Manulife is celebrating a major milestone. Its iconic South Tower headquarters in Toronto is turning 100 years old. For a century, the building has been both an architectural landmark and a symbol of stability in Canada’s insurance industry.
The limestone building at 200 Bloor Street East opened in 1925. Manulife moved there from Toronto’s busy financial district. At the time, the Bloor Street area was considered the outskirts of the city. The famous architects Sproatt & Rolph designed the tower. They also designed the Royal York Hotel and Hart House at the University of Toronto.
The company grew quickly after World War II. Demand for life and health insurance expanded. To make more space, a 12-storey addition was built in 1953.
The headquarters first held 250 employees. It is now a global hub for more than 3,000 staff. The company provides insurance and financial solutions to one in four Canadians.
Over the past 100 years, the South Tower has been a constant. It stood through the Great Depression, world wars, and periods of high inflation. It has seen major changes in the insurance market.
“For 100 years, South Tower in Toronto has been the heart of our global headquarters,” said Phil Witherington, President and CEO of Manulife. “This anniversary lets us look back on our legacy. It also pushes us to keep our promises to customers for the next 100 years.”
To celebrate, Manulife is sharing rarely seen historical photos. The company is also giving away elm tree seedlings. These seedlings were grown from the mature elm tree that stands outside the South Tower. This project symbolizes continuity and renewal. These values are key in an industry built on long-term security.
The anniversary highlights the importance of physical headquarters in insurance. They are enduring symbols of strength. Sun Life’s Toronto tower and Great-West Lifeco’s Winnipeg base serve similar roles. They are physical signs of a long-term commitment to trust.
For Manulife, the South Tower remains that powerful symbol. It shows the company’s ability to weather change. It stands for a promise to safeguard customers and communities for its next century.
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