There is now a new option for people looking to buy building supplies in the city. Yorkton Building Supplies recently held their grand opening. The business, part of Castle Building Centres, is owned by the Onion Lake Cree Nation and located on Highway 10 East.
Manager Lynda Hawke says that the Grand Opening weekend was a busy one for the business, with lots of activities, sales and prizes. They also paired with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Shelwin House and SIGN Early Learning Center to run the barbecues for support.
The process of opening the store has been a long process, as the store has undergone extensive renovations. Hawke says that they are proud of what they have accomplished and they hope everyone comes in to see what they have to offer.
The store came about because the Onion Lake Cree Nation has wanted to expand into new markets, Hawke explains. They wanted to expand to the Yorkton area as part of their overall goal of being completely self-sustaining as a nation, and they saw an opportunity to set up a business in the area. While it is the first time Onion Lake has set up in Yorkton, it is their second Castle location, with All Nations Building Supplies operating on reserve. She emphasizes that the business has no government funding, and this is one of the first step in the nation's overall plan to expand further away from their home reserve.
"This area was chosen because of its potential, to promote and help the nation grow and develop itself."
This is the first Castle location in Yorkton. Hawke explains that the difference with Castle is that it's a member-run organization, with independent stores working together to better negotiate prices for product.
She says their goal is to meet the needs of customers, and she says that they'll work to find what you need. If it's not in store, she says they'll order it in. People can also visit their website at www.yorktonbuildingsupplies.com.
