People News

Central Garden & Pet Company has named a new chief financial officer from within its ranks.

Nicholas "Niko" Lahanas, who was worked with the company for over 10 years, will now assume the role of CFO.

During his time with the company, Lahanas held a variety of finance positions, most recently as SVP Finance, Operations Management & Reporting and CFO of Central’s Pet Segment.

His tenure also included serving as VP of Corporate Financial Planning & Analysis, and Director of Business Performance, focusing on business unit profitability.

Blount International, Inc. has promoted David Gillrie to the position of SVP global sales & marketing for the Forestry, Lawn and Garden (FLAG) division.

Gillrie previously served as president of Blount's Concrete Cutting and Finishing division and has been with the company since 2012.

Lakeville, Minn.-based Heat & Glo partnered with HGTV personality and interior designer Lori Dennis on the release of a new REVO fireplace and the "Where Will You Revo" contest. 

Contest entries will compete for the grand prize of a new REVO gas fireplace ($6,000 value) or one of seven $100 American Express gift card weekly prizes.

The new REVO Series from Heat & Glo are available in square, linear, and vertical models, all featuring slim, 7-inch-deep profiles and a patented Razor burner for a “sleek look,” according to the company.

Maria Frank recently purchased Houston-based Cabinets & Designs from her father, Cabinets & Designs founder David Steffan Sr., who had owned the company for 40 years.

"I feel very proud that my father has the confidence in me to continue the business," said Frank. "To take care of something that he's spent his life on is incredible."

James W. Van Buren has left his post as executive VP and CEO of New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co., Inc. Effective July 18, 2013, Van Buren is officially free to pursue other opportunities, though he will remain on the board of directors.

Shawn Davies is leaving his post as VP of Sofina Foods to join Kraus Canada as its president and general manager, effective Sept. 23. 

"Today is an exciting day in the history of Kraus," said Steve Malinowski, president and CEO of the Kraus Group of Companies. "I am pleased that Shawn will be joining the leadership team at Kraus."

The company cited Davies' track record of substantial sales growth, strategic acquisitions and boosting profitability, among other successes.

The LBM story of the year is now, officially, the "Pro Dealer of the Year."

Technology and the younger generation will transform the retail landscape.