52 Albert Street

George R. Gregg and Company

George R. Gregg and Company was founded in 1897 as a silk and curio importer by Winnipeg-based salesperson and manufacturer’s agent George Gregg, who saw the market potential for luxurious Japanese silks. 

As product demand grew, so did the company’s offering. They quickly expanded to include textiles, chinaware, novelties and toys. By tapping into overseas trade early and offering a diverse product line, the company was able to carve a profitable market in the luxury trade. 

In 1902, the company erected the Gregg Building at 52 Albert Street as a product warehouse. Two years later, the company moved its head office to Toronto and opened a branch office in Vancouver, with the Winnipeg building serving as a branch office and storage warehouse. 

By 1912, the company had four, full-time sales representatives serving Ontario and Western Canada. The building also became home to a variety of tenants, many of whom are still listed on the building today. This includes Wilder’s Stomach Powder, Fred Rumble Agencies, Leaper Agencies and the Nozick Commission. 

G.R. Gregg and Company operated at 52 Albert Street until the 1950s, when they ceased operations and sold the building to new owners.