U.S. Zinc will launch a new national distribution strategy for its zinc oxide division through an alliance with the KODA Distribution Group, Stamford, Conn. The new approach, which will go into effect as soon as contracts permit, will streamline points of contact for customers across the U.S. The alliance will utilize KODA's national footprint of regional distribution companies, thereby creating logistical efficiencies and an optimized supply chain.
"Our main priority is providing our customers with the highest quality products and services," said U.S. Zinc vice president of commercial Tracy Baugh. "To deliver upon that commitment, we realized we could secure greater efficiencies by consolidating our zinc oxide distribution network within the United States. We will work closely with our customers, KODA and its distribution companies, and our existing distributors to ensure a seamless transition over the next few months."
KODA has five regional, independent distribution companies covering the U.S.: Monson Companies, Inc. (New England); GMZ (Ohio Valley/Midwest); Ribelin Sales, Inc. (Southwest); EW Kaufmann (Northeast/Mid-Atlantic); and PT Hutchins (West). Previously, U.S. Zinc worked with over 15 zinc oxide distributors to cover the same territories.
"We are thrilled to partner with U.S. Zinc, whom we believe to be a premier provider of zinc oxide. We have the experience, the national footprint via our regional companies and the technically trained team to ensure the transition and qualification process is smooth for our customers," said KODA Distribution Group president and CEO Frank Bergonzi. "We are excited about this new opportunity and look forward to working with U.S. Zinc and the customer base."
