Founded in 1894, Eikenhout Inc. navigated over a century of industry changes, growing from a small roofing supply store into Michigan’s last independent distributor of exterior building materials. Through the voices of three family members; Greg Schierbeek (President and CEO), Leah Weesies (Marketing Coordinator), and Alex Schierbeek (Director of Finance)—we get to look into the heart of this multigenerational business.
From Hot Tar to Building Supplies
Eikenhout’s roots trace back to Hendrik Eikenhout, a hot tar roofer in Grand Rapids who started selling roofing supplies and tools to other roofers. The company quickly evolved under the leadership of Hendrik’s son, John, who shifted focus from installation to distribution.
“Did you know that the asphalt roofing shingle was first made in Grand Rapids?” asked Greg Schierbeek, current president and second-generation family leader. The Eikenhout family began selling these products and moved the company to its long-standing location in the heart of Grand Rapids on Wealthy Street, eventually expanding the site across the street as well.
The family’s legacy of leadership extended through John’s widow, Nelly, who took over after his death in 1940. She managed the company for over a decade before selling shares to Walt Kok and Pete Albers, longtime employees who brought stability during a transformative period. Greg’s own father, Henry Schierbeek, joined the company in 1959 as an office clerk and eventually was part of a group of local businessmen that purchased it in 1971.
Adapting to a Changing Landscape
While Eikenhout doesn’t manufacture products, their ability to quickly adapt to market trends sets them apart. “We’ve been quicker to embrace innovations in exterior cladding and decking products than our competitors,” Greg said. During the pandemic, for example, the surge in demand for outdoor living spaces bolstered their decking business—a trend that has continued post-pandemic.
As the only remaining Michigan-owned distributor of its kind, Eikenhout stands apart in an industry dominated by national chains and private equity. Their independence allows them to remain deeply connected to their customers and communities. Leah emphasized, “We’re able to do more for our customers—whether it’s hosting events, handing out swag, or investing in local projects.”
Growing Up Eikenhout
For the Schierbeek family, Eikenhout has always been a part of their lives. All three have memories of growing up around the business, performing odd jobs long before stepping into full-time roles. “My dad brought me here on Saturdays when I was 12 to make sure the coffee pot was full, sweep floors, and clean toilets,” Greg recounted with a smile. “I’ve been here full-time since 1980.”
Leah remembers they were too young to use power tools, “so we used hand clippers to weed whip,” she said. “My cousins and I would end up painting the warehouse—and sometimes each other.”
Alex, who now helps oversee the company’s finances, also started on the ground level of operations. “In high-school and college, I weeded, swept warehouses, and eventually drove trucks during the summers” he said. Leah joined full-time during the pandemic in 2020 after a career in commercial banking. Her brother, Jackson, recently stepped in as an estimator, continuing the family’s involvement.
Pride in Family and Reputation
When asked what they’re most proud of, the Schierbeeks pointed to the lasting legacy of the business and its impact on the community. “I love seeing our trucks out on the road and hearing from friends who spot them all over the state,” Leah said. For Alex, it’s the stories from longtime customers. “They often share memories about my grandpa or Greg, and it’s always positive. It makes me feel good about who I work for.”
Greg highlighted the relationships he’s built over decades. “I’ve been fortunate to work with my father and now with Leah, Alex, and Jackson. We’ve had phenomenal employees, we had a purchasing agent retire two weeks ago who had been here for 36 years. That’s something I’m incredibly grateful for.”
Family Values at the Core
The familial atmosphere extends beyond the Schierbeek family to the broader company culture. “We’re a close family, and that translates into the office,” Alex said. “Customers know they can walk down the hallway and talk to Greg directly. It’s not like calling a corporate hotline.” With 10 locations, 186 employees, and a six-acre compound in Grand Rapids, Eikenhout Inc. has grown significantly over the years, with Leah describing it as “a decent-sized company that still feels like a family.”
Greg, reflecting on the business’s longevity, credited the foundational values instilled by his predecessors. “My father never officially retired, and his presence shaped how we operate.”
Leah added, “When I started just four years ago, he was 87, and he was here almost every day. He’d come in just to have a cup of coffee, walk around, call his friends, and make a tee time—that’s what he did forever.”
Greg reflected on the legacy that his father left behind, saying, “We have that legacy where so many people knew him. And, you know, we’ve always just really tried to treat people fairly.”
Part of that commitment to treating people fairly extends to the company’s extensive healthcare program. “We’ve got 150 employees on our healthcare program, and probably 350 people total when you factor in their families,” Greg said. “It’s a big expense, and it gets tougher every year, but you’ve got to have it. You’ve got to take care of your people.” The program may get more challenging to manage, but Greg remains firm in his belief: “Just be good people.”
Community involvement is another cornerstone of Eikenhout’s philosophy. The company sponsors local Little League and high school teams, as well as food banks across Michigan, a practice they affectionately call ‘Eikenhelp.’ Greg shared, “We actively support charities that our employees are involved in, whether it’s donating uniforms or materials to rebuild a dugout.”
Looking Ahead
Eikenhout is positioned for continued growth with plans to open additional locations in Michigan over the next decade while maintaining its core values of promoting from within and supporting the local community. For the Schierbeek family, Eikenhout is not just a legacy; it’s a way of life. Through generations of leadership, they’ve proven that a family-owned business can thrive in a competitive landscape by staying true to its values and embracing change. As the company heads into its next chapter, it does so with the strength of its history and the promise of a bright future.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Email fba@fbagr.org if you are interested in exploring feature opportunities.
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