Conard-Pyle Co. realigns business divisions

Conard-Pyle Co., headquartered in West Grove, Pa., has announced that the 113-year old company is redirecting its business to focus on the creation, development, patenting, marketing and licensing of its proprietary genetics. Another area of focus announced by company CEO Steve Hutton will be the production and sales of starter plants, including bare root roses sold by its Meilland Star Rose division, and nursery stock liner produced at its Jennersville, Pa., wholesale facility.

The company plans to sell its Chance Farm facility in Centreville, Md., which produces finished container nursery stock primarily for independent garden centers. The company also plans to lease its Pennsylvania wholesale location. The company will continue to maintain its offices in West Grove.

The company’s wholesale workforce at the Maryland and Pennsylvania production facilities will be reduced over the next 12 months. Severance packages, based on seniority, have been offered to qualifying employees. If a sale and lease can take place in a timely manner, it is probable that a large number of existing staff will be retained.