Behind the Scenes: Renovating the Co-Op Grocery Store in Dawson Creek

At WL Construction, we thrive on delivering top-notch projects even in challenging environments. One of our most recent projects in Dawson Creek, BC, was the renovation of the Co-Op Grocery store. This was no ordinary construction project—it involved keeping the store fully operational for its loyal customers while coordinating logistics with out-of-town contractors and balancing tight schedules.

Read on to see how we managed the complexities and ensured the Co-Op stayed functional during the renovation.

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Critical Path Planning: Timing is Everything

One of the most crucial elements of this project was ensuring our construction timeline aligned with the arrival of specialized refrigeration contractors from out of town. The refrigeration system was a vital component of the store’s operations, so ensuring the site was prepared upon their arrival was non-negotiable.

We mapped out a detailed critical path schedule highlighting essential tasks and milestones. Night shifts were introduced to tackle specific jobs, minimizing disruptions during peak shopping hours. Weekly meetings with sub-trades helped ensure everyone was aligned on priorities and deadlines.

Safety and Public Access: A Balancing Act

The safety of both customers and workers was our top priority. The WL Construction team implemented hoardings to separate construction zones from public areas. Temporary barriers, clear signage, and regular communication with Co-Op staff ensured shoppers could navigate the store safely while we worked behind the scenes.

By collaborating closely with the Co-Op team, they were able to restructure delivery schedules and adjust order quantities. This minimized congestion in work zones while keeping shelves stocked with essential products.

Dealing with Disruption: Communication is Key

Renovations always bring a bit of disruption to routines, but the Co-Op and its customers were very accommodating in working through the adjustments. Clear signage and frequent updates helped customers understand and adapt to temporary changes.

The Co-Op team also adjusted its product options during the renovation, ensuring customer needs were met even when certain items were in limited supply. This flexibility and teamwork allowed us to focus on delivering a successful renovation without major disruptions.

Only a Three-Day Disruption: A Team Effort

The store was only closed for a total of a three-day shutdown. During this period, we:

Removed all old shelving.
Leveled the floor for a smooth, professional finish.
Installed new flooring and shelving.
Stocked the shelves to ensure the store was fully operational upon reopening.

This required a monumental cooperative effort between us, Co-Op employees, flooring contractors, and a shelving contractor from Saskatchewan. Everyone worked together to meet the tight deadline, and the result was limited downtime and a fully functional grocery store ready to serve the community.

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The End Result: A Modernized Co-Op Construction Project

in Dawson Creek BC

Thanks to the dedication and teamwork of all involved, the Co-Op in Dawson Creek now boasts a refreshed, modernized space that enhances the shopping experience for customers. From managing critical path items to ensuring safety and communication, every step of the project was handled with precision and care.

At WL Construction, we’re proud to have played a role in improving such an essential community hub. Whether it’s a grocery store renovation or a large-scale commercial project, our team thrives on delivering excellence in construction in Dawson Creek and beyond.

If you’re planning a renovation or construction project and want a team that prioritizes your continued operations, safety, communication, and quality, contact WL Construction today.

Client success

Sean Craig – Energy Upgrade for Canfor Taylor Pulp

Hands down the best company I have had the pleasure of working with. Having worked in the construction industry for over 25 years, on 4 different continents, I have dealt with many contractors and it is rare to find a contractor who can tick all the boxes. WL Construction has repeatedly exceeded expectations and is the company I would choose to take with me from project to project.

Kenton Switzer – Pat’s Auto Supply

The team at WL Construction consistently exceeds my expectations in both quality of work and customer service. When I am working with them I can confidently walk away knowing that they will do the job right and within budget. I have multiple businesses and do not have time to babysit contractors which makes WL Construction my only choice. The WL team holds themselves to a higher standard than I ever could.

Jennifer Kirkpatrick – BC Oil and Gas Commission

The quality, workmanship and professionalism of WL Construction is exemplary. As a result of the wide range of expertise their team possesses, they provide cost-efficient solutions with quality outcomes and promptly address any concerns. They have provided top notch service and successfully met our needs on every occasion. They truly understand what it takes to maintain a successful working relationship with their customers.

Mike Nielsen – Macro Industries

Through multiple years and projects, WL Construction continues to be one of our most valuable contractors. They offer valuable suggestions, flexibility in scheduling and help with coordination of labour forces when additional manpower is required. I have found them to be accurate in pricing and estimating the scale of projects. Their actions are an extension of the proven knowledge and expertise they hold.

Grant Docksteader – Building Owner

WL Construction provides me with a single point of contact for any of my construction and maintenance needs. Their commitment to quality and transparency in dealing with issues that come up enables me the confidence to leave responsibilities in their hands while living remotely. Their team’s ability to take on any minor task or large scale challenge with enthusiasm is especially appreciated.

Allan Mah – Wendy’s

They came highly recommended to me, and I was not disappointed! The quality and innovation of WL Construction’s work is second to none, but the main reason I loved working with them was their transparency and excellent communication. They don’t just speak “contractor” and they were very upfront about any changes in the project as it progressed. The result was a smooth project without any hidden surprises.

Chad Cushway – School District 60

We have worked with the highly professional WL Construction team for many years on a wide variety of projects. Most recently they have helped us design exterior cladding upgrades for two of our schools which has saved us the high cost of working with a consultant. WL Construction is always able to complete our projects on a timely basis and provide us with reliable cost-efficient solutions.

Shane Rogers – Rogers Trucking

WL Construction first impressed us with their industry knowledge and creative solutions in 2013 working to design and build our shop and office. Their team continues to provide us with a high standard of care and superior quality of workmanship on the multiple projects we have collaborated with them since. We appreciate the transparency and flexibility WL Construction offers when working together.

Henry Ma – Accent Dental

On the recommendation of a business colleague, I chose to work with WL Construction. I was very satisfied with my decision and found them to be professional, accommodating, and reliable in their performance. Their efforts were carried out with utmost care and they quickly remedied any ongoing concerns. When additional requirements or issues arise, WL Construction continues to provide positive results.

Ron Kursteiner – Alpine Glass

I have worked with WL Construction first as a carpenter, then later as a sub-trade after we purchased our business. When we decided to construct a new building, they were at the top of our list. WL worked with us to create a site and building design that was both functional for our business as well as showcasing our products. When we were ready to build for a second time, we didn’t hesitate to call them and would do so again if the opportunity arose.

Behind the Scenes: Renovating the Co-Op Grocery Store in Dawson Creek