Hoffmann Creative, Author at Hoffmann Family of Companies

Fort Myers, FL (Oct 29, 2024) — Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) announced today that it has increased its share ownership in Lee Enterprises Inc. In conjunction with the Securities and Exchange Commission rules and regulations, the company has filed a 13D amendment.

HF Companies believes the current investment places their ownership position behind Quint Digital, the largest shareholder. The company has plans to further invest in Lee Enterprises as market conditions present themselves. JPMorgan Chase is advising HF Companies on its strategy.

According to Bloomberg, the Jerrilyn M. Hoffmann Revocable Trust reported a 6.7% holding in Lee Enterprises Inc., equivalent to $6.85 million. A previous 13D filed on October 17, 2024, showed a 5.22% stake. Shares of Lee Enterprises have gained 21% since October 17, 2024, compared with the 0.6% drop in the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index.

Lee Enterprises Inc., the fourth-largest newspaper company in the U.S., operates in 26 states and owns 77 newspapers nationwide, including the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, which attracted the interest of founder David Hoffmann.

About Hoffmann Media Group
Hoffmann Media Group, a privately held media company based in Southwest Florida, publishes a variety of print, online, mobile, and email publications. Over the past 15 years, our writers, designers and ad builders have earned over 200 awards from the Florida Press Association, Society of Professional Journalists and Florida Newspaper Advertising and Marketing Executives Association. The Florida Press Association has recognized us as the best in the state for content, consumer experiences and advertising services. Our flagship brands serve over 30 markets, offering premier digital advertising services, newspapers, and magazines across Florida, California, Michigan and beyond. For more information, visit www.hoffmannmediagroup.com.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 110 global brands, and employs 11,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate, and Transportation. For more information, visit www.hfcompanies.com.

Media Contact
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
239.396.7474

Fort Myers, FL (Oct. 15, 2024) — Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) announced today that it has filed a 13D with the Securities and Exchange Commission following its latest equity purchase in Lee Enterprises, a NASDAQ-listed company (LEE). This move makes HF Companies one of the largest shareholders, with plans to further invest in Lee Enterprises. JPMorgan Chase is advising HF Companies on its strategy. Lee Enterprises, the fourth-largest newspaper company in the U.S., operates in 26 states and owns 77 newspapers, including the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, which caught the attention of founder David Hoffmann.

“We see tremendous value in Lee Enterprises’ portfolio and have great respect for the company’s management team. This strategic investment enhances our positioning in the U.S. media space,” said David Hoffmann, Chairman of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Our goal is to continue growing our national media presence, ensuring local communities have access to quality journalism.”

In 2005, Lee Enterprises acquired Pulitzer Inc. for approximately $1.46 billion. In January 2020, Berkshire Hathaway sold its newspaper holdings to Lee Enterprises for $140 million in cash, including 30 daily newspapers such as The Buffalo News and Omaha World-Herald. Consequently, Berkshire Hathaway became a debt holder of Lee Enterprises with a $576 million, 25-year debt instrument.

Through its subsidiary Hoffmann Media Group, HF Companies has successfully acquired several publications from Lee Enterprises, including six notable California publications: Napa Valley Register, St. Helena Star, The Weekly Calistogan, American Canyon Eagle, Inside Napa Valley Magazine and Distinctive Properties Magazine. These acquisitions have strengthened Hoffmann Media Group’s commitment to local news and community engagement, aligning with its ongoing efforts to expand its media footprint and enhance local journalism across the U.S.

Pason Gaddis, CEO of Hoffmann Media Group, added, “Our investment in Lee Enterprises underscores our dedication to preserving and enhancing local journalism, enhancing our current portfolio. We believe that by investing in Lee and its management team, we can further our mission of delivering impactful stories and fostering community connections.”

Based in Fort Myers, Florida, Hoffmann Media Group combines a rich heritage of well-known newspapers with the latest in digital innovation. The company excels in creative storytelling and data-driven insights, producing engaging content that ignites meaningful discussions and builds lasting connections within the communities it serves. By leveraging digital advancements, Hoffmann Media Group offers dynamic advertising solutions and interactive experiences across websites, mobile apps and e-editions, consistently redefining multimedia engagement and setting new benchmarks for excellence.

