CN recognizes 30 years of privatization

Today marks 30 years since the Canadian government sold CN to private investors for C$2.2 billion, then the largest initial public offering in Canadian history. 

The privatization helped propel CN’s transformation into a strong franchise. Over the past three decades, CN has built a three-coast network through strategic acquisitions and supply chain partnerships, helping customers reach new markets and reinforcing the company’s continued role in powering the North American economy, CN officials said in a press release.

To mark the milestone, CN workers from across the network who served the Class I during the IPO recall what’s changed and what remains the same, including the commitment to deliver reliable, safe and efficient service, while creating a workplace where people can develop their skills.

“I remember the excitement around the IPO day and everyone getting a chance to own a piece of the company,” said Russ Perdue, recently retired assistant vice president of domestic intermodal, who in 1995 served CN as system officer, freight claims and damage prevention, in Mississauga, Ontario. “No one could have imagined what we would become. I had so many memorable moments, met so many wonderful people, and travelled the world for CN.”