Merchant Machine Tools is a leader in providing new and preowned CNC machine tools and other high-performance equipment for production, tool making, repairs and maintenance. The products offered are top-of-the line and include brands like Weiler, Ibarmia, Hwacheon, Ona, WFL and Hydmech band saws. All this is backed by unbeatable customer service and expertise that ensures customers are supported from the first call, to long after their products are delivered.
Dustin Tracey, president, launched Merchant Machine Tools in 2016 with the intent to provide manufacturers in Canada with quality products combined with exceptional service.
“Merchant Machine Tools started with a rented office in Leduc,” says Tracey. “I spent most of my first two years on the road. A nearby Starbucks would usually be my satellite office.”
Tracey didn’t launch during an economic boom – quite the opposite – making the early road uphill. However, the agile entrepreneur turned those challenges into a foundation for growth.
I didn’t expect the energy slump from the end of 2015 to last as long as it did. There were not a lot of shops in Alberta buying new machines, so I had to quickly pivot to selling used equipment. That’s what kept us alive,” Tracey recalls. “Then, slowly, the market returned and new machines started to move. Through hard work, great partnerships, and the best staff, we were able to grow very quickly.”
That growth accelerated rapidly. In 2020, amidst the global pandemic, Merchant Machine took its biggest leap forward by purchasing its Leduc showroom. By 2024, they added a 5,000-square-foot expansion. Today, Merchant Machine Tools stands as one of the largest CNC dealers in Western Canada, boasting the largest facility and the most local inventory right here in the Greater Edmonton Area.
It has more than 35,000 square feet of new and used machines in Leduc alone. Having machines in stock on the floor has proven to be a key factor in Merchant’s rapid success.
“We are very proud of this,” Tracey smiles.
The secret to their expansion is a specific blend of technical advice and long-term reliability. Tracey views the business as more than a supplier; they are a vital link in the supply chain for shops that rely on metalworking and precision tools.
Tracey explains, “Merchant isn’t just an equipment dealer. We are an all in one facility for manufacturers who want not just a machine, but applications (programming, time studies, installation and training), along with after sales support, service and warranty. We don’t just sell you a machine and send you on your way. We partner with our customers from initial enquiry through the life span of the machine. This enables our customers to rest assured knowing that they are in good hands so that they can focus on other complex parts of their business.”
“The deciding factors in choosing the product lines we offer came down to quality, reliability and fit for our customers’ real-world needs.”
To ensure clients get the best fit for their needs, Merchant Machine Tools focuses on manufacturers who build proven, high-precision equipment with a strong reputation in demanding industries. Those manufacturers must also offer flexibility and customization so machines can be tailored to specific applications, rather than forcing customers into standard solutions.
“It is also important to provide long-term support and parts availability, ensuring customers are protected well beyond the initial sale,” Tracey adds. “We seek manufacturers who align with our values, particularly around engineering integrity, honesty in performance claims and who are also seeking long-term partnerships. Ultimately, we chose product lines we believe in and machines we are confident will deliver value, uptime and return on investment for our customers over the long term, not just the lowest upfront price.”
He continues, “We are always evaluating new lines and upgrades to meet evolving customer needs. We have recently expanded into fabrication equipment beyond traditional CNC machine tools, including press brakes, shears and laser cutting tables from reputable manufacturers.
“We see ourselves as a long-term partner, not just a machine supplier. Our goal is to understand your work, your challenges and your future plans so we can recommend equipment and support that genuinely helps your business grow—not just today, but for years to come.”
With this focus, the team grew from two on day one to 10.
“Our success comes from experience, strategic brand representation, customer focus and adaptability, while our personalized service, technical expertise and commitment to quality distinguish us from competitors,” Tracey adds with a smile.
“Our most memorable moment was taking ownership of our showroom. We are proud of our facility, and we were also honoured with a Best New Dealer award from Hwacheon at their annual dealer meetings in 2025.”
He adds, “One surprising thing most people don’t realize about Merchant Machine Tools is that, despite its relatively small size, the company represents and supports some of the most advanced, high-precision machine tool brands in the world. Many assume that only large multinational dealers handle this level of equipment, but Merchant Machine Tools works closely with top-tier European and international manufacturers, helping Canadian shops install highly customized, complex machines. This means a small, specialized team is often involved in projects that have a major impact on large manufacturing operations, oil and gas products, mining components, aerospace work, automotive parts and other critical industries—far beyond what most people would expect from a company of this size.”
For Tracey, the reward is in the relationship. “Helping customers succeed by matching them with the right equipment and seeing the real impact that has on their business. Being part of major investments—machines that improve accuracy, productivity and competitiveness—means we’re not just selling equipment, we’re supporting growth, jobs and long-term manufacturing capability. I also enjoy building trusted, long-standing relationships with customers. Knowing they rely on our advice and support is especially satisfying for me, and for everyone on our team.”
He concludes, noting, “It’s also rewarding to grow a company that values quality, technical expertise and personal service in an industry that’s becoming increasingly competitive and price driven. Seeing Merchant Machine Tools earn respect in the market through those values makes the work meaningful.”
As Merchant Machine Tools looks to the future, the company remains committed to quality, innovation and being customer focused. With developments on the horizon and a proven track record of growth, they are poised to continue making a significant impact on the manufacturing industry in Canada – and beyond. By staying true to its values of integrity, expertise and personalized service, Merchant Machine Tools is a trusted partner in driving progress, creating opportunities and shaping the future of precision manufacturing.
