The Arco difference has been a standard of ours since the company opened in 1979. We’re focused on providing great products with great service—all delivered with a personal touch. Today is no different. The Arco Building Systems team has some very bittersweet news to share. As shared from our company president of over 40 years, the news is best said by our dear friend Allen Freeman.
On June 30, 2020, the Assets of Arco building Systems were purchased by Todd and Carolyn Wade, and I retired as president of a company I have had the honor of guiding for over 40 years. This was a very bittersweet occasion as, even though the responsibilities now lie in very capable hands, I will not be seeing the fine people who are Arco on a daily basis.
As discussions continued over the next few weeks and months, a plan was taking shape that made a lot of sense. As a potential business owner, Carolyn brought continuity, building knowledge, energy, and love of all things Arco. Carolyn’s husband, Todd, brought the experience of an owner of a previous successful business as well as the personality and attention to detail required in such a position. That combination provided a team whose talents perfectly complement each other.
This was looking like a perfect fit and a plan was finalized with closing to be March 31, 2020. Then the pandemic hit! Closing was delayed 90 days and, in that regard only, the pandemic seemed to have a silver lining. Since I couldn’t wait 90 days to bring in Todd, I made the announcement to the employees that Todd and Carolyn’s new company would be purchasing Arco Building Systems even though we had not closed the sale. The employees were relieved and enthusiastic about the plan. All the employees knew Todd and were pumped about his coming on board as well.
This early announcement allowed Todd to begin his baptism under fire immediately and gave him a chance to see if what we were doing would work before he was locked in. After Todd had gotten six weeks or so under his belt, Todd told me he was more eager than ever to close. He said he was able to see how Arco performed during a tough time like the early pandemic days, and if that was any indication, things were going to be great during good times.
Since we closed the sale on June 30, Todd and Carolyn have hit the ground running, forming their own team, cleaning things up where needed, and moving full steam ahead. Although, technically their company name is Aker’s Building Systems, Inc., legally they will continue to do business as Arco Building Systems and Arco Steel Buildings. The transition has been smooth and any changes made have been for the good of the customers and employees.
Again, it has been an honor to lead Arco for over 40 years. Now I can relax a little knowing that Arco is in good hands and will continue to offer quality buildings with great customer service as well as treat employees and customers with dignity and respect.
Thank you, Allen, for your continued hard work, for your leadership, and for being an extension of what your dad started years ago. The Arco Building Systems staff and our customers appreciate your contributions and setting the standard for “the Arco difference.”