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File photo/The Ottawa Herald
Company growth led to the need for new employment at Kennel-Aire. After adding 25 new jobs, the company now employs more than 100 people, including those in the company’s temporary-to-hire program, Chester Beavers, vice president and chief operating officer, said.
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Kennel-Aire doubles production
By JULIE HEDRICK, Herald Staff Writer
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With two new distributors in tow, local pet carrier manufacturer Kennel-Aire nearly doubled its production last year.
The addition of Wal-Mart and Tractor Supply Co. as distributors increased Kennel-Aire’s production from 500,000 units to about 1 million units each year, Chester Beavers, vice president and chief operating officer said.
These additions took a few years to obtain, but Beavers said they will maintain them, and all other distributors, with proper pricing, quality of product and customer service.
“You’ve got to ship it on time and you’ve got to keep the proper quality to keep the partnership,” Beavers said.
Much of Kennel-Aire’s success comes from its location. Beavers said the distribution center was relocated from Minnesota seven years ago because of Ottawa’s central location.
Along with doubling its production, Kennel-Aire increased sales by 30 percent last year. Beavers said the company anticipates sales to increase another 20 percent in 2008.
Company growth led to the need for new employment. After adding 25 new jobs, the company now employs more than 100 people, including those in the company’s temporary-to-hire program, Beaver said.
At any given time, about 10 percent of Kennel-Aire’s work force is considered temporary in case production sees a rapid change. All positions are filled by those in temporary positions, Beavers said.
“We want to absorb the growth without significant impact on cost or personnel and minimum impact on capital,” Beavers said.
Some of the new employees were brought in from Lawrence and Kansas City, Beavers said. He said most people in Ottawa who are able and willing to work already have a job.
“Ottawa’s seeing a tremendous amount of growth which is good for the city,” Beavers said.
Beavers likes the small town atmosphere with the perks of a big city in proximity, and has been impressed with the work ethic of the employees in Ottawa.
“It’s just a good group to work with and a great place to work in,” Beavers said.
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