Bliffert Lumber & Fuel Co.
1014 E. Chambers St., Milwaukee
www.bliffertlumber.com
Year founded: 1904
Product or service offered: Lumber, building supplies, hardware and millwork through a mix of traditional industrial lumber yards, new construction yards, and even a neighborhood hardware store.
Vice president & owner: Eli Bliffert
2015 revenue: $55 million
Target clientele: Builders, industrial consumers, property maintenance companies, homeowners and anyone with lumber or hardware needs of any size
Business organization memberships: Metropolitan Builders Association, National Association of the Remodeling Industry, Racine Kenosha Builders Association, Riverwest Neighborhood Association, Do It Best Corp.
What has fueled your company’s growth?
“We’ve grown through consolidation with our competitors and by aggressively pushing into new markets. The stability of family ownership has allowed us to always continue to invest for the long haul. Since 2002, we’ve expanded from two lumberyards and 20 employees to seven lumberyards and 120 employees.”
What is the biggest obstacle to your company’s growth?
“Big box stores can be seen as an obstacle to a comparatively small company like ours, because they have such extreme marketing power and can drive down prices. On the other hand, I think our deep roots in this community and our ability to really get to know our customers allows us to provide a different and better experience than such competitors.”
Do you plan to make any changes to your company?
Bliffert Lumber & Hardware recently completed a merger with Cudahy-based Midwest Millwork to establish its eight location in the Milwaukee area.
Who are the business people you admire?
“I greatly admire my customers, employees and suppliers for their honesty and perseverance.”
What is the outlook for your industry?
“The outlook is favorable, with analysts projecting positive, steady growth.”
What is your company’s most important growth strategy?
“We aim to increase sales to existing customers. Bliffert Lumber & Fuel Co. will soon operate in eight locations, and each of these serves a unique need. By really listening to our customers, we can fine-tune the services we supply. This ensures that clients have the best experience with us, and strengthens our role within each community we serve.”
