It is with great pleasure that I announce that Southern Hardware has completed a merger with the Bostwick Braun Company of Toledo, Ohio.  Our company will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary under the name of Southern Hardware Co., Inc, a Bostwick-Braun Company.  What will NOT change is the same access to the key personnel and personal service that you have enjoyed over many years.

Southern Hardware has enjoyed a long association with Bostwick-Braun, and its CEO, Bill Bollin, through its membership in the PRO buying group and share common values regarding our customers and employees.  The result of the merger will be a larger, better-capitalized business with broader product offerings, additional dealer services and immediate access to advanced technology. 

We will begin rolling out new products and services within weeks.Southern Hardware has been a successful family-owned business for more than 50 years.  We have consistently weathered the ups and downs of our industry, which has seen the demise of many fine wholesalers over recent years.  We remain financially solid today because of the loyalty of customers like you and the efforts of an extraordinary group of employees.  Could we continue as we are in today’s economic climate?  By all means.  Can we be a better supplier to you with the additional resources afforded by this merger…absolutely!

On a personal note, as primary stockholder it has long been a concern of mine that the future of the employees who made this company successful should not be determined by the retirement plans or health of any one individual.  I am especially happy that we will now be part of a 100% employee-owned company with a very strong capital base and a proven record of progress and stability in all economic environments.  With this in mind I look forward to my continued service as President and Chief Operating Officer.

All of us at Southern appreciate the opportunity that you have given us to earn your business and look forward to continuing to do so in the future.