Shercom Industries, a tire processor in Saskatchewan, is awaiting a potential contract offer from Tire Stewardship of Saskatchewan (TSS) following an independent review by a provincial expert. The contract between Shercom and TSS concluded in 2020, leading to the cessation of Shercom's tire processing operations. Subsequently, TSS offered a contract to Crumb Rubber Manufacturing, a U.S.-based company, for tire processing in southern Saskatchewan. Shercom has now positioned itself as a contender for a contract to handle tire processing in the northern part of the province.

The shutdown of Shercom's tire processing operations resulted in a significant reduction in its workforce, sparking concerns raised by the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber called for a provincial review, questioning how TSS's decision was benefiting an American company at the expense of Saskatchewan-based Shercom employees.

In response to these concerns, the Ministry of Environment appointed Cam Swan, a former deputy minister of environment, to conduct an independent review of TSS's procurement process and to assess the future needs of the tire recycling program. Swan's report has been accepted by the TSS board, and its recommendations will play a crucial role in enhancing Saskatchewan's tire recycling program.

As part of the plan moving forward, TSS will continue to operate the program, receiving a 12-month extension from the province, and Crumb Rubber Manufacturing will remain the processor for southern Saskatchewan. Importantly, TSS has expressed its intention to pursue a contract with Shercom, the existing Saskatoon processor, for the northern part of the province.

The plan also outlines measures for improved communication between industry stakeholders and TSS management. It commits to updating the program's payment model to align with practices in other provinces and working with provincial officials to strengthen procurement practices.

Martin Stangeland, CEO of Shercom Industries, has expressed optimism about a potential deal with TSS, hoping that the relationship can improve after Swan's review. He has urged TSS to provide details of a new offer promptly, indicating a positive turn of events in the near future.

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