Business View Magazine | December 2020

141 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2020 and gave it to some charitable organizations.” McCracken: “Obviously, at the beginning of the pandemic our concern was on our employees, as well as ensuring that we continued as an essential service business. We looked at the different products we sell to ensure that those which would be required to service our customers’ needs were prioritized. We immediately took action and were proactive throughout the entire process. Well ahead of receiving any external directives, we took charge ourselves to ensure the continuity and security of supply. “Beyond that, there were some community activities. We donated materials to a Montreal firm that was manufacturing hand sanitizer for the community and helped work on the formulation to make sure it was done in a safe and secure manner. We did receive a lot of phone calls early on for additional business but that was not our main concern. We decided to be grounded in terms of existing supply and I think that bodes well, because most of our business is long term with the current priority being the vaccine manufacturers.” BVM: What role does company culture play? Miron: “The true heroes have definitely been our employees during COVID. There was so much uncertainty and yet they came to work and kept the supply chain going for our customers. It was tough times and they did an amazing job. Our employees have been with us over 15 years, on average. We have one at almost 40 years and a few at 30, but they are all great.” McCracken: “Coming to work in this field and playing the role we play is very motivating. It’s part of the company culture and I believe it’s reflected in our employees. Without their talent and the effort they put in on a daily basis, we would not be where we are today. And it’s done collectively, whether in Ireland, or the U.S., or Canada, we operate in a global manner as a team.” O’Rourke: “When Ken and Luc took over the business, they identified a need within the pharma and the biopharma industry for suppliers that A&C Customer Service Representative, Cynthia Merino