Can you provide a general overview of MBI Global?

MR: MBI Global is a company with a strong legacy in the drilling industry, tracing back approximately 35 years. Four years ago, I led the acquisition of MBI to build a more robust, comprehensive, and vertically integrated company. The idea was to not only offer machines but also consumables such as rods, bits and accessories, which allow us to remain engaged with customers consistently. We now operate with 15 distributors worldwide and have offices and manufacturing operations in Peru, Mexico, Val-d'Or and Saskatoon, covering five continents between our office and distribution network.

How has MBI Global's presence evolved in Chile in recent years?

MQ: MBI Global has maintained a solid presence in Chile for over a decade. Our initial strategy was to introduce high-quality Canadian products to a market that is deeply connected to the mining industry. Over time, we have steadily increased our market share, and today we are widely recognized throughout the sector.

Has the recent decline in greenfield investments affected MBI Global's strategy in Chile?

MQ: The slowdown in greenfield investments is indeed a concern. Delays in permitting and bureaucratic hurdles have limited growth in some areas. Nevertheless, we continue to evolve by focusing on agility and resilience. The market is dynamic, and every year brings new challenges. Our approach is to reposition ourselves as strategic partners, not just suppliers.

What is MBI doing to incorporate automation and autonomous drilling solutions?

MR: MBI Global has already developed and deployed semi-automated deep-hole drilling rigs in Chile. Moreover, we are investing heavily in AI. For the past two years, our R&D team has been developing AI-enhanced functionalities for our underground drills. The goal is to transform drilling operations by leveraging real-time data to optimize drilling paths, reduce human error, and enhance operational safety. Automation makes the work less physically demanding and more appealing to younger generations and underrepresented groups. We see autonomous drilling as an enabler for greater inclusivity in the workforce.

What sustainability and safety strategies is MBI Global implementing?

MR: Our sustainability strategy begins with understanding the full life cycle of drilling operations. Since we are also drillers, we know the on-the-ground realities. We prioritize health and safety, which are foundational elements of sustainable mining. Furthermore, we spend significant time in the field gathering insights that feed back into product development and help us continuously improve.

MQ: Chile has some of the most stringent regulations globally, especially concerning safety. MBI Global embraces this challenge. We ensure our products exceed local standards by incorporating advanced safety features such as remote operation, area restriction sensors, and user-friendly control panels.

The reduced need for manual intervention translates into fewer injuries and near-misses. In addition, by defining safe zones and automating critical functions, we contribute to overall project continuity and investor confidence. A single incident can halt a mining operation indefinitely, affecting valuations and strategic timelines.

Can you explain the significance of the Neolithik product line?

MR: We face stiff competition from countries offering cheaper products. However, quality matters. In drilling, failure in the hole can be catastrophic. Neolithik consumables are engineered for durability, reducing the risk of tool failure and lowering overall operational costs for both drilling contractors and mine owners.

MQ: Neolithik is a proprietary product line that represents strength and durability. It includes rods, bits, heads, and other drilling consumables.

What are MBI Global's plans for growth?

MQ: Our growth strategy includes forging long-term alliances with clients, offering flexible purchasing models such as consignment, and expanding our local inventory of both machines and parts. The goal is to be a one-stop solution provider, deeply embedded in our clients' operational planning cycles.

MR: Our vision is encapsulated in the phrase ‘Stronger and Stronger.’ We will continue expanding our global presence, improving operational efficiencies, and strengthening local teams. We are not looking to enter every market, but rather to solidify our leadership in the strategic ones we already serve, and to scale in a way that benefits both our clients and our internal growth. South America is crucial to MBI's global strategy. As exploration moves deeper, our high-performance rigs and consumables are well-positioned to meet the demand.