Robertson Heating Supply Co. is taking a few days, in the second week of May 2019, to celebrate its 85th anniversary. On May 14th night, company officials and vendors enjoyed a banquet at Alliance Country Club, in Ohio and on May 15th, the company is conducting a private event to showcase its vendors.
85 years of excellence
The company’s President, Scott Robertson, in remarks given on May 14th, offered thanks to those who have played a significant role in Robertson Heating Supply’s long history, and also paid tribute to those who helped him learn the business at a young age.
He quoted the company’s Founder, his grandfather, John Robertson, when he described the beginning of the company, quoting “From a small acorn, a mighty oak grew, and that’s exactly how he built the company.”
Crediting long-time equipment suppliers
Robertson credited long-time suppliers, Rheem Water Heater, for being involved for 72 years with the company, since 1947
In his remarks, Robertson credited long-time suppliers, Rheem Water Heater, for being involved for 72 years with the company, since 1947. He also highlighted Honeywell and Rheem Air Conditioning Ltd. for their partnership, since 1952.
According to the company history, John Robertson started the company in 1934, in a garage in Alliance, in Ohio. Scott Robertson said, “From the back of a coal truck, John Robertson sold coal stoker furnaces to heating contractors. He also kept a small inventory of parts and materials to accommodate his customers. From that humble beginning, Robertson Heating Supply Company was born.”
Nationwide wholesale chain
Now, after 85 years, Robertson Heating Supply operates a wholesale chain in four states in the USA. Still family owned and operated, Scott Robertson is the company’s President and John Robertson’s granddaughter, Sue Neil, is Corporate Secretary and Human Resource Director.
“My grandfather started out small, but he took bold risks to grow the company. In fact, he put his own money on the line, taking out a US$ 500,000 personal loan,” Scott Robertson said in forward to the company’s history.
Expanding footprint
The company expanded in the 1960s and 1970s, opening branches in the US states of Ohio and western Pennsylvania. “Today, 31 locations distribute a full range of plumbing, HVAC, kitchen and bath products throughout Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan and most recently Indiana,” Scott Robertson said.
Corporate headquarters and the distribution center for Robertson Heating Supply are located at 500 W. Main Street, in Alliance, Ohio.
Well-trained and empowered employees
“The success of the company is attributed to many things,” said Scott Middleton, Executive Vice President of Robertson Heating Supply, adding “Well-trained, empowered employees who take pride in their work and in their branch location.”
Scott Middleton adds, “A team and leadership that works hard to help our customers succeed; when our partners win, we win.” Middleton also pointed to the company’s long-term stability. He said the company has long-term personal relationships with customers, vendors and employees.
Adapting to market conditions and customer needs
Robertson Heating Supply Co. recently received a Business Excellence Award from the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce
Robertson Heating Supply Co. employs 280 people and 80 are members of the 20-Year Club. “While we are a large company, we act like a small company. We’re quick and nimble to adapt to the needs of customers and to adapt to market conditions,” said Scott Middleton.
The company’s Founder, John Robertson also supported the community and that spirit continues till date. Robertson Heating Supply Co. recently received a Business Excellence Award from the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce. The main criterion for the award was community involvement.
Partnership with Alliance Area Chamber of Commerce
Sue Neil, Corporate Secretary and HR Director at Robertson Heating Supply Co., said “Robertson has long-term involvement with Alliance Area Chamber of Commerce, and she’s served on the chamber’s board and as a member of the Women’s Division.”
The company also has funded many endeavors, including Robertson Community Center, Marlington Local Schools’ new press box and artificial field turf, Carnation Festival, and Glamorgan Castle Crusaders.
She said the company is also involved with Alliance Area Development Foundation and support the ‘Alliance Make it Yours!’ campaign with Full Spectrum Marketing Co. In 2018, Scott Robertson received the Alliance Chamber of Commerce Spirit of Enterprise Award.