History

Founded in 1937, Galleher stands as one of the largest wholesale wood flooring distributors in the United States. Originating from a modest warehouse in South Central Los Angeles, the company has flourished, now boasting 36 locations across seven states and a workforce exceeding 375 employees.

 In its early years, Galleher recognized the burgeoning demand for wood flooring in suburban areas surrounding Los Angeles, such as Huntington Park, Lakewood, and Inglewood. Founder Burt Galleher seized this opportunity, laying the foundation to supply hardwood flooring to the burgeoning housing market in Southern California.

However, the 1960s witnessed a decline in wood flooring popularity due to the emergence of affordable mass-produced carpeting and vinyl tiles. Adapting to market shifts, Galleher diversified its offerings to include hardwood lumber for various applications, including truck bodies.

In 1980, the company transitioned ownership to the Horner Flooring Company, marking a strategic move towards resurgence amidst a growing interest in wood flooring. Under new ownership, Galleher underwent significant expansion, relocating to a larger facility in Santa Fe Springs, CA, and refocusing its efforts exclusively on flooring.

 Edward Hamar, a principal owner of Horner, assumed leadership of Galleher in 1986, with his son Jeff taking the helm as President. The company embarked on an aggressive expansion strategy, introducing new products, and penetrating new markets, with sales reaching $5 million by the mid-1980s.

Throughout the late 20th century, Galleher continued to expand its footprint, establishing branches in San Diego, Arizona, and across the greater Los Angeles area. By 1999, with sales surpassing $50 million, Galleher diversified its product offerings to include vinyl, ceramic tiles, and laminate flooring, catering to retail stores, design centers, and commercial contractors.

Amidst the 2007 financial crisis, Galleher weathered challenges and in 2010, the Hamar family repurchased the company, implementing a new growth strategy. At the same time, Rick Coates, the General Manager of Galleher’s largest competitor, joined the company in an ownership position. Sales began to grow significantly and Galleher moved quickly and decisively to grow its market share. Bolstered by strong financial resources and strategic partnerships, Galleher expanded its market share, further solidified by the acquisition of competitors and strategic alliances.

Partnering with Quad-C Management in 2017, Galleher embarked on an ambitious growth trajectory, acquiring companies across the western U.S. and expanding into new territories like Texas. In 2023, Galleher joined forces with Transom Capital Group, signaling a new chapter in its growth journey.

Today, under the leadership of Rick Coates and Transom, Galleher remains committed to its founding values of trust, honesty, and customer-centricity. With sales exceeding $300 million, the company is poised for continued expansion and success, cementing its legacy as a leading player in the wood flooring distribution industry.