The History of Atlantic Millwork & Cabinetry

Origins and Early Years

Starting the company in 1991 was a huge risk for Mark Woodruff and Richard Reed. At that time, they were working for the same business and were the company’s top two salesmen. Starting their own business meant quitting their jobs and giving up a steady income when both were starting families, a risk most people would never consider. But they had a dream and the faith that with hard work and determination they could make it a reality.

The following summer, while working full-time, the men spent long nights working in private on their business plan. Woodruff says, “The first time we went to inquire about a loan from the bank, the lender laughed in our faces.” They did not let this deter them from pursuing their dream. After reviewing the business plan and making the suggested adjustments the bank had given them, they were able to obtain a loan. Wasting no time, the next day the two men went into work and resigned from their jobs.

Atlantic Millwork & Cabinetry was established shortly thereafter. Reed says, “We truly had a grassroots beginning. Our office was my living room, and our delivery trucks were an old minivan and a beat-up Bronco. We worked 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday without pay for the first three months.” Woodruff and Reed went without pay as part of their business plan to acquire the funds needed to gain enough capital to grow the business. After those first few months, they had made enough money to open their first office in the back of the Shore Distributors building, and by year’s end, they had done well enough to hire three employees.

Over the next 33+ years, the company expanded and developed into one of Delmarva’s leading building suppliers. They opened an office building, showroom, and warehouse at 17527 Nassau Commons Blvd. in Lewes. Atlantic Millwork & Cabinetry has provided materials for and worked on thousands of remodeling projects, custom homes on and near the shore, and both state and private construction projects across Delmarva. Through it all, they have established trusting relationships with hundreds of architects, builders, and contractors. Their experienced sales staff, design team, and in-house technicians have more than 100 combined years of experience and are dedicated to providing excellent service and expert advice. The company has established a reputation grounded in customer satisfaction, product performance, and personal service after the sale.

Next Generation

As Atlantic Millwork & Cabinetry moves forward, it continues to build on its legacy of quality, service, and community engagement. Now, the second generation of owners—sons Blake Woodruff, Ryan Reed, along with partners Erik Olmsted and Chris Woodruff—are set to continue forward with what Mark and Richard have built. With a diverse range of products and a strong partnership with customers and their vendors, AMC is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of its customers while maintaining the values that have driven its success for over thirty years.