Border States

The story of Border States began in 1952, not as a sprawling enterprise, but with a foundational belief that businesses whose work is essential shouldn't have to navigate their journey alone. From its origins in the heart of North Dakota, the company embarked on a path of steady growth, driven by a commitment to serving the construction, industrial, and utility sectors. This wasn't just about supplying parts; it was about forging partnerships and becoming an indispensable force of reliability and expertise for companies that simply could not afford to slow down. A pivotal moment in the company's journey was its transition to becoming a 100% employee-owned entity. This shift fundamentally transformed the culture, instilling a unique sense of ownership and accountability in every team member. No longer just employees, the team became owners, personally invested in the success of their customers and the company itself.

This employee-owner model became the engine for remarkable expansion. Over seven decades, Border States grew from a regional supplier into one of the largest independent electrical distributors in the United States. Its footprint expanded across the nation, with over 100 branch locations and a team of thousands of dedicated owners. The company's growth wasn't merely geographical; it was also strategic, marked by key acquisitions like Shealy Electrical Wholesalers and Dominion Electric Supply, which broadened its service offerings and market reach. Today, Border States stands as a testament to its founding principles, a multi-billion dollar organization that has never lost sight of its core mission. It continues to solve complex problems, build enduring relationships, and empower the unstoppable businesses that provide the world with what it needs, when it needs it, proving that even the biggest journeys are best navigated with a trusted partner by your side.