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WAT Supplies commemorated the 35th anniversary of service delivery in Northern Ontario by announcing the launch of a new website with enhanced online ordering capabilities to better serve customers.

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Founded in 1989 in a residential garage in Copper Cliff, WAT Supplies has grown into a leading supplier of food service packaging, coffee, cleaning supplies and home care products, serving a wide range of customers, from small businesses to large organizations.

WAT Supplies started small at 25 Evans Rd. in Copper Cliff, with Wallace and Janice Gillard working alongside their children to fulfill orders. Their first client, Gary Gray, former CEO of YMCA Sudbury, was an early supporter of the company and their relationship remains strong to this day.

“When Wallace started his business in his garage, we supported him from the beginning,” Gray said in a press release. “His service-oriented mindset has always impressed me. I remember when the old Y building was having problems with its floors, Wallace would work all night with our YMCA cleaning staff showing them how to use the products, with no intention of charging for his time. This kind of dedication is rare.

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“Another time he traveled to Massey on the weekend to personally deliver dishwashing solution for our John Island camp. WAT Supplies always goes above and beyond, which is why the YMCAs of Northern Ontario also trust them. Their team is honest, friendly and truly focused on helping, not just selling.

Starting WAT Supplies was a leap of faith, Wallace Gillard said, but support from customers like the YMCA and Walden Daycare gave them the drive to expand.

“Our success over these 35 years has been based on our flexibility, our ability to respond to customer needs and the lasting relationships we have cultivated,” he added.

“WAT Supplies has been with us since day one, 35 years ago, as our first trusted supplier,” said Mary Lou, now retired from Walden Daycare. “They have not only provided exceptional service, but have been a reliable support system for Walden Daycare ever since.” »

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Now under the leadership of Wallace’s son, Travis, WAT Supplies continues to thrive as a family business.

“My earliest memories are of building forts with my friends in our first warehouse – our garage in Copper Cliff – with crates of toilet paper,” Travis Gillard said. “I loved driving around with my dad to visit customers and make deliveries. These visits were special because the clients felt like distant members of the family I was meeting. »=

Travis has held various roles within WAT Supplies, from delivery driver to sales and fleet manager, before taking on his current role as President.

“I didn’t find my passion in my initial career as a millwright, but I discovered that what I love is helping people solve problems – and that’s exactly what WAT does “, he explained. “We listen, we solve problems and we are always willing to go the extra mile for our customers. »

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WAT Supplies moved to several locations throughout Greater Sudbury over the years, eventually establishing its headquarters at 80 National Street, just off Maley Drive in Garson. During this journey, the company expanded its product range and strengthened its market position by acquiring Rossi Wholesale. WAT Supplies now offers a comprehensive selection of products and services including foodservice packaging, paper products and dispensers, cleaning supplies, cleaning chemicals, soap dispensers, branded packaging, coffee, food and beverages, cleaning equipment and commercial appliances. The company also provides repair and maintenance services for janitorial equipment and commercial appliances, ensuring its customers receive comprehensive operational support.

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WAT Supplies is also dedicated to supporting local communities through its Good Food 4 Kids program. In collaboration with Student Nutrition Ontario, a government-funded initiative, schools in Northern Ontario can order and receive healthy snacks delivered directly from WAT Supplies.

“Using the phrase ‘family business’ may seem common, but for us it’s an extension of who we are,” said Travis Gillard. “We laugh together, face challenges together and each of us has an opinion that can impact the future of the company. It’s powerful, full of heart and we love it.

“As the world becomes more global, we will continue to support our customers by providing the right products and solutions, while maintaining the high level of personalized service and training that sets us apart. »

WAT Supplies plans to unveil its new website, designed to make online ordering more convenient for customers, later this month.

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