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Jasper Group and Jofco jointly announced Monday that negotiations regarding the merger between the companies had reached a successful conclusion. “We were very pleased with the findings from the discovery process,” began Mike Elliott, Jasper Group President and CEO. “Jofco will function as a wholly owned subsidiary of Jasper Group, retaining all previous and current avenues of distribution. We move into the transition phase now, which will include some corporate logistical changes, sharing of ideas, and cross-functional communication to drive the new corporate synergy.” Jasper Group opened its doors in 1929 as Jasper Seating Company, producing high quality seating products for offices, schools and institutions. In the last 83 years, the company has changed its name to Jasper Group to reflect the wide spectrum of product offering now included in its brand portfolio. JSI manufactures furniture for business interiors in the upper mid-market range from office and conference to reception and training. The Community brand is furniture for public spaces, providing solutions in environments where people gather, dine and learn. And Klem’s furniture is for hospitality, creating beautifully crafted casegoods for hotels meeting a variety of star classifications. |
Jofco, currently enjoying its 90th year in business, now joins the Jasper Group family as a company that provides design-driven furniture for the architecture and design market. Known for its products of premium quality, Jofco offers an extensive collection of collaboration seating, conferencing and casegoods ideal for organizations looking for a high end feel. Jofco will continue its partnership with FREZZA in the United States. FREZZA, the second largest manufacturer in Italy, presents European style furniture for the high caliber executive office. Its collections perfectly fit any architectural design using products ranging from conference and desking systems to glass and wood walls. Together Jasper Group and Jofco have a combined 173 years of experience in the furniture industry, over 1.6M square feet of manufacturing space and 800 employees. The merger will allow the integration of resources and knowledge which will strengthen operations to provide stability for the employees, equity for shareholders, and advantages for customers. |
Jasper Group will continue with its plan to have all brands maintain their operations with existing sales team, field sales representatives and customer service as part of the newly expanded organization. Additionally, each brand will maintain its unique identity, target market and distribution network. “We feel the transition process will be fluid,” finished Elliott. “We have already begun to learn from each other and find where our resources complement each other. There is great potential for new opportunities, more growth and many successes to be had.”  PDF of story |
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October 2012 – Jasper Group and Jofco have signed a Letter of Intent to investigate a merger of the two companies. There will be a thirty to sixty day due diligence period to confirm the transaction and develop a plan of action after the execution of the Merger Agreement. The goal is to have the merger process concluded by the end of the year. |
The plan calls for the Jofco brand to continue operation with its own sales team, field sales representatives, and customer service as part of the Jasper Group organization. Together we hope to invest substantial resources creating a synergistic partnership that drives profitability all around. |
There will be further details forthcoming as we go through the process of completing the merger. |
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An industry full of fashion, why not wear it. |
The winning design, known only to Mike himself, was chosen among five finalists; four of which were selected by IIDA President Viveca Bissonnette and a fifth voted by people’s choice. “We anticipated the unique concepts and were definitely not disappointed,” tells Ashley Werner, Director of Marketing at Jasper Group. “The entire Jasper Group team and all who participated enjoyed the fashion fun, from quirky to charismatic; we plan to carry that enthusiasm throughout our NeoCon presence!” The five finalists and their guest will receive airfare, accommodations and private dinner with Jasper Group during NeoCon. We thank all who participated sharing their creativity, style and sense of flair! And, to all NeoCon attendees, stay tuned for the Grand Reveal. |
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May 2012 – Jasper Group and AIA Chicago are honored sponsors of keynote speaker Ian Schrager. His groundbreaking concepts have changed the business and set industry standards that continue to resonate throughout the world. Ian Schrager, of Ian Schrager Company, pioneer of the boutique hotel concept, presents Wednesday of NeoCon at noon in the Sauganash Ballroom of the Holiday Inn Mart Plaza. His concepts have revolutionized both the entertainment and hospitality industries through his passionate commitment to the modern lifestyle as expressed by hotel as home away from home, ‘cheap chic’, ‘lobby socializing’, and the urban resort/spa. In addition to his accomplishments to date, Ian is working to launch two new hotel brands, Public and Edition. |
