Two Emporia businesses have been acquired.
Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling, based in Lenexa, has announced the acquisition of Coca-Cola Bottling of Emporia, also known as Emporia Coca-Cola, and Classic Vending. Acquisition terms are not being announced, although Heartland President and Chief Operating Officer Chuck Wyant says Emporia Coca-Cola and Classic Vending CEO Jeff DeBauge will report directly to him as Heartland looks to have a smooth transition.
The local companies will become part of Heartland’s North Kansas Hometown division led by current General Manager Mike Berry. Both companies will stay intact during the integration process.
The DeBauge family established the local businesses, and Emporia Coca-Cola now has distribution rights for about 400 product lines in Lyon, Chase, Coffey and Greenwood counties. Classic Vending, meanwhile, offers vending, coffee and “micro-market” services in and around Emporia.
Heartland was formed in 2017 by former NBA professional Junior Bridgeman. It now serves over 25,000 customers across Kansas, Missouri, Illinois and parts of Iowa and Nebraska.
