Acme United Appoints John Ward to Head its Canadian Division

Acme United (ACU – $14.91) hired John Ward as General Manager of Acme United Canada. He replaces Harry Wanless, who retired.

Mr. Ward was formerly Director of Sales at Esselte Corporation, where he was a key contributor to the successful launch and growth of the Dymo identification product line. After Esselte’s acquisition by Newell Rubbermaid in 2005, Mr. Ward was promoted to Director of Sales and Channel Marketing at Newell Rubbermaid Canada.

At Acme United Canada, Mr. Ward will head the entire organization, consisting of about 20 people. The initial goal is to increase the office channel business in which Acme’s Canadian division already has a strong market position.

Another focus is on the introduction of the Clauss lawn and garden tools, which are marketed in partnership with The ScottsMiracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG). This is a new and lucrative market that Clauss is tapping in to, so it certainly has the potential to grow into a meaningful business. Finally, since Mr. Ward has a special interest in hunting and fishing, also expanding the Camillus knives distribution in Canada will be high on his priority list.

Conclusion

John Ward’s extensive sales experience in the office products and industrial markets in the U.S. and Canada will be put to good use at Acme United Canada. Acme’s broad range of measuring, cutting and safety products still has some solid growth opportunities in the Canadian office and retail space.

Acme United will announce third quarter results, for the period ending September 30, 2013 on October 18th.

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