The Quikrete Companies®

By Wanda Lenoir

Sometimes, simple solutions are the best answers for tough problems. Over 80 years ago, Quikrete^® developed a pre-blended concrete mix—this innovative product modernized the building industry. It gave contractors and homeowners the ability to work smarter and build faster. As a trailblazer, The Quikrete Companies^® remain an industry leader with a practical mindset and problem-solving spirit.

How did the business get started?

The Quikrete Companies^® began in 1940 as a small, family-owned business with one simple idea. We offered a packaged, pre-blended concrete mix that made building easier and more consistent. At the time, this was a novel approach that improved efficiency by reducing job site mistakes and saving time.

From day one, we focused on helping professionals and homeowners work smarter. Over time, our product line grew, and so did the company. We added new materials and acquired other brands that shared our dedication to quality, consistency, and performance. That includes brands such as Custom-Building Products^®, Rinker Materials^®, and the recent integration of Summit Materials into The Quikrete Companies.

A lot has changed since 1940, but we still operate with the same practical mindset and problem-solving spirit that got us started.

What is the vision for the organization?

What began as a mission to deliver innovative products that solved real construction challenges has grown into something much bigger. Today, we’re a true single-source supplier for nearly every element of a construction project. We support contractors with job-tested solutions, provide infrastructure-grade materials to cities and towns, and give DIYers access to professional-quality products they can rely on. With the scale to lead in every construction segment we serve, we continue to supply the materials that shape this country from the ground up. Our products are, quite literally, What America’s Made Of ^®.

What are the benefits of manufacturing in America? Manufacturing products in America gives manufacturers better control over quality, helps maintain steady supply chains, and speeds up delivery times. With the new tariffs in place, domestic production also helps reduce the impact of rising import costs and transportation disruptions.

For retailers, this means fewer backorders, more reliable inventory, and quality products they are proud to offer to their customers. For consumers, it creates trust and a sense of pride. When something is made here at home, it feels more familiar. With brands like Quikrete, they know the standards, recognize the name, and feel confident in what they’re buying. Local manufacturing is just the smartest, most efficient way for companies that depend on timely delivery to operate.

What practical lessons can retailers learn from your journey?

Over the years, we’ve learned that understanding your customers and staying close to their needs is the key to success in this industry. We work with general contractors, municipalities, and homeowners every day. They rely on us to listen and respond with practical solutions that perform as promised. As their needs evolve, we adapt our products and services to meet new challenges. And every product we sell is backed by our reputation for quality, consistency, and performance.

Retailers can take a similar approach. Know your market inside and out, invest in your team’s expertise, and align with brands that value innovation and

reliability. Our growth proves that when you bring those elements together, you build relationships and a business that lasts.

Briefly discuss a few of your other B2B companies.

Outside of retail, we work with general contractors and masons through several specialized B2B brands. Two of the biggest are Custom Building Products^® and SpecMix^®. Custom leads the flooring installation market with a full range of grouts, thinsets, membranes, and surface prep products that help create some of the most beautiful tile designs imaginable. SpecMix offers bulk packaging and silo systems for preblended mortar, grout, and stucco made specifically for masons. Overall, our B2B brands allow us to cover a variety of construction needs beyond what you usually see in a retailer.

What does Quikrete have in common with Independent Retailers?

Quikrete started as a family-owned, local business, so we understand firsthand what it means to build a business from scratch. We focused on developing strong customer relationships, delivering consistent product quality, and staying agile as we grew. Independent retailers take a similar path. They stay flexible, earn loyal customers through hard work and reliability, and grow their presence one step at a time.

How can retailers be proactive in adjusting to economic challenges?

Some of the best ways to handle economic challenges are focusing on high-turn products, working with brands that are consistent and recognizable, and leaning into partnerships that offer more than just products. Extras like staff training, merchandising support, or in-store events can really enhance the customer experience, keep shoppers engaged, and coming back. Staying aware of what’s selling and being ready to adapt quickly is critical. Flexibility makes all the difference when times are uncertain.

What products do you offer that can help retailers attract Pro customers?

We offer a full line of Quikrete-branded commercial-grade materials made for pros. It includes fast-setting and standard-setting concrete mixes for general construction and repairs. Our fast-setting products are especially valuable for contractors working against tight deadlines to get projects finished quickly.

Retailers can also attract pro customers with other brands owned by Quikrete, like Keystone Hardscapes^®. Keystone has a variety of pavers, retaining walls, and outdoor living features professionals use to create patios, walkways, and landscaped spaces for their customers.

How can retailers effectively market your products on a local level?

Retailers can connect with local pros by hosting jobsite demos or offering products in pallet quantities to support larger jobs. Clear, targeted signage that speaks directly to professional customers helps grab their attention. We also support retailers with display systems, digital content, and product training so they can become experts in their market. The goal is to make it easy for customers to find what they need and feel confident about buying it locally.