“To revolutionize an industry with completely new, unique concepts is simply astounding,” tells Michael Elliott, President and CEO of Jasper Group. “We are thrilled to be sponsoring the highly acclaimed, highly successful and highly passionate individual – Ian Schrager. His crowd attracting presentation will leave you nothing short of inspired.” |
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March 2012 – Jasper Group sets the bar high. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) recently presented the 2011 Evergreen Award to Jasper Group. This distinguished honor was bestowed upon Jasper Group at the Ronald Regan Building in Washington, D.C. The annual award recognizes efforts of companies whose business practices prioritize the environment. Jasper Group exceeded the competition within the Furniture Group with its proactive efforts in recycling, affirmative procurement and waste prevention. |
“Jasper Group set an example for other GSA business partners, and I am proud to announce this achievement,” said Kathy Vonderheide, Contract Administrator for Jasper Group. “I want to thank all of the employees of Jasper Group for supporting our continued efforts to ‘do the right thing’. We are extremely proud to be the only recipient of this award within the Southern Indiana region.” |
In true sustainable form, the Evergreen Award itself is made from recycled glass. This award sets a high standard for other business partners to follow, and is a wonderful example of how the federal government and businesses can work together. Jasper Group remains committed to building partnerships that provide services and products that are environmentally sensitive and demonstrate leadership in sustainability. |
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March 2012 - Here comes Jasper Group! March has been a busy month for Jasper Group with new introductions and surprising reveals. Earlier this month, Jasper Group held successful back to back showroom openings in New York and Nashville. With bold colors and breathtaking furniture, each showroom was filled with spectators and ohhs and ahhhs. Dealer partners, local designers and end users were thrilled to have a fabulous new showroom in their territory, filled with exciting products and a great brand story. |
“In a fashion industry, where customers want to touch, test and feel products, adding conveniently located showrooms around the country is a pivotal part of our plan to grow. Jasper, Chicago, Dallas and now New York and Nashville are just the beginning,” said Ashley Werner, Jasper Group’s Director of Marketing. “Come experience our many new product launches and see our bold statement pieces. Be on the lookout for even more exciting introductions to come soon!” |
We invite you to visit our new showrooms, or any of our showrooms around the nation. Come experience New York’s 4400 square foot showroom within the New York Design Center and Nashville’s large 7700 square foot showroom. We’ll be waiting for you!! |
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July 2011 - It’s the right thing to do. Over the past 80 years, we’ve built a life around that simple statement. It’s the way we treat our customers, the way we build our products, the way we care for our community and the way we look at the world. As part of our sustainable commitment, we chose to pursue GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certification. In 2009, we received certification of our Vision series. By 2011, we’ve received certification of all the 4,000 plus standard models offered in our JSI and Community brands. |
Investing in the environment and our future is always top priority at Jasper Group. “Reducing hazardous chemical emissions was a primary focus, an effort directed toward long term responsibility, not just a temporary fix,” stated Greg Painter, Director of Sustainability at Jasper Group. “By investing in our DuraTex top coat, we are able to receive this prestigious certification.” JSI and Community apply DuraTex on all exposed surfaces, without additional cost or upcharge, providing the same beautiful furniture customers have come to value and expect. |
“While certification of all products in both JSI and Community brands is a major accomplishment, this is only one step toward offering products that minimize environmental impact,” says Mike Elliott, President and CEO of Jasper Group. “We do not chase or pretend to be every shade of ‘green’ but endeavor to make the positive impact that a sustainable wood manufacturer can. We will continue searching, evaluating and implementing practices that benefit our customers and minimize impact on the environment.” |
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June 2011 - Fashion. Fun. Prizes. Press. Color. Cocktails. Buzz. You name it - 3-111 Jasper Group’s space was the place to be. From a friendly hello at the door, new product introductions, bold colors, oversized graphics, giveaways, and signature cocktail party, the energy and excitement was beyond expectations. |
Monday finished with the annual Jasper Group cocktail party, gathering our favorite people with specialty drinks and music. The always fashionable or at least noteworthy dresser, President and CEO, Mike Elliott, custom tailored a suit using Brentano Fabric to coordinate with JSI’s new lounge introduction Moda. |
