The History of BY Group

Since our humble beginnings in 1949, BYG (B.Y. Group Ltd.) has evolved from an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) of sporting goods into an industry-leading wholesale supplier of recreational games, fitness products, specialty coffee, and housewares at the forefront of retail and eCommerce distribution.

Over its 75+ years, BYG has remained true to its commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability, serving retailers and consumers across Canada with dedication and integrity.

The Early Years: From Sporting Goods Manufacturer to Industry Leader in Wholesale Distribution

BYG’s history can be traced back to 1949, when it was established as a sporting goods manufacturer and importer. The company’s early success was built on a commitment to quality products and relationship building with its customers and suppliers. 

During these formative years, BYG, then known as Bernard Young & Co. Ltd. became well known for its tennis balls, darts, golf balls, and other sporting goods under the Swift Flyte brand name, many of which were sold by national retailers such as Canadian Tire, Sears and Eaton's. 

These products laid the foundation for BYG’s future as a diversified supplier in the wholesale industry and helped shape its long term success.

By the early-1970s, the company had expanded its operations and required additional space. Early Swiftflyte (or Swift Flyte at the time) products, imported from England and Japan, list the company address as being at 356 Eastern Avenue in Toronto's east-end, in a building that still stands today as a storage facility (although it is soon to be demolished as of this writing). 

A New (Old) Era

In 1988, Andre Rehaut officially took over the business after purchasing the company from its original owners, leading the company towards greater diversification and expansion. During this time, BYG relocated to a new space at 111 Barber Greene Road in what was then known as Don Mills.

This transition in the late-1980s marked a significant period of growth and change for BYG. Under Rehaut’s leadership into the 90s, BYG began broadening its product offerings to include recreational games and fitness products. This diversification allowed the company to tap into new markets and strengthen its position as a key player in the Canadian wholesale sector, at one time carrying reputable sporting goods brands such as Franklin, and growing the recognizability of Swiftflyte through a growing darts market, even showcasing its products in commercials on National and International dart broadcasts on CBC and TSN. 

By the late 1990s, BYG made another necessary and strategic move to its 85 Scarsdale Road location, still in Don Mills, which was of course amalgamated into the city of North York, or what is ultimately, Toronto. This new location supported the company's continued growth and positioned BYG to better serve its expanding customer base.   

Into Modernity 

BYG continued to build on its legacy of product innovation and its customer centric approach, expanding its product offering with the licensing for global-leading brands.

The company’s mission to deliver exceptional customer service and build lasting partnerships with clients and suppliers became the foundation of its operations.

BYG’s dedication to excellence was reflected in its ability to adapt to changing market dynamics and technologies, particularly with the rise of e-commerce and the increasing importance of digital channels at the dawn of the early-2000s. 

In 2007, Jeff Masselis joined BYG as a Sales Manager, working closely with Andre Rehaut to further the company and help it grow. Under Rehaut's mentorship, Jeff's expertise in sales and penchant for learning about the global supply chain played a crucial role in positioning BYG for its future successes.

Acquisition of BYG

In 2021, BYG entered a new chapter in its history when it was acquired by Massey Capital, a Toronto-based family office with a long-term investment strategy. The acquisition marked a significant milestone for BYG, ensuring the company’s continued growth and success under new leadership.

Roman Kocur, Managing Partner of Massey Capital, recognized the value of BYG’s strong product lines, cutting-edge e-commerce technology, and outstanding reputation among its loyal customers. With the acquisition, Massey Capital committed to upholding the values upon which BYG was founded, while also creating a path for future expansion and innovation.

As part of this transition, Jeff Masselis was promoted to Vice President & General Manager of BYG, while Adam Bortolussi, a Partner at Massey Capital, assumed the role of President.

Together, they are equipped to lead BYG into a new era of growth, building on the company’s extraordinary legacy and maintaining its reputation for excellence in the Canadian wholesale industry.

Into the Future

As BYG celebrates over 75 years of operation, it’s clear that the company’s success is built on its adaptability, innovation, and capabilities to maintain strong relationships with its customers and suppliers.

From its early days as a sporting goods manufacturer to its current status as a leading supplier of recreational games, fitness products, and specialty housewares, BYG’s long history is a testament to the power of perseverance, strategic vision, and a commitment to quality.

As BYG continues to evolve under the stewardship of Massey Capital, the company remains dedicated to its mission of delivering exceptional service and building lasting partnerships.

With a strong foundation and a clear vision for the future, BYG is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence in the Canadian wholesale industry for many years to come.