CINCINNATI—Nelson, a global architecture and design firm, has merged operations with FRCH Design Worldwide, a retail and hospitality architecture and design firm. The newly combined organization has 25 offices with more than 1,100 employees to provide service to their current and prospective clients in every region of the country.
“This merger is an exciting step demonstrating our continued commitment to bring more value to our clients with thought leadership in new practice areas and market segment expertise,” said John “Ozzie” Nelson Jr., chairman and CEO of Nelson, when describing the merger with FRCH. “FRCH’s expertise and 50 years of experience in creating award-winning retail, hospitality, restaurant, entertainment and retail mixed-use environments and innovative consumer experiences is not only complementary to our organization, but positions us to respond to the changing disruption across multiple industries.”
Nelson and Jim Tippmann, CEO of FRCH, will lead the new organization as co-CEOs. “Merging with Nelson provides our organization and clients with a stronger regional presence, offering not only relevant depth of practice area expertise, but more reach nationally to be closer to our clients so that we are there when they need us,” said Tippmann who sees the companies as a cultural fit—both founded on an entrepreneurial spirit with a focus on strengthening their client’s brand while continuing to be proactive in growing the business.
In addition to his role as co-CEO, Nelson will serve as chair of the newly created board, and remain the majority shareholder.
FRCH Design Worldwide will immediately be renamed as FRCH a Nelson Company, and continue to serve current and future clients. Over the coming months, the leadership of both organizations will further integrate their expanded service offering.