By Sean Delaney
In an exclusive interview, Bill Kooy, founder of KOOY Brothers Equipment Ltd., shares pivotal moments from the company’s inspiring 40-year journey. Established with faith and determination, KOOY Brothers has grown from a small venture into a leading player in the landscaping and construction equipment industry.
Bill Kooy recalls the early days when Real Mores and Real Sharpening dominated Toronto’s landscaping scene.
“Buying a machine worth more than my house in the first four months was a leap of faith,” he reflects. It was KOOY’s commitment to excellence and foresight that set them apart—anticipating market needs and consistently delivering quality service.
A significant turning point came just before the year 2000, marking a notable expansion.
“Taking on the Kubota franchise in 1997 was a nerve-wracking but necessary step,” Bill admits. Despite initial apprehensions, KOOY Brothers quickly adapted and flourished, gaining the trust of commercial and municipal clients. Their reputation soared, leading to the acquisition of the Kubota construction line five years later.
Over time, strategic decisions like introducing Venieri loaders helped address customer challenges, such as high insurance costs.
“We provided solutions that allowed our clients to reinvest their savings into better machinery,” Bill said.
This customer-centric approach has been a cornerstone of their success. Customer service remains at the heart of KOOY Brothers’ philosophy.
“In an era where truth is hard to discern, our commitment to honesty and accountability stands out,” Bill said.
This dedication has earned them loyal customers who appreciate their transparency and reliability.
The need for a larger space to accommodate growing inventory led to the purchase of a new property in 2008, amidst the financial crisis.
“We closed the deal on a napkin,” Bill recalls with a smile.
The move to the new location in 2011 marked another milestone, enabling further growth and prosperity. Looking ahead, KOOY Brothers continues to expand. They acquired a 100-acre property north of Toronto in 2022, establishing a support facility to enhance their operations.
“The barriers to entry in this business are high, but we strive to improve every day,” Bill said.
KOOY Brothers’ impact extends beyond business. Their community involvement is profound, especially in managing Toronto’s snow removal logistics.
“We are open 24 hours during snowfalls, playing a critical role in keeping the city moving,” Bill proudly shares.
Their efforts were particularly evident during a major storm when they sold 625 snow blowers in a single week.
Reflecting on their roots, Bill speaks fondly of the Emery community.
“It’s where I grew up, and being part of this community has been wonderful,” he said.
For KOOY Brothers, it’s not just about business but also about giving back to the community that has supported them for decades.
As KOOY Brothers celebrates 40 years, their journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to customer service. The future looks bright as they continue to lead and inspire in the industry
