Wajax has announced the appointment of George J. McClean as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective March 3, 2026. Mr. McClean will also join Wajax’s Board of Directors.
His appointment follows a comprehensive CEO succession process initiated in October 2025 to support the company’s continued growth and leadership.
Mr. McClean joins Wajax with 30 years of Canadian and international executive experience, including senior leadership and director roles at The Master Group, serving as President and member of the global executive group of Sonepar Canada Inc., President of National Tire Distributors Inc., and senior leadership positions at General Motors and W.W. Grainger, Inc. Beyond these executive roles, Mr. McClean has served as a board member and advisor to organizations including Walker Industries, Trillium Health Partners Foundation, CAA Club Group and Workplace Safety and Prevention Services. His expertise includes manufacturing, distribution, retail, services and engineered solutions, and he has deep experience in digitization, advanced analytics and cultural transformation.
“George is an exceptional leader with a demonstrated ability to deliver results, build culture and execute strategy in complex environments,” said Edward Barrett, Board Chair. “His experience leading major transformations, driving operational excellence and growing businesses in Canada and abroad makes him the ideal CEO for Wajax’s next chapter. The Board is confident that under George’s leadership, Wajax will build on the strong foundation established by Iggy Domagalski and the management team, continue advancing its growth strategy and create value for all stakeholders.”
Mr. Barrett continued, “On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Iggy Domagalski for his leadership and unwavering commitment to Wajax. Iggy has positioned Wajax for sustainable growth, and we are grateful for his many contributions to the company.”
Commenting on his appointment, Mr. McClean said, “Wajax is one of Canada’s most respected industrial companies, with a proud history and an exciting future. I am honoured to join the Wajax team and eager to work with our talented employees and with our customers and vendor partners. Together, we will build on Wajax’s strong foundation, accelerate growth and focus on delivering outstanding results. My priorities are to empower our people and deliver strategic initiatives that will create long-term value and strengthen our position as an industry leader.”
Mr. McClean holds a Master of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business, a Juris Doctor from Osgoode Hall Law School and is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and Institute of Corporate Directors designate (ICD.D). He has been recognized with multiple awards for leadership and safety, including as President of National Tire Distributors Inc., when it was named Canada’s Safest Logistics and Supply Chain Employer, and receiving a CEO of the Year Excellence Award. He is actively involved in community initiatives and governance, serving on several boards and campaign cabinets.
ABOUT WAJAX
We are proud to be one of Canada’s longest-standing and most diversified industrial products and services providers. We operate an integrated distribution system providing sales, parts and services to a broad range of customers in diverse sectors of the Canadian economy, including: construction, forestry, mining, industrial and commercial, oil sands, transportation, metal processing, government and utilities, and oil and gas. Today we trade on the TSX.
Wajax is pleased to share that Hitachi Construction Machinery has announced a global rebranding initiative. Beginning April 2027, the company will transition to a new name and brand identity: LANDCROS.
This global rebrand represents more than a name change, it signals a forward-looking vision built on innovation, collaboration, and trusted performance in the construction and mining sectors.
What This Means for Wajax Customers
As a long-standing dealer for Hitachi Construction Machinery, Wajax will continue to offer the same trusted products, with enhanced support, and service excellence our customers rely on.
You’ll begin to see the LANDCROS name and branding appear alongside Hitachi Construction Machinery, continuing through to April 2027. During this transition, the same trusted people, performance, and engineering expertise remain unchanged—from manufacturing and supply chains to product reliability and after-sales service.
Our focus remains clear: delivering dependable, high-performance equipment and solutions that support your success, today and in the future.
Why LANDCROS?
The name LANDCROS blends two powerful ideas:
LAND – symbolizing a deep connection to the earth and a mission to build a more prosperous, sustainable future.
CROS – reflecting key values: Customer-focused, Reliable, Open, and Solutions-driven.
This new identity captures the spirit of transformation within the global construction and mining industries, representing a shift toward intelligent, connected, and sustainable solutions.
Why is the company changing its name from Hitachi Construction Machinery to LANDCROS?
