Challenge
The North West Company operates a complex retail and logistics business spanning remote regions across Northern and Western Canada, rural Alaska, the South Pacific, and the Caribbean. Its diverse operations, including a cargo airline and multiple retail divisions, expose it to distinct operational and reputational risks. These include logistical disruptions, community sensitivities, and incidents that could quickly escalate into crises. The company required a structured, proactive crisis communications framework to protect its reputation and maintain community trust.
Strategy
StrategyCorp developed a comprehensive crisis communications plan tailored to the company’s diverse risk profile. The work began with an Issues Management Audit to assess existing crisis protocols and key vulnerabilities. Interviews with senior leaders and operational teams informed a detailed Crisis Communications Plan outlining response strategies, media protocols, message development, and stakeholder engagement procedures. StrategyCorp also designed crisis scenario frameworks for high-risk situations across retail and aviation operations, and delivered training modules to strengthen leadership readiness and response capability.
Outcome
The North West Company established a disciplined and unified approach to crisis communications. The plan enabled faster, more coordinated decision-making during high-pressure events, and provided a clear roadmap for managing diverse crisis scenarios. Training sessions enhanced the preparedness of the crisis response team, ensuring the company could act decisively to mitigate risks and preserve stakeholder confidence.
Other clients
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Global climate policy engagement & representation
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Ecosystem Gap Identification
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