Great Falls / Montana / United States
With just four employees and a Ford Model T Runabout as the lone company car, brothers-James J. Flaherty, Sr., Francis E. Flaherty, Louis C. Flaherty, and their brother-in-law Louis A. Regan incorporated Great Falls Paper Company in 1913. Originally a wholesale firm specializing in coarse paper and dry goods, the company grew and expanded with the times and customer demands, serving all of Northern and Eastern Montana. They then extended into northern Wyoming, the western Dakotas and Idaho. Now known as Great Falls Paper and Supply Company, the 97-year old enterprise specializes in retail packaging, high-end seasonal decorative items, janitorial and sanitary maintenance supplies, food service products and personal and public safety equipment. Still a family company, James J. Flaherty, Jr., son of founder James J. Flaherty, Sr., serves as CEO. His son, Michael, has been President since 1995. Mikes wife, Valerie, acts as Vice President of the company. Great Falls Paper and Supply Company has maintained a constant public presence in Great Falls, as well as throughout the Northwest. Its dedication to customers and community has helped the company flourish throughout its history. James J. Flaherty, Sr. coined the phrase that has become a credo for the company. In the 1920s, he was heard telling his salesmen, Boys, hear me now. If they have a floor or a door, Great Falls Paper has something to sell them! That strategy is still upheld today. The company will go the extra mile to provide their customers with what they want and need, even if it goes outside the realm of their traditional products. The company earned a 1997 Montana Small Business Award, honoring their commitment to serving Montanans through their business and community service. In 2002 and 2009, Great Falls Paper and Supply earned The United Groups Silver Medal Award for Food Service. The United Group, based in Monroe, Louisiana, is a nationwide marketing and sales organization comprised of independent distributors. Great Falls Paper & Supply Company is also a HUBZone certified business by the U.S. Small Business Administration and received a US General Services Administration ( GSA ) Multiple Award Schedule contract under Schedule 75 for Office Products/Supplies and Services/New Products/Technology and Restroom Products. Contract number GS-02F-0197V.
