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With how competitive today's business climate is, it's an accomplishment for any company to reach a milestone anniversary. This means kudos should be given to Johnstone Supply, which is celebrating 50 years of being in business this month.
Johnstone Supply was founded in Portland in 1953. The company, an appliance parts supplier, was so warmly received that by 1958 it was expanding into other states. Howard Arbuckle was a salesman in the Intermountain area and found himself limited by constantly waiting for supplies to be shipped from Portland. In October 1959, Johnstone Supply was doing enough local business to open a new store in Salt Lake City.
John Shank, the original creator of Johnstone Supply, wanted to provide an opportunity for his stores to thrive, so he formed a cooperative so all the stores could be independently owned and operated. The Salt Lake City Johnstone Supply was successful enough that in 1981, local management purchased the Utah rights and have kept the business going strong ever since.
Today, the company's focus has shifted from appliance parts to heating, air conditioning and refrigeration, commonly referred to as HVACR. Company president Boyd Fullmer tells me Johnstone Supply carries parts for all the major equipment lines including Coleman and Goodman. The catalog boasts a selection of 27,000 pieces in categories including motors, controls, indoor air quality, maintenance supplies, and power tools.
The business expanded by opening stores in both Orem and Ogden and the company is constantly adding new products to its selection. It also offers specialized equipment training for employees and customers. Boyd anticipates Johnstone Supply will persist in growing its reputation as a premiere HVACR parts house and equipment distributor, improving and enhancing its facilities to maintain the growth.
