Polykar: Clarify strategic priorities to accelerate value creation.
Context
With Amir Karim taking over the company in 2018, several key initiatives were implemented to strengthen production capacity (second plant in Edmonton), optimize operations, and professionalize the organization. Entering a new growth phase, the company sought to define its strategic priorities and was considering opportunities for acquisitions, vertical integration, and diversification, including the possibility of entering the US market.
Projects
To help Polykar prioritize growth opportunities, we began the strategic planning with an in-depth analysis of its business environment. This step allowed us to identify key market trends and pinpoint the most relevant opportunities for the company. Concurrently, an internal review was conducted to assess the feasibility and potential impact of these opportunities, enabling us to prioritize those offering the most value. Based on this, a clear vision and strategic objectives were defined to align the board of directors, the executive team, and management teams. This alignment materialized in the development of a structured action plan, detailing clear initiatives assigned to each member of the executive team to ensure the achievement of objectives.
Subsequently, a risk analysis was conducted to ensure the successful execution of the strategic plan. Risks were assessed and prioritized based on their impact and probability, then mitigation measures were defined and assigned to responsible parties, thereby ensuring rigorous monitoring and clear accountability.
Results:
The strategic plan established a clear growth roadmap and strengthened Polykar’s internal capabilities to launch an expansion phase. The plan also enabled Polykar to secure financing from MontClerc Capital in 2025, which contributed to doubling the production capacity of its Edmonton site with a $20 million investment, and to pursue its acquisition strategy. The company solidified its governance by establishing a board of directors that includes some of Canada’s most prominent business figures.
Amir Karim, President and CEO, Polykar Inc.
What stood out with Melka was how they took the time to deeply understand our business before anything else. The energy they brought pushed us to think bigger, and more importantly, to get specific on priorities, timelines, and ownership. They helped connect us with the right people to bring it all to life.