STAMFORD, CT - Azelis Americas CASE announced the merger of GMZ and EW Kaufmann into one entity, GMZ, to be led by Tom Wells, President of GMZ. “The newly formed GMZ will allow Azelis Americas CASE to better serve our customers, our principals and our employees,” said Frank Bergonzi, CEO and President of Azelis Americas.

“The combination of these two entities makes sense strategically and allows us to have one brand encompassing the entire geography (Midwest, Ohio Valley and Northeast Regions),” said Dan Gruber, President, CASE Market Segment.

The company will continue to operate the CASE market segment via a North American business strategy, executed by three regional brands:  GMZ, Ribelin Sales and PT Hutchins. Ribelin Sales and PT Hutchins will continue to operate in the Southeast/Southwest and West, respectively.

The newly optimized CASE channel demonstrates the commitment to remain the leading CASE specialty distribution channel in the Americas. It is comprised of a team of trained and dedicated technical sales representatives, supported by application labs with degreed chemists, and best-in-class customer service. The planned integration is scheduled for completion by January 1, 2017.

Ted Burke, currently President of EW Kaufmann, will take on a new role of VP of Operations for the CASE market segment. In his new role, Burke will focus on the company’s supply chain and warehouse operations, with an emphasis on further enhancing its ability to serve customers and principals. Shaun Julian will continue as VP of Sales for GMZ’s Eastern Region, reporting to Rocky Prior, who has been promoted to the new role of Senior Vice President of Sales, GMZ.