About Us
A Family Legacy Since 1948
Since 1948, Rutherford Supply has provided businesses with paper products, cleaning chemicals, equipment, warewash and laundry supplies, and other disposable products.
Our Beginnings
Founded by Edward Ellsworth Rutherford, the company began in a small building on MacArthur Avenue in Richmond, Virginia. As the business grew, it relocated to 415 West Broad Street in 1962.
Following the passing of Edward E. Rutherford in 1962 and his wife in 1969, ownership passed to Edward A. “Buddy” Rutherford and his wife, Patricia M. “Patsy” Rutherford. Together, Buddy and Patsy continued to build the business over the next several decades. Their four children all worked at Rutherford Supply in various roles, carrying on the family’s commitment to the company.
Rebuilding & Growing
In 1989, a devastating fire at the West Broad Street location marked a turning point. Working alongside their parents, Paul and Kenny Rutherford helped rebuild the business and relocate it to 2522 Hermitage Road. Continued growth led to an expansion in 2000 that doubled the size of the facility.
In 2001, Paul, Buddy and Patsy’s youngest son, purchased the company from his parents, continuing Rutherford Supply’s tradition of family ownership. The family and company suffered a profound loss when Kenny unexpectedly passed away in 2006.
Expanding Our Reach
Rutherford Supply entered its next chapter in 2010 with a new, 60,000-square-foot facility at 1101 East Laburnum Avenue in Richmond. Designed to support both customers and employees, the location features an expansive showroom and a spacious training room for product demonstrations and educational events.
On December 15, 2017, Rutherford Supply expanded its regional presence with the purchase of City Group in Jessup, Maryland. The 20,000-square-foot facility extended the company’s reach into the Baltimore–Washington, D.C. area, allowing Rutherford Supply to serve more customers throughout the Mid-Atlantic.
Visit Our Richmond Location
Explore our showroom and meet the team behind Rutherford Supply.