Introduction:
In a landmark move, Columbia Industries (CI), a Kennewick-based nonprofit committed to supporting and empowering individuals with disabilities, recently made headlines in the Tri-Cities Journal of Business. The organization’s strategic acquisitions of both the popular Round Table Pizza franchise and Kennewick’s Paradise Bottled Water Co. is not only expanding its mission-based initiatives but also contributing to the growth of its headquarters.
Acquisitions for a Purpose:
The July 2019 article by Robin Wojtanik reveals that CI’s CEO, Brian McDermott, sees these acquisitions as a perfect fit for the organization’s mission. The purchase of the four Round Table Pizza restaurants and Paradise Bottled Water Co. is poised to fund and expand CI’s community programs, creating a positive impact on the lives of individuals facing various challenges.
Funding Social Programs:
CI’s unique approach involves operating commercial businesses to fund its mission programs, which include employment services, specialized job training, career opportunities, and centers for social enrichment. McDermott explains, “We consider ourselves to be a social enterprise. We don’t just rely on traditional nonprofit funding sources; we actually operate commercial businesses to help fund our mission programs.”
Community Resource Center Expansion:
The acquired businesses will play a crucial role in realizing CI’s plan to expand its services. The article outlines the development of a Community Resource Center at CI’s headquarters, describing it as “an ombudsman for a whole variety of benefits and services.” This expansion aims to provide a centralized hub for individuals to access resources and information crucial to their needs.
Networking Success Stories:
The acquisition of Round Table Pizza and Paradise Bottled Water Co. was not a coincidence. McDermott shares that these opportunities were discovered through networking. The sellers, Chuck Stack of Round Table Pizza and Jordan Hays of Paradise Bottled Water, expressed confidence in CI’s commitment to maintaining the businesses’ family-oriented atmosphere and community involvement.
A Seamless Transition:
Despite the ownership change, the article reassures customers that they can expect “business as usual” at both Round Table Pizza and Paradise Bottled Water. McDermott emphasizes that CI’s goal is to not only run the businesses competitively but also to grow them, ensuring continued success and community impact.
Supporting the Mission:
The Tri-Cities Journal of Business article underscores the shared values between CI and the acquired businesses. Chuck Stack, the owner of Round Table Pizza, acknowledges CI’s dedication to business growth and community impact. Jordan Hays of Paradise Bottled Water expresses optimism about the future collaboration, foreseeing positive outcomes for the community.
Looking Forward:
As CI continues its mission to empower individuals with disabilities and expand its community outreach, the acquisitions of Round Table Pizza and Paradise Bottled Water mark a significant step forward. The article leaves readers anticipating the positive changes and community growth that these strategic moves will bring about.
https://www.tricitiesbusinessnews.com/2019/07/columbia-industries/
