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March 1, 2003
Fort Wayne, IN
United Art and Education has recently announced that it has acquired the Creative Teaching stores in the South Bend, Indiana, area. With the addition of these two stores, the Fort Wayne-based company supports educators in five markets with seven retail locations in Indiana and Ohio.

Creative Teaching carries a large mixture of teacher resources, basic children's art supplies, as well as toys and educational games for kids. Teachers will find United Art and Education's selection very similar to the current Creative Teaching line of products. The basic focus of the two chains has been, and will continue to be, excellence in product selection, customer service and a friendly shopping atmosphere. Future plans include expansion to include many of the art supplies currently carried by the other United Art and Education stores that complement the needs of schools, churches and day care centers.

Creative Teaching has been owned and operated by Bill and Sally Grossnickle, who developed loyal customers over their 16 years in the Michiana area. Mike Gugel, Vice President, hopes to continue to expand the operation, including incorporating the best from both Creative Teaching and United Art and Education. "Their established customer base allows us to hit the ground running," Gugel said. "It also gives us the opportunity to learn what other companies have done to be successful."

When the Grossnickles decided to retire, United Art and Education decided to purchase the successful company. The South Bend area has been on the company's list of potential markets for a long time. "Going into an area where they have a 16-year-old store allows us to continue to grow," Director of Retail Operations, David Keith said. Gugel appreciates the combination of experienced employees and service-oriented atmosphere. "They are committed to taking care of customers and they have pride in the place they work."

The Creative Teaching staff is largely made up of educators that have a tremendous amount of experience. "They are very knowledgeable, very customer-friendly. It's a perfect match for our organization," Keith said. "I'm real excited about having them as part of the United team."

Susie Nobbe, an experienced store manager from United Art and Education's Dayton location, will be responsible for both locations, and will facilitate a smooth transition. "I am very excited about the new challenge," she said.

United Art and Education's Mishawaka Store is located at the intersection of Main Street and McKinley Avenue and is approximately 10,000 square feet. The Goshen store is located in the Market Center shopping center and is about 2,500 square feet.

Since 1960, United Art and Education has served schools nationwide through its school supplies and art materials catalogs. The company web site provides resources to teachers and parents at www.UnitedNow.com. Independently owned and operated, the company is committed to serving schools, organizations and individuals with quality products, competitive prices and friendly customer service. 

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