January 1, 2023, Barriere BC – Simpcw First Nation’s economic development arm, Simpcw Resources Group, has announced the purchase of the Barriere Timber Mart.
“Simpcw Chief and Council are excited to announce that Simpcw Resources Group has purchased the Barriere Timber Mart. Shawn and Suzie Fadear have worked hard to grow this integral business in Barriere and Simpcw is looking forward to further strengthening community partnerships,” said George Lampreau, Chief of Simpcw.
Barriere Timber Mart’s origin dates to the late 1950’s, when it was a small hardware store in Barriere, B.C. called Marshall-Wells Hardware. When Shawn and Suzie Fadear acquired the store in 2010, it was an IRLY Building Centre, until 2014 when the new store was constructed on Highway 5, a kilometre from downtown Barriere. The Timber Mart is approximately 9,000 sq. ft. featuring a diverse range of products, building materials, hardware, services, and a lumber yard.
Simpcw and the Fadear’s have been engaged in discussions since early 2022. This followed with the idea of Simpcw Resources Group diversifying its core offerings into new local businesses. “We understand the importance of local ownership of this Timber Mart and are excited to be taking on an increasing role in the business community of Barriere,” said Paul Donald, CEO of SRG. This acquisition reflects “how proud we are of growing up in this area and we want to give back to our local community” said Keith Matthew, SRG Board Chair.
Simpcw commemorated the acquisitions and official ribbon-cutting ceremony and plans to continue to the tradition of offering great products and services for years to come. “We could not think of a better group to take over the operations of Barriere Timber Mart than Simpcw Resources Group. It gives us peace of mind to know that we leave our company in very capable and good hands and we wish them and our wonderful Management and Staff all the very best! Our family and the community of Barriere have been incredibly supportive of us over the years and we are so grateful. We leave with many fond memories. For that, we would like to say a heartfelt thank you to them all! You are all so special to us” said Shawn & Suzie Fadear. Simpcw Resources Group (SRG) is the economic development arm for Simpcw First Nation. SRG is a diversified construction resource company providing environmental, management, and operational services while preserving Simpcw culture and heritage with respect towards the environment.