Operating and Building a Business in Canada – Interview with Yakir Taranto

What inspired SCS to expand its business in Canada, and what problem does it aim to solve?  

As part of our global expansion strategy, we made the strategic decision to establish our third branch in Canada. The primary objective of this move was to broaden our operational footprint in a region where we previously had no presence, create new business opportunities, and penetrate a new market to further grow SCS’s global presence. 

What were the initial signs that indicated Canada was a viable market for your business expansion?  

Toward the end of 2023, we observed a significant increase in inquiries and potential business opportunities originating from Canada through our existing network. This prompted us to conduct market research to assess the actual demand for executive protection (EP) services in the region. 

What were the biggest challenges you faced when entering the Canadian market, and how did you overcome them? 

One of the primary challenges was navigating Canada’s stringent regulations surrounding armed executive protection and general security services. Leveraging our extensive experience in global operations, we tailored our service offerings to ensure full compliance with local laws and regulations while maintaining the highest standards of service for our clients.  

How did you navigate the regulatory and legal requirements specific to starting a new business in Canada during your expansion? 

As with any new market we’ve entered, we encountered a range of new legal and bureaucratic requirements. Although such challenges are expected, our comprehensive approach to understanding local legislation enabled us to successfully align our operations and establish SCS North America in accordance with Canadian laws.  

SCS operates worldwide, but the main focus of the business is the Middle East area. What are the major differences between the Middle East and Canadian markets? 

The security and executive protection sectors are deeply influenced by cultural and regional factors. With our headquarters in Israel, we have an innate understanding of the Middle Eastern context, allowing us to operate seamlessly within that environment. While we have observed emerging threats in North America—such as the assassination of a CEO in downtown New York—the overall risk profile and threat landscape differ considerably from that of the Middle East.  

What steps did you take to understand and integrate with the new business culture? 

Our initial step was to engage with our local network to better understand market needs. Based on this input, we developed a strategic plan that identified potential cultural and operational barriers. Once we were confident in our ability to navigate these challenges, I personally traveled to Canada to meet with local potential clients and different community leaders and gain a deeper understanding of the areas and clients we intended to serve. 

How did you approach competition in the Canadian market, and what strategies did you use to differentiate your business? 

We view competition as a natural aspect of doing business. We conducted a thorough analysis of local competitors, their service offerings, and market positioning. To differentiate ourselves, we applied the same Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that have proven successful worldwide—emphasizing a secure yet comfortable client experience. Our focus extends beyond just protection; we aim to ensure smooth and seamless execution of our client’s schedules, down to the smallest details, allowing them to focus solely on the purpose of their visit—whether business or leisure. 

Do you have any future growth strategies or plan on starting a new business in a new market? 

We are continuously exploring opportunities for growth and development. However, at this time, we do not have concrete plans to enter additional markets. 

What advice would you give to other businesses considering expansion or starting a new business in a different country? 

It is crucial to gain a deep understanding of the target market, including the competitive landscape. Most importantly, businesses must clearly identify the specific needs of the market. From there, develop a well-structured plan and focus on effective execution.  

How do you think your Israeli military training and background will help you when it comes to starting a new business and offering service in a different market? 

One of the most valuable skills gained from military service is resilience. It instills a mindset of persistence and adaptability—critical when facing rejection or obstacles in a new market. Often, success comes after numerous setbacks. Additionally, military training fosters creative problem-solving and the ability to think outside the box in high-pressure situations—an essential skill set in the executive protection industry.