About
In 1977, Ross MacDowell founded Harwell Packaging to serve clients overlooked by larger suppliers, specializing in custom small‑run corrugated packaging.
Over time, Harwell grew to meet larger demands while keeping its personal approach.
Nearly fifty years later,
Ross’ grandson started Canwell
to carry that same spirit into new work.
-
Made in Canada & CME Member
Our crates are manufactured in Canada, supporting local industry and reducing transport emissions.Through our manufacturing partners, we are also connected with the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME), a national association advocating for Canadian industry.
Living Wage Supporter
In collaboration with our suppliers, we support the Ontario Living Wage Network by sourcing from businesses that pay employees a fair, livable wage.
FSC ® Certified Materials
Our wood supplier holds FSC® certification (FSC‑C109634), ensuring the materials we use come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits.
AP Certified Non‑Toxic
We use AP‑certified, non‑toxic paints for crate markings and colour coding. Certified by the Art & Creative Materials Institute (ACMI) to meet ASTM D‑4236 standards, these paints are safe for workers and the environment. -
"We started Canwell Crates because well‑built,
practical crates shouldn’t be sold as premium upgrades.”
“Efficiency isn’t a feature. It’s the result of making good decisions at every step.
We build crates with the same care our clients put into the equipment inside them.” -
Ethan grew up in the world of packaging. As the grandson of Harwell Packaging founder Ross MacDowell, he had a front‑row seat to how a successful family business was built and run. Over the years, he learned every stage of the process, from design and manufacturing to sales and customer relationships. His career has taken him through manufacturing, banking, and sales, giving him a well‑rounded understanding of how packaging works from concept to delivery, which he now brings to Canwell.
Carla has experience in marketing, business operations, and communications across both corporate and creative industries. At a global engineering firm, she led projects in branding, marketing campaigns, HR, and talent acquisition. She has also worked with cultural organizations on media and event production. She is passionate about branding and seeing ideas through from concept to completion, and her mix of strategic and hands‑on experience guides how Canwell builds its brand and client relationships.
Together, they bring complementary skills and a focus on creating solutions that meet the needs of modern manufacturing while keeping the personal service of a family business.
