Millar Western marks 100th anniversary with appreciation day for employees and families

On August 28, employees from all Millar Western operations and their families joined special guests to celebrate the 100^th anniversary of the company’s first incorporation.  It was in 1919 that founder J.W. Millar laid the foundation for the business today known as Millar Western Forest Products Ltd., a company that employs more than 700 people in the sustainable management of forest resources and production of forest products in demand the world over.

The celebration took place during the company’s annual employee appreciation day, held in Whitecourt.  The day comprised a variety of family-friendly activities, a barbecue, and a ceremony that included dignitaries from all levels of government, as well as representatives from the Forest Products Association of Canada and the Alberta Forest Products Association.  In all, over 1,000 people took part in the event.

Mac Millar, Chairman and CEO of Millar Western Industries Ltd., reflected on the many changes that have taken place in Whitecourt and in the company over the past century.  “When my grandfather came to Alberta all those years ago, he was drawn by the extensive resources and enterprising spirit of this province,” said Millar.  “He’d be amazed to see the growth that has taken place since then in our home communities of Whitecourt, Fox Creek and Edmonton, and very proud to see this company of hard-working people still going strong.”

In bringing greetings from the Province of Alberta, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Devin Dreeshen commended the company for its role in industry progress.  Said the Minister, “For generations, now, Millar Western has played a strong part in the development of the province’s forest sector, contributing to advancements that have helped make Alberta a world leader in sustainable forest management and renewable resource development.”

Member of Parliament for Peace River – Westlock, Arnold Viersen, noted the company’s longevity and commitment to continuous improvement.  “This major milestone underscores the vision and innovation that have marked Millar Western’s history to date, and reflects the talent and dedication of its people,” said Mr. Viersen. “Millar Western has been fundamental to the building of Whitecourt into the thriving community that it is today, providing jobs and opportunities to prosper.”

Also taking part in the celebration were local municipal leaders.  Ron Govenlock, Mayor of Woodlands County said, “Millar Western has played a key part in supporting a strong regional economy and healthy communities; we are delighted to help the company mark this achievement.”  Maryann Chichak, Mayor of Whitecourt, recognized the company’s role as a leading local employer and economic generator, as well as its investments in community betterment. “The fortunes of our town and this company have long been closely linked – we appreciate Millar Western’s corporate citizenship and investments in local initiatives over the years, and we look forward to continuing to work in close partnership as they start their next century.” 

Dignitaries and special guests joined Mac Millar and Craig Armstrong, President and CEO of Millar Western Forest Products Ltd., in the ceremonial planting of a special tree.  The tree will be relocated to the heritage area on Millar Western’s Whitecourt mill site, to serve as a lasting reminder of the company’s 100^th anniversary celebrations.  Through a raffle for a grand prize sponsored by the company, employees raised $3,045, which will be donated to the Whitecourt and Fox Creek hospital auxiliary societies, to further commemorate this important milestone in the company’s history.