The ownership of Agoura Hills, California-based supplier International Merchandise Concepts/IMC has been acquired by its Asia operations partner, the Kao family.
The Kao family has overseen IMC’s Asia operations since the company’s inception 26 years ago, and has been responsible for the sourcing, development and manufacturing of all IMC merchandise through its offices in China, Hong Kong and Taipei. The purchase of ownership from the Fishman family will not interrupt service, and the company will continue to operate under its current name.
Jeffrey Kao, who has been part of IMC’s corporate team for more than 23 years, will assume the role of CEO. He thanked former owners Jodi and Stan Fishman for their vision and leadership. “Building upon our 26 years experience in the Asia market,” noted Kao, “and my behind-the-scenes role in the corporate office, we plan to more closely align the Asia operation with the US operation, thereby shortening the space between time and distance and offering innovative ways to bring products to market and to further enhance our services to distributors and their customers.”
Barry Fogel, corporate CMO and executive vice president of IMC Custom, will assume the role of president. Fogel joined the parent company 23 years ago and, along with Kao, has been responsible for the sourcing and development of the IMC product line. Said Fogel, “We will continue to look at our merchandise with a retail perspective and strive to build upon our existing niche categories while looking ahead.”
For more information, call (818) 879-2800 or visit www.imc-miracles.com.