About Hoffmann Media Group
Hoffmann Media Group, a privately held media company based in Southwest Florida, publishes a variety of print, online, mobile and email publications. Over the past 15 years, our writers, designers and ad builders have earned over 200 awards from the Florida Press Association, Society of Professional Journalists, Florida Newspaper Advertising and Marketing Executives Association. The Florida Press Association has recognized us as the best in the state for content, consumer experiences and advertising services. Our flagship brands serve over 30 markets, offering premier digital advertising services, newspapers and magazines across Florida, California, Michigan and beyond. For more information, visit hoffmannmediagroup.com.

The Company Expands its Portfolio to Over Thirty Properties Spanning from Wilmette to Lake Forest

Chicago, IL (September 3, 2024) — Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of HF Companies, has further strengthened its position as the largest commercial real estate owner in Chicago’s North Shore with its latest acquisitions.

Today, HCRE announced the purchase of two premier properties: 1114 and 1116 Central Ave. in Wilmette, Illinois. This follows the recent acquisition of 64 Green Bay Rd. in Winnetka, Illinois. With these strategic additions, HCRE now boasts ownership of over thirty prime properties spanning from Wilmette to Lake Forest, primarily situated in vibrant downtown areas and key shopping districts.

Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate is a rapidly growing company with a diverse portfolio that includes retail, commercial/office, multi-family housing, industrial and land in development. The organization consistently transforms and maintains properties to a Class “A+” standard, and its portfolio now exceeds $1 billion.

In June 2024, HF Companies’ Osprey Capital completed the acquisition of Oberweis Dairy, a beloved Illinois-based brand known for its iconic milk, ice cream and home delivery service. Building on this momentum, HCRE plans to transform 1114 Central Ave. into a new Oberweis retail location, further driving growth and enriching the local community.

“We are thrilled to expand our presence in Chicago’s North Shore with these strategic acquisitions,” said Greg Hoffmann, Principal & CEO of Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate. “Our goal is to invest in and enhance these vibrant communities, providing premier commercial spaces that support local businesses and contribute to the area’s financial growth. This expansion underscores our commitment to the North Shore and our confidence in its potential for continued prosperity.”

HCRE continues its expansive growth, with a portfolio comprising stabilized and value-added properties in strategic locations nationwide. The firm has plans for future investments both domestically and internationally.

Currently, HCRE’s portfolio includes properties in California, Canada, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.

About Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate
Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of HF Companies, is a premier real estate investment and development firm specializing in the acquisition, management and redevelopment of commercial properties. With a diverse portfolio that spans stabilized and value-added assets, HCRE is committed to enhancing the communities in which it operates through thoughtful development and superior property management. HCRE’s strategic investments are focused both within the United States and internationally, reinforcing its position as a leader in the commercial real estate industry. For more information, visit www.hoffmanncre.com.

Oberweis leadership team driving expansion plans with support from Hoffmann Family of Companies

WINNETKA, Ill. (June 19, 2024) – Hoffmann Family of Companies, through its investment arm, Osprey Capital LLC, announces that it has purchased Oberweis Dairy in its entirety. This significant milestone demonstrates the Oberweis brand emerging from Chapter 11 reorganization with renewed strength and an eye toward steady, strategic growth.

Adam Kraber, President of Oberweis Dairy, expressed enthusiasm about the new chapter: “The entire Oberweis team is thrilled to embark on this journey with the support of Hoffmann Family of Companies. From our manufacturing and distribution centers to our corporate offices and retail stores, the Oberweis team will continue the company legacy of super-premium quality and convenience. We remain committed to ‘serving up happiness’ to our valued customers.”

The Hoffmann family’s dairy heritage traces back to founder David Hoffmann’s childhood, where he helped his father, a milkman, make deliveries before school. When Oberweis, with nearly a century of history, faced bankruptcy, the Hoffmanns seized the opportunity to revive and enhance the brand, leveraging its storied reputation for quality.

Milk delivery experience runs through the management team as well. President Adam Kraber began his career at Oberweis as a milkman and was promoted into roles with increasing responsibility from 2000 to 2015. In 2022, Kraber returned to Oberweis as COO and was promoted to President in February 2024.

