Edmonton, Alberta – October 23, 2025 - Vallen Distribution and the Zhooniya Makak Limited Partnership, the economic development arm of the Hiawatha First Nation, are proud to announce the signing of a Relationship Agreement that formalizes their commitment to collaboration, shared economic growth, and long-term partnership in Canada’s industrial and infrastructure sectors.

The signing ceremony took place at Vallen’s Canadian headquarters in Edmonton, Alberta. The agreement establishes a foundation for cooperation in areas such as industrial supply, safety services, and logistics, aligning with both organizations’ values of partnership, integrity, and community advancement.

“This agreement is about putting reconciliation into action,” said Karen Chester, President of Vallen Canada. “By working directly with the Zhooniya Makak LP, we are creating a model for how industry and Indigenous enterprises can build capacity, create opportunities, and ensure economic benefits remain within communities.”

John Rowinski, Chief Executive Officer of the Zhooniya Makak LP, added: “This relationship demonstrates the strength of collaboration and trust. Vallen’s willingness to work alongside Hiawatha First Nation to identify meaningful opportunities sets an important example for other corporate partners across Canada.”

Under the agreement, the two organizations will explore opportunities across multiple sectors, including supply chain management, project logistics, safety solutions, and workforce development, with a focus on maximizing local participation, skills training, and procurement inclusion.

Both parties emphasized that the relationship is designed to be long-term and values-based, built on mutual respect, accountability, and measurable community benefit.

“We’re proud to be part of a new chapter that shows what reconciliation through business truly means,” added Chester. “Together, we’re not just signing an agreement, we’re setting a precedent for sustainable, inclusive growth.”

Hiawatha First Nation, situated along the north shore of Rice Lake in Ontario, continues to expand its economic footprint through partnerships that generate employment, training, and investment opportunities for its members.

Vallen is a global leader in industrial and safety supply, serving the energy, construction, and infrastructure sectors with comprehensive services and technical expertise.

About Vallen Distribution

Vallen Distribution is an industry leader in delivering flexible supply chain solutions and services along with a comprehensive range of maintenance, repair, operating, production, safety, and electrical products to meet the growing indirect supply needs of customers in facilities across North America and Europe. With a focus on innovation, reliability, and community engagement, Vallen delivers end-to-end solutions that support safe, efficient, and sustainable operations. For more information about Vallen’s operation in Canada, visit: www.vallen.ca

About Zhooniya Makak Limited Partnership

Zhooniya Makak LP drives the community’s growth through strategic relationships and business ventures that promote local employment, training, and investment. Guided by Hiawatha First Nation’s principles of sustainability and self-reliance, the partnership works to create prosperity for current and future generations.

Media Contact:

Vallen Distribution
Lauren Ratcliffe

Lauren.ratcliffe@vallen.com

Zhooniya Makak Limited Partnership

John Rowinski

ceo@zmlp.ca