Network Services Co., an organization of independent distributors serving North America, has formed a strategic alliance with INPACS, a similar organization serving European markets.

Headquartered in Mt. Prospect, Ill., Network Services is composed of 74 wholesale distributors selling paper and plastic products, packaging, and janitorial supplies primarily for the health care, industrial, building service contractor, and foodservice markets. Network has more than 400 distribution locations in North America.

INPACS is based in Berlin and consists of five independent wholesaler groups with 150 locations in 16 European countries. The group provides a variety of janitorial cleaning supplies, equipment, and disposable paper and plastic products, primarily to the away-from-home markets.

The precise terms of the agreement were not disclosed. However, while both groups will continue to operate separately and independently, the agreement enables each company to tap into each others' areas of experience and competency.

"Our agreement with INPACS allows both groups to share their expertise to expand their value to suppliers and customers, leverage their combined strengths, and increase their businesses on a global basis by serving multinational corporations," says R. James Alexy, president/CEO of Network.

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victoria.kickham@reedbusiness.com