“My wife and four boys have always loved Oberweis! We have been consistent home delivery customers for more than 15 years, and often visit the Glenview, IL, location to share a laugh and a cone,” said Geoff Hoffmann, co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Those family moments are so important as our kids grow up. Now, as part of Hoffmann Family of Companies, we’re excited to contribute to the continued legacy of the Oberweis brand, creating family memories for generations to come!”

Drawing on extensive experience in acquiring founder-led companies, Hoffmann Family of Companies is well-positioned to provide capital for growth and improvement. Most of the companies acquired by Hoffmann Family of Companies continue to be led by their founders and existing management teams. Adam Kraber will continue as President of Oberweis Dairy, drawing on over 17 years of experience with the company. The company’s management team of tenured and talented leaders will also retain their positions.

Geoff Hoffmann added, “Adam and the management team have pivotal roles in continuing the Oberweis brand and building a new plan for profitability. Together, we’ll develop a new strategy to enhance operations, drive expansion, and maintain the premium quality that Oberweis represents.”

Following the acquisition, the company will implement a short-term, 100-day plan for rapid improvements while crafting a long-term growth strategy. In the coming weeks and months, the company plans to announce new locations in Chicagoland and other key markets. There are no plans to close existing locations or make substantial cuts to the business. The Oberweis Dairy brand name and beloved recipes will remain the same.

Regular updates will be shared with customers via social media and email. Additionally, Oberweis Dairy and Hoffmann Family of Company leaders plan to host an ‘Ice Cream Day’ at stores in key markets throughout the summer.

Oberweis and Hoffmann teams come together to invest in the future of Oberweis and continue serving happiness to loyal customers

WINNETKA, Ill. (June 5, 2024) – Hoffmann Family of Companies is pleased to announce the court-approved acquisition of Oberweis Dairy. This milestone marks the end of a challenging chapter for the storied family-owned brand, which filed for Chapter 11 reorganization in April 2024.

“We’re grateful to our employees and customers for standing by us during this difficult time,” said Geoff Hoffmann, co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “With new financial backing, Oberweis Dairy is poised to continue its legacy as the most trusted name in dairy and beyond.”

The Hoffmann Family of Companies, a multi-vertical, family-owned firm, specializes in partnering with strong management teams and hands-on leaders. Their focus on customer and employee experiences drives sustained value across businesses, and the firm works across companies to provide and share support, insights, opportunities, and best practices.

Plans are already underway to enhance production capabilities and streamline operations in Oberweis Dairy’s manufacturing facilities. Immediate improvements are expected in select locations, including brighter stores and an expanded product selection. The company will soon announce additional Chicagoland market locations and other expansions where Hoffmann-owned companies operate. Notably, there are no plans to close existing locations or make substantial cuts to the business, and the Oberweis Dairy brand name will remain intact.

“Oberweis is primed for growth with the support of Hoffmann Family of Companies,” stated Adam Kraber, President of Oberweis Dairy. “Our customers can look forward to exciting improvements throughout the summer and fall.”

The Hoffmann family’s dairy roots trace back to founder David Hoffmann’s childhood on a Missouri dairy farm. Their extensive experience in acquiring founder-led companies positions them to provide capital for growth and improvements. Most of the companies acquired by Hoffmann Family of Companies continue to be led by their founders, including second and third-generation family leaders.

“The Oberweis acquisition aligns with our core investment philosophy: ‘Invest in good businesses, good properties, good people – all with the potential to be better,’” emphasized Geoff Hoffmann. “We eagerly anticipate delivering smiles to customers and employees for years to come.”

About Hoffmann Family of Companies

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 100 national brands, and employs 9,000 global employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 250 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate and Transportation.

About Oberweis Dairy

Having been started on a dairy farm nearly a century ago, Oberweis Dairy provides the best-tasting milk, ice cream, and now chocolates available anywhere. The company is famous for milk in its trademark glass bottles as well as its best-in-class smooth and creamy ice cream. The company distributes its products through its 48 ice cream and dairy stores, to thousands of homes through its home delivery service, and through grocery stores. Oberweis is family-owned and operated, currently by the 3rd and 4th generations. For more information about Oberweis Dairy, visit www.oberweis.com.

