Founded Before the First Flight. Still Here for What Comes Next.

GHY was founded before the Wright Brothers left the ground. Before the first commercial automobile. Before airway bills, electronic clearance, NAFTA, or CUSMA/USMCA. Through two world wars, the Great Depression, the digital revolution, a global pandemic, and a new era of trade uncertainty, GHY has never stopped. That continuity isn’t a coincidence – it’s the result of four generations of family leadership and stewardship, a singular focus on customs and trade compliance, and a culture built on values that have never needed updating.

We Free Trade™. One Border One Broker™.

How It All Began

1901 – 1949
The Origins

George Henry Young served as Chief Inspector of Customs in Winnipeg at the time. Recognizing the growing need for professional customs brokerage services in a period of rapid Canadian economic development and expanding international trade, he opened one of Canada’s first customs brokerage houses in 1901, built on a mission to give importers premium service, integrity, quality, and professional representation before Canadian customs. His early leadership established the foundation of a company dedicated to guiding businesses through complex trade regulations – with professionalism, integrity, and personalized service.

1950 – 1967
The Heritage

In 1950, Geo. H. Young & Co. was officially incorporated, marking an important milestone in the company’s development. During this period, the firm expanded its operations and strengthened its reputation as a trusted customs brokerage partner – building a foundation of client relationships across Manitoba and beyond that would support every chapter to come.

1968 – 1988
The Modernization

The second half of the twentieth century brought significant change to international trade and customs processes. The next generation of family leadership – including Charles Riess and Amie Decock – joined the company, bringing new perspectives that guided the organization through evolving trade policies and economic conditions. Under third-generation leadership, GHY International entered a new stage of development as a respected North American customs brokerage firm.

1988 – 2000
The Transformation

The late twentieth century introduced new technology, new trade agreements, and greater globalization. Under the leadership of Richard Riess (great-grandson of founder George Henry Young) GHY embraced modernization. The company adopted emerging technologies, introduced improved systems to enhance efficiency and accuracy, and positioned itself to support increasingly complex cross-border supply chains while maintaining the personalized service that defined its culture.

2001 – Present
The Future

Entering the twenty-first century, GHY celebrated over 100 years of continuous service and four generations of family leadership. In January 2025, GHY received a majority investment from SeaFort Capital and Jessiman Family Investments Inc., providing financial stability and strategic support for the next chapter of growth, while leadership, culture, and commitment to personalized service remain fully intact.

In late 2025, GHY acquired W.G. McKay, combining two of Canada’s most trusted customs brokerage firms for a combined 235 years of experience. In 2026, GHY marks its 125th year, and looks forward to the next 125.

People-First. Built to Last.

2025

W.G. McKay Acquisition

GHY International acquired W.G. McKay, a respected Canadian customs brokerage firm with 111 years of its own history – together bringing 235 years of combined brokerage experience to North American importers. This acquisition was about continuity: W.G. McKay clients continue working with the same team, now supported by GHY’s broader resources, Tariff Tracker, and enhanced compliance capabilities.

You can expect the same people, the same quality, and support when you need it.” – Chris Bachinski, CEO & President, GHY

“Two legacies. One standard of service.” – Rick Riess, Executive Chairman

January 2025

SeaFort Capital & JFII Investment

GHY received a majority investment from SeaFort Capital, a Halifax-based Canadian private equity firm, alongside Jessiman Family Investments Inc., a Winnipeg-based family office. The investment enables organic growth, targeted acquisitions, and continued technology investment, while preserving the leadership, culture, and client relationships that define GHY.

“This transaction facilitates my succession objectives while allowing me to continue supporting the leadership team during the next chapter of GHY’s history.” – Rick Riess, Executive Chairman, GHY

“This transaction exemplifies our strategy of partnering with best-in-class management teams to invest in high-performing businesses across Canada.” – Rob Normandeau, SeaFort Managing Partner