Franklin Empire Announces New Co-Presidents as Robert Shapiro Retires

Bob Shapiro

Feb 17, 2019

With the retirement of President Robert Shapiro (shown in photo), his partners Cliff Backman and Bernie Backman have assumed the title of co-presidents. Brothers Cliff and Bernie are members of the original founding family’s third generation.

They have led the company growth from one location of Empire Electric in 1979 to five locations just 10 years later. In 1992 a merger with Franklin Playford, created Franklin Empire. Today Franklin Empire has expanded to 23 locations and 5 assembly/repair shops. The company has also just announced a 24th location, to open soon in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec. With over 500 employees Franklin Empire is the largest independent electrical distributor in Canada.

Bob’s retirement has also provided an ownership opportunity for Cara, Lisa and Les Backman. This new ownership officially makes Franklin Empire a fourth generation family business. Bernie’s three children have all worked in various roles at Franklin Empire for over 10 years and have been actively involved in several industry associations.

These changes to our company structure will help establish a foundation for growth and stability for future generations to come and continue to add to Franklin Empire’s 77 years of history.

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