Dinner Cruise Leader Now Operates 22 Vessels Nationwide

The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), a US-based family-owned private equity firm, announced today the acquisition of Sip n’ Sail Cruises, a Mackinac Island-based company known for its diverse range of cruises and private charter options around the island. This acquisition enhances Hoffmann Marine’s portfolio, expanding their U.S. dinner cruise operations to a total of 22 vessels across seven states.

“The Hoffmann Family’s reputation in the marine industry is well known and the opportunity to take Sip n’ Sail Cruises to the next level with such a nationally recognized company is a logical fit for us,” said Veronica Dobrowolski, General Manager of Sip n’ Sail Cruises. “We are excited and looking forward to growing their brand and providing greater opportunities for our guests.”

Guests aboard Sip n’ Sail Cruises enjoy 90 minutes of breathtaking panoramic sea views. The fleet features the Robin E, a 55-foot vessel, and the Isle Royale Queen III, an 81-foot vessel equipped with multiple viewing areas, heated cabins, restrooms, a full-service cash bar and live entertainment. Sip n’ Sail Cruises elevates the sailing experience, offering unparalleled photo opportunities as customers glide along the shoreline of Mackinac Island.

Jenny Gezella, President of Hoffmann Marine, remarked, “As soon as Shepler’s Ferry brought me to Mackinac Island, I went straight to see the Sip n’ Sail fleet. Veronica Dobrowolski, Andrew Doud and their team have done an outstanding job delivering first-class cruise experiences, offering guests an intimate view of the island’s beauty. Their operation is a perfect addition to our dinner cruise business, and we are thrilled to welcome Veronica and her team into our family.”

To learn more about Sip n’ Sail Cruises, visit sipnsailcruises.com or call 844.906.9006.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies:

The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), a multi-vertical family-owned company consisting of over 100 national brands, employs 9,000 global employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 250 locations around the world. The HF Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate and Transportation. For more information, visit www.hfcompanies.com.

About Sip n’ Sail Cruises:

Sip n’ Sail Cruises is Mackinac Island’s premiere attraction. Enjoy 90 minutes of panoramic views and an unforgettable evening aboard Robin E, a 55’ vessel or Isle Royale Queen III, an 81′ well-appointed vessel with multiple viewing areas, heated cabins, restrooms, a full-service cash bar and live entertainment. Take advantage of amazing photo opportunities as you skirt the shoreline of Mackinac Island, view the elegant Victorian, turn of the century homes, and enjoy a spectacular sunset as you cruise under the Mighty Mackinac Bridge. Whether you are by yourself, on a date or in a group you will have a memorable experience on a Sip n’ Sail Cruise with our experienced and friendly crew.

Cruise tickets are available for purchase online only at sipnsailcruises.com, and we are located at the Coal Dock, between the Taxi Office and Seabiscuit Cafe.

Private charters are also available. The lsle Royale Queen III and Robin E are the perfect venues to create a one-of-a-kind event for your special gathering. Please call for more information.

The family-owned investment firm is committed to growing the company across existing and new markets

WINNETKA, Ill. (May 29, 2024) – Hoffmann Family of Companies, through its investment arm, Osprey Capital LLC (Osprey), is pleased to announce that Hoffmann Dairy LLC (a subsidiary of Osprey) is the prevailing bidder after today’s auction to acquire Oberweis Dairy (Oberweis), a legacy, family-owned dairy company based in Illinois, in connection with Oberweis’ recently announced Chapter 11 bankruptcy process. The agreement to purchase is subject to approval by the United States Bankruptcy Court, and the terms of the agreement have not been disclosed. This strategic move expands the Hoffmann Family of Companies’ portfolio and reaffirms its commitment to quality and growth.

“We are thrilled to write the next chapter of the company’s story with the wonderful employees at Oberweis Dairy,” said Geoff Hoffmann, co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Their dedication and passion for delivering exceptional dairy products align perfectly with our values.”

The Hoffmann family has a tradition of investing in multi-generational, family-owned businesses. Their decision to invest in Oberweis was driven by the dairy company’s rich history dating back to 1927, strong brand reputation, and alignment with family values. Hoffmann Family of Companies places a premium on investing in world-class enterprises, and Oberweis’ exceptional products and commitment to service have solidified its position as a household name for nearly a century.

