For 50 years, the team of United Tool Supply Ltd. has gone above and beyond for customers across Western Canada. In addition to providing machine shop equipment and supplies, each interaction is backed by years of expertise. Hundreds of customers rely on United Tool Supply for solutions – and they are never disappointed.
“We are successful because we focus on what we can do for our customers,” says Brad Onofrychuck, president. “The longevity of the team and what they do is very appreciated. They grew the company alongside us and inspired the loyalty of our customers.”
Tony Ertman and his wife started the company in 1974. Brad’s father, James (Jim), purchased the business four years later.
“My father had a machine shop by the coliseum,” Brad explains. “Unfortunately, he lost it in a fire and when the new zoning rules came around, he could not rebuild in the same location. He was looking for a new opportunity and knew Tony was one of his suppliers. Tony was getting ready to exit the business, so my father purchased it.”
That was the start of what would turn into a family business. Brad’s father, James, and brother, Dean, ran the operations and steadily expanded the business. Brad joined the business in 1994 and took the reins in 2001.
With a vision to expand the scope of United Tool Supply, Brad grew the company in size, sales and revenues. As the digital age took hold, he also progressed United Tool Supply to have a website and start its growing online footprint.
One thing, however, never changed. United Tool Supply differentiates itself in the industry because of the team.
“Teamwork is very important to us,” Brad confirms. “We offer great quality products at fair pricing and we pride ourselves on our customer and technical support. As we are not the biggest tool supplier out there, we have to compete against a lot of larger companies. So, we stand out by offering support and going the extra mile to offer solutions.”
This means appropriate pricing, extremely knowledgeable staff on the order desk (“One of the best in the business!” according to Brad) and outside sales personnel that will research the best part for the job. Bottom line, if they don’t have it, they will find it. Customers of United Tool Supply quickly realize that they just need to call and explain what they need to be met with a quote or a solution, every time.
“There are times when customers need a tool and it is not readily available. Our outside sales team will go to other customers and borrow the tool to get our customers through those binds. Even if the sales team is busy, they make the time to deliver the tool to the customer. We never outright say no when someone is looking for something, even if it’s hard to find or difficult to carry. We do our best to find it whether or not we have a history with the product. It is paramount that we satisfy our customers’ needs.”
It is thanks to this outstanding level of care that helped United Tool Supply expand to service four western provinces, though its main focus remains on Alberta and Edmonton.
“Achieving 50 years is a wonderful milestone,” Brad smiles. “When my father purchased the business, he was able to add three more staff members and we have continued to grow the team since then. We are also competing against larger, international companies and companies that have been purchased by multinationals. As a locally owned and operated family business, arriving at 50 years is an achievement of which we are all very proud.”
He notes that when people find out they are a small family business, there is a lot of surprise.
“We service Western Canada and hold our own against major players, but we are a family business with one brick-and-mortar location,” Brad says. “People often ask how many branches we have because we appear much larger than we are!”
He will never get tired of working alongside great co-workers and customers.
“The most rewarding aspect has been getting to know people and building relationships with them. Edmonton is a very connected, tight knit community. Even though we have lots of competitors, we all establish relationships that are amicable. Everyone wants to support each other and has respect for each other. I’m very thankful to our team, vendors, customers and the community. They are what got us here; they are what got us to this milestone of 50 years.”
Everyone at United Tool Supply enjoys giving back to the community. In addition to supporting a variety of non-profit interests as the needs arise, United Tool Supply has heavily supported youth sports, with a focus on lacrosse. They have also supported a local sprint car driver.
While United Tool Supply has won numerous awards from suppliers, including many top sales categories, for Brad the greatest reward is the privilege of working with a team and community that cares so passionately about its customers.
“Without our suppliers and team, we would never be able to achieve what we are trying to do. We have great retention – staff that have been here for over 30 years with most with at least 15 years of service. We have very low turnover. I’m so proud of the staff and feel blessed to work with them. I am very appreciative of every member, past and present. They are the backbone of the United Tool Supply family.”
The next 50 years – and beyond – are focused on growth.
“We want to continue our pattern of steady, sustainable growth,” says Brad. “Down the road, my two sons may join the family business. No matter where the road takes us, United Tool Supply will always have a customer-focused mission, a family atmosphere and small business values.”
9651 49 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6E 5Z5
Phone: 780-437-4220 • Fax: 780-438-5873 • Toll Free: 1-800-661-6496
unitedtoolsupply.com