Global architecture and design firm Nelson has announced plans to merge with leading retail and hospitality architecture and design practice FRCH Design Worldwide. The partnership will see the creation of one of the nation’s largest design practices, with a combined 25 offices and more than 1,100 employees. The leadership from both firms will further integrate their expanded services to clients
“Our growth has always been about responding to our clients’ needs. 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,” says Nelson CEO and chairman John “Ozzie” Nelson Jr. “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 will act as chairman of the newly created board and remain the majority shareholder. He will also serve as co-CEO with Jim Tippmann, CEO of FRCH—which will now be referred to as FRCH a Nelson Company.
“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,” Tippmann says.