The new name reflects HCM’s ongoing commitment to innovation and delivering world-class solutions for our customers. While Hitachi’s heritage remains strong, LANDCROS represents future focus on supporting customers throughout the machinery lifecycle with integrated services and solutions.
Will manufacturing, people, and supply chains change?
No. Value chain from the first stage of manufacturing to the final point of sale will remain the same. All facilities, research and development centers, engineering, Hitachi personnel, and supply chain partners remain in place and will transition to LANDCROS. From factories to dealers, the entire group is moving forward together under the new brand.
Will the quality of products and services change after the rebranding?
No. The quality, reliability, and support you expect will remain unchanged. Distribution, machines, technology, production, people and support remain the same. Only the brand name and visual identity are evolving.
Why is this happening now?
The rebrand aligns with the company’s long-term strategy to position itself as a global leader in sustainable and intelligent construction and mining solutions.
What does this mean for Wajax as a dealer?
Wajax will continue to represent the same high-quality products and services, but under the LANDCROS name effective April 2027. Our partnership remains strong, and we’ll receive updated materials and support to reflect on the new brand. Clear communication and consistent messaging will be the key to a successful transition.
TORONTO, Oct. 15, 2025 /CNW/ – Wajax Corporation (“Wajax” or the “Corporation”) today announced that its Board of Directors and Iggy Domagalski, President and CEO, have jointly agreed to initiate a CEO succession process. As part of this planned transition, Mr. Domagalski will continue to serve as President and CEO and a director of Wajax until the conclusion of the process, ensuring continuity and a seamless handover of responsibilities.
“Since being appointed President and CEO in early 2022, Iggy has successfully guided Wajax through significant challenge and change with exceptional dedication,” said Edward Barrett, Board Chair. “His steady leadership during the post-pandemic period was instrumental in managing Wajax’s response to pent-up industrial demand in many key markets. Over the past year, he successfully led efforts to reduce inventory and strengthen our balance sheet, substantially completed the roll-out of Wajax’s new ERP system and appointed an experienced Chief Operating Officer to focus on operational excellence and building organizational capabilities. Under his direction, Wajax has streamlined back-office operations, improved cost and inventory discipline, and prioritized the development of our people. He has also championed enhancements to employee health and wellness, as well as broader community initiatives. In short, Iggy has established a solid foundation that positions Wajax for its next phase of growth.”
“With this foundation in place, the board’s intent is to identify a CEO with experience that aligns with Wajax’s next phase – someone focused on accelerating Wajax’s growth trajectory and capitalizing on emerging opportunities. This transition is not about changing direction, but about building strategically on the momentum created under Iggy’s leadership,” Mr. Barrett continued. “On behalf of the board, I want to thank Iggy for 17 years of service within the Tundra and Wajax organizations, and for his steady leadership and unwavering commitment to the Wajax team. In line with this dedication, Iggy will remain in his role during the search for his successor to ensure a smooth transition.”
“This is the right time to begin an orderly CEO succession process,” said Mr. Domagalski. “Wajax is performing well, achieving solid operating and financial results, and maintaining a healthy balance sheet. These strengths make it possible to focus on the future and begin a leadership transition. I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished together and am grateful to all of my colleagues for the tremendous talent and dedication they bring to work every day. It has been a privilege to serve such a respected company – one that has helped shape Canada’s industrial landscape for generations.” He continued, “On a personal level, I feel this is the appropriate moment to make this transition. I intend to remain a significant shareholder in the company and look forward to working closely with the board and management team in the coming months to ensure a smooth and effective succession.”
The Board of Directors has engaged a leading executive search firm to conduct the CEO search process. The new CEO will continue to pursue and accelerate Wajax’s strategy of organic growth within its current businesses, expanding its industrial parts and engineered repair services portfolio through strategic acquisitions, and driving additional efficiencies in its operating model. The search process is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026.
