Blue Book Services, LLC

Background

Founded in 1901, Blue Book Services, LLC has established itself as a premier provider of credit and marketing information for the fresh produce and lumber industries. The company's mission is to deliver accurate, timely, and reliable data to suppliers, buyers, brokers, and transporters, enabling informed and profitable business decisions. With over a century of experience, Blue Book Services has become a trusted resource in these sectors, offering comprehensive reports, ratings, and information that reflect the dynamic nature of the industries it serves.

Key Strategic Focus

Blue Book Services concentrates on providing up-to-date financial and marketing data to the fresh produce and lumber industries. The company specializes in delivering accurate reports based on factual information, supported by a team of rating analysts and specialists. Additionally, Blue Book Services offers collection and business dispute assistance, ensuring that clients have the necessary resources to navigate complex industry challenges.

Financials and Funding

As of December 2024, Blue Book Services reported annual revenues of approximately $15 million. The company operates as a privately held entity, with no public records indicating external funding rounds or investments. This financial stability underscores its longstanding presence and consistent performance in the industry.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Blue Book Services leverages a suite of technologies to enhance its service offerings. The company's tech stack includes Font Awesome, yepnope.js, jQuery Migrate, jQuery, jQuery UI, prettyPhoto, RSS, and Priority Hints. These tools contribute to the development and maintenance of robust digital platforms that deliver real-time data and insights to clients.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at Blue Book Services comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing the company's mission:

Kirk Soule, Chief Executive Officer: With a background in agriculture, fresh grocery, retail, and technology, Soule previously served as Head of Strategy and Operations for 3M’s Encore data and analytics software business. He holds an undergraduate degree from Wheaton College and an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Dan Wywrot, Chief Financial Officer: Wywrot oversees the financial health and performance of the company. He co-founded and served as VP of Finance at Paro and was a Senior Associate at KPMG in Financial Due Diligence. A CPA, he earned bachelor's degrees in accounting and finance from the University of Illinois.

Charles Boicey, Chief Technology Officer: Boicey is responsible for the company's technology assets. His career spans roles in produce and healthcare, including Trauma/Critical Care Nursing and Clinical/Research Informatics. He co-founded Clearsense, a healthcare data platform, and holds an MS from Stevens Institute of Technology.

John Abkes, Senior Vice President of New Products: Abkes leads efforts in developing solutions for retail customers, bringing over 30 years of experience in the produce and technology industries from companies like DTN, iTradeNetwork, IRI, and Apeel Sciences. He graduated from the University of Iowa.

Doug Nelson, Vice President, Special Services: Nelson heads the Trading Assistance Division, offering trading assistance, collection assistance, and dispute resolution. He has over 20 years of experience in the fresh fruit and vegetable industry and graduated with honors from Loyola University of Chicago’s School of Law.

Bill Zentner, Vice President, Rating Services: Zentner oversees Blue Book ratings and scores, as well as the content team responsible for the company's comprehensive database. He earned a BA in Business Finance from Augustana College and joined Blue Book Services in 2001.

Jason Carty, Vice President of Sales: Carty leads the inside and field sales teams, bringing extensive experience in sales, category management, and retailer and grower relations. He previously served as Senior Director – North American Sales for Apeel and held positions at Capespan and The Oppenheimer Group. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Information Systems from Saint Joseph’s University.

Frank Sanchez, Vice President, Global Sales and Business Development: Sanchez oversees the Field Sales and Service team across North America and international business development. He has over three decades of experience in management, sales, and marketing, and studied business management at Baruch College, New York.

Greg Johnson, Vice President of Media: Johnson oversees the company's print and digital news operations, with more than 25 years of experience covering the fresh fruit and vegetable industry. He holds a journalism degree from the University of Kansas and joined Blue Book Services in 2018.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics: The credit and marketing information sector for the produce and lumber industries is characterized by a demand for accurate, real-time data to inform business decisions. The market is competitive, with several players offering similar services, necessitating continuous innovation and value addition.

Competitor Analysis: Key competitors include:

The Blue Book Building and Construction Network: Provides regional buyers' guides listing commercial construction companies, including subcontractors and suppliers.