A number of First Nation communities in northwestern Ontario now have a stake in a local business after the ThawiKayhiGan Group (TKG Group) acquired Oshtugon Computers Inc. for $3.7 million.
The TKG Group was established in 2018 and is owned equally by Kingfisher Lake, Kasabonika Lake, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, Wapekeka, Wawakapewin and Wunnumin Lake First Nations. The group, based in Thunder Bay, works to generate new economic opportunities for its communities.
“This is our first business acquisition that will directly service our First Nations,” said Jonathon Mamakwa, President of the TKG Group.
“This is key in our overall plan in contributing to the development of healthy First Nation communities with vibrant economies that support future generations,” he adds.
The Group says they plan to open an Oshtugon Computers distribution centre in Pickle Lake.
“I’m very thankful that some of my best customers are actually buying it,” said President and now former Owner of Oshtugon, Frank Head.
“We feel that it fits in well with the aspirations of the TKG Group, and I think it’s going to do very well for the group. This is a wonderful purchase by them,” he adds.
Oshtugon Computers Inc. began in Sioux Lookout in 1997 as a computer store. It grew to become the number one provider of cell phones and accessories in the region in partnership with Superior Wireless and Tbaytel. The business also has a retail store in Dryden and a furniture and appliance store in Sioux Lookout.