WhiskersWhat Happened to Kelly Moore Paints?
For decades, Kelly Moore Paints was a well-known and respected name in the paint industry, particularly in California. Known for its high-quality products and excellent customer service, Kelly Moore Paint stores were a familiar sight in many communities. However, in recent years, the brand has undergone significant changes, leaving many wondering what happened to Kelly Moore Paints and where they can still find their products.
The History of Kelly Moore Paints
Kelly Moore Paints was founded in 1946 by Jack Kelly Moore, a paint contractor who sought to create a better paint for the California market. The company's early success was built on its focus on quality and customer service. Kelly Moore Paints quickly gained a reputation for its durable, high-performance paints, specifically designed to withstand the unique climate conditions of California. The company also developed a strong network of independent retailers, each offering personalized service and expertise to local customers.
Over the years, Kelly Moore Paints expanded its product line to include a wide range of interior and exterior paints, stains, and coatings. The company also invested in advanced manufacturing processes and technology to ensure consistent quality and performance. By the early 2000s, Kelly Moore Paints had established itself as one of the leading paint brands in California, with a loyal customer base and a reputation for excellence.
The Acquisition by PPG Industries
In 2013, Kelly Moore Paints was acquired by PPG Industries, a global leader in coatings and specialty materials. The acquisition marked a significant shift for Kelly Moore Paints, as it became part of a larger corporate entity. While PPG Industries stated its commitment to preserving the Kelly Moore Paints brand and its commitment to quality, the acquisition did raise concerns among some customers and industry experts.
Changes After the Acquisition
Following the acquisition, there were noticeable changes in how Kelly Moore Paints operated. Some of these changes included:
- Consolidation of retail locations: While PPG Industries initially maintained the existing Kelly Moore Paint store network, there have been closures and consolidation efforts in recent years. This has resulted in a decrease in the number of Kelly Moore Paint stores across California.
- Shift in product focus: PPG Industries has introduced some new paint products under the Kelly Moore Paints brand, but it has also streamlined the product portfolio, focusing on key offerings that align with the company's overall strategy. This has led to the discontinuation of certain products that were previously popular with Kelly Moore Paints customers.
- Integration with PPG Industries systems: As part of the integration process, Kelly Moore Paints has implemented some of PPG Industries' systems and processes, which has led to changes in customer service, pricing, and product availability.
What is Kelly Moore Paint?
Despite the changes, Kelly Moore Paints remains a recognizable brand known for its high-quality paints, stains, and coatings. The company still emphasizes its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. However, the acquisition by PPG Industries has undoubtedly had a significant impact on the brand's identity, distribution, and product offerings.
Where is Kelly Moore Paint Sold?
While Kelly Moore Paints was once a primarily California-based brand, its distribution has expanded in recent years. PPG Industries has leveraged its national network to make Kelly Moore Paints available in more states, including Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. However, the brand's primary focus remains on the California market, where it still enjoys a strong presence.
Is Kelly Moore Paint Good Quality?
The quality of Kelly Moore Paints remains high. The company continues to invest in research and development, and its paints are known for their durability, performance, and color consistency. While there have been changes in the product portfolio, the core values of quality and innovation remain central to the Kelly Moore Paints brand.
Finding Kelly Moore Paint Stores
Finding a Kelly Moore Paint store near you can be a bit challenging, given the recent consolidation efforts. While there are still many stores operating across California, it's recommended to check the Kelly Moore Paints website or use a store locator tool to find the closest location.
Alternatives to Kelly Moore Paints
If you're unable to find a Kelly Moore Paint store in your area or if you're looking for alternative options, there are other reputable paint brands available. Some of the most popular brands include:
- Sherwin-Williams
- Benjamin Moore
- PPG Paints
- Valspar
These brands offer a wide range of paints, stains, and coatings, and they are available through a network of retail stores and online retailers.
The Future of Kelly Moore Paints
The future of Kelly Moore Paints is uncertain. While the brand still holds a strong position in California, the impact of the acquisition by PPG Industries remains to be seen. The consolidation of retail locations and the changes in product offerings suggest that the brand is adapting to a new environment. Whether it can maintain its reputation for quality and customer service in the long term remains to be seen.
Despite the changes, Kelly Moore Paints continues to be a viable option for those seeking high-quality paints. Its legacy of quality, innovation, and customer service remains a testament to the brand's enduring appeal. However, it's important to stay informed about the latest developments and to consider alternative options if necessary.