Celebrating 60th anniversary

    PRESQUE ISLE – For 60 years, Rathbun Lumber Co. in Presque Isle has been helping customers choose the right building materials for their construction projects.     “We offer a complete line of building materials, including cabinetry and design services for the kitchen and bath, and a line of hot tubs from Sundance Spas,” said Alden Rathbun, who owns the business with his wife, Pat. “If you are building a commercial or residential building, we can supply everything you need.”
    Located at 43 State St., Rathbun Lumber Co. was started in the winter of 1947-1948 by Alden’s father, Jim Rathbun. Alden, who took over the business in 1981, said the secret to staying in business for so long is the company’s excellent employees who are “nice to do business with.”
    Another key is Rathbun Lumber’s buying power.
    “As an independently owned lumber yard, it is important to be able to stay competitive with the big stores that we compete with,” said Pat. “As members of Lumbermen’s Merchandising Corp., we belong to the largest building materials buying group in the United States.
    “This gives us access to the best lumber and building products, as well as good purchasing opportunities with major brand name manufacturers, so we can supply the products people need at the right price,” she said. “As an independent, we can also be flexible in our strategies. Our goal is to provide the best outcome for the customer, which includes good products, fair prices, and service that meets customers’ expectations.”
    At Rathbun, employees work together as a team.
    “Our employees are our greatest asset,” said Pat. “This includes not just our excellent sales staff and kitchen designer, but also our office support personnel, yardmen and delivery drivers. Their individual commitment and respectful customer service every day is what allows us to continue successfully.”
    Customer service continues to be Rathbun Lumber’s top priority.
    “We try to put the customers’ needs first,” Alden said. “This year’s trends are green building and energy efficiency, so staying informed is key. From determining the right product for each job, right through our free local delivery service, we try to make sure the customer gets what he wants, when he needs it.”
    Rathbun Lumber Co. is open from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, call 764-4444 or log onto www.rathbunlumber.com to see our online product catalog.