The refrigeration equipment manufacturer Hill Phoenix Inc. has announced it has acquired the specialty merchandiser Barker Company Ltd. and its sister company, Barker Sales and Service Inc. Under the terms of the transaction, the Barker organization - whose products are designed for supermarkets, convenience stores, and food service locations - will become part of the Hill Phoenix Specialty Products Division.

“The depth, skills, and desire of the Barker leadership team and their top managers to lead the company to new levels of excellence post acquisition were a critical part of our assessment of this opportunity,” said Bill Johnson, Hill Phoenix president and CEO. “The acquisition significantly expands the Hill Phoenix presence in the rapidly growing and strategically important specialty merchandiser segment.”

“This acquisition combines Barker’s innovative design capabilities and broad specialty product line with the impressive technology, product engineering, and performance of Hill Phoenix,” said Pat McMahon, president of Barker Co. “Our customers will benefit as we combine the energy expertise and proprietary technology that Hill Phoenix offers with Barker’s innovative style and design in merchandising.”

Hill Phoenix will continue to operate Barker’s manufacturing facilities in Keosauqua and Centerville, Iowa. The Hill Phoenix and Barker sales management teams will be meeting with customers, representatives, and dealers to answer questions regarding the acquisition, officials said.

In the meantime, customers can view a brief video announcement on myHPTV.com. Customers in need of additional information should contact their Hill Phoenix representative or their Barker product specialist directly, or call 800-518-6630, ext. 3122.

Publication date: 01/11/2010