This sign is a staple in Portage on the east side of the Portage Mall. Blow Away Hunger is one of the many community events they have been a part of.
The long-time ownership group of Portage la Prairie’s Rona, has officially announced they have sold, marking the end of a two-decade journey in the community’s home improvement scene.
Wayne Klippenstein, CEO of Newton Enterprises/RONA Portage has led the Rona franchise from its early days in 2004, reflected on the success and growth of the business as it transitions ownership to Josh and Joel McPhail, a pair of new but familiar faces to the area.
Klippenstein initially opened Portage’s Rona store with fellow owners Brad Dick, Warren Bracken and Don Voth, making it Western Canada’s first dealer-owned store. He recalls that 2007 was a particularly pivotal year, as the business moved into the former Walmart location in the Portage la Prairie Mall. That decision allowed them to expand their space fivefold, bringing it up to 50,000 square feet. The investment didn’t just increase product variety but also doubled employment opportunities. Along with the floor space, the spot also featured a four-acre yard which made it the largest Home and Garden retailer in the Central Plains region.
“We’ve been so grateful for the community support over the years, it allowed us to build a business where people don’t have to leave town to find what they need for their home projects.”
Throughout the years, the store became a staple in Portage, offering not only a wide range of building supplies, tools, and other goods, but a group that was dedicated to the community. The business quickly became known for its community engagement, with its sponsorships of local projects and sports teams along with participation in various community events, contributing more than $500,000 to the area.
“Supporting Portage and area and the people that supported us was a top priority,” he added, mentioning that he’ll miss the connections he’s built.
The decision to move on from the business was a carefully planned process that took about a year and a half to finalize. Klippenstein wanted to ensure the business would be left in capable, community-focused hands. After considering several offers, he was pleased to pass ownership to McPhail and his family.
“We’re confident Josh and his family will carry on the legacy of local involvement and strong customer service.”
McPhail, who has a background in business and construction and is originally from Brandon, said he’s looking forward to putting down roots in Portage la Prairie. His wife is originally from the community and the family already has strong connections to the area. The family has also recently purchased a home in town where they’ve settled in with their family.
“We’re excited to raise our kids here and be part of the community,” McPhail noted. “Wayne and his team have built something remarkable, and we look forward to building on their success.”
McPhail adds that customers can be assured it will be business as usual when they visit the store.
As Klippenstein steps down, he plans to remain active within the community, though now with a little more free time. For now, he’s thankful for all the community support over the past 20 years and is looking forward to what the future holds for Rona under new leadership. Bracken and Dick had already stepped back from their everyday duties while Voth will stay on as an employee with the new group.