To fully appreciate Farrell Estates’ 65 years of shaping Richmond’s social and business fabric, let’s take a look back in time.
The year is 1959 when Jim McPhail founds the company – Sleeping Beauty is first released in theatres, Jean Beliveau wins the NHL scoring race with just 45 goals and the Canadian flag’s current look is still six years away.
And while there have been tectonic shifts across society and commerce since, the company’s core values remain unchanged: a commitment to the greater Richmond community and putting in an honest day’s work to build trust with clients across any sector.
That unwavering approach has seen Farrell Estates evolve from a small regional construction business to a multifaceted real estate enterprise encompassing dozens of commercial, industrial and marine properties in Canada.
The company’s growth and presence in Richmond was formally recognized in late November when Farrell Estates was formally inducted into the Richmond Chamber of Commerce’s Hall of Fame.
“We were certainly surprised because we had no idea it was coming, but it’s definitely an honour,” says company vice president of development Ross McPhail. “That was something that my grandfather Jim would have been very proud of. He started the company and he's the reason we're all working in it today.”
Unveiling a prime industrial hub
Fast forward to present day and Farrell Estates is proud to unveil a unique development opportunity that’s centrally located and ideal for any number of different sectors and uses.
Slated for opening in August 2025, Shelter Island Commerce Centre represents a best-in-class location off Graybar Road in East Richmond’s Fraserwood Business Park. This property provides excellent connections to Vancouver, Richmond, New Westminster, Vancouver International Airport and the Fraser Valley via the nearby intersection of the Richmond Connector and Westminster Highway.
As for prospective tenants, think carpenters, upholsterers, mechanics and other trades needing warehouse space for equipment storage and dispatch. There’s also a myriad of options for those working in marine industries.
“With units starting at 4,260 square feet, this project will provide much-needed supply into the Richmond industrial market,” McPhail says. “This building will offer the highest quality industrial features expected by the businesses of today.”
Premium space, top features
McPhail notes that the lease rates are extremely well positioned and competitive, while the building features are numerous and roll off the page:
- 28" clear heights
- Oversized grade loading doors (14' x 18')
- Early suppression, fast response sprinklers
- Concrete tilt-op construction
- LED lighting throughout
- 347/600 Volt 3 Phase Power
- Gas-fired, forced air warehouse heating
- 500 pounds per square foot loading capacity
- Exterior lighting powered by solar panels
Like Ross McPhail, leasing manager Kevin McPhail is a third-generation employee of the company, which gives future tenants peace of mind knowing that they’re dealing with a long-term partner with a vested interest in seeing partnerships flourish.
“You're dealing with someone who has a stake in the business,” Ross McPhail says. “You can know that when your lease comes up five years from now, you're still going to be dealing with the same person. We take a lot of pride in developing those long-term relationships.”
Learn more about Farrell Estates’ 65-year legacy by visiting www.farrellestates.com.
