Webb’s, a name synonymous with reliability and deep family roots in Alberta’s farming community, is gearing up to celebrate a remarkable milestone - its 90th anniversary. From its modest beginnings in 1933 to the present day, the success of Webb’s Machinery and Webb’s Ford is a testament to four generations dedicated to nurturing and expanding the company with an unwavering focus on providing exceptional customer service.
Dan Webb, General Manager for Webb’s Machinery in Wainwright and a fourth-generation descendant of its founder, helped me explore the rich history of this iconic group.
A Journey Through Time: A Family Legacy in Agriculture
George C. Webb Sr. a livestock buyer founded the company in 1933, when he took a daring leap into entrepreneurship during the challenging times of the 1930s. His initial business announcement was modest, but his spirit was undaunted. His ad in the paper read, “I have also taken over the Massey Harris Agency and hope to serve you in that line.” The company’s journey began with that purchase and expanded to include an automotive dealership in 1946, setting the stage for the Webb family legacy.
The company became “George C. Webb and Son” in 1945 when George’s son, Lawrence, joined his dad as a junior partner following his service in the Royal Canadian Air Force and a stint at the CIBC. In 1948, George Jr. joined the company, and after John joined his brothers in 1953, the company was renamed George C. Webb and Sons Ltd.
Over the years, the company diversified into various sectors; fuel, RV, feed and a fertilizer dealership which was sold to Richardson Pioneer in 2017.
In 2002, Webb’s purchased the Vegreville New Holland dealership. Then in 2011, they built a new facility to establish a New Holland dealership in Lamont.
The company further expanded its New Holland reach when they purchased Tri-Ag Implements in 2020. This added three additional locations with dealerships in Wainwright, Consort, and St. Paul. Webb’s now has the Ford dealership in Vermilion and six dealerships in northeastern Alberta specializing in the New Holland brand.
Their deep-rooted presence in the region, combined with a reputation of reliability and strong values, has made Webb’s a trusted name.
Over the years Webb’s have received multiple customer service awards at both the Machinery and Ford dealerships. “We pride ourselves on being customer focused and we have always had a great staff that delivers on that commitment,” said Dan.
A Legacy of Community Involvement
As a family business, the Webb’s have always been active in the community. George Jr. was active in the Vermilion Ag Society and curling club, John was involved with Kinsmen and the Chamber of Commerce, Scott has been on the board of Lakeland College, Mike & Scott are active in Rotary and both were on the Minor Hockey executive, and the list goes on. They have also made financial contributions to community enhancement projects such as the Regional Centre, the Valley Lodge addition, the new Ice Plant, just to name a few.
One annual commitment that comes to Dan’s mind is the Vermilion 4-H breakfast. As long as he can recall, Webb’s of Vermilion has prepared and served breakfast to the 4-H members, parents, and judges involved in the Vermilion 4-H Beef Show. This event brought together family members, including Dan’s grandfather George, great uncle John, his father, cousins, brothers and staff volunteers. Currently, not all Webbs family members work in the same dealerships or towns, so this small tradition is a way for them all to work (cook) together under the same roof.
Celebrating 90 Years with an Open House
To celebrate their 90th anniversary, Webb’s is hosting an open house at their Ford dealership in Vermilion, on October 30 beginning at 11:30 AM. Guests can enjoy beef on a bun and enter a draw for some great prizes like Oilers Tickets and a custom cooler.
Dan emphasized the significance of community and customers in their journey, saying, “This is more about them than it is our 90 years. Without their support we wouldn’t be here, so we want to thank them for making these 90 years possible.”
For more information about the 90th-anniversary celebration and Webb’s Group of Companies, visit their website at webbsmachinery.com. or see the ad below.