History
1980s
Hoeft is Built
John and Jackie Hoeft formed Hoeft Builders, Inc., General Contractor in 1983. The company’s first project was a development in Spooner, Wisconsin that included a grocery store, gas station, restaurant, and retail building. The contracts were little more than handshakes, and the projects weren’t complete until the job was done right and the client was satisfied.
1990s
Finding Hoeft's Niche
During the 80s and 90s, Hoeft Builders specialized in constructing grocery stores and fast-food franchises across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois. Our reputation grew for delivering high-quality projects efficiently and cost-effectively.
A Shift In Leadership
Following John Hoeft’s passing in 1998, his wife Jackie stepped in as the owner and manager, with valuable support from superintendent and long-time employee Ron Bluemel. During this period, the company shifted its focus to concentrate on projects within the Chippewa Valley.
2000s
2nd Generation
In March of 2004, Peter Hoeft became the new owner and manager of Hoeft Builders, Inc. In his new role, Peter wanted to create a focus on helping local and regional businesses grow alongside Hoeft. He had a vision of expanding the company’s scope and services, while continuing to keep the relationships built along the way at the cornerstone of the business.
We Build Business
While sorting through his late father’s papers, Peter Hoeft found a note that said, “We don’t just build buildings. We build business.” This simple, yet profound statement captured the essence of what Hoeft Builders stands for.
Trademarked as “We Build Business,” it symbolizes our commitment to more than just construction. It represents our dedication to fostering strong client relationships, guiding them through the construction process, and celebrating their business growth along the way. This philosophy remains at the heart of everything we do.
First Multifamily Project
In September 2004, Hoeft Builders secured its first multifamily contract—constructing 32 residential condominiums in Northwest Wisconsin. This $7 million project marked the beginning of many significant, large-scale ventures for the company.
Real Estate Development
In 2004, Peter Hoeft and Robb Majeski created Cottagewood Group, a real estate development firm. In 2005, they bought their first building together. It was a medical office that Hoeft Builders would later remodel. This project inspired both Hoeft Builders and Cottagewood Group to concentrate on healthcare as a primary focus in their work.
Market Expansion
In the late 2000s, Hoeft Builders ventured into a variety of new markets. During this period, we undertook projects in multifamily, financial, medical, senior living, retail, and more, broadening our expertise and service offerings.
Hoeft Builders West
In 2008, Patrick Hoeft, John’s second son, expanded the family business by opening Hoeft Builders West in Avon, Colorado. This branch focuses on constructing luxury residential properties in the Vail Valley, as well as building hyperbaric chambers throughout the entire United States.
River Prairie Development
In 2009, Peter Hoeft and Robb Majeski bought 60 acres of the River Prairie Development in Altoona, Wisconsin. This parcel of land was known as the Northeast Quadrant and they had a vision to turn it into a premier Class A office park.
2010s
Expanding Into Industrial & Healthcare
In the early 2010s, Hoeft Builders expanded its portfolio to include projects in the industrial/manufacturing and healthcare sectors. These areas have since become fundamental to our business, and we have developed significant expertise and experience in these markets over the years.
Small Business of The Year
In 2013, the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce presented Hoeft Builders, Inc. with the Small Business of the Year Award. This award was a huge honor to receive as it commemorated 30 years of hard work and growth.
Hoeft Moves to Altoona
After 30 years in business, we constructed a new corporate office, becoming one of the first companies to develop the NE Quadrant of River Prairie. We occupied this office for five years before expanding and moving to a new, larger office just across the street.
A Shift In Leadership
In 2018, Hoeft expanded its leadership roles.
After 9 years with Hoeft, in both superintendent and project manager roles, Jay Rideout (left) became a partner and the President of Hoeft Builders, Inc.
After 6 years with the company, as a project manager, Luke Rykal (right) became a partner and the Vice President of Hoeft Builders, Inc.
Peter Hoeft (center) remains the CEO.
2020s
The Completion of River Prairie
In 2022, Hoeft Builders completed the Northeast Quadrant of the River Prairie Development. Hoeft acted as the developer and/or general contractor for the builds for 19 businesses. Throughout this process, Hoeft took careful consideration to keep architectural and environmental control in order to maintain their vision of a premier Class A office park.
The Sevens Development
In 2022, Hoeft Builders purchased a 47-acre plot of land on the south side of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, at the Highway 53 and Interstate 94 interchange. This land will be known as The Sevens and will be the home of multifamily, medical, corporate offices, hospitality, the new Hoeft Builders headquarters, and more.
Hoeft Southeast
In 2024, we expanded our reach by opening Hoeft Southeast in Nashville, Tennessee. This office enhances our ability to serve the Southeast region more effectively, reflecting our commitment to growth and client services.
Located in a rapidly developing area, Hoeft Southeast allows us to deliver our high-quality commercial construction services with greater efficiency and local insight. This expansion marks a significant milestone in our journey, positioning us to build stronger relationships and tackle exciting new projects throughout the Southeast.
The Hoeft of Today
With over 40 years of experience, Hoeft Builders proudly delivers a comprehensive range of services, including construction management, general contracting, design-build, self-perform carpentry, and real estate development across the country. Our dedication to excellence and client satisfaction have been the cornerstone of our success.
Today, we remain deeply committed to serving our communities and fostering business growth. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue building on our legacy and contributing to the success of our clients for generations to come.
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Regis Court Dental
"We can't thank you enough for the amazing new facility Hoeft Builders recently completed. It is absolutely beautiful! We were highly impressed by the level of professionalism and amazing customer service throughout the project. Just another "classic" Hoeft experience from start to finish."
- Dr. Lisa and Jeff Henson, Owners
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Summit Dental Consulting
"The Hoeft team was wonderful to work with and really listened and respected our team's concerns and wishes. We all love the results of the addition and re-construction within the existing building. Patients comment every day on our beautiful building. Thank you for your expertise, patience, and consideration."
- Lynn Cleven
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Higgins Travel Leaders
"If you are in the market to do a commercial remodel project or a new build, contact Hoeft Builders today. When we had the emergency situation of our office space flooding due to a burst pipe, my first call was to Hoeft Builders. They immediately responded by meeting me at the office to assess the situation and advise me on my next steps. Since that time, they have walked me through the design process of remodeling the space, interior design and have been more than receptive to my thoughts and ideas. The Team at Hoeft is an exceptional group and I could not be happier. "
- Denise Petricka, President
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