Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited: 60 Years of Courage, Service, and Growth

Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited, a renowned company in the plastics industry, is celebrating a remarkable milestone—60 years of success, service, and courageous growth. Founded in 1962 by Meinhard "Mickey" Kehren, Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited's journey from his garage to becoming Canada's first plastics distributor of its kind is truly inspiring. Let's delve into the captivating story of perseverance, determination, and the values that have shaped Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited into the thriving business it is today.

The origins of Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited can be traced back to Opladen, Germany, in 1932 when Mickey Kehren was born. His early life was marked by tragedy, losing both his parents and his sister, which pushed him and his brother Gert into a life of survival during the war-torn years. From enduring bombings and robberies to navigating homelessness, the Kehren brothers exhibited immense courage and resilience.

After experiencing a turbulent period during World War II, Mickey Kehren yearned for a fresh start abroad. In 1955, with only CAD$43 to his name, he immigrated to Canada. Despite starting with odd jobs, including raisin washing and painting steel beams in a uranium mine, Kehren's interest in plastics grew. His time at Tank Linings, where the company was exploring the plastic industry, sparked his fascination with the potential of plastics.

Returning to Germany with his wife Marianne, Kehren enrolled in a plastics manufacturing course at The University of Aachen and gained valuable training at plastic manufacturing companies. Determined to establish his own business, Kehren, along with his wife, returned to Canada to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams. In Toronto, he began working at H.J. Miller Enterprises while simultaneously building Fabricated Plastics Limited in a modest garage.

Fabricated Plastics Limited's success led to the creation of Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited, which served as the distribution arm of the company. The business rapidly outgrew the initial garage and expanded into multiple industrial buildings, eventually settling in an impressive 80,000-square-foot facility for plastic and FRP custom fabrication. Fabco Plastics became a pioneer as the first of its kind in Canada and became your go-to destination for top-quality Industrial, Commercial and Municipal plastics, offering a comprehensive range of Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 PVC Pipe, PVC Fittings, CPVC Pipe, CPVC Fittings, Acrylic, PP and HDPE Sheet, Welding Tools, Valves, Pumps, Filtration, Instrumentation, Plastic Tanks & Accessories. With an extensive inventory, we provide a one-stop solution to meet all your thermoplastic and corrosion-resistant requirements.

Mickey Kehren's retirement in 1995 did not halt the company's growth. In an act of appreciation for their dedicated employees, Fabricated Plastics Limited was sold to its staff, allowing many to enjoy early retirement. Today, the Fabco Group of Companies, led by Mickey Kehren's sons William Kehren and John Kehren, continues to drive the business forward, ensuring its ongoing success and expansion.

Throughout its six-decade journey, Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited has extended its impact beyond the business realm. The company actively engages in philanthropic efforts, supporting causes such as animal safety, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and local athletics. Notably, their deep involvement with Water Ambassadors Canada exemplifies their commitment to providing clean water access in Third World Countries. Additionally, Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited has partnered with the Acheson Business Association to support families in need during Christmas.

As Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited celebrates its 60th anniversary, the company's growth trajectory continues unabated. With five branches already established across Canada, plans are underway to open Fabco Plastics Maritimes Inc., signaling even more potential for expansion and success.

Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited's remarkable journey of courage, service, and growth stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of its founder, Mickey Kehren, and the values that continue to guide the company today. As Fabco Plastics Wholesale Limited embarks on the next phase of its journey, it will undoubtedly build upon its six-decade legacy of success, community service, and innovative solutions in the plastics industry.