A growing, family-owned and operated business since 1963, Imperial Soap and Supplies Ltd. continues to be an industry leader in the distribution and manufacturing of industrial cleaning and sanitation products throughout Manitoba and North West Ontario. We remain as committed as ever to providing our customers unparalleled service and the highest quality products at competitive prices. We believe in seeking out and forming long-term partnerships with our valued customers and suppliers.
In 1963, Ernest Tessler and Leonard Paul forged a new business relationship that would flourish for many years until Leonard’s untimely passing in 1991. They first worked together after purchasing the original Imperial Soap and Supplies Ltd., a janitorial supply store located on Provencher Boulevard in Winnipeg. During the day, the two men were actively selling a wide assortment of cleaning products to build a strong customer base and at night, they would often work late into the evening blending and packaging the finished products for the next day’s delivery. Hard work soon paid off and while sales continued to grow, the two men moved the business to a new location in 1968.
Imperial Soap and Supplies Ltd. located at 244 Jarvis Avenue quickly became a fixture in Winnipeg’s north end and assumed a leading role within the janitorial supply community. At this time of expansion, a number of loyal and hard-working staff members were brought on board to assist in the company’s growth, many of whom continue to work at Imperial Soap today. During these productive years, Imperial Soap & Supplies Ltd, cultivated its growing list of both clients and suppliers. Many business decisions were settled with only a handshake as their reputation as hard-working and honest businessmen grew in the community.
In 1991, Leonard’s sudden passing left Ernie with difficult decisions regarding the future of Imperial Soap and Supplies. In 1993, Ernie chose to continue the family-run business by bringing his youngest son Michael into the company. Ernie’s son-in-law, Joel joined Imperial Soap in 1996 and together they forged ahead into the new millennium. It was during this time that the decision was made to move to a larger and more modern facility.
On October 1st, 2003, Imperial Soap & Supplies Ltd. proudly moved to its present location at 1518 Inkster Boulevard. The sudden loss of Ernest Tessler in November, 2004, shook the foundation on which this company was built and left us all deeply saddened.We learned many lessons from Leonard and Ernie over their 40+ year history, but perhaps the most important, was their commitment and passion to treat all customers with the same loyalty, respect and integrity, regardless of size. All of us at Imperial Soap and Supplies Ltd. will cherish their leadership and will honour their legacy by continuing to service our customers with the same passion and commitment.