A Legacy Built on Reliability and Relationships

For generations, Nicholson Cates has stood for one simple truth: when you can count on your materials and people, you can build anything. As a Canadian manufacturer and distributor, we’ve earned our reputation by keeping promises, protecting schedules, and helping our partners move forward with confidence.

The Nicholson Cates Story

Nicholson Cates began as a local lumber supplier serving customers across Ontario. Over the decades, we’ve grown into North America’s most trusted manufacturers and distributors of lumber and building materials. Although we’ve evolved from our early days as Nicholson and Cates, we still maintain the proudly Canadian, family-run feeling, where our work is guided by the belief that reliability builds relationships and reputations.

Backed by an Expert Team

People who care are the foundation of our success. Across our offices, yards, and facilities, you’ll find teams who take pride in every shipment that leaves our sites. Their dedication is the reason Nicholson Cates remains a trusted name across Canada and beyond.

John Jones

Nicholson Cates is one of Canada’s largest distributors of plywood and specialty panel products, representing several producers across North America.

Jane Jones

Nicholson Cates is one of Canada’s largest distributors of plywood and specialty panel products, representing several producers across North America.

Roger Dodger

Nicholson Cates is one of Canada’s largest distributors of plywood and specialty panel products, representing several producers across North America.

John Jones

Nicholson Cates is one of Canada’s largest distributors of plywood and specialty panel products, representing several producers across North America.

Jane Jones

Nicholson Cates is one of Canada’s largest distributors of plywood and specialty panel products, representing several producers across North America.

Roger Dodger

Nicholson Cates is one of Canada’s largest distributors of plywood and specialty panel products, representing several producers across North America.

OUR HISTORY

Since our founding as Nicholson and Cates in the early 1900s, we have become a trusted national manufacturer and distributor of lumber and building solutions through a commitment to quality, consistency and service.

A message from Nicholson Cates' president: 

For over a century, Nicholson Cates has stood as a trusted partner in lumber and building materials, supporting the people and projects that shape communities across North America. What began as a small family business has grown into a leading manufacturer and distributor, guided by a commitment to quality, consistency, and service you can depend on.

What sets us apart isn’t just the products we supply. It’s the way we show up for our customers. Every member of our team brings pride and purpose to their work, ensuring that every shipment reflects our dedication to precision, responsiveness, and genuine partnership.

At Nicholson Cates, we deliver more than building materials. We deliver certainty. From precision-milled lumber to reliable logistics, our integrated approach gives our partners confidence that their projects will stay on track and on schedule.

I’m proud of the work our team does every day and the relationships we’ve built along the way. We invite you to connect with us and experience the difference that comes from a partner who cares as much about your success as you do.

Sincerely,

Morgan Wellens

Leaders in Lumber and Building Materials

Our commitment to excellence has been recognized across the industry through certifications, accreditations, and partnerships that reflect our high standards for safety, sustainability, and quality.

Backed by Loyal Customers

Our customers are our strongest advocates. Here’s what they say about working with Nicholson Cates.

    Jelena Zelenovic

    Customers

    Great quality of products and even better service! Highly recommend!

      Thomas Moning

      Customers

      N&C has been providing exceptional service and reliability to our team for over 15+ years . Distribution yard continues to stand out for its extensive range of quality products, reliable availability , and a team that truly goes above and beyond to support their customers. We look forward to many more years of working together! The Deck Yard

        R O

        Customers

        The whole team here is excellent. Always quick to respond and are an important element to the successful operation of our business.

          Tom Manherz

          Customers

          Been dealing with Nicholson Cates for over 20 years. They have been an excellent supplier. Nice to have a friend in this turbulent marketplace.