EB Horsman’s 125-Year Legacy: Spotlight on Our Parksville Branch

For over 125 years, EB Horsman & Son has been a trusted name in Western Canada's electrical industry, growing with the communities we serve. Our branches are more than just places of business—they are centers of expertise, service, and community engagement. This month, we shine a spotlight on our Parksville branch, a key part of our Vancouver Island operations, dedicated to serving customers since 1993.

Our Parksville branch officially opened its doors on February 15, 1993, bringing EB Horsman’s trusted service and expertise to this growing Vancouver Island community. Over the past three decades, the branch has become a go-to resource for local businesses, contractors, and industrial customers, offering top-tier electrical solutions and customer service.

The Parksville branch is led by Jeff Matthews, our Customer Service Manager, with Joe Novosad, the Island District Manager, overseeing operations. Under Jeff’s leadership, the team has fostered a culture of collaboration, accountability, and exceptional customer service. The branch comprises 10 full-time team members, 2 dedicated project specialists, and 1 operations specialist. Together, they bring extensive experience, industry expertise, and a strong commitment to delivering outstanding service to every customer.

Our Parksville branch offers more than just electrical products. It is a place where expert knowledge, exceptional customer service, and teamwork create a dependable and supportive experience for every customer. The branch’s ability to provide specialized services, such as Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) for panel shops and corporate contract customer support, ensures that customers always have what they need when they need it. Customers also appreciate the clean, well-organized store layout, the extensive product selection, and the knowledgeable staff who go above and beyond to meet their needs. This dedication and commitment to customer service is what makes the Parksville branch excel.

As with other EB Horsman locations, the Parksville branch provides a comprehensive range of electrical products and solutions. Some of the most in-demand offerings include:

• Lighting solutions for commercial, residential, and industrial applications
• Electrical distribution products for power management and safety
• Wire & cable, including in-house wire cutting services for custom lengths and project flexibility
• Datacom solutions to support modern connectivity needs
• Controls & automation to enhance efficiency in industrial and commercial settings
• Rough-in materials essential for new construction and renovations

At EB Horsman, supporting the community is a core value, and the Parksville branch excels in this area. The team actively engages in local initiatives, making a significant impact through fundraising events and charitable contributions.

One of the branch’s standout initiatives is its Fishing Charter Fundraiser, where team members and customers come together for a great day on the water while supporting a worthy cause. The team raised $1,700 for the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, contributing to vital healthcare services for children in need.

Our Parksville branch also supports local food drives, helping families facing food insecurity, and organizes a card game fundraiser, bringing customers and suppliers together for a fun event that benefits important causes. Additionally, their Jeans Day BBQs raise funds for the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, while Counter Days and Trade Shows provide valuable industry insights and networking opportunities.

Along with its extensive inventory and expert team, our Parksville branch offers several specialized services that add value for customers:

• VMI (Vendor-Managed Inventory) for Panel Shops – Ensuring a seamless supply chain for local businesses
• Dedicated corporate contract customer support – Tailored services for large-scale customers
• Own delivery vehicle – Offering fast and reliable product delivery throughout the region

These capabilities allow the branch to cater to a wide range of customer needs while maintaining a high level of efficiency and convenience.

As part of EB Horsman’s 125th-anniversary celebrations, our Parksville branch is excited to host:

• EB Horsman Friends & Family Fun Day – A summer event to celebrate our employees, customers, and their families.
• Customer Appreciation & Fundraiser Casino Night – Bringing together Vancouver Island suppliers and customers for an evening of fun and fundraising.

These events reflect our commitment to celebrating not just our company’s history, but also the people and communities that have made our success possible.

We want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the incredible team at our Parksville branch. Your dedication, expertise, and commitment to exceptional customer service continue to make a lasting impact on both our company and the local community. From helping customers find the right solutions to going the extra mile in every interaction, you exemplify what it means to be part of the EB Horsman's legacy.