For further information: For further information, please contact: Iggy Domagalski, President and Chief Executive Officer, Email: idomagalski@wajax.com; Tania Casadinho, Chief Financial Officer, Email: tcasadinho@wajax.com, Telephone #: (905) 212-3300
We write to notify you about upcoming changes to our company’s legal structure. As of November 1, 2025 (the “Effective Date”), Wajax Limited (“Wajax”) will become the sole operating entity for the NorthPoint Technical Services ULC (“Northpoint”) business. All assets, agreements and liabilities of Northpoint will be assigned to and assumed by Wajax Limited. Wajax Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wajax Corporation. On or after November 1, 2025, NorthPoint will be dissolved.
Please note that Northpoint will continue to operate under its current name until November 1, 2025,
Delom Services Inc. and Tundra Process Solutions Ltd. will not be affected by these changes.
IMPACTS: There will be no changes to Northpoint’s day-to-day operations, management or personnel resulting from these changes. Please ensure that notices, invoices, purchase orders, contracts, and other documents are addressed to Wajax Limited, d.b.a Northpoint as of November 1, 2025.
To see all details of upcoming changes please see the official announcement and information sheet below:
Wajax is committed to clear communication with stakeholders. If you have any questions regarding the foregoing changes, or the assignment of any contracts, please contact Linda Malicki, Legal Counsel, at LMalicki@wajax.com, and if you have any questions regarding billing and invoicing, please contact Yvette Winslow, Controller, at ywinslow@northpointts.com. We greatly appreciate your support and thank you for your consideration in this important matter. We greatly appreciate your support and thank you for your consideration in this important matter.
Learn more about NorthPoint’s expertise and service offerings.
We’re excited to officially launch our new Material Handling microsite, a dedicated digital hub built to support your business with greater clarity, convenience, and connection.
Whether you’re looking for new or used equipment, rentals, parts, service, or expert support, this new site brings everything together in one streamlined location. Designed with your experience in mind, the platform offers intuitive navigation, quick access to key resources, and helpful tools to guide your decisions—making it easier than ever to find what you need, when you need it.
The microsite showcases trusted solutions from world-class brands like Hyster, Yale, PowerBoss, Columbia, and MAFI, providing a comprehensive view of our material handling capabilities across Canada.
Brian Kolthof, Vice President of Material Handling at Wajax, shares:
“I’m proud to announce the launch of our new Material Handling website, a dedicated space designed to better serve our customers and partners. This platform reflects our ongoing commitment to clarity, connection, and delivering value through innovation. It’s a step forward in how we showcase our capabilities and collaborate across the industry.”
This launch also marks an exciting new chapter for the Wajax Material Handling sector. With its own dedicated online presence, we now have a fresh platform to better connect with customers, partners, and industry leaders, while highlighting the full scope of what we do best.
We invite you to explore the new site and see how Wajax continues to evolve to meet the needs of our customers—today and into the future.
Wajax is proud to share that we have received two prestigious honours from Volvo Penta Industrial: the 2024 Industrial Distributor of the Year Award and the 2024 Top Sales – Industrial Engine Parts Award.
These awards celebrate the strength of our partnership with Volvo Penta and reflect our ongoing commitment to delivering high-performance power solutions and exceptional service to customers across Canada.
“Wajax is honoured to be recognized with two top achievement awards from Volvo Penta Industrial,” said Joe Di Pede, Vice President of Powertrain at Wajax. “These awards reflect our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, technical expertise, and strategic growth in the Industrial Power Systems sector.”
Congratulations to our Wajax Power Systems teams across Canada on this outstanding accomplishment!
We’re proud to share that Wajax West has been named a 2024 Dealer of Distinction by Hyster Company.
The Dealer of Distinction award is presented annually by Hyster Company to top-performing dealers who meet rigorous performance standards and adhere to defined business practices. These standards are updated each year to reflect evolving customer expectations and industry dynamics.
“Every year, our Dealer of Distinction recipients exemplify their dedication to excellence and ongoing improvement,” said Bob Sattler, Vice President of Dealer Business Development. “Our dealers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, empowering them to assist customers in optimizing all facets of lift truck operations. From supporting safety and exploring innovative motive power solutions to providing comprehensive maintenance and fleet management, our dealers are well-equipped to help customers reach peak performance.”
