Brandon-based ride-sharing company sees strong growth
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 08/01/2025 (253 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Brandon-based VDK Delivery Services — which provides ride-sharing and delivery services across Manitoba — has seen remarkable growth, marked by the expansion of its core business and the launch of a new venture called VDK Hotshot Freight Services.
Brigitte Van De Kerckhove, the owner of VDK Delivery Services, told the Sun her company has expanded in the last year to include additional vehicles and contractors, who follow a business model where drivers use their vehicles for deliveries. This approach mirrors modern gig economy structures, and is similar to the one used by food services delivery company SkipTheDishes.
“Initially, we had just one Hyundai Elantra, but as demand grew, we upgraded to the Mazda CX9, which is bigger and later added two more vehicles from contractors who manage their vehicles and earnings,” she said.
VDK Hotshot Freight Services owner Andrew Van De Kerckhove and his wife, Brigitte, the owner of VDK Delivery Services, pose for a picture outside the Keystone Centre on Saturday. (Abiola Odutola/The Brandon Sun)
“The company has formed strategic partnerships with organizations, such as Sobeys West, Prairie Mountain Health and Manitoba’s Employment and Income Assistance (EIA), creating a steady flow of clients and recurring business. We’ve established regular clientele and are steadily climbing with three new inquiries daily.”
Van De Kerckhove’s husband, Andrew, said the company’s latest addition — VDK Hotshot Freight Services — was established in response to customer requests for hauling larger items.
“I had to end a 20-year welding career due to personal reasons and transitioned into this new venture. I now handle large cargo shipments across Manitoba,” he said in an interview.
“With a Dodge Ram 3500 diesel and a 30-foot flat-deck trailer, I’m able to haul items like sewage pipes and farm equipment.”
The goal, he added, is to support local businesses and smaller communities, where resources for freight are often limited.
While the business officially launched last year, Andrew admits that the early days have been challenging.
“The biggest hurdle is building a reputation and finding clients, but calls are coming in steadily now,” he said.
Both ventures are deeply rooted in community support. Andrew emphasized his desire to assist rural areas.
“Helping smaller communities with limited resources is what drives me,” he added.
For VDK Hotshot Freight Services, Andrew added, parking and logistics for large vehicles in urban spaces can be tricky. For both businesses, hiring and managing contractors requires careful attention.
As VDK continues to expand, Brigitte said she is actively seeking additional ride-share drivers, while Andrew is considering future plans to sub-contract work for VDK Hotshot Freight Services.
» aodutola@brandonsun.com
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