An Aegis client, operating duty-free stores along the U.S.-Canadian border and at major U.S. airports, faced a significant threat from pending Congressional legislation. The proposed bill would have restricted funding for customs border clearance, imposing inefficient inspections on retail goods and negatively impacting local economies along the U.S. border. Aegis conducted a thorough study showing that, if passed, the legislation would create truck backups of 20 to 25 miles, disrupting business operations and endangering jobs and revenue.

In response, Aegis formed the "U.S.-Canadian Caucus of Mayors," a bi-national grassroots coalition that brought together media agents, mayors, small business owners, and civic leaders from border towns across the U.S. and Canada. This coalition, spanning coast-to-coast, effectively mobilized local political forces to advocate against the restrictive legislation.

As a result of this unified effort, the legislation was amended to provide increased funding for customs operations, transitioning from paper-tracking to an efficient electronic system. This modernization not only improved customs processing but also preserved the client’s business operations, leading to dramatic growth.

Testimonial
"The Northern Border store managers have made unique contributions to our business by supporting two major political issues, leading to significant changes in U.S. legislation. This success was made possible by The Aegis Group and the formation of the United States-Canadian Caucus of Mayors."
– Tom Daniels, President, Northern Border World Duty-Free Americas, a division of British Airport Authorities.