Cronkhite Supply celebrates 100th anniversary

Plumbing and heating wholesale distributor Cronkhite Supply has reached a major milestone. Founded in April 1912 by German immigrant Norman Cronkhite in Winnipeg, MB, Cronkhite Supply is celebrating 100 years in business.“One hundred years is an amazing milestone in this day and age,” said Lee Hetherington, branch manager for the Surrey, BC branch and Cronkhite Supply employee since 1975. “I think the number one reason is the relationships – between our customers, suppliers and employees. I enjoy the job and the people. It’s a great company to work for.”
Cronkhite Supply was a family-run business until it was purchased by Edmonton’s Muttart Lumber in 1950. In 1956, the company’s manager and several employees purchased the business and moved the head office to Calgary, AB. Then in 1989, Cronkhite Supply expanded into the fire protection business with its purchase of Nicholson Sales, a wholesaler of fire sprinkler systems. Acquired by Wolseley Canada (then Westburne Inc.) in 1996, today Cronkhite Supply operates four branches located in Langley and Surrey, BC and Calgary and Edmonton, AB.
“In reaching this important milestone, there is a great deal of thanks that needs to be given to our valued customers. I’d also like to extend appreciation to our talented employees, both past and present,” said Keith VanderVennet, Wolseley Canada senior vice-president. “Without these key individuals, the success and longevity that Cronkhite Supply has achieved would not have been possible. We will continue into our next century dedicated to providing the best products and honouring the customer service ideals that have been in place since the company was founded in 1912.”