It’s been 12 years since three couples from Steinbach first opened the doors of The LumberZone, and what started as a dream scribbled into a business plan has grown into one of Manitoba’s most respected building supply companies. With locations in Steinbach, Transcona, and Stonewall, The LumberZone has not only expanded its footprint but also deepened its ties to the communities it serves.
“It’s been about 12 years, but we all feel like it’s been 50,” laughs Joel Hartung, one of the business’s owners. “But it’s been fun. Starting from scratch and then growing into our renovated Steinbach store was a huge milestone for us.”
The newly expanded Steinbach location, boasting 15,000 square feet of retail space and 45,000 square feet of warehouse capacity, marks a major leap from its original 4,000-square-foot store. With the additional space, The LumberZone can now showcase an extensive range of siding, shingles, and other building materials, all while providing a more comfortable environment for both staff and customers.
“Our old sales offices were basically 5x7 closets,” says Hartung. “Now they’re 12x12, and the guys can sit down with a couple and their kids and really work through home plans. The drafting office even has a big screen where customers can see their ideas come to life in real time. It just makes the whole experience better.”
The LumberZone's journey took a major turn in 2017, when the Steinbach ownership group seized the opportunity to acquire two additional stores through a connection with North American Lumber. While several locations were on the table, Transcona and Stonewall stood out.
“They were close enough that we could still be home for dinner, coach our kids’ sports, and be present in our families’ lives,” he explains. “That was important to all of us. And getting to know the trades and customers in those areas has been a really rewarding part of this.”
Hartung was also excited about the opportunities that come along with having multiple locations.
“We recently bought 4000 gallons of stain for the spring season. Without multiple stores, we wouldn’t have even looked at this deal. It’s exciting to have some promotions that get the town talking. Selling a $50 gallon of stain for $12 creates that buzz.”
Beyond business growth, The LumberZone’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to community. Most recently, Hartung helped organize a wildly successful charity hockey game in Edmonton, held in the Oilers' own arena. The event raised $40,000 for Habitat for Humanity, bringing together players and sponsors from across the country.
“I kind of threw out the idea and next thing I knew, I was running the show,” Hartung smiles. “We ran it like a real NHL event – jerseys, a draft, even a photo booth. Just an awesome experience and a great example of the industry coming together for something bigger.”
The event's success has inspired a follow-up game next January, in support of children’s hospitals across Western Canada.
“This one’s personal,” Hartung says, his voice cracking with emotion. “A good friend of mine had a son who spent most of a summer in a children’s hospital. We all know someone who’s been there. So, being able to give back like this means a lot.”
Closer to home, Hartung says they’re also planning a new hockey event for May 2026 at Steinbach’s Southeast Event Centre, featuring local celebrities and raising money to support of local charities.
As The LumberZone celebrates its 12th anniversary, the company shows no signs of slowing down. With road restrictions lifting and spring projects ramping up, the team is geared up for one of its busiest seasons yet.
“There’s a lot going on in Steinbach – houses, duplexes, apartments. It’s great to see,” Hartung says. “We’re excited for the future. Our team is growing, our community is growing, and we’re proud to be part of that.”
Want to get started on your next home or commercial project? Visit LumberZone in Steinbach, Transcona, or Stonewall – or check out their anniversary specials running now through May 22nd.