded by Duncan M. Jessiman in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Bison launched with a modest fleet of 18 tractors and 32 trailers. Today, it manages over 2,100 tractors, 6,000+ trailers, and employs more than 3,700 drivers and staff across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.
Locations
Headquartered in Winnipeg, Bison also operates major terminals and yards throughout North America, including regional hubs in:
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U.S.: Amherst, WI • Grand Forks, ND • Des Moines, IA • Sioux Falls, SD • Indianapolis, IN • Camp Hill, PA • and more
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Canada: Montreal (QC), Langley (BC), Regina (SK), Mississauga (ON), Calgary & Edmonton (AB)
Net Worth
Though privately held, Bison’s financials reveal impressive scale:
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Estimated annual revenue: ≈ US $850 million
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Boasts an industry-leading claims ratio below 0.1%
The 2022 acquisition by James Richardson & Sons (JRSL) added an estimated US $1 billion in revenue to the conglomerate’s diversified portfolio (agriculture, energy, etc.)
Ownership & Leadership
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Founder: Duncan M. Jessiman
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Previous owner: Jessiman family’s holding company, Wescan Capital Inc.
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Current owner (since Jan 1, 2021): James Richardson & Sons, Limited (JRSL), a family-controlled conglomerate with estimated assets around US $860 million.
JRSL’s stewardship has maintained Bison’s brand, leadership (including President & CEO Rob Penner), culture, and growth ambitions.
Summary Table
Feature | Details |
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Founded | 1969, Winnipeg by Duncan Jessiman |
Fleet | 2,100+ tractors, 6,000+ trailers |
Employees | 3,700+ across North America |
Headquarters | Winnipeg, MB (Canada) |
Other Locations | U.S. hubs (WI, SD, ND, IA, PA, IN); Canadian hubs (QC, ON, BC, SK, AB) |
Revenue | ≈ US $850 million annually |
Owner | James Richardson & Sons (since 2021) |
Owner’s Net Worth | JRSL is estimated at ≈ US $860 million assets |