In the spring of 1933, George C. Webb laid the foundation for what would become a thriving family business known today as Webb’s Machinery. Initially focused on Massey Harris Farm Implements, the company underwent transformations, weathering the challenges of World War II and evolving with the times. Over the years, it has grown into a multi-generational endeavour, blending tradition with innovation in the agricultural machinery industry.
Early Years and Expansion
George C. Webb’s journey began in 1928 when he moved to Vermilion, Alberta, to manage the Alexander Livestock Co-op. In 1933, he opened a Massey Harris Farm Implement dealership, marking the birth of Webb’s Machinery. Post-World War II, George Sr.’s sons, Lawrence, George, and John joined the business, prompting a name change to Geo. C. Webb and Sons. The 1946 acquisition of the Ford Mercury franchise and the addition of the Versatile Implement Line in the mid-’50s expanded the company’s product mix. Versatile would play a pivotal role in the direction Webb’s Machinery would take in the 1980s.
Succession Planning and Expansions
The family business continued to thrive through the later decades, with the addition of new generations. In 1988, Webb’s became a Ford New Holland dealer, aligning with the acquisition of Versatile Manufacturing. Strategic decisions, such as giving up the Massey Ferguson franchise in 1993 and expanding into Vegreville in 2002, and Lamont in 2012, reflect the company’s adaptability and commitment to growth and focus on the New Holland product line. The acquisition of Tri-Ag Implements in 2020 further solidified Webb’s Machinery as a key player in the region. With this acquisition, Webb’s serves agricultural producers from six locations, covering 20,000 square miles in East Central Alberta.
Family Values and Success Formula
The strength of Webb’s Machinery lies not just in its products but in the enduring family values passed down through generations. George Sr.’s vision persists as his grandsons and great-grandsons now steer the ship with a sense of pride and commitment. The company’s informal motto, “If it’s the right thing to do, then we do the right thing,” exemplifies their dedication to integrity and community.
Scott Webb now sits at the helm as president of Webb’s. Webb’s team managers and minority shareholders, Randy Metrunec, Miles Mackow, Anton Krys, and Mike Gottselig also share in the family’s deep-rooted values of treating staff and customers fairly and with respect. “My grandfather was a very honest man, well respected in the community, and that sense of integrity has come through the generations,” said Webb. Three of Scott’s sons, Andrew, Daniel, and Adam, along with cousin Mike, an equal partner in the parent company, all became shareholders in George C. Webb & Sons. “Family values are our core to managing the business. This has been brought down through the generations with my grandfather, dad, uncles, my generation and now our kids as well. Doing the right thing sometimes costs us money, but we do it if it’s the right thing,” said Scott.
Adapting to Change and Industry Challenges
The agricultural industry witnessed significant shifts, especially during the pandemic. Webb’s Machinery, recognizing the importance of service, weathered the storm successfully. The equipment shortage, coupled with surging prices for end products like canola contributed to one of the most prosperous periods in the company’s history. The challenge of hiring and retaining skilled technicians prompted the adoption of HR packages and formal onboarding processes.
“Hiring and keeping technicians is the biggest challenge,” says Scott. “Miles is our HR guy, actively working on international recruitment from South Africa. We’ve had success with that, but we also work hard to make sure that all our employees are appreciated.”
Education and Training Initiatives
With 135 full-time employees, training has been a key focus for Webb’s Machinery. Ongoing courses offered by manufacturers, participation in programs like NAEDA’s Dealer Institute, and the commitment to raising the competency levels of technicians and parts personnel underscore the company’s emphasis on expertise and service quality.
Membership with NAEDA
Webb’s Machinery finds value in its membership with the North American Equipment Dealers Association (NAEDA). While the landscape of conferences has changed over the years, the importance of networking and staying informed on industry trends remains. The association’s role in addressing government and manufacturer issues is particularly highlighted, showcasing the significance of industry collaboration.
Scott said, “Webb’s has never missed a conference, no matter where it is. Networking and learning something new are the most important. We have a history of attending and supporting the association, and we will continue to do so. It’s part of our history. We especially appreciate John Schmeiser and his team on government issues and manufacturer relations.”
Article Written by Joanne Olson, Equipment Dealer Magazine Managing Editor
JOANNE OLSON joined the association in 1999 as executive assistant. She currently serves as corporate secretary and managing editor of the association’s U.S. and Canadian editions of Equipment Dealer Magazine. Additionally, she is manager of the association’s Canadian office in Calgary, Alberta. Olson is involved in board governance, event planning and organization of golf tournaments, board meetings, and conferences. She writes articles for the magazines and provides copy editing for corporate communications. Olson also oversees database management, the CEDF Scholarship program, billing, and invoicing; member requests, and assists with website management.
