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KAR Industrial Inc. has long been recognized as a leading supplier of machine tool accessories, cutting tools and manufacturing related supplies. KAR has spent many years positioning itself as a master distributor serving distribution throughout Canada and it all began 55 years ago in Montreal, Quebec.
Founded in 1954 by Jacques Karijo, KAR Industrial sought to provide Canada with quality goods imported primarily from Europe and the United States. As the company grew the principle remained constant, provide customers with what they valued most – high quality tools and exceptional services that exceeded customer’s expectations.
After 19 years of cultivating the company he founded, Jacques Karijo passed away in March of 1973. His wife Magda, always a staunch supporter of her husband, decided to continue his legacy with the help of her brother-in-law, Steven Tau, KAR’s Vice-President.
National expansion was the next step and in 1976, KAR expanded into Ontario, opening a facility in the greater Toronto area. With success in the East established, KAR then looked to the West and opened its third facility in Edmonton in 2002, allowing delivery times to customers in the West to be shortened dramatically.
2004 brought a year of transition. KAR Industrial celebrated its 50th anniversary while mourning the loss of Ontario Division President, Danny Tau.
In May of 2004 Ward Meek joined KAR as Chief Operating Office. Ward is a graduate of The University of Western Ontario and has an MBA from The University of Toronto Rotman School of Management and he has over 20 years of experience in industrial distribution and manufacturing.
Ward’s respect for KAR’s history and family legacy teamed with his focus and reputation for delivering what the customer wants has allowed KAR to grow into a significant supplier to the metal working industry.
In 2008, Ward Meek purchased majority ownership of the KAR Group of Companies. Through Ward’s leadership KAR has continued to focus on its core competencies of excellent products, breadth and depth of inventory, great value and exceptional customer service.
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