WASHINGTON, D.C. — It all started in 2011 as an idea to invest in a steel fabricator with loads of potential just outside of Denver.

Over the ensuing years, and following a disciplined path of rolling up a collection of businesses in LBM and distribution, Kodiak Building Partners has grown to well over 100 locations in 25 states. Mixed in with all of its business decisions during that span was a core principle: to maintain a fiercely local approach that honors the proud, family-business legacies associated with these trades.

That impressive growth, along with a commitment to the values of the industry, combined to carry Highlands Ranch, Colorado-based Kodiak Building Partners to a new distinction: It’s the 2023 ProDealer of the Year.

The annual Independent ProDealer of the Year Award, selected by the National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association and the editors of Hardware & Building Supply Dealer, is designed to recognize a high-performance independent lumberyard (no more than five locations) with a commitment to values consistent with the lumber and building material industry, excellence in customer stewardship, devotion to its employees and a positive workplace culture. 

"We founded Kodiak with a vision to create a culture that empowers local leaders to succeed in the communities they serve,” said Kodiak CEO Steve Swinney. “So this award is fitting recognition for our continued focus on empowering our operators in a locally led organization that honors the legacy of the great independent operators who built our industry.”

The chief executive added: “Congratulations go entirely to the 6,100 incredible members of our team across the country who serve their communities every day and collaborate to be ‘better tomorrow than we were today.’”