Welcome Aboard: Metal Supermarkets
Metal Supermarkets was founded in 1985 in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, by William H. Mair, who recognized a gap in the market for customers needing small quantities of metal quickly and conveniently. Unlike traditional steel suppliers that focused on large industrial orders, Metal Supermarkets built its business around cut-to-size metal with no minimum order requirements. The concept proved successful early on, and the company began franchising in 1987, eventually expanding into the United States in 1996 and the United Kingdom in 1994. Today, the brand is recognized as the world’s largest supplier of small-quantity metals, serving industries ranging from manufacturing and fabrication to construction, maintenance, and DIY projects.
As the brand has grown, Metal Supermarkets has continued to position itself as a niche leader in the metal distribution industry by focusing on speed, convenience, and customer service. Customers can purchase from thousands of types, shapes, and grades of metal, often with same-day pickup or delivery options. The company has also embraced technology and e-commerce to support growth, contributing to multiple consecutive years of record-breaking sales performance. Metal Supermarkets now operates more than 140 locations across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, with additional stores in development.
From a franchise perspective, Metal Supermarkets has become an attractive opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking a business-to-business model with recurring commercial customers. Franchisees are typically owner-operators with strong business and customer service backgrounds rather than metal industry experience, as the company provides comprehensive training and operational support. Initial franchise investment levels generally range from approximately $400,000 to $670,000 depending on the market and buildout requirements, and the brand has reported strong average unit revenues through its franchise disclosure documents. With more than 130 franchise locations internationally and continued expansion throughout North America, Metal Supermarkets has established itself as a leading franchise in the industrial supply sector.
What others are saying about: Metal Supermarkets
“Metal Supermarkets gave us the opportunity to build a business with strong systems and support behind us while still allowing us to be entrepreneurs in our local market.” – Actual franchisee review
Right-Fit Franchisees
Metal Supermarkets is committed to growing their franchise system with right-fit franchisees. They recently engaged Zorakle Profiles in a research project to determine the DNA of their ideal franchisee. Zorakle’s SpotOn! Blueprint uses 7 statistically validated sciences to determine the attributes that separate high-performing franchisees from low performers. Welcome Aboard Metal Supermarkets.
Learn more about: Metal Supermarkets
Contact: 800-807-8755