The building was constructed in 1908 as the headquarters and manufacturing plant of the Kaufman Footwear Factory (later Kaufman Rubber Company), which produced rubber boots and footwear, contributing significantly to Kitchener’s industrial growth. The Kaufman factory was a major employer in Kitchener (then Berlin), supporting thousands of jobs and boosting the city’s reputation as a manufacturing hub. Kaufman’s products, especially the iconic Sorel winter boots, became internationally recognized.

In 2005, the building was redeveloped into a residential condominium complex known as Kaufman Lofts, preserving much of its original industrial character.