One of the largest cooperatives in Eastern Ontario has acquired 50 per cent of a local hardware and building supplies chain.
Embrun CO-OP now owns 50 per cent of Groupe Matériaux Godin Inc., which owns stores in L’Orignal, Grenville, Lachute, Namur, and Oka. The stores are all franchises of RONA.
Embrun CO-OP already owns and operates a RONA store in Embrun.
According to Groupe Godin Human Resources Manager Nathalie Czarnecki, the deal between the two companies was finalized in October. The Groupe Godin and Embrun CO-OP brands will remain distinct and separate.
“Our growth strategy is built on strong partnerships such as the one with Groupe Matériaux Godin Inc. Their expertise in building materials opens up many opportunities that will benefit our members and customers,” Embrun CO-OP President Michael Bols said in a press release issued jointly by the two businesses.
Founded in 1979 by Lise and Denis Godin, Groupe Matériaux Godin Inc. has experienced significant growth over the past decade under the leadership of the second generation: Joël, Jérôme, Gerry, and Nathalie.
“The Godin family is proud to partner with a solid company like Embrun CO-OP and to add a team of experienced administrators to our board of directors. This partnership positions us for growth and ensures the continuity of Groupe Godin in our competitive market,” Joël said.
Groupe Godin acquired its fifth store in Oka in 2024 and also has a team of 85 employees and a fleet of 29 delivery trucks.
This merger of strengths fuels the development of the retail divisions of both organizations, creates new growth opportunities, and enhances their resilience in a highly competitive market.
