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The Merchandise Mart, home to the world-class Chicago Market, celebrated a benchmark anniversary with one of its premier tenants, Peterson Associates Inc. This second-generation manufacturer’s representative organization, which services more than 4,500 retailers in the Midwest, celebrated its 50th year in business on Jan.21 with hundreds of industry buyers in attendance.

Founded by Robert Peterson, Peterson Associates successfully covered the state of Michigan since 1962. Son Ward joined the company in 1989 as a field sales representative followed by Brad who joined in the same capacity in 1991. The brothers purchased the business from their father in 1996, ensuring family ownership for a period that spans 50 years.

In January 2001, Peterson Associates entered the Illinois/Indiana market and opened its 4,000 square foot showroom in the Merchandise Mart. “We are proud of our Midwest heritage, our talented staff, the great lines we represent and our customers most of all,’ said Brad Peterson, market director and owner, Peterson Associates Inc. “We believe our responsibility is to our customers, to help keep them armed with fresh products, new information and expert selling advice, we know their local markets because that’s where we live.” Peterson’s proudly represents some of the gift industry’s leading lines including Santa Barbara Design Studio, Michel Design Works, Transpac Imports, tag, Foreside Home & Garden to name a few.