>> When David and Katherine Friesen built their first home 66 years ago, they likely never dreamed that their company would be among the top builders in Canada one day. And making it on a list in the U.S.? Good one. But in one of the most remarkable growth stories that
Winnipeg has ever seen, Qualico — or Quality Construction as it was known in the 1950s — is now one of the biggest 100 builders south of the 49th parallel. From humble beginnings, the company has grown to employ 1,900 employees, in Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon, Edmon ton, Calgary, Fort McMurray, Surrey — and Austin. That’s Austin as in the state capital of Texas. A decade ago, Qualico was introduced to a reputable but undercapitalized builder in Austin and bought into the company. Four years later, Qualico bought the partner out and over the last three years in particular, the business has taken off, says Qualico vice-president Kevin Van.
Qualico — or Quality
Construction as it was known in the 1950s — is now one of the biggest 100 builders south of the 49th parallel.
“It’s going gangbusters in Austin and we’re looking to ex pand there,” he says. “It’s all about being in the right place at the right time.”
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*Manitoba Hydro is a licensee of the Trademark and Official Mark.
Parade of Homes Spring 2017 21
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