Tuesday followed suit with visits from press, constant traffic and optimistic buzz. The show completed with Interior Design’s Select Contest drawing from our showroom. Shelley Roberson of Heidi Core Interiors won a $5,000 design spree with Cindy in New York! Congrats and have fun Shelley! |
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May 2011 - Joyful. Relaxed. Expressive. An expression of design, Wink unites technological innovation with creative flair. The result, a clean but sophisticated form with dynamic curves that surround for a relaxed, comfortable sit. The special technology used to create Wink’s multi-layered, pre-treated wood, bends to form a double curvature without breaking, conveying an incredibly synthetic appearance. |
Choose Wink in saturated, high polish green, blue, red, white or black for large spaces to instantly brighten the entire area. Choose Wink transparent in elegant gray, joyful yellow and fashionable violet for smaller spaces needing a more subtle design statement. Or, choose Wink wood to add a natural, unexpected and relaxed feel for any space. Wink, young in spirit, adds a touch of originality for traditional environments and is highly effective in already modern spaces. Designed by Claus Breinholt. |
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May 2011 - Evoke. Embrace. Confidence. The highly fashionable Luci will not go unnoticed. Right off the catwalk, Luci is characterized by the gracefully shaped wood shell wrapping from back to sides that creates its distinct appearance. Contrast wood and upholstery for a lively multilayer look, while internal padding adds a soft touch of comfort. |
Evoke your personal style from robust to serene or anything between with fabric selections to complement or contrast the wood finish. The rotating base makes Luci an all around desirable and eye-catching selection, the perfect combination for any furnishing scheme. Have fun and |
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March 2011 - Clean. Natural. Classic. Finn by Community pairs simple clean lines with elements of nature to bring in the outdoors and open interior spaces. Influenced by mid-century Scandinavian design, Finn proudly displays the natural beauty of its wood with a clear finish that reveals the true fingerprint of each species. Joining wood and aluminum lends an industrialized feel to its design, echoing the post war trend to combine industrial process with organic form. Constructed with the quality of its Scandinavian ancestors, Finn is built to exceed BIFMA standards to live for many generations of proud furniture owners. |
Arm and armless models with one, two and three seat capacity accompany a full range of lounge tables. Solid wood components of Walnut, Cherry, Maple, and Oak paired with silver aluminum transform Finn from furniture to art. Finn's unique vintage appearance has modern appeal with sweeping lines and contrasting material, making it the perfect addition from nature inspired lobby to multi-media library. Designed by Q Design. |
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April 2011 - Nine area schools gathered in the Jasper High School auditorium on Friday, April 1, 2011 for the Introduction to Engineering Design Competition. Selected freshmen and sophomore students were invited from each school to participate in this year’s contest. Ken Kern, Director of Product Development at Jasper Group, a contract furniture manufacturer also headquartered in Jasper, Indiana, began the day by presenting the challenge—to engineer the frame for a lounge chair with a cantilevered arm without compromising the design concept, a design set to premier at NeoCon, World’s Trade Fair, this June. |
In the morning, students were given a work packet with material costs, design criteria, cad engineering files, challenge parameters, and the format for their solution presentation. After four hours, the teams regrouped to present their best solutions. Representatives from local furniture manufacturers and university scored the teams on criteria from concept to presentation. To conclude the day, Ken Kern presented Jasper Group’s design solution for the frame that is an integral part of the chair’s foundation as well as its aesthetic. |
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October 2010 - Diverse. Shuffle. Engage. Prep by Community is a multi-purpose table collection that delivers strength, flexibility and style for gather, dine and learn environments. Whether it is in an auditorium, café or collaboration space, Prep will be the all purpose table collection that completes every room configuration. The bases and tops are specified separately to showcase any personality in a wide variety of settings. The Prep Multi-Purpose Collection has a flexible offering of shapes and sizes, such as rectangle, square, round and half round just to name a few. |
Prep Training is available with preconfigured tops with cantilevered bases to simplify the specification process. Prep base styles, T and X, are available in table, counter and bar heights, providing for a diverse range of applications. Prep delivers the perfect solution for all gather, dine and learn environments.
