ANDREW SHERET - Key Persons
Andrew Sheret was born in 1870 in Montrose, Scotland. After his schooling, he apprenticed as a plumbing and heating tradesman. On Victoria Day, May 24th, 1890, Andrew relocated to Victoria, BC. For a short time, he found work with McLennan and McFeely Hardware. In 1892, he went into business as a plumbing and heating contractor and opened a shop on lower Fort Street. Over the next 20 years, Andrew built up a very successful business, supplying plumbing and heating supplies to Victoria customers. During the prosperous 1920's, Andrew gradually eased out of the retail business and into wholesale distribution. In 1921, he sold the retail side of the business to three former employees. Andrew Sheret stayed active in the business until his death in 1947.
After Andrew Sheret's death, his eldest son, Andrew William Sheret (Will), stepped in as President of the company, a position he held until 1992. Under Will's leadership, Andrew Sheret Limited was the first in the industry to implement a pension plan and one of the first businesses anywhere with a company-funded medical plan. Like his father, Will maintained an active role in the company until his death in 1998.
Will's son-in-law, Brian Findlay, became President of the company in 1992. Andrew Sheret Limited realized significant growth under Brian's leadership, including the expansion of 11 branches during his tenure and the implementation of a share participation program for employees in 2001. Brian was also instrumental in establishing a national buying group to provide individual companies, like Andrew Sheret Limited, the ability to remain competitive with national companies. Brian retired from Andrew Sheret Limited in 2015, with his son, Eric, succeeding him as President. There is no doubt that Andrew Sheret would be proud to see the legacy of his company continue as his great-grandchildren assume leadership of the company with the vision to advance the family business well into the future.
The growth of Andrew Sheret's company has reflected the pattern of the 20th century: starting slowly and gradually expanding when required. The company that Andrew Sheret founded in 1892 has moved steadily forward, responding to needs and anticipating trends. This has required not only vision but human resources. The successful history of Andrew Sheret Limited reflects the dedication of the employees both past and present, and has recognized the value of its employees through various initiatives.
Business has certainly changed since 1892, but even today in the 21st century, principles of fairness toward employees and strong customer service continue to be the focus of the company. In many ways, the history of Andrew Sheret Limited parallels that of Canada's: both were built on a foundation of hard work from their earliest citizens and are maintained by a society that values an entrepreneurial spirit and a responsible social conscience.