
Our History
A Proud Heritage
Seven decades ago, the hard work of our three founders, Sam, Bill and Pete Ketcham and a group of trailblazing employees established West Fraser, a company that continues to thrive today.
Since that time, we have grown from a 12-person crew to one of the world’s largest softwood lumber and wood products producers. Today, West Fraser remains anchored by our early values, goals and business strategy—each of which stand the test of time. With this foundation, West Fraser looks to a bright, sustainable future for many more generations to come.
Since that time, we have grown from a 12-person crew to one of the world’s largest softwood lumber and wood products producers. Today, West Fraser remains anchored by our early values, goals and business strategy—each of which stand the test of time. With this foundation, West Fraser looks to a bright, sustainable future for many more generations to come.
More than anything, I want to give all sorts of opportunities to the next generation. I want them to be proud of the success we’ve had.
Hank KetchamChair of the Board
Our Timeline
1955
Humble Beginnings
1957
First Expansion
1958
West Fraser is Named
1961
Securing Timber Supply
1963
Ensuring West Fraser’s Future
1968
A Decade of Rapid Growth
1975
A Commitment to Reforestation
1977
A Tragic Day
1979
Entering the Pulp Business
1981
An Expanding Pulp Portfolio
1985
A New Generation at the Helm
1986
Going Public
1989
Expanding to Alberta
1994
Preserving the Kitlope
1995
Continued Growth in Western Canada
1996
A Tribute to Pete’s Community Spirit
2000
International Expansion
2001
Refocusing on Lumber
2004
Weldwood Acquisition
2007
Accelerating U.S. Expansion
2012
Cementing Industry Leadership in Alberta
2014
U.S. Footprint Continues to Grow
2021
Two Billion Trees Planted
2021
Listing on the NYSE
2021
Going Global
2021
Continued U.S. Expansion
2022
Meaningful Change for a Sustainable Future
2023
Ongoing Strategic Optimization
2024
The Passing of Bill Ketcham
2025
A Bright Future
2025
West Fraser Celebrates 70 Years