Atkins Companies celebrates 75th anniversary

Atkins Companies is celebrating its 75th anniversary. The milestone marks three generations of family leadership for the West Orange-based real estate development, investment and property management firm.
Founded by S. Stephen Atkins in 1949, Atkins Cos. began as a residential real estate development firm meeting the surging demand for housing in post-war America. Over time, Steve and his sons—Bob, Chick, and Jack—recognized the growing need for specialized medical office spaces driven by New Jersey’s rapidly expanding population. The company pioneered purpose-built health care properties and established itself as a trusted partner for health care systems throughout New Jersey and the eastern United States.
Throughout its 75-year history, Atkins has successfully navigated economic challenges, including the late 1980s downturn, the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic. Through strategic foresight and an unwavering commitment to its partners, the company has emerged stronger each time, constructing over 2.5 million square feet of state-of-the-art medical facilities.
Atkins Companies currently owns and manages over one million square feet of health care and commercial properties nationwide.
Guided by second- and third-generation family members—Bob and Chick Atkins, alongside Chick’s son Cory—the company continues to be a leader in the health care real estate sector.
The recent additions of Bob’s son Drew and Chick’s son Jamie further underscore its dedication to honoring its legacy while driving future success.
“My father founded this company 75 years ago on one simple premise ‘Your handshake and your word are your bond – more important than any written contract’ which has guided us through all cycles of our business,” Bob Atkins, managing principal said. “To mark this milestone is a testament to the importance and value we place on the relationships we have built with our tenants, partners, and community. These relationships have been the foundation of our success, and we remain committed to upholding the integrity and trust that have defined us for 75 years.”
Also of significance is the firm’s addition of Andrew “Drew” Atkins and Jamie Atkins as vice presidents.
Drew brings nearly 15 years of expertise in financial markets, specializing in commodity futures and options trading while Jamie adds a wealth of commercial real estate experience he received while playing a key role at Denholtz Properties.
“We are proud to expand our third generation of family leadership with the additions of Drew and Jamie,” Chick Atkins said. “Their fresh perspectives and energy will help ensure that Atkins Companies remains a trusted partner to healthcare networks nationwide and continues to lead the industry for generations to come.”