Tepper Electric Supply Co. opened for business in Champaign's Imperial Building on Walnut Street in 1947. Two years later, the wholesale electric supply firm relocated at 111 W. Hill Street, and in 1954, the business overflowed into a part of the building at 502 N. Neil Street.
The 1960 purchase and modernization of a building previously occupied by Producers Dairy enabled Tepper Electric Supply to consolidate the two facilities under one roof.
Unfortunately, this modern showroom and warehouse complex was destroyed by arsonists on April 28, 1963, resulting in about $300,000 worth of damage. It was the biggest fire Champaign residents had ever seen, and was theorized by police to have been set to cover up a $200 burglary.
In November of that same year, Tepper Electric Supply Co. rose again from the ashes. The new structure boasted an additional 4,000 square feet of space, bringing the total area to 17,000 square feet. Among the innovations for the new building were the installation of a complete, 280-foot conveyor system in the warehouse for more efficient handling of material, and mechanical hoists for large reels of wire.
In today's business landscape, it is unusual to find a family-owned company that has been around for almost sixty years. Tepper Electric's longevity is a testament to the firm's commitment to providing the best products at the best prices and friendly, accommodating customer service. Tepper Electric continues the decades-long tradition of making their customers their top priority, and it shows.