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized as a 2024 Hyster Dealer of Distinction,” said Brian Kolthof, Vice President of Material Handling at Wajax. “This award reflects our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence and our dedication to providing top-tier service and innovative solutions to our valued customers across Canada. Thank you, Hyster Company, for this prestigious recognition!”
Wajax’s recognition reflects our team’s commitment to delivering an exceptional experience together to our material handling customers across Canada. We’re proud to work alongside a trusted brand like Hyster and are incredibly thankful for the continued partnership and shared pursuit of excellence.
Toronto, Ontario – August 22, 2024 – Wajax is proud to announce that it is now an authorized nationwide distributor for Fireye, a leading provider of flame monitoring and combustion control solutions. Wajax is proud to bring Fireye’s advanced, reliable, and innovative products to its extensive customer base, ensuring optimal performance and safety in various industrial applications.
Wajax will distribute the complete Fireye product line, covering flame scanners and microprocessor controls which are essential for maintaining and optimizing flame quality in boilers, thereby ensuring maximum efficiency and safety.
John Pye, Manager of Process Instrumentation at Wajax, expressed excitement about the relationship, stating that it aligns with their commitment to providing exceptional products and services to customers across industries, enhancing operational efficiency and safety. He highlighted that reliable support and service from Wajax’s experienced team will result in minimal downtime and maximized operational efficiency.
Moreover, Wajax’s extensive branch network and expert technicians across Canada will ensure seamless integration and support for Fireye products, benefiting boiler and plant management professionals, as well as those working in the food and beverage and other industrial sectors.
Colin Brisson, Canadian Key Account Manager at Fireye, also emphasized the significance of the distribution relationship with Wajax, expressing enthusiasm about working together to deliver unparalleled solutions and support to industries across Canada. Brisson states, “Our partnership with Wajax represents a significant opportunity to expand the reach of our advanced flame monitoring technology. We look forward to working together to deliver unparalleled solutions and support to industries across Canada”.
In conclusion, this partnership enables Wajax to offer Fireye’s complete product line across Canada, significantly enhancing its instrumentation portfolio with industry-standard technology.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Wajax:
John Pye, Manager, Process Instrumentation – jpye@wajax.com
Fireye:
Colin Brisson, Canadian Key Account Manager – colin.brisson@carrier.com
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Wajax Corporation
Founded in 1858, Wajax (TSX: WJX) is one of Canada’s longest standing and most diversified industrial products and services providers. The Corporation operates an integrated distribution system providing sales, parts and services to a broad range of customers in diverse sectors of the Canadian economy, including construction, forestry, mining, industrial and commercial, oil sands, transportation, metal processing, government and utilities and oil and gas.
The Corporation’s goal is to be Canada’s leading industrial products and services provider, distinguished through its three core capabilities: sales force excellence, the breadth and efficiency of repair and maintenance operations, and the ability to work closely with existing and new vendor partners to constantly expand its product offering to customers. The Corporation believes that achieving excellence in these three areas will position it to create value for its customers, employees, vendors and shareholders.
Fireye
Fireye LLC is the global leader in Flame Safeguard and Flame Monitoring technology for large boilers and industrial burners. Fireye has provided these products since 1935 when they innovated the original automatic flame sensing devices. Fireye products are world-renowned for their unmatched technology and reliability, supporting customers in the heavy industrial, chemical, energy, oil & gas, and commercial sectors. All products are fully certified to all required performance and safety certifications from globally recognized third-party agencies and approval bodies. Based in Derry, New Hampshire, USA, with offices in 10 countries, its 100+ employees serve customers in over 80 countries around the world.
Yves Girard is the Regional VP of Fort McMurray Oil Sands & Mining at Wajax, bringing over 30 years of experience in heavy machinery and mining industries.
Manufactured in Japan and delivering an impressive 2x 1944 HP, the Hitachi EX8000 is a true giant of the excavating world. With a max dig reach of 73 ft 2 inches, this monster of a machine is powered by two Tier 4 Final engines that deliver exceptional fuel performance.
