#Canada #Winnipeg #Cold-storage #IR Pros #Prairie HVAC/R

Industrial Refrigeration Pros Expands into Canada

Industrial Refrigeration Pros (IR Pros) has made a significant leap into the Canadian market through a strategic partnership with Prairie HVAC/R, a well-respected entity in the Winnipeg region. This collaboration, announced on August 13, 2026, represents IR Pros' first venture outside the United States and underscores its commitment to expanding its operational footprint across North America.

The partnership with Prairie HVAC/R is not just a geographical expansion but also a merging of expertise and capabilities. With over 20 years of experience in refrigeration, ice plant solutions, and mechanical services, Prairie HVAC/R brings a wealth of knowledge specifically tailored to the unique challenges posed by Canada’s cold climate. This synergy allows IR Pros to incorporate Prairie HVAC/R's manufacturing capabilities and extensive industry relationships into its service offerings.

Based in Grande Pointe, Manitoba, Prairie HVAC/R specializes in designing, building, and managing a vast array of systems, including artificial ice plants, industrial refrigeration systems, and commercial HVAC solutions. Additionally, the company is known for manufacturing ENVIROFREEZE® low-charge packaged ammonia chillers and RINK LINK® remote ice-plant controls, both of which are pivotal in maintaining championship-level ice in arenas and curling facilities alike.

Curtis Czemeres, CEO of IR Pros, highlighted the strategic nature of this partnership, stating, “We did not enter Canada simply to put a pin on a map. We entered with a company that knows how to engineer, manufacture and service mission-critical systems in one of the world’s most demanding climates.” This statement emphasizes the focus on delivering tangible value to customers by combining local expertise with IR Pros’ advanced engineering and regulatory compliance capabilities.

The merger creates an opportunity for customers to access a wider range of services seamlessly. From refrigeration engineering and construction to packaged system manufacturing, mechanical integrity support, and electrical services—this partnership allows for more comprehensive project execution across various sectors, including food and beverage processing, data centers, and municipal facilities.

Furthermore, IR Pros and Prairie HVAC/R plan to leverage advanced technologies like RefrigAgent, an AI-enabled platform that assists in regulatory compliance by translating Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (PIDs) into IIAR 6 mechanical-integrity plans. This innovative approach demonstrates their commitment to modernize and optimize operations for their clients.

Albert Steinbach, Co-Founder of Prairie HVAC/R, echoed the sentiments of their union, noting, “Joining IR Pros protects our promise of being reliable while giving us access to deeper engineering and compliance resources. We can tackle more complex opportunities without losing our customer-centric approach.”

With plans to triple its manufacturing capacity and add 20 to 30 employees in Manitoba over the next few years, the partnership aims to facilitate cross-border projects that meet the growing demands of local and regional markets. The collaboration between IR Pros and Prairie HVAC/R is poised to deliver consistent standards and specialized expertise, ensuring that facility owners and developers have a reliable partner whether they are planning new facilities or modernizing existing systems.

In conclusion, this strategic partnership not only strengthens IR Pros' presence in Canada but also enhances Prairie HVAC/R's capabilities, as they can now draw upon shared resources and expertise from IR Pros. As they work together to meet the refrigeration needs across North America, both organizations are committed to ensuring longevity and efficiency in their operations.

To learn more about this promising partnership and the services offered, visit IR Pros and Prairie HVAC/R.