Wakefield Canada Inc. named one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies

Toronto ON, February 16,2010 - Wakefield Canada triumphed over thousands of other applicants to win a 2009 Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies (Best Managed) award. This prestigious national award is sponsored by Deloitte, CIBC Commercial Banking, National Post, and Queen’s School of Business.

“Today’s market place is not just about the investment in the product; it is also about the investment in the people. Wakefield Canada invests in their team to build up a strong and stable company. Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies carries this attribute and we are pleased to say Wakefield Canada is one of this year’s recipients.” John Hughes, Partner, Private Company Services group with Deloitte, a national sponsor of the Best Managed program.

“Our customer-based philosophy directs our efforts. The entire employee base, from the field staff across the country to the senior management group is highly focused and understands our goals. Over the first five years we have created a very effective operation and internal culture. We are honoured to be recognized amongst leading Canadian organizations and are committed to providing this standard of excellence in all that we do – for our customers, our partners, and our team. We are looking ahead to continued success,” said Bob MacDonald, President, Wakefield Canada Inc.

Established in 1993, the Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies is a national awards program, recognizing Canadian companies that have implemented world-class business practices and created value in innovative ways. Applications are reviewed by an independent judging panel that evaluates how companies address various business challenges, including new technologies, globalization, brand management, leadership, leveraging and developing core competencies, designing information systems, and hiring the right talent to facilitate growth.

“It takes a company focused on values, a strong business plan, and most of all hard work, to succeed in today’s market place” said  Calvin Younger, Senior Vice-President, CIBC Commercial Banking. “Companies winning this year’s Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies exemplify these traits.”

The 2009 winners of the Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies award, along with Requalified and Platinum Club members will be honoured at the annual Best Managed gala in Toronto on 8 March 2010.  On the same date, the Best Managed symposium will address leading-edge business issues that are key to the success of today’s business leaders.

About Wakefield Canada Inc.: On July 1, 2010 Wakefield celebrates its fifth anniversary in business establishing its presence as exclusive Canadian distributor and marketer of Castrol lubricants. The company has grown its reputation as a top tier supplier within the Canadian automotive marketplace. Visit www.wakefieldcanada.ca to learn more.

From John Morris // Marcovitch Public Relations