Bath Fitter is a leading home remodeling company that specializes in tub-to-shower conversions, walk-in bathtubs, and other bathroom remodeling services. With over 320 locations across North America, Bath Fitter has transformed over 1 million bathrooms since its founding in 1984. But who is the visionary entrepreneur behind this successful franchise business?
The founder of Bath Fitter is Ed Siskin, an inventor and businessman who pioneered the concept of affordable, one-day bathroom remodeling. Siskin recognized the need for quick and convenient bathroom upgrades and devised a unique business model to deliver it. His innovative thinking laid the groundwork for Bath Fitter’s continued growth over nearly 4 decades.
Ed Siskin’s Early Life and Career
Ed Siskin was born in Montreal, Canada in 1935. From a young age, he displayed an entrepreneurial spirit and interest in sales. As a teenager, Siskin got his start selling stationery and office supplies door-to-door. After briefly studying engineering at McGill University, he decided to pursue business full-time.
In the 1950s and 60s, Siskin co-founded several companies in the Montreal area including Eldee Paper Products, Eldee Plastics, and Tauby Furs. He cultivated talents in sales, marketing, and management. But it was his next venture that would make Siskin a household name.
Invention of the One-Day Bath Remodel
In the 1970s, Siskin observed that many people needed bathroom upgrades like bathtub replacements but were reluctant to undertake messy, weeklong remodeling projects. He envisioned a solution that would minimize inconvenience for homeowners.
After years of research and design, Siskin invented a unique bathtub replacement method. His system allowed bathtubs to be custom-fit with wall surrounds and installed over existing tub surfaces in just one day. Siskin’s invention eliminated the need for costly plumbing alterations or tile work.
By the early 1980s, Siskin had perfected his bathtub replacement concept. The stage was set to launch his revolutionary bathroom remodeling company.
Founding of Bath Fitter
In 1984, Ed Siskin opened the first Bath Fitter location in Montreal. His goal was to deliver fast, affordable, and professional bathroom upgrades across North America.
Siskin trademarked the Bath Fitter name and pioneered the franchise model. By selling exclusive territorial rights to franchisees, he could rapidly expand while maintaining quality control. The Bath Fitter franchise system allowed Siskin to train installers in his specialized one-day installation method.
Within a decade, Bath Fitter grew into Canada’s largest bathroom remodeling service with over 100 locations. Siskin then brought his successful franchise to the US. Throughout the 90s and 2000s, Bath Fitter expanded across America with hundreds of locations. The company now operates in nearly every state and major metro area.
Product and Service Innovations
Under Siskin’s leadership, Bath Fitter has continually innovated with new products and services:
- Custom-fit seamless wall surrounds – Developed proprietary manufacturing and installation techniques.
- Walk-in bathtubs – Created walk-in tubs with door seals and fast drainage systems.
- Tub-to-shower conversions – Invented tub-to-shower remodeling process.
- Universal design – Focused on accessible bathroom products.
- Digital imaging – Introduced 3D design tools to preview remodeling results.
These innovations allowed Bath Fitter to deliver more home upgrades while maintaining speed and quality.
Awards and Recognition
Bath Fitter’s excellence in service and entrepreneurship has earned many awards, including:
- Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies (14 consecutive years)
- Franchise 500 Ranking by Entrepreneur Magazine (17 years running)
- J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Awards
- National Association of Home Builder’s Brand Use Study (Top brand 12 years in a row)
- First Place Reputation Management – Remodeling Magazine
Siskin himself won the prestigious Franchisee of the Year award from the Canadian Franchise Association in 1998. He was inducted into the Canadian Franchise Association’s Hall of Fame in 2000.
Continued Growth and Success
From its start as a single storefront, Bath Fitter has expanded to over 320 franchise locations across the US and Canada. The company completes around 180,000 tub and shower installations each year. More than 1 million households have been transformed by Bath Fitter since its founding.
Annual sales now exceed $550 million, making Bath Fitter the world’s largest bathroom remodeling company. The unique franchise system imagined by Ed Siskin remains central to the company’s identity. Customers continue to appreciate the quality, convenience, and affordability that Bath Fitter provides.
Leadership Transition
After decades leading Bath Fitter’s tremendous growth, Ed Siskin stepped down as President in 2015. He handed over the reins to his son, Jeff Siskin, and daughter, Anna Siskin. Ed assumed the role of Founder and Chairman but remained actively involved in advising the company.
Under its new leadership, Bath Fitter has continued to expand and modernize. The company embraced digital tools for design, sales, and marketing. This third generation of Siskins at the helm ensures Bath Fitter will carry on Ed’s legacy of innovation.
Conclusion
As the founder of Bath Fitter, Ed Siskin revolutionized the concept of bathroom remodeling. His inventions and innovations allowed homeowners to upgrade bathrooms conveniently and affordably. Siskin pioneered the one-day bathtub replacement method along with many other industry firsts.
With keen business acumen and an entrepreneurial spirit, Siskin built Bath Fitter into North America’s top bathroom remodeling franchise. He successfully grew the company from a single Montreal storefront in 1984 to over 320 locations across the US and Canada today. Siskin’s vision and leadership as founder enabled Bath Fitter to transform over 1 million bathrooms and counting.
Although Siskin stepped down from daily operations, his values and approach continue to guide the company. Bath Fitter remains dedicated to delivering fast, professional, and cost-effective bathroom remodeling. The company Ed Siskin created has withstood the test of time by constantly evolving yet staying true to its founding principles. Siskin’s entrepreneurial legacy will shape Bath Fitter for many years to come.