Manufacturer relocates to Kenora: sales jump 100 per cent following move to Northwestern Ontario.

• Author: Louiseize, Kelly
• Position: Kenora-Dryden: Special Report - Brief Article

Interlocking Lifts and Docks moved from Manitoba to Kenora in June 2000 - a move that has pushed sales up by 100 per cent, says the local manufacturer.

"This is where all the work is," owner Ted Hermann says.

Originally Hermann had two locations; one in Mc Phillips, in northern Manitoba and the other in Keewatin. He decided overhead was too high, so he closed the Manitoba operation, but maintained his Ontario business.

"Now that we have everything in one location, it is easier to get to sites faster and we don't miss any customer calls," he says.

Hermann says customers prefer to have a choice in which business they deal with in Keewatin.

"Competition is healthy. It keeps you on your toes and the more mistakes our competitor makes the better it is for us," Hermann says.

Interlake Lifts and Docks went from a staff of three full-time employees to nine full-time employees, following the move to Kenora. The employees are usually "jack-of-all-trades persons," Hermann says.

"When you are out on an island, no one can help you, so my employees have to be good problem solvers." Herman says.

"They have to know a bit of welding, electrical, and woodworking."

Hermann hopes there will be enough work to keep staff on full time through out the year.

Interlake Lifts and Docks manufactures floating, shoreline, and drilled docks, as well as stationary and floating boathouses.

"The floating boathouse can go up and down depending on the water level," Hermann says. "It can also be transferable."

Boatlifts are developed inside the boathouse so that boats can be suspended for easier cleaning access.

In the colder months, the boat can be winterized and kept in the boathouse.

"Our houses are built of a heavy steel frame," he said "It is quite elaborate and strong."

Materials used for the business...