Cullman, Alabama based Rusken Packaging announced that it has acquired Nelson Packaging, headquartered in Cowpens, South Carolina, approximately 20 miles east of Spartanburg. The acquisition was effective November 2, 2021.
Privately owned, Nelson Packaging has been operating since 1982, selling an array of corrugated manufacturing, corrugated pallets and inner packaging capabilities. Additionally, Nelson Packaging has obtained two U.S. patents for its trademarked corrugated Transporter Pallets®. The Nelson Packaging team takes pride in its ability to provide customized corrugated packaging solutions and pallets specific to their customers’ needs.
“Nelson is an exciting acquisition not only because of its strategic location, but also because of its strong reputation as a market leader,” said Rusken Chief Operating Officer Randy Whiteaker.
Nelson and Rusken’s combined growth in the Carolinas will be led by Rusken’s Kevin O’Brien and Tim Bell, working alongside the current management team at Nelson.
“The Rusken team is thrilled to partner with the Nelson Packaging organization that optimally aligns with our customer-centric approach and culture,” said O’Brien and Bell in a press release. “This acquisition is part of a strategic focus to expand Rusken’s footprint throughout the Southeast, further growing our existing capabilities and customer base in North and South Carolina.
Please join us in welcoming owner, Duane Nelson and the entire Nelson Packaging team to the Rusken family.”
In other news, Rusken Packaging announced that Randy Whiteaker has been appointed the new Chief Operating Officer of the organization. Whiteaker will have the primary responsibility of leading Rusken’s continued growth across all sites, while maintaining our customer-centric approach to provide optimal corrugated packaging solutions for our partners.
An experienced business leader, Whiteaker will succeed Joey Jackson, who retired in September 2021, and will assume responsibilities in this expanded role going forward. With 14 facilities in seven Southeastern states, Rusken is a forward-looking regional organization that has experienced exponential growth over the last decade. Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, Rusken continues to be committed to a truly remarkable customer experience.
