Houston’s KC Team
It was 2002, Houston’s had made the decision to expand operations and open a warehouse in Kansas City, Missouri.
This September marked the 20-year anniversary of Houston’s presence in KC, and it was an opportunity to celebrate the milestone and recognize all those in KC who work hard to support company goals and uphold our Core Values.
Houston’s Event Committee coordinated on-site celebrations in both KC and Wilsonville, featuring food, games, customized apparel, and more.
In Houston’s KC warehouse, food was provided by famous Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que. Team members in Wilsonville were able to connect with the iconic cuisine of Kansas City with a catered barbeque lunch, as well.
The KC warehouse hosted visitors from other areas within the company, as well. National Sales Manager Jarrod Bowren and the Outside Sales Team held a meeting on site in KC and were able to take part in the festivities.
President Rebecca Phillips, Director of Warehouse Operations Mike Buddrius, Customer Services Manager Lenni Treat, Fleet Manager Steve Hall, and Maintenance Supervisor Phil Moullet were able to travel to KC to commemorate the occasion and celebrate with the KC Team in person.
Playing giant Jenga.
“Everyone had a fantastic time laughing and joking around – it was wonderful,” said KC Warehouse Assistant Manager Brenda Willett. “The Team enjoyed everyone that came.”
The festivities also included custom-made KC-themed caps and shirts designed by Houston’s Marketing Team to celebrate the milestone. Caps were given to KC Team members; every person within the company – including Drivers, Merchandisers, and remote team members – received a bright red KC 20th Anniversary shirt.
Looking back 20 years to 2002, Houston’s Sr. Executive Officer Bill Paolo identified Kansas City as an advantageous site for expansion.
“KC seemed to be a good, centralized location that would enable us to ship throughout the Midwest, as well as Texas and parts of the Southeast,” said Greg Jones, Warehouse Manager. “We have built very strong relationships with great customers out there.”
In addition to a central location, the people that make up the current KC crew provide an advantage to Houston’s operations.
The KC Team enjoying a game of soccer.
Brenda Willett shared her perspective on the team during the seven years she’s been with Houston’s. “We’ve seen a lot of changes and evolution in KC,” she said. “The teamwork is phenomenal – they always have each other’s back. The connection and respect the crew have for one another is amazing.”
“Our staff out there beams with integrity and a strong desire to do things well,” Greg added. “Some of our customers go out of their way to say how much help our KC staff has been.”
With good camaraderie, good food, commemorative apparel, and more, the 20-year milestone event was a good opportunity to celebrate and appreciate all things Kansas City.
“Thanks to everyone for all their hard work putting this wonderful event together,” said Brenda. “I have a lot of good memories here in KC, but I think this will be one of the best ones.”
To all Houston’s KC folks past and present, thank you for all your efforts and hard work. Here’s to 20 great years and to many more as we all excitedly look toward the future together!
Read about our KC Employee of the Quarter and our other recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.
Houston’s Wilsonville Team celebrates KC!
