September 14, 2004

Chuck Kruder

BowTie Inc., publisher of Pet Product News, appointed Chuck Kruder president of Global Distribution Services LLC. Kruder, who launched Global Distribution Services (GDS) 15 years ago for the purpose of distributing Fancy Publications publications direct to pet retailers nationwide, has since grown GDS into the international distribution company.

“Chuck took an idea and turned it into a company within a company,” said Norman Ridker, BowTie's chairman. “He is a loyal and unique individual and a proven leader capable of continuing to drive this fast-growing business.”

Kruder joined BowTie in 1988 following a 13-year career in motion picture distribution. After supervising the company's national telemarketing program, he launched Global Distribution Services in 1989. In his expanded role, Kruder will be responsible for the long-term vision and strategic plan for GDS, as well as opening up new channels for BowTie products.

BowTie's other divisions include Fancy Publications, a publisher of more than 50 pet-related magazines, and BowTie Press, a publisher of pet-related books. GDS also distributes publications from other publishers and provides merchandising services to retailers. 

“My promotion is just one of many upcoming organizational changes to help move GDS to a higher level of sales growth and customer service excellence," Kruder said. "While individuals’ roles may be shifting, it is the combined effort of a hard working dedicated team that is responsible for our success. I am very pleased to be associated with such a talented group of individuals.”

Over the next year, GDS plans to expand its customized retail services to better enhance the productivity of client resources and increase product sell-through via specialized marketing programs.