Since the age of 13, Hayes spent summers working in the lumber yard that his grandparents founded. After law school and his service in the United States Army, he joined his parents at Ricci, full time. He slowly began to buy out his parents and became president in 1999, when his father Don prepared to retire.
Kodiak said that Hayes’ energy and introduction of new technologies helped quadruple the company’s sales volume. Additionally, Hayes and his wife built a state-of-the-art design center and expanded the entire operation with greater kitchen, flooring, and millwork options.
To take Ricci Lumber to the next level, Hayes said he chose Kodiak to honor his family’s legacy and provide further opportunities for his 45 employees.
“Kodiak’s family like philosophy mirrors our own, and they became the obvious choice among several suitors,” Hayes said.
“Eddie and his team will find that all of our companies share his perspective and align with that very culture,” said Steve Swinney, president and CEO of Kodiak. “We work hard and have high standards for how we operate, but we also play hard and have a great time together as like-minded partners and as an extended family.”
Peloton Advisory, LLC was the exclusive advisor to Ricci Lumber.
Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., operates 89 locations in more than 20 states.