LOCAL LEGENDS: Barkman Concrete’s 75-year legacy of integrity, innovation and impact

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What do paint, plumbing, hardware, and concrete have in common? These elements formed the foundation of Barkman Concrete, a Canadian leader in precast concrete solutions.

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Established in 1948 by the Barkman brothers — Arnold, Edwin, and Peter in the back room of their small hardware store in Steinbach — Barkman Concrete has become a trusted name in the industry. Over the past 75 years, the company has built a reputation for innovation, quality, and community service, becoming a symbol of integrity and excellence.

During a recent visit with Wayne Wiebe, sales manager at Barkman Concrete, I discovered that concrete can be functional and stylish, proving that even the most challenging materials can have a refined edge. Whether you’re looking to revamp your patio with concrete slabs, install elegant paving stones, or reinforce your landscape with retaining walls, Wayne and his team have the expertise and passion to bring your vision to life.

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Building on a strong foundation

Barkman Concrete’s journey began in 1952 when the brothers expanded their hardware business into concrete, starting with septic tanks. By 1955, they had added precast concrete steps to their product line. From these humble beginnings, the company grew rapidly, driven by a commitment to quality and integrity that remains central to its operations today.

“Excellence is never an accident. It is the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution.” – Aristotle.

“Excellence is an intentional act that we strive toward here at Barkman Concrete. Integrity, quality, loyalty, and innovation are not just words at Barkman — they are the pillars of everything we do,” Wayne says.

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Barkman now operates from a state-of-the-art facility in Steinbach, known as the Hess Plant, one of the world’s most advanced dry-cast concrete plants. This cutting-edge production capability keeps Barkman at the forefront of the concrete industry while ensuring they deliver the durable, high-quality products their customers have come to expect.

Innovation and quality: The heart of Barkman

Quality isn’t just a goal at Barkman — it’s a guarantee. Every product they produce meets or exceeds Canadian Standards Association (CSA) guidelines, and Barkman backs this commitment with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. Whether a small home project or a large-scale commercial endeavour, customers can trust that Barkman’s products will stand the test of time.

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“Our approach is simple: quality above quantity,” Wayne explains. “We focus on making great products and hire great people to make that happen.”

Innovation is equally important. Barkman’s dedicated research and development team continually refines their processes and introduces new products that meet evolving market needs. This forward-thinking approach has kept Barkman Concrete ahead of industry trends for decades, ensuring they deliver solutions that perform.

In 2018, Barkman earned a spot among Canada’s Best Managed Companies — an award reflecting their leadership, innovation, and commitment to doing business correctly. This prestigious designation underscores Barkman’s role as a local legend in Steinbach and beyond.

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A commitment to community

Barkman’s impact stretches beyond concrete products. Through the Barkman Foundation, the company actively supports charitable initiatives and causes, giving back to the communities that have supported them for more than seven decades.

“We’ve always believed that profit margins don’t just measure business success — it’s measured by the impact you have on the people around you,” Wayne says.

This philosophy is woven into the company’s DNA. Just as they build strong, durable concrete products, Barkman also builds strong relationships with employees, customers, and the wider community. Their commitment to integrity, loyalty, and service extends to every interaction, making them a trusted partner for customers and community organizations.

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Excellence in every project

Barkman’s mission is simple: to provide concrete solutions that make life easier for their customers. Whether you’re tackling a DIY home project or managing a large commercial build, Barkman has the experience and expertise to deliver exceptional results.

Here’s why Barkman Concrete should be your go-to for your next project: unmatched experience and expertise. With 75 years of experience, Barkman has the knowledge to handle any project, big or small. Their team ensures every job is completed with precision and care.

Rigorous product testing: Barkman’s research and development team rigorously tests every product to ensure it meets the highest standards. Their products are designed to endure even the harshest conditions, from custom concrete mixes to standard paving stones.

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Customer-Centric Approach: At Barkman, the customer always comes first. They offer personalized service from consultation to after-sales support, ensuring every project runs smoothly from start to finish.

As Barkman looks to the future, one thing remains constant: Their unwavering commitment to quality and community. Whether producing pavers for a backyard patio or contributing to local charities, Barkman’s goal is always to exceed expectations.

At Barkman Concrete, they don’t just meet expectations — they strive to surpass them. By blending innovation, integrity, and a passion for service, the Barkman team continues to lead the concrete industry.

Ready to start your next project?

If you’re considering a concrete project — a driveway, patio, or custom hardscape — there’s no better partner than Barkman Concrete. From retaining walls to fireplaces and pizza ovens, Barkman has a solution for every need. Wayne and his team are ready to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your project succeeds.

For more information or to get started, call Wayne at (204) 667-3310. Be sure to mention Art sent you — it’s always nice to know we’re connected through people who care.

— Art Alexander is a passionate leader, speaker, and the friendly face behind Art Alexander and Associates. With a knack for understanding what makes people tick, Art helps businesses thrive through leadership training and DISC personality assessments. Reach out to Art at art@artalexander.ca.

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