Chicago, IL: Two well-known wholesale floral distributors will join forces as of October 1, 2012. Kennicott Bros. Company and Vans Floral Products, both headquartered in the Chicago Metro area, will merge their operations with Kennicott acquiring most of the assets of Vans.
The principals of both companies approved an agreement that would achieve greater economies of scale throughout their combined distribution areas. The transition process and ongoing operations will be led by Gustavo Gilchrist, who will succeed Gary Doran as President of Kennicott Brothers. Gary will remain active with the company as a special consultant in his retirement. Jack Van Namen and John Van Namen will fill key executive roles.
“This dynamic combination will leverage the strengths of each organization to better serve all of our customers,” stated Harrison “Red” Kennicott, CEO.
Kennicott Bros. has served retailers in the Midwest for more than 130 years from its seven locations in Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana. Vans Floral Products was established in 1960 and operates eight locations in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota and Atlanta, Georgia.
“For many years, Vans and Kennicott have been friendly competitors with similar values and have worked together on behalf of the industry through our affiliations with AFE, SAF and WF&FSA,” said Jack Van Namen. “Now we will be working together to build a stronger network of sourcing, sales and distribution among our customers and suppliers.”
Source: Kennicott Bros.