Two firms pulling together

The American Sun Seed Company and Quiko GmbH of Germany have maintained close contacts with one another for a long time. As the two companies have a lot in common, both with regard to their operating philosophy and product range, Sun Seed president Brent Weinmann and Quiko managing director Erich Peters decided three years ago to enter into a cooperative arrangement. Since then, Quiko has been marketing Sun Seed products exclusively in Europe, while Sun Seed conversely has been taking care of the effective marketing of Quiko products in the USA. The decision to work more closely together was based on the desire of both partners to achieve important synergy effects in distribution and logistics through a joint market presence. Joint purchasing of raw materials is also proving greatly advantageous to both firms.
The two firms appear on the same stand at trade shows too. In the picture: Quiko managing director Erich Peters (left) and Sun Seed president Brent Weinmann.
The working relationship between the two has now developed to such an extent that the companies have created a joint brand for their products, ”Quiko Sun Seed“, which is being marketed in both the USA and Europe. This joint branding is evident not only from the common logo but also at trade shows, where the two firms share a stand and a uniform livery. 
The manufacturing processes have been coordinated to one another as well as the product range. At its head office in Bocholt, Quiko operates a 10,000 m² production plant in which vitamin preparations, treats and care products for aviary birds and small animals are manufactured. Sun Seed’s factory in Ohio turns out similar products.
Sun Seed and Quiko products are marketed both in the USA and Europe under the joint “Quiko Sun Seed“ brand.
This international cooperation is to be consolidated in stages over the next few years. The process will include joint activities from which both firms can benefit. One example of this is the 53rd Vogelweltausstellung (Bird World Exhibition) taking place from 26 January to 1 February 2005 in the exhibition halls of Bad Salzuflen in Germany. Quiko is the main sponsor, and the firm’s managing director Erich Peters is also acting as president of the organisation committee for this major specialist show. This top-class event is sure to give a boost to the reputation of the “Quiko Sun Seed“ brand.
             maj