Ed Cooper Steps into Role as CEO of HC x CHG, Promising Strategic Growth and Innovation

Leadership Change at HC x CHG

On February 25, 2025, HC x CHG, renowned in North America for its horticultural and decorative containers, announced Ed Cooper as the new Chief Executive Officer. He succeeded Bob Mayer, who has decided to take on an advisory role after guiding the company since April 2020.

Ed Cooper joins HC x CHG with a wealth of experience in driving commercial growth across various sectors. He previously held the position of CEO at Mon Chateau LLC, a leader in premium lifestyle products for homes. Under his leadership, the company successfully launched the Guy Fieri's Flavortown brand of cookware and appliances in 2023. Moreover, Cooper's 23-year tenure at Newell Brands provided him with rich experience working with globally recognized brands like Sharpie, Papermate, Calphalon, Food Saver, and Mr. Coffee.

The announcement was met with enthusiasm from HC x CHG's stakeholders. Ali Bajwa, Principal at Platinum Equity, expressed excitement over Cooper’s appointment, emphasizing the importance of integrating the HC Companies and Classic Home & Garden businesses. He stated, "Ed's vision and leadership will be crucial in driving the company's growth and maintaining its leadership in decorative containers and grow pots."

In a statement, Cooper expressed his commitment to nurturing a positive workplace culture and offering unparalleled solutions to growers, retailers, distributors, and consumers, indicating a focus on innovation and sustainability for the company. His plan includes leveraging his extensive knowledge to optimize supply chains and enhance product offerings while focusing on customer satisfaction.

Bob Mayer's transition signifies a pivotal moment for HC x CHG, as he shared, "Leading HC x CHG has been a privilege. I am proud of what we've achieved together, and I have complete faith that Ed is the right leader to guide the firm into the future."

This leadership transition comes at a critical juncture for HC x CHG, as the company aims to strengthen its market position and explore new growth avenues. The merger of innovative solutions with a strong commitment to sustainability will be at the forefront of Cooper’s strategy in steering the company towards success.

In conclusion, HC x CHG's choice of Ed Cooper as CEO reflects its dedication to not only maintaining but enhancing its reputation in the horticultural industry. With his proven track record and forward-thinking approach, the company is well-positioned to navigate future challenges and capitalize on emerging trends in the market. The collective vision of the leadership team sets a promising tone for a new era of growth and opportunity for HC x CHG and its stakeholders.