Laudisi Enterprises Acquires Kapp & Peterson

Myrtle Beach, SC, July 20, 2018 --(PR.com)-- Kapp & Peterson, Ltd. and Laudisi Enterprises, Inc. are pleased to announce that Laudisi, a U.S.-based retailer, distributor, and manufacturer of premium pipes and pipe tobacco, will purchase Kapp & Peterson, specifically the Peterson pipe factory and the Peterson of Dublin shop on Nassau Street. Founded in 1865, Peterson is one of the world’s oldest continuously operating pipe factories. “Peterson is among the most venerable of pipe institutions,” noted Sykes Wilford, President and CEO of Laudisi. “While it has changed ownership a number of times during its storied 150-year history, each owner has served as a steward for the factory and the brand,” Wilford continued. “We look forward to continuing that long tradition.”

For the past thirty years, Peterson has been owned by Tom Palmer, Managing Director of the Dublin-based pipe factory. Under Palmer’s leadership, Peterson has become a global pipe brand with distribution networks in Europe, Asia, and the Americas while remaining true to its founding principles and aesthetics. “This milestone marks another positive step forward in the histories of both Peterson and Laudisi,” said Palmer. “Laudisi’s enthusiasm for and knowledge of pipes will combine perfectly with Peterson’s manufacturing expertise and passion to enhance the brand in the years to come.”

Laudisi’s retail website, Smokingpipes.com has a long history of collaboration with the Irish firm and has played a key role in marketing Peterson pipes to collectors around the world. “It is a logical step for us to continue in that role, but in an ownership and management capacity,” said Wilford. “At the same time, Peterson benefits from Laudisi's wider pipe market experience, plus its technology and marketing expertise.” Palmer concurred, noting that “Laudisi deeply understands and appreciates the spirit and culture of Peterson as well as its importance to pipe smokers and collectors.” “Peterson is in good hands,” said Palmer, “This is a new and exciting chapter in our history.”

The Peterson factory will remain in operation at its present location on Pearse Street in Sallynoggin. The Peterson of Dublin store will likewise remain on Nassau Street. The Kapp & Peterson craftsmen and administrative staff will continue in their present roles. Damien Maguire, Financial Director for Peterson, will succeed Tom Palmer as managing director. Conor Palmer, Commercial Director, will remain through the transition. The Smokingpipes Europe team will relocate to Peterson’s facility in Sallynoggin. Joshua Burgess will oversee all of Laudisi’s European interests.

For media enquiries contact:

Adam M. O’Neill, Marketing Manager, Laudisi Ireland, Ltd.
adam.oneill@corporate.laudisi.com

For further enquiries in Ireland contact:

Joshua Burgess, Managing Director, Laudisi Ireland, Ltd.
joshua.burgess@corporate.laudisi.com

For further enquiries in the US contact:

Ted Swearingen, Chief Operating Officer, Laudisi Enterprises, Inc.
ted.swearingen@corporate.laudisi.com