27 Oct Membertou Development Corporation to Acquire A.W. Leil Cranes & Equipment, Expanding Its Atlantic Canadian Business Portfolio
October 27, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
An acquisition that strengthens Membertou’s presence in heavy equipment, infrastructure and development.
MEMBERTOU, NOVA SCOTIA – October 27, 2026 – Membertou Development Corporation (MDC) is pleased to announce that it will acquire A.W. Leil Cranes & Equipment from SeaFort Capital, with the transaction expected to close on October 31, 2026.
The acquisition represents another important milestone in Membertou’s ongoing business growth and diversification strategy, expanding its portfolio into a well-established Atlantic Canadian company with deep expertise in crane rentals, heavy lifting, specialized transportation and infrastructure support.
Founded in 1958, A.W. Leil has built a strong reputation for delivering reliable, specialized lifting solutions to customers across Atlantic Canada. The company operates one of the region’s largest and most diverse crane fleets, serving commercial and industrial construction, infrastructure, marine operations and the renewable energy sector. Its experience supporting projects throughout Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island makes it a significant contributor to the region’s industrial and energy development.
Under MDC ownership, A.W. Leil will join a growing portfolio of businesses spanning multiple industries, reflecting Membertou’s long-term commitment to building a diversified economic base that creates sustainable opportunities for the community.
“Membertou has always believed that economic development is about building for the future,” said Chief Terry Paul, Chief and CEO of Membertou. “We have worked hard to build a strong and diverse business portfolio, and this acquisition is another step forward in that journey. A.W. Leil is an established company with a great reputation, skilled employees and an important role in Atlantic Canada’s economy. We see tremendous value in bringing this business into our portfolio and creating opportunities for continued growth, while ensuring that the benefits of our economic success continue to support our community.”
The acquisition aligns with MDC’s approach to identifying established businesses with strong leadership, experienced teams and opportunities for long-term growth. By expanding into specialized equipment and lifting services, Membertou is further strengthening its presence in industries that support major construction, infrastructure and energy projects throughout the region.
A.W. Leil’s existing expertise, customer relationships and operational capabilities will provide a strong foundation as the company moves into its next chapter. The acquisition also represents an opportunity to build on the company’s established position in Atlantic Canada while exploring new avenues for growth in a changing regional economy.
Ryan Long, President of A.W. Leil, said the transaction provides a strong foundation for the company’s continued development.
“A.W. Leil has built its reputation over decades through the dedication of our people, our commitment to safety and the relationships we have developed with our customers. We are proud of what the team has accomplished and excited about the opportunities ahead with Membertou Development Corporation. Membertou brings a long-term approach to business ownership, a strong track record of growth and a commitment to developing successful businesses. We look forward to building on our history, supporting our employees and continuing to deliver the service our customers expect.”
MDC also acknowledged SeaFort Capital’s role in supporting A.W. Leil’s development and helping bring the transaction to completion. SeaFort partnered with A.W. Leil’s management team in 2012, supporting the company’s continued growth and evolution over more than a decade.
“SeaFort has been an excellent partner throughout this process,” said Chief Paul. “We appreciate the professionalism, transparency and collaborative approach their team has brought to the transaction. They have helped position A.W. Leil for its next chapter, and we are pleased to be building on the strong foundation they and the company’s management team have established.”
Stephen Denton, Partner at SeaFort Capital said the transaction marks an important transition for the company.
“We are proud of the growth A.W. Leil has achieved and the role SeaFort has played in supporting the business and its team over the years. We believe A.W. Leil is well positioned for its next stage of growth under Membertou’s ownership, and we wish the entire team continued success.”
The acquisition will maintain continuity for A.W. Leil’s employees and customers as the company transitions to Membertou Development Corporation ownership.
As the company continues to pursue opportunities across diverse sectors, the addition of A.W. Leil reinforces Membertou’s commitment to responsible business growth, long-term investment and building a stronger economic future for generations to come.
Media Contact:
Kelsea MacNeil
Director, Commercial Operations & Communications
Membertou Development Corporation
kelseamacneil@membertou.ca
About Membertou Development Corporation
Membertou Development Corporation (MDC) is the business and economic development arm of Membertou, a Mi’kmaq community located on Unama’ki-Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. Established in 1989, MDC develops and acquires businesses, builds strategic partnerships and pursues investment opportunities that support Membertou’s long-term economic growth. Its business activities help create employment, generate economic opportunities and contribute to the continued prosperity and well-being of the Membertou community.
About A.W. Leil Cranes & Equipment
Established in 1958, A.W. Leil Cranes & Equipment is an Atlantic Canadian provider of crane rentals, heavy lifting, specialized transportation and related services. With a diverse fleet of lifting equipment and experienced personnel, the company serves commercial, industrial, construction, infrastructure, marine and renewable energy markets across the region. A.W. Leil is recognized for its technical expertise, commitment to safety and experience supporting complex lifting projects, including wind energy construction and maintenance.
About SeaFort Capital
SeaFort Capital is an Atlantic Canadian private equity firm that partners with established businesses and experienced management teams to support long-term growth and value creation. Since partnering with A.W. Leil in 2012, SeaFort has supported the company’s continued development while building on its longstanding reputation in the Atlantic Canadian crane rental and lift services market.