It was a crisp autumn morning when Joe Peterson, a third-generation contractor, stepped into Franklin Building Supply for the first time. His father had been a loyal customer, buying lumber and materials for the small family business that built many homes in their Idaho town. Now, it was Joe’s turn to carry on the legacy. The warm, woodsy scent of the lumberyard and the welcoming nods from staff who had known him since he was a child made him feel right at home. But Franklin Building Supply was more than just a place to buy construction materials; it symbolized growth, community, and resilience.
Since its humble beginnings, Franklin Building Supply has played an essential role in developing communities across Idaho and Northern Nevada, serving as a reliable resource for contractors and DIY enthusiasts.
- The History and Evolution of Franklin Building Supply
Franklin Building Supply was founded in the early 1970s, starting as a single store catering to a small but growing construction market. Over the years, it has expanded to become one of the most significant building material suppliers in Idaho and Northern Nevada, operating multiple locations and offering a wide range of products and services.
Growth Over Time: What began as a local lumberyard has now evolved into a full-service building supply company, featuring products from lumber and hardware to custom kitchen and bath design. The company has grown in response to regional construction booms and has supported everything from large-scale commercial projects to home renovations.
Industry Position: Franklin Building Supply is the region’s leading independent building material supplier. While large national chains dominate the market, Franklin maintains a community-focused approach that appeals to large contractors and more diminutive, family-owned construction businesses.
- The Services and Products Offered
Franklin Building Supply goes beyond just selling lumber and nails. Its product offerings include high-quality building materials such as:
- Lumber and Plywood: A staple for any construction project, Franklin sources wood that meets stringent quality standards.
- Hardware and Fasteners: From screws and bolts to specialty hardware, they offer an extensive range that suits any project size.
- Custom Design Services: Their kitchen and bath design services are well-regarded, helping homeowners and builders create personalized spaces.
- Tools and Equipment: Hand and power tools are available, meeting the needs of professional contractors and home DIYers.
Customer Support: One unique aspect of Franklin Building Supply is its commitment to customer support. The company employs experienced professionals who provide advice and recommendations, helping customers choose the best materials for their needs. For instance, Joe recalls when he needed help choosing weather-resistant siding for a lakeside property. “The staff didn’t just recommend a product; they walked me through why it would work best for that environment,” he said.
- The Economic Impact of Franklin Building Supply
Job Creation: Franklin Building Supply has become essential to local economies. Employing over 600 people across its locations, the company provides stable jobs and professional development opportunities. According to a 2022 industry report, the building materials sector in Idaho has seen a 5% annual employment growth over the last five years, with companies like Franklin playing a significant role in this trend.
Supporting Local Contractors: Franklin Building Supply helps local contractors stay competitive by offering competitive pricing and a wide selection of products. This is especially important in a market where large-scale commercial chains often dominate. Local contractors benefit from the company’s reliable supply chain and expert staff, which, in turn, supports local economies.
Stat Insight: A study by the Idaho Department of Labor found that construction accounted for 7% of the state’s GDP in 2022. With construction projects dependent on building supplies, businesses like Franklin Building Supply are integral to sustaining this growth.
- Community Engagement and Philanthropy
Franklin Building Supply has built its reputation on quality products and its commitment to community engagement. The company participates in various philanthropic initiatives, from sponsoring local sports teams to contributing to Habitat for Humanity projects.
Training and Workshops: Franklin Building Supply invests in the next generation of builders. They host workshops and training sessions to educate new and experienced builders on the latest trends, safety protocols, and construction techniques. This aligns with a broader trend in the industry: a growing focus on skilled labor development as the construction industry faces a workforce shortage.
Stat Insight: According to a report by the Associated General Contractors of America, 80% of construction companies in the US reported difficulties in filling craft positions in 2023. By offering training, Franklin helps address this skilled labor gap in its region.
- Challenges and Future Outlook
While Franklin Building Supply has enjoyed success, it isn’t immune to industry challenges.
Supply Chain Issues: Like many in the building supply industry, Franklin has faced challenges related to global supply chain disruptions, which have caused price fluctuations and shortages. The cost of lumber, for example, spiked by over 300% in 2021 during the height of the pandemic before stabilizing. Despite these challenges, Franklin has managed to maintain a reputation for reliability, thanks in part to longstanding supplier relationships and strategic stockpiling.
Environmental Considerations: The company is also mindful of the ecological impact of construction materials. Sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly practices are becoming increasingly important as consumers demand greener options. Franklin Building Supply has taken steps to stock more sustainable products and educate customers about eco-friendly building solutions.
Future Plans: Franklin Building Supply aims to expand its custom services and integrate more sustainable products into its offerings. Their strategy includes enhancing their digital presence to offer more online services and streamline the ordering process for contractors and homeowners.
- Customer Experiences and Testimonials
A business is only as strong as its reputation, and Franklin Building Supply boasts a loyal customer base. Contractors, builders, and DIY enthusiasts speak highly of the company’s quality and service.
Customer Spotlight: Maria Sanchez, a homeowner who recently renovated her kitchen using materials from Franklin, shared her experience. “I didn’t know where to start with such a big project, but the design team at Franklin guided me every step of the way. The result was a kitchen I love, and the process was surprisingly smooth,” she said.
Stat Insight: According to customer satisfaction surveys conducted in 2023, Franklin Building Supply scored a 92% satisfaction rate, a testament to its dedication to customer service and quality.
Conclusion: A Foundation Built on Trust
Franklin Building Supply is more than just a place to buy construction materials; it’s a community staple that has supported local economies and construction projects for decades. From its humble beginnings to becoming a significant player in Idaho and Northern Nevada’s building supply market, Franklin has shown that a commitment to quality, customer service, and community involvement can set a business apart.
As Joe Peterson looks out at the freshly built homes that now line his neighborhood—each containing a bit of Franklin’s legacy—it’s clear that this company is more than a supplier; it’s a partner in building dreams, one project at a time.
