Original Traders Energy Ltd., a company based in Scotland, Ontario that specializes in purchasing and blending fuel products for supply to petrol stations and First Nations communities, was granted CCAA protection on January 30, 2023. The decision followed the discovery of financial irregularities attributed to the former president and others, leading to significant operational and financial challenges. The group reported total assets of $67.5 million against liabilities amounting to $95.4 million.

The financial strain resulted from multiple issues, including unmet obligations to Canadian regulators, tax authorities, and trade suppliers, alongside potentially unaccounted-for assets and receivables. The situation was exacerbated by unfavorable contracts and pending litigation against the company. KPMG was appointed as the Monitor to oversee the restructuring process under CCAA protection.

Legal representation involved Aird & Berlis acting as counsel for the companies, Bennett Jones representing the Monitor, and BLG serving as counsel to RBC, providing legal guidance through the restructuring.