For more than 30 years, Don Teemsa, Sr. owned and operated a plumbing company in San Diego. In 1983, Teemsa realized there was a need for an independent wholesale distribution store to serve the local market, and from this need, he established Mission Valley Pipe and Supply. This year marks Mission Valley’s 35-year anniversary.

A thriving independent one-branch operation, Mission Valley focuses on commercial and residential plumbing fixtures and accessories, with more than 20,000-square feet of warehouse space serving San Diego. Its customers range from local hospitals, colleges, government, and military as well as commercial and residential property managers, kitchen and bath showrooms and interior designers. As an independent and thriving business, it is well integrated into the community.

The company is family- and employee-owned, with 26 employee owners who understand that what sets the company apart from the competition is customer service. “Teamwork is the key. Employees are owners, and work together to maximize profitability and maintain excellent customer service” said Matt Trunick, director of inside sales. Mission Valley believes there is room in the supply chain for large multi-branch companies and independents to thrive. Believing in working together, Mission Valley will reach out and source from a competitor if they need a product. “We learned how to work together to reach the goal, which is to make our customers happy,” said Amanda Gooch, receptionist. 

Product Reliability Integrity Dedication Excellence (P.R.I.D.E)

P.R.I.D.E is the company mantra and achieved by investing in opportunities to enrich employees’ knowledge of product and services. Educational seminars, workshops as well as employee cross-training allow for each to step into the roles. “This makes for a tight-knit team, which thrives on doing what it takes to get the job done and done well,” Gooch said. 

“When describing a true partnership, I always think of Mission Valley. The staff is some of the finest people I have ever met, and some of the best skilled in the industry. Their commitment to offering quality products, top customer service, and unmatched industry knowledge are just a few of the reasons we are proud to be partners,” said Paul Wellman, senior director of West Sales, TOTO. 

The company spent more than two years to develop an online store, which keeps it viable and on trend. Each customer’s price is built in online, allowing for ease in placing an order, and, at their convenience, pick up at the counter or have it delivered directly.      

To commemorate the anniversary, Mission Valley is running specials all year for its customers and celebrating the community that has made 35 years of business possible. “It has been such a privilege for me over the last 20 years to be associated with a distributor that conducts its business with such dedication, integrity, and support for both its customers and vendors! Mission Valley Pipe has been a staple in the San Diego community over the last 35 years, and I am honored to be associated with such a fine organization,” said Brad Owen, Mainline Sales Inc.