Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Ryan McGill
When Jim Cunningham founded Cunningham Industrial Supply in 2000, he laid the foundation for a legacy. What began as a one-person operation has grown into a thriving industrial supply company, spanning three generations and serving customers across 28 states, Canada, and Mexico.
Jim had spent years working for another industrial supply company when he realized he wanted something more. With encouragement from a loyal customer and financial backing from his uncle, he took a leap of faith and started his own venture.
“It was just me in the beginning,” Jim recalls. “But the business grew fast, and I quickly realized I needed help.”
That’s where his son, Jimbo, came in. In early 2003, Jimbo, who had a civil engineering degree from Auburn University, left his job in Birmingham to join his father. It was a big decision, especially with his son Clayton soon to arrive in the world, but one he has never regretted.
“I rode with Dad for a few days just to get a feel for it,” Jimbo says. “It felt right. I talked it over with my wife, and we decided to go for it.”
As Cunningham Industrial Supply expanded, so did its offerings. The company’s sole focus on fasteners evolved to include welding wire, specialty parts, and more.
A major turning point came when they started importing directly from China. Jim has traveled there 19 times to build relationships with suppliers, and now his grandson, Clayton, is preparing to make his first trip.
“That move to importing from China changed everything for us,” Jimbo says. “It allowed us to keep prices competitive and maintain better inventory levels for our customers.”
For Clayton, a December 2024 graduate of the University of Alabama, joining the family business wasn’t always the plan. Initially pursuing a career in finance, he soon realized banking wasn’t the right fit. Having grown up around the business, he recognized the value of what his family had built.
“I talked it over with my fiancée and my family, and I felt led to be a part of it,” Clayton says. “Right now, I’m focused on learning, but I’m excited to bring in fresh ideas, especially with technology.”
Through nearly 25 years of growth, the Cunningham family’s commitment to customer service has remained constant.
“The most important thing is taking care of the customer,” Jim says. “Honesty, reliability, and making sure people get what they need is what has set us apart.”
Jimbo agrees, adding that being a small, family-run business gives them an edge. “We don’t have to jump through corporate hoops. If a customer calls, we load up the truck and get it to them.”
While many people say they could never work with their relatives, the Cunninghams have a different perspective.
“My dad is like my best friend,” Clayton says. “And my Papaw is the same way.”
“We get along really well. Plus, we have the flexibility to put family first. I am fortunate to be able to spend quality time with my family outside of work. That’s a huge advantage,” Jimbo adds.
As Jim looks ahead, he’s preparing to step back a bit, knowing the business is in good hands. “From the start, I wanted this to be something for the future. Seeing Clayton step in, knowing Jimbo is leading the way—I couldn’t be prouder.” WL
