By Eva Richardson – The Logistic News
At a time when global corporations are often quick to align legal addresses with financial footprints, TFI International is making a different kind of statement—one grounded in long-term vision rather than optics. The Montreal-based logistics giant has confirmed it will not move its headquarters to the United States, despite generating over 75% of its annual revenue south of the border.
The decision comes after internal discussions and discreet consultations with major shareholders. The verdict was clear: identity, governance, and continuity matter as much as performance.
A North American Business, A Canadian Mindset
TFI International has undergone significant transformation in recent years. Following its acquisition of UPS Freight and other U.S. carriers, it has built a vast American network. Its truckload, LTL, and logistics services now operate coast-to-coast in the U.S., driving the lion’s share of its earnings.
And yet, for the company’s leadership, relocating its legal headquarters across the border never became inevitable.
“This isn’t about resisting change,” said a board member familiar with the decision. “It’s about ensuring that the changes we make serve our strategy—not just our structure.”
CEO Alain Bédard: “Growth Without Roots Is Risk”
Speaking during the company’s quarterly financial update, TFI Chairman and CEO Alain Bédard shared his rationale: “Our expansion into the United States is accelerating, and that will continue. But Montreal is where our principles were formed—and where our decisions remain anchored. We believe leadership needs consistency.”
Bédard emphasized that remaining in Canada maintains the group’s governance integrity while avoiding regulatory complexity, dual filings, and potential exclusion from Canadian investment indices.
Stability Sends the Strongest Signal
Markets responded calmly and confidently. Shares of TFI rose modestly, and analysts praised the company’s clarity. “This was a governance win,” said Juliette Ramos, a logistics equity analyst at Mercer North. “They chose clarity over convenience, and in today’s market, that builds trust.”
By keeping its headquarters where its history began, TFI reassures long-term investors, regulators, and employees alike that its growth will not come at the expense of its foundation.
What It Means for the Industry
As supply chains regionalize and nearshoring reshapes trade routes, many multinational logistics firms are reconsidering their legal structures. TFI’s decision pushes back against the trend of jurisdictional reshuffling.
“It sets a tone,” Ramos added. “You can be international in scope and still loyal in structure.”
What’s Ahead for TFI
TFI is far from slowing down. The company will continue expanding its U.S. operations, including:
-
Opening three new U.S. hubs in Atlanta, Chicago, and Phoenix
-
Investing in AI and telematics for dynamic routing across North America
-
Rolling out low-emission vehicle pilots in both Quebec and California
-
Publishing a new ESG report adapted to both U.S. and Canadian stakeholders
-
Launching cross-border compliance tech to streamline customs and tracking
Final Word: Rooted Leadership, Scalable Vision
TFI International’s decision to remain headquartered in Montreal is more than administrative—it’s philosophical. In a sector defined by speed and expansion, the company is reminding the world that where you lead from still matters.
Eva Richardson is senior correspondent for The Logistic News, covering global logistics leadership, executive decision-making, and corporate infrastructure strategy.