Our company was co-founded by Andrew Patrick and Ross Hutchings in 1925.
Both had been employed at a local printing firm when a work stoppage occurred.
This provided the opportunity for these two young men to start up a small
bookbindery in the downtown core of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Initially their customer base consisted of Five and Dime discount stores.
Later as their product line grew to encompass office products and social stationery
items, the department stores were large customers.
The company grew rapidly through the Second World War as the Department of
Defence required many custom products like 'soldiers paybooks' and 'log books
for pilots'.
The company then moved to its present location in order to expand its manufacturing
capacity.
At this point, customers needed to see a sales representative on a regular
basis. Andrew's sons, Robert and George called in on independent stationery
dealers and large retail chains. George was responsible for Southern
Ontario while Robert travelled throughout the rest of Canada. Without
a catalogue in the 1950's, it was necessary for Robert to travel by train
and set up 'sample rooms' in the various hotels near the respective train
stations. Customers were contacted in advance and set up appointments
accordingly.
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In 1962 Robert Patrick took over as president and shortly after purchased
shares from the various shareholders to become the sole proprietor.
In 1976 his son Bruce joined the business, first in a sales capacity, then
as plant manager. Today he is the president of the company.
The firm currently has fifteen sales agents representing our line in Canada
and the United States.
Many employees have worked for the company in excess of forty years.
The company is very fortunate to have these long term employees.
With this depth of experience, the company has been able to retain the high
standard of quality our customers have grown to expect today.
