Jul 16, 2004

Frank's Nursery Announces New CEOSource: Frank's Nursery & Crafts, Inc.

Frank’s Nursery & Crafts, Inc. announced last week that Walter Spokowski became the new president and CEO of the company effective July 12, 2004.

Spokowski came from Woodworkers Warehouse, Inc., where he had been president and CEO since October 2001. He originally joined Woodworkers’ predecessor, Trend-lines, Inc., in March 1997 as executive vice president, merchandising. Prior to joining Trend-lines, Spokowski spent 12 years in merchandising at Home Depot, including six years in the lawn, garden and nursery businesses, and he has over 25 years of experience in the retail industry, according to Frank’s.

“We are very fortunate and pleased to have an executive of the caliber of Mr. Spokowski join us, particularly as he has significant experience in the retail industry. Our company has faced a number of struggles over the past few years, but with the help of Abacus Advisors, we have been successful in conducting a bottom-to-top review of our operations,” said Gerald Hellerman, a member of the Frank’s Board of Directors. “We are excited to have someone with Walt’s experience become our CEO and capitalize on the opportunities we have identified with Abacus’ assistance. Although Abacus will no longer be providing interim management services for Frank’s, it will continue to provide consulting services to the Board of Frank’s.

“I am excited to be joining Frank’s at this dynamic time in its history,” said Spokowski. “I look forward to working with the revitalized Frank’s organization.”