According to Don Wells, president of D.E.W. Construction Corp., the company has completed a merger with the MacMillin Company of Keene, N.H. The merger is a strategic step that unites the strengths of both businesses, resulting in a winning situation for their present and future clients as well as their employees.
"I'm incredibly excited about the opportunity to work with MacMillin's owner Bill Walker and his staff to integrate our services to better serve the market," said Wells. "Our business philosophies are in alignment: people come first. We both look out and advocate for our clients, and now we can offer them enhanced services. It also provides opportunities for our staffs and employees to grow."
D.E.W., a 15-year-old company, brings to the table a solid business development plan, progressive marketing strategies, and Building Information Modeling, a technology method of managing models, processes, and communication across a large team. MacMillin, a 66-year-old company, brings a history of service and customer satisfaction in a region where D.E.W. previously planned to expand operations.
Bill Walker, who has been with MacMillin for 42 years and president for the last 25 years, says the merger will yield an entity that is stronger than what each independent company now offers. "Our companies have a great synergy. They are alike in management practices and philosophies and it's a great fit for the employees. The result of the merger will be companies that are stronger and more competitive in the construction marketplace."
D.E.W.'s corporate headquarters will remain in Williston, and MacMillin will retain its Keene offices and New Hampshire corporation status, with Walker continuing as CEO.
Recently, MacMillin's work volume has been approximately $40 million annually. Completed projects within the past year include Keene Family YMCA, Keene Middle School, Marlborough Elementary School, and Kilton Public Library.
D.E.W.'s recent projects include Jay Peak's Hotel Jay and Pump House Waterpark, James M. Jeffords Hall at University of Vermont, Community College of Vermont Rutland Academic Center, Putney School Field House, and the Waterbury Fire Stations. Their current annual sales for 2011 were in the $150 million range.
It is the goal of both companies to grow the New Hampshire operation to a similar size of D.E.W.'s Vermont operations. "It will be business as usual for everyone involved," said Wells. "The merger will be a seamless transition to ensure integrity throughout the process."