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October 2010 - Educate. Collaborate. Graduate. Class is now in session. Cruz by Community brings adaptable mobility to learning environments. Be it a lecture of 40 laptoptoting students or a small break out session, Cruz allows learning to begin quickly. The Cruz Training Collection is a functional offering of basic rectangle, half round, trapezoid and linking top shapes allowing a wide range of room configurations. Laminate or powder coat tops provide design aesthetic to this practical training solution. |
Full power and data packages with numerous interface options allow for Cruz tables to be rolled out, plugged in, used and then reconfigured from group to group. Cantilevered T bases provide tilt function for easy nesting storage. Three-inch locking casters give Cruz a stable base after setup. Cruz completes its collection with mobile carts for flat screen, whiteboard, multi-use and lectern. When it comes to training, Cruz has the essentials to squeeze maximum education out of limited time periods. Class dismissed.
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October 2010 - Relax. Network. Inform. The beautiful rolling hills of Whistling Straits, made famous during the 2010 PGA Championship, were the background for Jasper Group’s annual Dealer council in Kohler, Wisconsin. Dealers gathered to receive company direction, share input, network with peers, and enjoy leisure time throughout the resort. An elegant dinner reception overlooking the Straits Golf Course kicked off the 4 day trip on September 29. The following days combined presentation and discussion with relaxation and entertainment. The event concluded with sumptuous Wisconsin fare along the banks of the Sheboygan River amid breathtaking wildlife and scenery. |
Newly appointed VP of Sales and Marketing for JSI and Community brands, Cole Heichelbech kicked off the annual meeting with words describing the Jasper Group philosophy of partnership. “Our dealers are much more than business acquaintances; they are truly partners, an extension of our brands and our family in their respective markets. The theme of this week was relationships: adding to those that are time-tested and laying foundations for new ones. We view our entire dealer network as a partnership; and this shared communication is imperative both to the success of our brands, and to the dealers’ success in selling them.”
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September 2010 - Corporate Re‐branding. Product Innovation. Sustainable Growth. Jasper Group, parent company of JSI, Community and Klem brands, keeps growth plans in over‐drive with the announcement of changes to the Sales and Marketing Divisions. |
Heichelbech anticipates great return from the team’s strategy of precision focus on growth opportunities such as increased market penetration. The addition of Jay Eubanks as Corporate Trainer, a new position at Jasper Group, does just this. Jay leads training and communication for product, brand awareness, and corporate initiatives in the field. Rounding out the Sales Division for JSI and Community is Kathy Vonderheide, facilitating business in the lucrative government market as Contracts Administrator. |
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August 2010 - Refreshed. Revisioned. Redesigned. Community brings new life to classic designs with a burst of color in today’s most popular hues. The 2010 Color Finish Collection from Community offers popular choices from the Sherwin Williams color wheel for convenience in design coordination. The collection easily pairs with designs and components through all series offerings from Jasper Group and its family of brands, JSI, Community and Klem. |
DuraTex, Jasper Group’s low emission topcoat, completes the collection by significantly reducing hazardous formaldehyde gases. Design by the Jasper Group Design Team. Colors: Cargo Pants, Backdrop, Greek Villa, Tricorn Black, Cayenne, Fusion, Resonant Blue, Mandarin, Daffodil, Candid Blue, Heartthrob, Chatroom, Golden Fleece, Software, Network Gray. |
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August 2010 - Angles. Lines. Planes. Cym by Community uses clean architectural elements to accent this multi-purpose stacker. A wide seat and added arm flare give Cym extra comfort while still able to easily stack. Cym comes with and without arms, has six color and two powder coat options, and includes standard, counter and bar height models. It offers the perfect solution for seating needs where you dine, learn or anywhere in between with its versatile product offering. |
