ANTIGONISH: The owner of Central Supplies confirmed Tuesday that he is selling the company to the Kent Building Supplies organization.
After celebrating the 40th anniversary of Central Supplies this year, Steve Smith noted home improvement is in a transition period and the local company is now “at a cross roads.”
“The demographics are changing and with it has come greater pressures to invest heavily in infrastructure and technology in order to grow and expand,” Smith said in a statement released to the media.
Smith said Kent was selected “to take this business to a whole new level” because of its track record.
“Kent has a strong record of growth and investment in Atlantic Canada for many, many years and through our association with our buying group, ILDC, I have come to know many of their people and their leaders,” Smith stated.
“They will be committed to each of you, as I have, to ensure the operations continue to grow and prosper. They are passionate about the customer, their employees and the home improvement industry.”
Although Central Supplies has been sold, Smith explained that none of his other businesses are for sale.
“Atlantic Windows, our real estate operations and Keltic Quay will remain a focal point of my energies in the coming months and years and we look for continued growth and success with these companies,” Smith commented.
Smith added thanks to the community for their loyalty and employees for their dedication.
“Many of you have been with me and our Central team from the earliest days,” he recalled. “It has been quite a journey and would not have been possible without the support of our supplier and partner community. I have made so many lasting friendships over these years and I will miss the day to day connections we have enjoyed.
“I do wish to take this opportunity to say thank you on behalf of my wife Kathy and all of my family for your many years of dedication, commitment and loyalty to the Central family. What started with such humble beginnings back in 1976 has been the pride of my working life and to have shared these experiences with so many wonderful people has been an honour and a pleasure.”