It’s hard to believe that 40 years ago Jimmy Rane was planning his future as an attorney. But that was before he became the owner of a small and struggling lumber treatment plant in Abbeville, Alabama. Following a year of equipment upgrades and repairs, the young new owner was ready to begin peddling his treated lumber. He loaded a red, 1961 one-and-a-half ton pickup truck and began calling on businesses in the area. Little did he know that his tiny three-man operation would grow into an industry leader and, in 2010, celebrate its 40th anniversary!
The last four decades have been marked with its share of trials and tribulations for Great Southern Wood Preserving, Incorporated. But determination, commitment and innovation have continued to be the keys to the company’s longevity and success.
In 1976, Great Southern Wood’s fortunes began to improve dramatically when the company opened a second treating plant in Mobile, Alabama – a decision based on the realization that more than half of the company’s deliveries were going to this area. Nine years later, another new plant was added outside of Atlanta, Georgia. And it didn’t stop there. Great Southern Wood entered a period of rapid growth, adding full-service treating facilities in Bushnell, Florida; Muscle Shoals, Alabama; Columbus, Texas; Jesup, Georgia; Glenwood, Arkansas; Buckner, Missouri; and Mt. Pleasant, Texas. The company also operates remanufacturing facilities at its Abbeville, Jesup and Glenwood locations. As the company entered its 40th year in business, that eye toward growth continued, even during trying times. The addition of a treating plant in Brookhaven, Mississippi, was announced in January 2010.
From humble beginnings, Great Southern Wood has enjoyed phenomenal growth. The eleven locations strategically position the company to provide prompt and efficient service to lumberyards and building supply stores across a broad geographic region. And a reputation for producing superior building products and providing excellent customer service has built relationships that are as important to the company today as they were during that first delivery 40 years ago.