Proud to be locally owned and operated.
Lyons TIMBER MART opened its doors in 1913, and like Sault Ste. Marie, much has changed in a hundred years. When James Lyons opened his hardware business, Steelton wasn't just a neighbourhood; it was a separate community of which young James Lyons was Mayor. He remained active in politics as her continued to operate the business. Under his leadership the business prospered. Lyons understood that his customers needed more than quality products - they also needed expert advice, and they always deserved exceptional service. These core values are part of James Lyons' legacy at Lyons TIMBER MART today.
When James Lyons died in 1947, his heirs, including eldest son Clayton, took over the store for several more years. Following in his father's footsteps, Clayton entered politics and represented Sault Ste. Marie at Queens Park from 1951 until 1962. During that time the store was sold to Richard Beaumont and a group of employees and investors.
By 1960, Richard Beaumont became sole owner, determined to build on what James Lyons had started in 1913. In the post-war boom of the 1950's, Lyons TIMBER MART (then known as Lyons Fuel, Hardware and Supplies) added a Ready-Mix concrete business. The store focused on returning veterans and newcomers to the Sault built new lives for themselves and their growing families. Nearly a half-century after it was founded, customers continued to come to Lyons TIMBER MART for reliable products, friendly faces and first-class services.
Richard's son David Beaumont learned the business from a young age before heading off to university. He returned tot he Sault, first to work at Lyons in 1981, and then followed his father's footsteps by purchasing the business in 1992.
As times changed, David Beaumont recognized the need for Lyons TIMBER MART to modernize and enlarge its facilities. He expanded the Wellington West store from its original 5,000 square feet retail showroom to 25,000 square feet. New products and services were introduced that would benefit homeowners, contractors, and commercial and industrial customers. David added more staff and expertise, and transitioned the store from being just lumber and building materials dealer to a home centre, which now offers hardware, design and decor products to the mix.
When David Beaumont started working with his Dad, Lyons had 40 employees. Today there are over 135 employees, several who have been with the company for well over 25 years. David's wife Ruth joined Lyons TIMBER MART team in 2005, after many years of teaching and raising their three sons.
James Lyons would be proud of what has become of the business he started back in 1913. In addition to the original location on Wellington Street West, a second store was opened in the other end of town on Black Road, and now a third location, Island TIMBER MART has been added in Hilton Beach on St. Joseph's Island.
Reaching the 100 year milestone is a rare achievement for any business. David and Ruth Beaumont are confident the future of Lyons will continue to be successful by staying current with market trends while holding onto the core values of customer service and business integrity. There are three more Beaumonts ready to see Lyons through at least one more generation. Sons Drew, Scott and Matthew have each returned to Lyons TIMBER MART after completing university with new skills and fresh ideas to add to the family business. Drew utilizes his business training, Scott helps customers with structural engineering projects, while Matthew specializes in sales.
We hope you continue with us on this journey for another 100 years serving you!
