Three Generations of hard work and determination have allowed Duluth Ready Mix (DRM) to become the largest concrete producer in the area. Conrad Robertson started the first concrete plant on Garfield Avenue in 1950. In 1952, he moved to the corner of Trinity Road and Central Entrance. Shortly after that, Conrad was fortunate enough to provide the concrete for the Duluth Airbase SAGE building (14,000 yards), a huge job at the time.
In 1962, James Robertson took the reigns and he oversaw the company’s largest individual jobs:1968 – pipeline weights(50,000 yards):1974 – Hibbing Taconite(135,000 Yards);1976 -Western Lake Superior Sanitary District facility(85,000 yards). When Jim retired, the company counted two concrete plants in Duluth, one in Cloquet, one in Hibbing and a block plant in Saginaw, MN.
In 1990, the Stone Ridge Mall bought the property on Central Entrance. DRM moved its offices to Twig and the third generation took over. Mike, Tim, Pat and Tom Robertson continued to expand the business through the addition of three more ready mix plants, including Superior WI, Two Harbors and SIlver Bay. They also added gravel pit and a crushing operations in Canyon, MN. The Hibbing plant has since been changed to Chisolm, MN
Service and quality are the company’s highest priorites. Durring the summer, DRM employs up to 100 workers. Seven plants allow for efficient concrete delivery under a MNDOT-approved quality control program. Labor-saving conveyor trucks and front discharge mixers help to place the concrete; long reach booms quickly and accurately position the blocks.
The company has been privileged to participate in many significant local projects, Duluth-Superior primary bridges, all of the Duluth tunnels, the beautiful Lafayette Bluff tunnel, Downtown Duluth Tech Center, the Holiday Center and First Bank Building.
In 1950 DRM opened on Garfield Ave. Today its largest and most productive plant is also on Garfield Ave, a fitting tribute to Conrad and James Robertson.
Duluth Ready Mix is proud to be affiliated with Duluth Builders’ Exchange and celebrate with the oganization in its 100th year aniversary.
Some or all of the writing By Tracy Nelson Maurer 2002, Duluth Builders’ Exchange, Duluth, MN. http://www.tracymaurerwriter.com