Designed to reliably support some of the most challenging mining operations, the EX8000 is Hitachi Construction Machinery’s largest machine, requiring 26-28 trucks to transport it via road for initial assembly. In this article, we take a look at how it’s assembled and some of the considerations that need to be made from start to finish.
But before we do that, to really appreciate all the details, take a glimpse into the real-life assembly process captured in this amazing timelapse video we put together.
Fascinating, eh? Now let’s take a deeper dive into what really goes into making this happen. Here’s what we’ll be covering:
When dealing with any type of heavy equipment, proper assembly is crucial, however, this concept is taken to the next level with the Hitachi EX8000 Mining Excavator. Once all of the excavator’s many large pieces have arrived on site, it’s typically a 45-90 day project (depending on local options) before a fully-assembled and operational excavator is brought to life.
However, this doesn’t mark the end of the process, as the commissioning and testing phases then need to be carried out. This process involves support teams from Wajax, Hitachi Construction Machinery themselves and other experts to ensure that promised levels of productivity are achieved.
Without such expert guidance, what is essentially a $20 million machine may not meet its full potential, resulting in a loss in ROI for the mine operator. That’s just one of the reasons why Wajax provides such comprehensive after-sales support.
For a vivid understanding of its size, look at the bottom-right corner of the illustration below to see how a person with their arm stretched above their head compares to the height of the side frames.
Click here to familiarize yourself with the various parts of this beast of a machine.
What Makes the Hitachi EX8000 Mining Excavator So Powerful?
Available with either 2x 1944 HP Cummins 16-cylinder 60 liter or 2x MTU 12-cylinder 2,012 HP engines, as well as an electric drive option of 7.2 KVA, the EX8000 offers advanced hydraulic performance. Heralded by the manufacturer as Big on Productivity & Reliability, this rig also offers state-of-the-art safety features to ensure all crew members stay safe.
Other impressive specifications include:
Backhoe
2 x 1450 kWH Power Output
849,000kg Operating Weight
27.7ft Max Dig Depth
73.2ft Max Dig Reach
Front Shovel
2 x 1450 kWH Power Output
830,000 kg Operating Weight
14.5ft Max Dig Depth
61.7ft Max Dig Reach
In addition to simple controls that include electronic joysticks and a multifunctional display, the EX8000 is also equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic tools and onboard sensors that provide exceptional machine performance insights and data.
What are the Ideal Applications for the Hitachi EX8000?
The EX8000 has been designed to excel in all types of mining applications from overburden and ore removal to site reclamation. The EX8000 has been particularly successful in the oilsands operations of Northern Alberta which is home to the largest fleet of EX8000’s globally. Buyers can expect top-level performance and reliability thanks to Hitachi’s proven componentry, durable frame and front attachment structures, and finely tuned hydraulic system.
A wide range of benefits can be enjoyed, such as:
A cab design that minimizes operator fatigue & improves operational performance
Advanced technology that drives down fuel consumption
Superior productivity across a range of different digging profiles
Enhanced operator, bystander, and machine protection through excellent safety features
What are the Key Components of the Hitachi EX8000?
As you saw in the video above highlighting one of these giant machines being put together, a great deal of preparation must occur prior to assembly. Primarily, the customer needs to provide a large, flat, compacted area of ground that can support the EX8000’s weight.
Then, while delivering each part, they need to be arranged in a way that places each key component in the right place for easy assembly. Those key components include:
Side frames, car body, and main frame
Power modules (which contain the engines)
Hydraulic system
Operator cab
Undercarriage
The boom, arm & bucket
Electrical systems and controls
Counterweight
The proper tools and support equipment and a project-specific safety plan are also critical elements to a safe and efficient assembly. Once everything is where it needs to be, the 45-90 day-long assembly process can start.
What are Hitachi EX8000 Assembly Best Practices?
As we mentioned a short while ago, proper assembly is crucial if you aim to get the most out of the Hitachi EX8000. So, we’re now going to cover some of the pitfalls to avoid and a few tips from Wajax experts.
