The Progressive Group, a leading distributor and manufacturer’s rep based in Grand Rapids, MI, announced the acquisition of CF Marketing and RJR Distribution, a manufacturer’s rep and distributor for the Mid-Atlantic region.
The purchase continues The Progressive Group’s expansion, as the company merged with several reps and distributors in late 2022/early 2023 including AVR, a southeastern rep firm and Premier Marketing, Statham, GA and Encore Sales, Washington, DC. At that time, Progressive was operating on a near national basis in about 43 states.
CF Marketing represents brands including KENWOOD, Audison, Hertz, iDatalink Maestro, Lucas Lighting, and Accele. It also represents some home entertainment and office brands. RJR distributes brands that include KENWOOD, iDatalink Maestro, and Brandmotion.
The Progressive Group press statement said, “The Progressive Group, CF Marketing, and RJR Distribution will collaborate closely to ensure a smooth integration process. Clients, employees, and vendors can anticipate a continuation of high-quality services and the introduction of enhanced solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of the consumer electronics market.”
Dave Russell, Managing Director of The Progressive Group, said, “We are delighted to welcome CF Marketing and RJR Distribution into The Progressive Group family. Their expertise and strong market presence will enhance our ability to serve our clients with innovative solutions.”
Howard Feldman, CEO of CF Marketing, commented, “Joining The Progressive Group is an exciting opportunity for the CF Marketing Team. We share a common vision of delivering exceptional service to our clients and vendor partners. We look forward to leveraging The Progressive Group’s resources to further enhance our service offerings.”
The Progressive Group is owned by Patrick Industries, which also owns Rockford and Wet Sounds and many other brands in many industries including the RV industry. As of last year, Patrick was a $5.3 billion company.
Progressive operates 8 distribution centers. It handles dozens of car audio brands and dozens of home audio brands. Some of the leading car audio brands it represents are Rockford, KENWOOD, Stinger, Metra, ESCORT, Pioneer, VOXX, Directed, Hertz, Rydeen and Wet Sounds. See a full list of brands here.
For more information, contact Mike Sajecki, Director of Business for Progressive Distribution’s Mid-Atlantic region.
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Congratulations Howard! Time to join the” senior tour”!
Congrats Howard, Maybee some more time for your golf game!
Well done, Howard. You finished strong and made a lasting impact in our industry.