For nearly a century, Schaefer Greenhouses in Montgomery, Illinois has been a trusted source of bedding plants, floral arrangements, gardening supplies, and seasonal greenery for farmers, landscapers, and local residents across the Fox Valley region. Founded in 1926, the greenhouse has remained family-owned and operated — until now.
In February 2025, Schaefer was officially acquired by Minooka-based AEC Supply, Inc., a company known for its high-quality landscaping, erosion control, and agricultural products. The move signals a strategic expansion by AEC into the retail horticulture space, while ensuring the Schaefer brand — and its team of 45 employees, including seasonal staff — remains intact.
“It’s going to continue to be Schaefer Greenhouses,” said AEC’s operations manager Billy Murdoch. “We like the story behind them. They’ve been around 99 years — and hopefully we’ll be around for another hundred.”
Strengthening Supply Chains Through Local Expansion
The acquisition comes at a time when supply chain stability and local access to quality plant materials are becoming critical issues for agricultural and landscaping professionals. AEC Supply’s expansion into Schaefer’s territory will not only retain local expertise but enhance regional logistics capabilities, enabling:
- Same-day delivery throughout the Midwest
- Wholesale pickup options for contractors and growers
- An expanded product range for both retail and B2B customers
“AEC already excels in logistics,” said Murdoch. “Combining their distribution network with Schaefer’s reputation and customer base makes this a natural fit.”
Blending Tradition with Technology
Schaefer Greenhouses’ transition comes at a time when green industry businesses are being encouraged to modernize. According to the National Greenhouse Manufacturers Association, 2024 saw a 10% increase in demand for automation technologies in small-to-medium greenhouse operations — including LED lighting, environmental control systems, and logistics software.
While Schaefer has long offered quality plants and customer service, AEC plans to bring in technology upgrades, infrastructure improvements, and expanded product offerings that were previously out of financial reach for the smaller operation. Plans include:
- New signage and property expansion
- Enhanced product access for contractors, landscapers, and home gardeners
- Continued employment for current staff and seasonal workers
A Seamless Transition with Local Commitment
AEC’s leadership emphasizes that this is not a corporate takeover but a family-owned-to-family-owned transition, focused on continuity and local trust.
“We received a nice offer and felt comfortable with the family,” said Mary Ann Kutnick, Schaefer’s longtime owner and office manager. “They’re willing to invest in the business and do things we haven’t been able to afford in recent years.”
Kutnick, who will remain through the 2025 garden season to ensure a smooth transition, reflected warmly on the handoff:
“I’ll finally get to focus on my own garden — instead of someone else’s.”
What This Means for Growers and Landscapers
The consolidation of AEC’s logistics strength with Schaefer’s customer base and retail location is expected to improve service for growers and landscapers who rely on timely, local access to horticultural products — especially as unpredictable weather and supply disruptions challenge traditional operations.
AEC’s broader product catalog and erosion control solutions may also offer synergies for diversified farm operations, nurseries, and infrastructure projects where landscape and agronomic needs overlap.
The acquisition of Schaefer Greenhouses by AEC Supply marks a blending of history and innovation. By preserving the legacy of a 99-year-old local business while infusing it with new resources and retail vision, the partnership provides a model for how family farming and modern agriculture can evolve together. For growers, landscapers, and home gardeners, this means continued quality — and improved access — for years to come.
