About Gem
We know how important this project is to you, and you need a team you can trust to guide you through it. Homeowners have trusted Gem with their spaces for nearly 50 years.
Reflecting your style, since 1977
Don Woods founded Gem Cabinets in 1977 with a staff of three, big dreams for the future, and a commitment to helping homeowners make thoughtful, lasting choices for their spaces. Back then, we operated under the name Canac Kitchens, offering cabinetry from the Canac brand. When that manufacturer closed its doors in 2008, it was a moment of change—and opportunity. We stepped forward as Gem Cabinets, forging new partnerships and growing into something even stronger.
Gem has evolved over the decades, but our vision remains the same: To be the most trusted name in cabinetry, known for quality, exceptional service and lasting relationships with our customers, team members and partners.
We’ve grown exponentially, and we now operate out of two large showrooms, have a full-scale custom millwork shop, and a team of over 160 talented people–but we’re still grounded in the same belief that launched us: that your home should reflect who you are, and that getting there should feel easy, supported, and inspiring.
We’re also proud to be deeply rooted in our community. As long-standing members of BILD Edmonton Metro (formerly the Canadian Home Builders’ Association), we actively support the growth and well-being of our industry—through advocacy, education, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Beyond the showroom, we believe in giving back. We regularly donate cabinets to Habitat for Humanity along with supporting and volunteering for a variety of local charities. As a locally owned business, we know that building strong homes starts with building a strong community—and we’re proud to do our part.
Our mission
We are guided by family values and a deep respect for the people we serve. As stewards of our industry, we lead with experience, integrity, and commitment to lasting relationships.
Our Journey
Gem Cabinets has always been about people—our clients, our team, and our community. What started as a small, family-run operation has grown into one of the most trusted cabinet suppliers in Edmonton. Through industry changes, expansion, and innovation, we’ve continued to evolve while staying true to who we are. Here’s a look at some of the key milestones along the way
1977
Gem Cabinets was founded by Don Woods, originally operating under the name Canac Kitchens—named after the cabinetry line we carried at the time. With just three employees, a small showroom, and a one-bay warehouse, the business was built on hard work, trusted relationships, and a commitment to doing things right.
1999
As demand grew, we doubled the size of our showroom and office space—making it the largest cabinetry showroom in Edmonton at the time. This expansion allowed us to serve more clients while offering an even broader selection of cabinetry styles and finishes.
2008
When Canac Kitchens, our original manufacturer, closed its doors, Gem took a bold step forward. We officially became Gem Cabinets and forged new partnerships with additional cabinet manufacturers. That same year, we had a record-breaking year in sales—proof that with the right people and vision, change can be an opportunity.
2008
We also expanded into a second building to house more warehouse and office space—and, most importantly, to launch our custom in-house millwork shop. This 12,000 sq. ft. space gave us the ability to craft unique, one-of-a-kind pieces and make on-the-fly adjustments when needed. Whether it’s a design detail or an unexpected site change, our team can step in and keep projects on track without delays.
2017
We opened a second showroom dedicated to our premium Cabico & Elmwood lines. This boutique-style space offers a high-end, personalized design experience and showcases the full potential of custom cabinetry—perfect for clients looking for something truly tailored.
Today
Gem Cabinets is proud to be the largest cabinet supplier in the Edmonton Metro area. We work with a wide range of clients—homeowners, designers, renovators, and builders—and are trusted by many of the best homebuilders in the region. Our team now includes over 160 employees and more than 60 subcontractors. With our size and experience, we’re equipped to handle projects of any scale—while still delivering the warm, personal service we’re known for.
It’s the people behind the cabinets who make all the difference.
At Gem, careers aren’t just built—they’re transformed. Warehouse workers become certified cabinetmakers. Sales reps become leaders. Entry-level hires become company veterans with decades of growth behind them.
This is more than a workplace—it’s where families build legacies together, where talent is recognized, and where your ambition has room to flourish. Whether you’re starting your career or ready to elevate it, Gem is where potential meets opportunity.
Join our team