Whether it’s talk of tariffs, trade dissent or threats of annexation, the “made in Canada” pledge matters perhaps now more than ever.
It’s a badge of honour California Closets of BC proudly wears on its sleeve.
A proudly local company, California Closets of BC has more than 40 years of experience in designing, manufacturing and installing custom closets and other custom home storage.
Whether it’s a detached home, a townhome or a condominium, California Closets of BC specializes in custom-crafted walk-in closets, reach-in closets, wall beds, media centres, home offices, pantries and so much more.
As president and CEO of the company’s B.C. operation, Stephan Maingot has made a concerted effort to be Canadian, for Canadians, since he bought the company over 25 years ago..
“When I acquired the business in 1999, all of our manufacturing was being done in the U.S.,” Maingot says. “And over 25 years, I've brought all the manufacturing jobs and all the supply chains from the U.S. to Canada. This is very, very important to our company to play an integral part in the B.C. economy.”
As a primary original equipment manufacturer (OEM), California Closets of BC meets the requirements for the “Made in Canada” distinction and sources 95% of its wood from Canada. Adjacent to those mills is a series of forests managed to the highest standards of contemporary silviculture practices to ensure the best sustainable wood quality on the continent.
“For my money, our partners in Canada have the absolute best mills in the world, and these beautifully managed forests have some of the most exceptional trees you’ve ever seen,” Maingot says. “We do very high-tech, automated manufacturing at our Burnaby facility, and we source many of our accessories from a local company based in Surrey. There's so much excellence in this country.”
Maingot’s pursuit of excellence stretches beyond home décor.
He proudly employs 80 people in BC and considers them an extension of his family, celebrating their families, pursuits and long-term goals.
“The number one reason we’ve been around for as long as we have is that we hire good people – Canadians are amazing,” Maingot says. “Of the 80 people we employ in Vancouver, most own homes and are raising families, and we're very proud of that.”
California Closets of BC's pledge to its customers and employees also extends to the environment. The company has virtually eliminated formaldehyde and chlorine byproducts and only works with partners who adhere to sustainable practices and minimal carbon footprints.
“Being committed to the environment takes a lot of work, and we have worked tirelessly at it,” Maingot says. “Our philosophy is that we're going to have some impact on the environment, but let that be as little as possible.”
As for the products themselves, California Closets of BC’s work is backed by an experienced team of experts dedicated to delivering timeless products covered by a lifetime warranty.
“That’s the most important aspect for us, to get the job done flawlessly,” Maingot says.
To learn more about California Closets BC, visit www.locations.californiaclosets.ca/bc/vancouver, and take advantage of their latest promotions HERE.
