Coe Lumber
Owner: Mark Lau
Year Established: 1971
In 1971, John Tung, a new immigrant from South Africa and a butcher by trade, bought COE Lumber. With four young children to feed, he and his wife Eileen forged ahead and built the business with hard work, dedication, and honesty. Today, COE Lumber continues as one of the few remaining independently owned and operated building suppliers within the City of Vancouver and is run by two of their children, Mark Lau and Vanessa Lee-Son.
As a member of the Kitsilano neighbourhood for over 45 years, it’s no surprise to hear that some of their customers first came into the store as infants or toddlers. Today, they bring their children to become part of the community at COE Lumber. While shopping in store, many customers often bump into neighbourhood friends, adding lively conversation and laughter to an already great atmosphere.
