65 Years of Potash in Saskatchewan: Celebrating our Indigenous Partners

Since our Patience Lake mine began shipping potash in 1959, Saskatchewan and the world has benefited from this resource and the important role that it plays in Feeding the Future. As we celebrate 65 years of potash mining in Saskatchewan, an important part of that story includes the way in which Indigenous communities have - over the last several decades - played a role in the development of the potash industry and its impact on global food security. Nutrien’s Potash Indigenous Procurement Strategy tells a part of that story: the way in which it helps create Indigenous impact within Saskatchewan.

Nutrien’s Potash Indigenous Procurement Strategy is designed to create meaningful relationships that benefit all stakeholders. As part of the strategy, we ensure that all contract evaluations within the potash business unit prioritize a minimum of 10% towards Local Indigenous Content (LAC) commitments, increasing Indigenous impact through our supply chain. This strategy is designed to promote long-term Indigenous impact, fostering sustainable growth and development for Indigenous businesses, communities, and people by supporting our Nutrien teams, thoughtfully engaging external stakeholders, and seeking to lead in this space within industry.

"During the development of our strategy, we worked closely with our Indigenous and non-Indigenous supply chain, as well as a large cross-section of internal stakeholders," says Josh Dodd, Director, Procurement, Potash. “This ensured we created a framework that spoke to the realities of their experiences and expectations, while aligning with a vision for continued growth and sustainable impact."

In 2020, Nutrien set an ambitious target, that by 2025 we would achieve 25% relevant procurable Potash spend with local Indigenous Suppliers, or Suppliers who have a minimum of 15% Indigenous employees. This goal, known as 25x25, has been exceeded ahead of schedule, demonstrating the Nutrien team’s commitment to creating positive impact, and the vibrant economic achievements of Indigenous businesses in Saskatchewan. As of September 2024, Nutrien has already reached over 30% local Indigenous impact in our Potash business unit and spent over $900M CAD cumulatively towards this goal. Approximately half of that total has been spent with Indigenous businesses competing through our sourcing processes.

“Our Potash Indigenous Procurement Strategy is vital for fostering inclusive economic growth and supporting the communities where we operate,” says Chris Reynolds, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer at Nutrien. “By partnering with Indigenous businesses, we not only enhance our supply chain but also contribute to the broader goals of reconciliation and economic participation."

Our journey with Indigenous procurement is marked by collaboration, respect, and a shared vision for the future. As we look to the future, Nutrien remains committed in our dedication to supporting Indigenous communities and fostering local business growth.

This anniversary not only celebrates Nutrien’s history but also our strong relationships with communities and people. Through initiatives like the Potash Indigenous Procurement Strategy, we are driving positive change, creating opportunities, and building a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.