Charting a Bold Future: Reflections on Zynik’s 2024 Annual Strategy Meeting

Every year, Zynik brings together our leaders from across North America for two days of strategy, learning, and connection. It’s a hallmark of who we are and a time to reflect, dream and plan for the future, not just for our businesses but for the lives of the thousands of associates who make it all possible.

This year, we gathered in Toronto, a city that embodies resilience, diversity, and innovation—values we strive to emulate in everything we do. Over the course of two days, we engaged in discussions about global and industry trends, evaluated our business performance, and developed strategies to continue driving our path to growth. But what sets Zynik apart is how we approach this time together. For us, these meetings are not simply about reviewing stats and analyzing numbers. They’re about something much deeper: reaffirming our “why.”

Our Why: Transforming Lives Through Purpose-Driven Growth

At Zynik, everything we do is framed through a singular lens—how can we make the lives of our people better? This question shapes every conversation, every decision, and every strategy. It’s what makes our approach to growth unique.

This year’s strategy meeting reminded us that our commitment to purpose is not a tagline—it’s a way of life. We shared stories of how our businesses have empowered individuals, from providing meaningful career growth to investing in initiatives that support mental, physical, and financial well-being. These moments reinforce the fact that success for Zynik isn’t measured solely in dollars or market share; it’s measured in the meaningful impact we have on the lives of those we serve and employ.

Learning Together: Humility, Curiosity, and Growth

One of the most inspiring aspects of our time together is the opportunity to learn from one another. Each year, our strategy meetings begin with a focusing theme. This year’s timely theme set the tone for our discussions:

Be prepared. Be disciplined. Be patient. Be calm

As leaders, we understand that the world is changing rapidly, and the only way to stay ahead is to embrace a mindset of lifelong learning.

Our discussions were filled with curiosity and humility, two values deeply ingrained in Zynik’s culture. Whether it was exploring new technologies, discussing global labor trends, or reflecting on the challenges of supply chain disruption, our team approached every topic with open minds and a hunger to grow.

We believe that learning is a team sport. In these meetings, we challenge each other’s perspectives, share fresh insights, and engage in constructive debates. It’s not always comfortable, but it’s how we uncover the best ideas and sharpen our strategies. Humility allows us to acknowledge what we don’t know, and curiosity drives us to seek answers. It’s this dynamic that ensures we’re not just leaders of today but also prepared to lead into the future.

Building Strategies That Serve People

A key theme of our discussions this year was the intersection of strategy and purpose. As we continue on our bold growth journey we remain steadfast in our belief that growth must serve a greater purpose.

Our strategies for the coming year include:

• Scaling our company platforms to reinforce sustainable value for our businesses and associates.
• Expanding digital capabilities in a pragmatic way, leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and customer experiences without losing sight of our core mission.
• Prioritizing automation and innovation to future-proof our operations.
• Enhancing associate well-being programs to ensure every individual in our companies feels valued and supported.
• Further elevating our commitment to not just meeting, but exceeding environmental, health and safety standards to ensure the safety and well-being of our people.

Each of these initiatives is designed to strengthen our businesses while keeping people at the center. At Zynik, strategy and purpose are inseparable. Growth without meaning is hollow, and we are committed to ensuring that every step forward is a step toward improving lives.

A Team Like No Other

What truly makes Zynik’s strategy meetings unique is our people. We’re more than a group of leaders managing a collection of businesses—we’re a family. And just like any family, we take time to connect, share stories, and support one another.

During our time in Toronto, we didn’t just talk business. We shared meals, laughed over personal anecdotes, and celebrated milestones in each other’s lives. These moments of connection are not ancillary to our work; they are foundational. They remind us that leadership is about relationships, trust, and collaboration. They also reinforce that our success as a company depends on our ability to lift each other up.

This culture of camaraderie is one of Zynik’s greatest strengths. It’s what allows us to tackle challenges with resilience, innovate with confidence, and support each other through periods of change. It’s what makes us a team like no other.

Growth Mode: Dreaming Boldly, Acting Intentionally

If there’s one message that emerged loud and clear from this year’s strategy meeting, it’s this: Zynik is in growth mode. We’re not just reacting to market trends or keeping pace with competitors. We’re proactively shaping the future of our industries.

This growth is fueled by a bold vision but also by intentionality. We’re deliberate about where we invest, who we partner with, and how we lead. Our ambition is tempered by discipline, and our strategies are designed to balance short-term performance with long-term sustainability.

Whether it’s expanding our footprint, integrating new technologies, or fostering a culture of innovation, every action we take is aligned with our commitment to growth with purpose. This balance—bold yet intentional—is what sets Zynik apart.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, we’ll continue to frame everything we do through our greater purpose: to make the lives of our associates better, to lead with humility and curiosity, and to embrace growth as a means of driving meaningful impact. Together, we’re not just building a company; we’re building a legacy.

Here’s to the next chapter of Zynik’s journey—and to the incredible people who make it all possible.