Step 1 – Observing Safety Precautions
Naturally, the first point of consideration is to ensure that all necessary safety precautions are adhered to. As such, you should take the following steps:
Ensure all technicians & operators are both trained & qualified to operate the required tooling and machinery
Check that all personnel in the area are wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including steel-toed boots, gloves, goggles & hard hats
Review assembly instructions & machine specs prior to commencing the assembly process to ensure familiarity with the tasks at hand
Adhere to all safety regulations & guidelines specific to your site/location
Ensure that project specific safety plans, job hazard assessments, pre-work hazard assessments, and other required safety documentation is prepared and in place
Step 2 – Assembly Area Preparation
The area of assembly must meet a few key criteria to ensure no unnecessary delays are experienced during the process. This means:
Locating a level, stable surface that provides ample space for assembly
Getting rid of any debris or obstructions from the area
Controlled entry/exit to build pad
Setup of office trailer, wash cart, and tooling containers
Installation of build pad signage
Laying out all structures and components to allow for easy access during assembly.
Step 3- Assembly of Lower Structure
Now we come to the main component assembly, where we’ll start to see the machine take shape. In the next part of the process, you’re going to be:
Assembling the lower structure by attaching the side frames to the car body
Assembling the track pad segments and wrap around side frames
Installing the swing bearing onto the car body
Ensuring all connections are properly torqued
Step 4 – Assembling the Mainframe & Counterweight
Next is the assembly of the mainframe, which will usually happen at the same time or just before installing the undercarriage. Here you’ll be:
Installing the mainframe onto the car body
Connecting all the hydraulic hoses and pipes
Installing the side modules (which contain the engines, pump drives, pumps and more)
Adding the counterweight to the mainframe
Installing the operator cab to the mainframe
Step 5 – Attaching the Boom, Arm & Bucket
Now, we’ve almost got all the main components together, with just the boom, arm, and bucket to be installed. Once you have, you’ll need to focus on:
Connecting the remaining pipes, hoses, and hydraulic cylinders
Ensuring all pins and covers are installed in line with Hitachi’s instructions
Installing the bucket, ensuring all teeth, cutting edges & extra wear components are attached
Step 6 – Local Options Install
The last step of assembly is to install all customer and regional specific options that set the EX8000 up for successful operation considering local conditions. Local options installed may include, but are not necessarily limited to:
Cold weather packages (with heaters for machine fluids to support easier start-up in winter months)
Fire suppression systems
Radios, communication systems, and mine dispatch systems
Additional lighting
Customer logo and/or unit number signs
Extra emergency disconnect switches
Step 7 – Final Checks & Adjustments
Now that the EX8000 is fully assembled, it’s time to ensure that everything works as it should. Final inspection & testing involves:
Fluid level checks and top ups
Checking that no loose/missing connections exist
Carrying out a functional test of all systems e.g. engine, electrical & hydraulics
Consulting the operator’s manual for correct break-in & maintenance procedures
Production study to prove machine capabilities (tons per hour)
Here to Help You Enjoy the Benefits of the Hitachi EX8000
As we can see, the Hitachi EX8000 is an extremely powerful excavator that requires time and expertise to assemble properly. Remember, this guide is just an overview, meaning that there are countless fine details that are not covered here. We always recommend referring to Hitachi’s official manual and your Hitachi mining equipment experts at Wajax when assembling these rigs.
Wajax is not only the exclusive distributor of Hitachi Mining Equipment across Canada, but also experts in installation, repairs, and maintenance – meaning we’ve got you covered!
To find out more about this giant mining excavator, get in touch with the Wajax experts today. With a deep understanding of all of Hitachi’s leading Mining & Construction Equipment, we’ve got the know-how to get you set up and enjoying the EX8000’s benefits before you know it.
In this article, our CEO, Iggy Domaglaski, delves into the future of industrial services, emphasizing the significance of adapting to evolving market dynamics. Iggy stresses the importance of catering to your customer’s needs for success.
At Wajax, we strive for continuous improvement and customer-centricity, tailoring solutions to the unique needs of both our customers and team members.
