In 1938 at the age of 60 (when others might have been thinking of retirement), W.A. Akhurst demonstrated his courage and entrepreneurship and opened his own firm, W.A. Akhurst Machinery Limited. Operating out of his family home in Vancouver, the company offered industrial equipment primarily to sawmill operations in British Columbia. Now, with 80 employees in five offices strategically located across Canada, Akhurst Machinery has steadily grown to become one of the largest independent equipment distributors in the country. By bringing their family values to work and focusing on excellent service, they have earned many satisfied customers through the years.

The Akhurst family has also worked hard to provide a progressive environment where its staff are treated as an extension of the family. Emphasizing the importance of teamwork, they have created a culture of trust and mutual respect and are proud of the many long-term employees at the company. Active community supporters, the Akhursts are generous contributors to the Alzheimer’s Society of B.C, participate in Movember (an annual event to raise awareness of men's health issues), and volunteer to coach community sports.

Eight decades after W.A. opened his doors, Akhurst Machinery remains a family operated company, owned by 4th Generation family members Graham Akhurst, Ryan Akhurst, and Brent Akhurst. To this day, they work towards achieving business goals that are aligned with their values as a family business.