“Our exceptional product set, accompanied by a brand that stands for quality that is second to none, is the foundation for our team members and company to write its next chapter,” said Adam Kraber, President of Oberweis Dairy. “We look forward to exciting developments ahead with Hoffmann Family of Companies.”

As part of the acquisition, Hoffmann Family of Companies plans to make strategic investments throughout Oberweis. The Aurora plant, in particular, will receive significant attention to enhance production capabilities and streamline operations.

“A heartfelt thank you to the team members at Oberweis who stuck with the company through this difficult period,” said Geoff Hoffmann. “Together, we will build a stronger, more resilient future for Oberweis Dairy.”

The Hoffmann family’s dairy roots can be traced back to founder David Hoffmann’s early childhood, spent on a dairy farm in Washington, Missouri. The family has extensive experience acquiring founder-led companies to provide them with the capital to fund growth and improvements. Most of the companies acquired by Hoffmann Family of Companies are still led by their founders, including second and third-generation family leaders.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies

About Oberweis Dairy

Having been started on a dairy farm nearly a century ago, Oberweis Dairy provides the best-tasting milk, ice cream, and now chocolates available anywhere. The company is famous for milk in its trademark glass bottles as well as its best-in-class smooth and creamy ice cream. The company distributes its products through its 48 ice cream and dairy stores, to thousands of homes through its home delivery service, and through grocery stores. Oberweis is family owned and operated, currently by the 3rd and 4th generations. For more information about Oberweis Dairy, visit www.oberweis.com.

Media Contact

Suzanne Jacob, CMO
[email protected]

CDN Controls Encompasses 10 Branches, Boasts Over 700 Employees & Harnesses a Robust Fabrication Facility

The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HFOC), a US-based family owned private equity firm, has acquired majority ownership of CDN Controls (CDN)—a leading player in electrical and instrumentation maintenance, automation, communication and renewable/solar services. CDN operates across 10 branches, employs over 700 professionals and manages an expansive fabrication facility.

The Hoffmann Family of Companies is committed to providing CDN Controls with access to capital, new market opportunities and supporting their accelerated growth. The acquisition is aimed at fostering CDN’s autonomy, fortifying its business foundation and creating avenues for seizing new opportunities.

“Hoffmann Family’s decision to purchase CDN was rooted in the alignment of values, culture and business acumen,” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO of HFOC. “We see our role as a catalyst for CDN’s continued growth rather than an agent of change, preserving CDN’s strategic and daily operational autonomy.”

“When we started CDN in 2011, we wanted to create an industry dominator—and business fueled by performance and anchored by strong core values,” said Dean Fraser, CEO, and Nick Stewart, COO, both original founders of CDN. “An investment from the Hoffmann Family of Companies will allow our business to seize newer and bigger opportunities. On the horizon are significant opportunities to put our services to good use in the global energy transition—specifically massive improvements and innovations to global energy infrastructure. As the demand grows for large-scale players to undertake this work, the Hoffmann Family of Companies will help to position CDN in that space.”

In addition, CDN also announced today their intention to penetrate the US market. Those operations will occur under the name CAVIS (kay-vis) Energy Corp. Canadian operations will remain under the name CDN.

The CDN Executive Team will be comprised of Dean Fraser, serving as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Founder, Nick Stewart as Chief Operating Officer (COO) & Founder, David Gillett as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Susan Borrows as Chief People & Corporate Services Officer (CPCSO).

For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]

About Hoffmann Family of Companies:

About CDN Controls:

CDN is Western Canada’s leader in electrical and instrumentation maintenance, automation, communication, and renewable/solar services. United by a vision to become a globally recognized business celebrated for our tenacious full-service approach in relentless pursuit of industry dominance, CDN’s collective team of more than 700 employees and contractors are committed to the highest standards in performance, measurement, and safety — and, above all, pride in a job well done. With 10 branches, six formal Indigenous partnerships, and a history of building impactful relationships, CDN delivers systems that perform.

50-Year-Old Company Encompasses Footprint of 57 Dealer Locations

In a significant move underscoring Hoffmann Family of Companies’ (HFOC) commitment to manufacturing and continued growth, the organization has successfully acquired Doonan Specialized Trailer, LLC (Doonan)—a renowned custom semi-trailer manufacturer based in Great Bend, Kansas.

