Big Eric’s, Formerly Sani Pro Inc., buys Janitor’s Market

Big Eric’s Inc., which calls itself Atlantic Canada’s largest distributor of food service and sanitation equipment and supplies, has bought Janitor’s Market Inc. in Burnside Park.

Big Eric’s president Ed Stratton said Monday the acquisition gives the company, which is based in St. John’s, N.L., a sanitation equipment business in Nova Scotia. Previously, Big Eric’s had a food services operation in this province.

“There are lots of companies operating in Atlantic Canada that are looking for a single-source supplier so we thought that was a great opportunity,” Stratton said in an interview.

He wouldn’t disclose the purchase price.

Sani Pro Inc., a food service and sanitation equipment and supplies company in Newfoundland and Labrador, bought Halifax’s Big Eric’s Restaurant Supplies Ltd. in December 2009. The companies merged under the Big Eric’s name the following year.

Big Eric’s, which has about 55 employees, also has a Moncton location that sells both types of equipment.

Stratton said it will be business as usual for the 11 Janitor’s Market employees. The business, which includes a 10,000-square-foot retail store and warehouse, will keep the name for now but that will likely change down the road, he said.

Janitor’s Market was founded in 1994 by Mike Yabrove, who died about two years ago, Stratton said.

“We’re excited to have the Janitor’s Market people on board. They have a great reputation for service.”

Source: http://www.thechronicleherald.ca/Business/1248450.html