Mills Basics

Specialties

Since 1949 Mills Basics has been delivering quality office products at affordable prices — right to your office! Let us show you how the local «little guy» can make your life a lot easier.

Your one-​stop shop for everything your office needs

History

Established in 1949.

It all started in 1949, when Don Mills set out from his parents’ home in Kitsilano, British Columbia at the early age of 19. He soon became the youngest person in Canada to establish a commercial stationery company. In the beginning, there was very little in the way of capital. He had to ride interurban transit and street cars to deliver goods to his customers. It took great determination to solidify the vendor base necessary to open and maintain a broad product selection.

With hustle, salesmanship, and long hours, Don Mills did what it took to build customer loyalty and a successful business. He was always pushing the boundaries beyond where the stationery industry’s conventional wisdom suggested he could go. His vision paid off as he continued to grow, adding staff and expanding to new facilities. Mills Basics soon became a thriving business where its employees and customers enjoyed a family-​like culture. Mills Basics continues to grow under the leadership of Don’s son, Brad Mills.