With a distinguished history spanning five decades, Doonan has become synonymous with excellence in designing and producing specialized trailers tailored to the unique requirements of owner-operators.

Doonan has established a robust network of over 57 dealer locations across North America, making it a key player in the transportation industry. The company’s focus on delivering high-quality, custom-designed products with features and options unmatched by high-volume manufacturers sets it apart in the market.

“As we continue to grow our network, our venture with Doonan is an affirmation of our belief in the future of American Manufacturing,” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO at Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Doonan is a great fit for the Hoffmann Family of Companies, and we have tremendous confidence in the proven management team and the positive culture fostered throughout the company. We are excited for our future success as the team continues to operate and expand the business.”

Mike Ruddle, Vice President of Operations at Doonan, and Kelly Zecha, National Dealer Manager / Application Specialist, will both continue to play pivotal roles post-close, ensuring a seamless transition and continuity in serving customers with excellence.

“We are thrilled to be joining the Hoffmann Family of Companies to expand on the success of Doonan built over the past 50 years,” said Mike Ruddle, VP of Operations at Doonan Specialized Trailer.

The Doonan acquisition expands HFOC’s presence in the transportation sector, building on the 2021 purchase of Texas Bragg Trailers, based in Mt. Pleasant, Texas. Established in 1977, Texas Bragg Trailers offers a selection of trailers through their expansive dealer network in 21 states.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]

About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), a multi-vertical family-owned company consisting of over 100 national brands, employs 9,000 global employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 250 locations around the world. The HF Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate, and Transportation. For more information, visit: www.hfcompanies.com.

About Doonan Specialized Trailer:
Established in 1973, Doonan Specialized Trailer has been at the forefront of designing and building specialized trailers, including custom flatbeds, drop decks, double drops, oilfield trailers, extendibles and RGN lowbeds. The company’s commitment to delivering “Best in Class” solutions through its extensive Dealer Network further emphasizes its dedication to meeting the specialized needs of owner operators. Learn more at www.doonan.com.

Adding to the Leadership Team to Oversee the Augusta Winery, Balducci Vineyards, Montelle Winery and Mt. Pleasant Estates

In a strategic move to elevate the Augusta Wineries to new heights, Hoffmann Family of Companies (HFOC) proudly announces the appointment of Tom Fuchs as General Manager. Fuchs brings over three decades of executive management experience in the wine industry and a wealth of product sales and distribution knowledge.

As General Manager of the Augusta Wineries, Fuchs will spearhead efforts to elevate the wineries to new levels by implementing best practices and ensuring the existing winery teams are well-equipped for success. This move aligns with HFOC’s commitment to continuous improvement and delivering unparalleled experiences to its patrons. Don Simon will be focused on the landscape and agricultural businesses at Hoffmann Hillermann and Town and Country Nurseries, as well as future agricultural acquisitions. He will also transition the leasing and sale of non-winery related businesses.

Fostering a positive and thriving work environment for all Augusta team members is a primary goal of this new strategic reorganization, and there are no plans for layoffs or team changes. Our business objective is to strengthen HFOC’s position in the industry and enhance the overall success of the wineries.

“We are excited to welcome Tom to the Hoffmann Family, and we have full confidence in his ability to take the Augusta Wineries to new heights,” said David Hoffmann, Chairman at Hoffmann Family of Companies. “This is a positive step forward for us, reinforcing our dedication to excellence and innovation in the winery industry, and our investment in Augusta. We are grateful to Don for all his work supporting our growth to date.”

Fuchs, a St. Louis native, is an alumnus of Christian Brothers H.S. and of St. Louis University’s School of Commerce & Finance. He brings a wealth of leadership experience, having been President of three nationally distributed Beverage Companies, and has served on the boards of several companies and organizations, including the Alexander Valley Winegrowers Association, MOSAIC Vineyards & Winery, Greater Madison (WI) Convention & Visitors Bureau and Capital Brewery. His contributions as a
nationally syndicated wine columnist further showcase his commitment to the industry.

Hoffmann Family of Companies expresses its continued dedication to Augusta, emphasizing that this leadership transition signifies a renewed focus on the wineries’ growth while maintaining the town’s vibrant tourism offerings. Learn more about our vineyards at VisitAugustaMO.com.