Special to Ontario Construction News
XANA Group was founded 15 years ago, driven by a singular idea: to not only complete projects but to build lasting relationships with every client.
From the start, the company was more than just a renovation and construction business—it was about creating an experience.
Today, with more than 65 employees and operations spanning across Canada, the U.S., and the Middle East, XANA Group continues to thrive on the values of trust, reliability, and personal attention, setting them apart in an industry that often prioritizes speed over service.
Founder and Managing Partner Shane Worthington recalls the early days, when the company operated out of a small basement in Markham, Ontario.
“We were focused on providing high-end plumbing fixtures—luxury steam showers and bathtubs—but we always knew we wanted to do more,” Worthington says. “Our approach was simple: create something that lasts, something built on trust. And every day, we kept that vision at the forefront of everything we did.”
The name XANA is a blend of vision and meaning, capturing both the concept of “can”—the belief that they can accomplish anything—and the resonance of Cana, which represents transformation and renewal. The name evokes a sense of potential and speaks to the company’s philosophy: XANA can create, innovate, and change the landscape, one project at a time.
“We believed in our potential from the very beginning,” Worthington plains. “The name reminds us that we can push boundaries, keep evolving, and never stop growing. It’s about doing it again and again—improving, refining, and building a legacy.”
As the company grew, its trajectory shifted when Worthington partnered with Mahmood Kara, a hospitality procurement expert. Mahmood’s connections and knowledge of the hotel industry presented a golden opportunity. Together, they saw a niche in the market: hotels needed not only high-quality renovations but a trustworthy partner who could handle the complexities of the hospitality industry.
“When I first joined forces with Shane, it wasn’t just about expanding the business—it was about building something that could sustain long-term relationships with clients and transform industries,” says Kara. “We were driven by the idea that every renovation project could be more than just an upgrade—it could be a transformation that enhances the guest experience and drives operational success for our clients.”
Mahmood shared the vision and unwavering commitment to success.
Their first hotel renovation in downtown Toronto marked a defining moment for the company.
“It was a grueling experience, but it solidified everything we stand for,” says Shane. “We were there every step of the way—driving the team, working alongside them from dawn till dusk, making sure everything was perfect. It was about more than just getting the job done; it was about proving ourselves, earning trust, and creating something our clients would value.”
The project was a success, and XANA Group was off to the races. Word of their reliability, dedication, and attention to detail spread quickly. What followed were even larger hotel renovations, including partnerships with renowned brands like Marriott, Hilton, and W Hotels.
Today, XANA Group is an industry leader, having completed over 65 hotel renovations, including high-profile projects like the Anndore House, W Hotel and Hilton Resort and Spa. But despite their growing global reach, the company has stayed true to the values that started it all—personalized service and a commitment to maintaining meaningful relationships with clients.
“We’re incredibly proud of our global expansion, but what really sets us apart is the personal touch we offer,” says Worthington. “No matter how big the project, we stay involved, we communicate directly with our clients, and we ensure they’re informed at every step. That personal connection is what builds trust and, ultimately, what has driven our success.”
With operations now spanning across Canada, the United States, and Dubai, the company’s growth has been rapid. The Dubai office, opened in 2024, has already established itself as a key player in the region, working on multiple high-end residential and commercial projects.
“We took a big risk in Dubai, but it’s paying off,” says Worthington. “It’s a market that values high standards, and we’ve been able to build a strong reputation because we’re willing to go the extra mile to meet our clients’ expectations.”
The company is embracing AI to help manage large-scale projects, reduce costs, and enhance project delivery. However, despite the technological advancements, the human touch remains at the heart of the business.
“Technology is a powerful tool, but it will never replace the importance of communication and personal service,” says Worthington. “Clients want to feel like they’re being heard, like they matter, and that’s something technology can’t replace. We’ve worked hard to balance innovation with our commitment to people.”
The long-term vision for XANA is not only to be a leader in the construction industry but also to use its success to create positive change.
“We’ve been fortunate in so many ways, and our success has allowed us to give back,” Worthington says. “We want to build schools, places of worship, orphanages, and clean water projects around the world. Ultimately, it’s about creating something that goes beyond business—it’s about making a difference.”
Looking ahead, XANA Group plans to open new offices in Western Canada and the Middle East, with ambitious plans to expand into Saudi Arabia, South Asia, and other US States by 2026. The company also aims to double its revenue and project capacity in the next two years.
“We’re just getting started,” says Worthington. “The future is incredibly exciting, but it’s important to remember that no matter how big we grow, we’ll never lose sight of the values that made us who we are.”