When asked to reflect on Peter Lumber Company’s history over the past nine decades, President Ben Peter came to the conclusion that the one constant in the company’s past has been its continual evolution.
“When we look back at the early days of Peter Lumber, one theme stands out: this company has always been a work in progress,” Ben said.
Started by his grandfather, Hugh M. Peter, Sr., in 1932, Peter Lumber Company began in Pleasantville, NJ with the simple goal of offering affordable building materials and sound advice. Now with seven locations, and headed by third-generation family members, Peter Lumber is still following that mantra.
“For over 90 years, our family has faced more than a few challenges, whether economic, operational, or industry-wide,” Ben said. “Nothing about our success was ever guaranteed. But throughout those decades, we’ve been fortunate to work alongside some truly remarkable people. Their talent, work ethic, and character helped guide the business through its toughest periods and, just as importantly, helped shape the vision we continue to build on today.”
Continuing a legacy
Before taking over from his father—and now working alongside his brother, McLane, who serves as chief financial officer—Ben said he wasn’t always sure he’d end up at the family business, which ended up being a blessing in disguise.
“It was never a certainty that our generation would one day take over the business, and that uncertainty ended up being a strength,” he said. “We were encouraged to gain outside experience, see different approaches, and understand how other organizations operate. Bringing those broader perspectives back to Peter Lumber has allowed us to modernize thoughtfully, refine our direction, and stay grounded υ in the values that carried the company through its first nine decades. In many ways, we stand on the foundation created by those who came before us, and our focus now is to honor that legacy while continuing to evolve and prepare the company for the future.”
From its small start, the company has grown to add windows, custom pre-hung doors, decking, roofing, siding, and more, in addition to special orders, kitchen design, showrooms, and delivery. And the growth doesn’t stop there—Ben said the company is working to add more services via the company’s website, expected to come online this year.
