Lee Valley Tools

Lee Valley Tools is a prominent Canadian retail company specializing in tools and gifts for woodworking and gardening. Founded in 1978 by Leonard Lee in Ottawa, Ontario, the company has grown from a small mail-order business to a well-respected national retailer with stores across Canada. Lee Valley Tools is known for its high-quality products, extensive product range, and commitment to customer service.

History

The origins of Lee Valley Tools date back to 1978 when Leonard Lee, dissatisfied with the quality of woodworking tools available on the market, decided to start his own mail-order company. The company initially operated out of a small warehouse in Ottawa, focusing on selling high-quality and hard-to-find woodworking tools. Over the years, Lee Valley Tools expanded its product line to include gardening tools and hardware, catering to a broader audience of both professional craftsmen and hobbyists.

Growth and Expansion

From its humble beginnings, Lee Valley Tools has experienced significant growth. The company opened its first retail store in Ottawa, allowing customers to see and feel the products before purchasing. This was a departure from the mail-order model and marked the beginning of a new era for Lee Valley. Today, the company operates several retail locations across Canada, including major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.

In addition to its retail operations, Lee Valley Tools has maintained a strong mail-order and online presence, serving customers in Canada and internationally. The company's website offers an extensive range of products, from traditional woodworking tools to innovative gardening gadgets, and provides a wealth of resources for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Product Range

Lee Valley Tools offers a wide variety of products, primarily focusing on woodworking tools, gardening tools, and hardware. The company prides itself on the quality and uniqueness of its offerings, which include:

• Hand tools: chisels, planes, saws, and carving tools
• Power tools: drills, sanders, and woodworking machinery
• Gardening tools: pruners, spades, and garden wear
• Hardware: cabinet hardware, door hardware, and kitchen accessories
• Woodworking plans and books

Lee Valley Tools also develops and manufactures its own line of tools under the Veritas brand. Veritas tools are highly regarded in the woodworking community for their innovation, quality, and precision.

Commitment to Quality and Service

Lee Valley Tools has built a reputation for its commitment to quality and customer service. The company offers a satisfaction guarantee, allowing customers to return products for any reason. Additionally, Lee Valley provides extensive support through workshops, online tutorials, and a knowledgeable customer service team.

Community and Environmental Responsibility

Lee Valley Tools is committed to community involvement and environmental responsibility. The company supports various community projects and initiatives, focusing on education, sustainability, and conservation. In its operations, Lee Valley strives to minimize its environmental impact by promoting sustainable practices and offering eco-friendly products.

Conclusion

Lee Valley Tools has established itself as a leader in the retail of woodworking and gardening tools in Canada. With its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service, the company continues to serve the needs of craftsmen, gardeners, and DIY enthusiasts across the country and beyond. As it looks to the future, Lee Valley Tools remains dedicated to upholding the values instilled by its founder, Leonard Lee, while adapting to the evolving needs of its customers.