The Cym color pallet easily coordinates with Sherwin Williams colors to seamlessly unite design elements throughout your project as well as other products from Jasper Group and its brands, JSI, Community and Klem. Designed by John Stafford-Chris Carter Design. |
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August 2010 - Fun. Fresh. Functional. Milk by Community is designed to work where you do. Indulge your impulse to get up, move around, work together or just listen with a chair that is as light weight and versatile as its namesake. Whether it's milk by the gallon or Milk by the chair, both are only 9 lbs. It stacks. It links. It flexes. And it doesn't break the bank. |
Paired with hues that both make a splash or act more subdued, the series easily coordinates with Sherwin Williams colors to seamlessly unite design elements throughout your project as well as other products from Jasper Group and its brands, JSI, Community and Klem. |
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May 2010 - Jasper Group and its brands, JSI, Community, and Klem are leaping forward with both feet. Whether or not you have seen us before, make sure we’re on your list this year. If for no other reason than to see the coordinated, signature styled attire by our very own, Mike Elliott. |
“We strived to achieve an industrial look that takes our visitors on a journey back to the nuts and bolts of making quality furniture built to stand the test of time. A walk through our showroom reminds one of the timeless beauty of furniture that is caringly hand-crafted,” said Ashley Werner, Director of Marketing. Looking through our front window you will see the bold new finish collection bringing a fresh twist to our classic Boston series, mirrored with colorful graphics accentuating the retro industrial theme telling our story. As you navigate through the long, narrow space, the center isle displays our refreshed JSI casegoods series. And whether you veer to the right or the left, you’ll see our breadth of offering by each brand. A glass enclosed private meeting space completes the showroom. |
We’ve been working really hard the past few months; we’ve been making some noise; and all the while having fun and showing some spunk. “Our presence at NeoCon is key in all that we are working to accomplish” stated Company President Mike Elliott. The overall atmosphere exudes both charm and excitement. With our distinctive personality, new branding, and six new products, you won’t want to miss the new exhibitor displaying in space 3-111. |
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February 2010 – VALUE. ATTITUDE. FLEXIBILITY. FOCUS. SOLUTIONS. INTEGRITY. Principles not just on paper, but principles that Jasper Group employees have lived by since opening their doors over 80 years ago. These same values provided the inspiration for the company’s new look. “We knew we needed a graphic representation of the attributes of our people, our business, our products, our philosophies. We wanted to communicate through our logos what people experience when they visit us in Jasper,” said Ashley Werner, Marketing Director. “From the fun atmosphere and energetic attitudes of our people to our uncompromising position on sustainable production and design, our new logos reflect the forward thinking value-centric way we operate.” |
While most companies have battled through this tough economy by cutting programs, eliminating jobs, and halting growth plans, Jasper Group with its family of brands, JSI, Community and Klem, has been busy building onto its strategy ways to become a total solutions provider for the furniture industry. As market momentum began to slow late in 2008, the company saw this as an opportune time to reorganize, realign, and come out strong. “We saw this incredible opportunity when maximizing the strengths of each brand to provide a complete package offering – a total solution with one seamless point of contact,” continued Werner. “To convey this, our graphics needed to visually relate so people know our brands are part of a whole.” |
March 2010 - Opened in 2007, located at our corporate facility, we have redesigned our 3100 square foot showroom to reopen March 2010. As you have begun to notice, Community has a new energy and a new direction. When you come to visit us in Jasper Indiana, our new Community showroom will reflect the fun atmosphere and energetic attitudes of our people, our uncompromising position on sustainable production and design, and overall value-centric way we operate. |
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Merger between Jasper Group and Jofco reaches a successful conclusion.
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