Gordon Ashdown
For the past 17 years Gordon Ashdown has owned and operated Can West Agencies, an esthetics wholesale business and educational center. His wife Beverly has owned the Beverly Ashdown Day Spa for the past 17 years as well, both being built from small beginnings, to a combined staff of 25 – 30.
Gordon was raised on a mixed farm just outside of Porcupine Plain, Saskatchewan, about four hours north-east of Saskatoon where he completed high school. Although he enjoyed country life, his passion has always been in the urban business world.
Since beginning his business career at age 23, Gordon has owned and operated multiple businesses across western Canada, operating several businesses at the same time. He says that this has given him the opportunity to learn from his many mistakes over many years.
Most recently for eight years Gordon was president of a volunteer organization which awarded start up loans and grants to small businesses entrepreneurs. He has always found it gratifying to see a good idea grow into a business and become a positive contributor to the local business community.
Through various companies, Gordon has been a member and supporter of the CFIB for many years, starting back in the 1970’s.
