Novexco Forms Canadian Office Supply Giant to Challenge Global Players

LAVAL, QC – February 05, 2026 – In a landmark consolidation for Canada's business products industry, Novexco Inc. has dramatically expanded its network, integrating 90 independent dealers from Canadian Workplace Solutions (CWS) and Guild Stationers Ltd. The move creates Canada's largest Canadian-owned distributor of office products and services, a new heavyweight entity poised to challenge international competitors while championing local business.

The strategic alliance more than doubles Novexco's roster of dealers, bringing the total to nearly 140 members who operate 220 locations across every province. This newly formed network employs over 4,000 people and generates combined annual sales of approximately $750 million. Supported by over two million square feet of warehouse space, the consolidation forges what the company calls the most structured and influential ecosystem in the Canadian industry, signaling a decisive response to the dominance of global retail and distribution giants.

"This decision represents far more than organizational growth," said Denis Mathieu, President and Chief Executive Officer of Novexco, in a statement. "It reflects our belief that the future of the industry lies in smart alliances that combine national reach with strong local roots."

A New National Champion in a Competitive Arena

Novexco's expansion creates a formidable Canadian-owned player in a market long dominated by foreign-based corporations. With $750 million in combined sales, the new Novexco network significantly outpaces other Canadian-focused competitors like Grand & Toy, which has an estimated annual revenue of around $75 million. While international giant Staples Canada still commands a larger market share with sales reportedly exceeding $2 billion, it is not a Canadian-owned entity. Novexco's move solidifies its claim as the leading domestic force in the sector.

This consolidation arrives at a critical juncture for the industry. The office supply wholesaling sector in Canada has faced headwinds, with revenues declining over the past several years amidst intense competition and shifting workplace dynamics. The rise of e-commerce behemoths like Amazon and the direct-to-consumer models of big-box retailers have squeezed margins and challenged traditional distribution channels. By uniting a large contingent of independent dealers, Novexco aims to build the scale necessary to compete on price, logistics, and service.

The strategy is not just about size, but about smart collaboration. The dealers joining the network, many of whom have been community fixtures for over 50 years, will retain their independence. This approach allows them to maintain their local identity and customer relationships while gaining access to the formidable resources of the larger group, including enhanced purchasing power and a sophisticated national delivery network.

The Hybrid Model: Combining National Scale with Local Touch

The foundation of Novexco's strategy is its distinctive hybrid business model, which it is now scaling up significantly. This model is designed to offer the best of both worlds: the logistical might of a national corporation and the personalized service of a local business.

"Novexco combines a strong national presence, supported by strategically located distribution centres that efficiently serve pan-Canadian businesses and institutions, with an authentic local force embodied by independent dealers operating across Canada," explained Éric Brassard, Chair of the Board of Directors. "Their deep community roots, close customer relationships and strong commitment represent an unmatched competitive advantage."

Under the expanded structure, the network will operate under several complementary banners. The well-recognized Hamster brand will continue to serve as the national pillar. The addition of the Basics and Office Plus banners, from the CWS group, provides accessible solutions for everyday business needs. Meanwhile, the Office Pro banner, owned by Guild Stationers, brings together regional dealers renowned for their proximity and tailored service, further anchoring the network's local presence across the country. This multi-brand strategy allows the group to cater to a diverse range of customers, from large national corporations to small local businesses, without losing the specialized focus of each dealer group.

Reshaping Supply Chains and Supporting 'Buy Local'

Beyond market share, Novexco's consolidation is framed as a strategic imperative for Canadian economic resilience. In an era marked by global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainty, creating a robust, coordinated domestic supply chain has become a national priority. This expanded network aims to create a more resilient infrastructure for business products that is less dependent on foreign logistics and control.

This move also taps directly into the growing 'buy local' sentiment among Canadian consumers and businesses. Research has shown that money spent with local businesses circulates more powerfully within the community, supporting local jobs and philanthropy. By strengthening a network of Canadian-owned independent dealers, Novexco is positioning itself as the clear choice for organizations looking to invest their procurement dollars back into the Canadian economy.

The leadership at Novexco sees this as a core responsibility. "Current trade tensions remind us of the importance of supporting Canadian businesses," concluded Mr. Brassard. "Our responsibility is to mobilize Canadian companies and institutions to do business locally, and we are taking proactive steps in that direction."

Adapting to the Future of the Canadian Workplace

This merger is not just a defensive play against competitors but a forward-looking strategy to adapt to the profound transformation of the modern workplace. The pandemic-induced shift to remote and hybrid work has permanently altered demand. Sales of traditional office supplies like paper and toner have softened, while demand has surged for products that support distributed workforces, such as ergonomic home office furniture, collaboration technology, and facilities supplies for reconfigured corporate spaces.

With its expanded product portfolio and diversified dealer base, the new Novexco network is better positioned to meet these evolving needs. The company is actively investing in modernizing its services to move beyond traditional supplies and become a comprehensive partner for the future of work. This includes providing solutions for technology integration, workplace safety, and sustainable office management. By uniting national distribution with local expertise, the network can effectively supply everything from a single home office setup in a remote town to a complete technological overhaul for a corporate headquarters in a major city, ensuring the long-term viability of its Canadian-centric business model.