In a move to further tap into the company’s continued growth, St. Louis-based Bissinger’s has appointed Jeff Tillery vice president of sales and business development.

Tillery has more than 25 years of experience in the retail and wholesale management sector. He was most recently vice president at Dynamic Confections in Salt Lake City, Utah. Tillery also spent ten years as a broker in the specialty retail industry and has represented lines such as Republic of Tea, Stonewall Kitchen and Robert Rothschild.

“I know firsthand what it takes for our retail partners to be successful,” said Tillery. “Good communication, timely catalogs and strategic selling programs will be my top priorities.” In addition, Tillery will focus on wholesale channel growth and build new profit sectors.

“We are fortunate to have Jeff on our team,” said President and CEO Tim Fogerty. “Our wholesale business continues to see robust growth [up 52% this year] and this position is key to continued success. Most importantly, he shares our commitment to high standards and passion to provide confections focusing on social and environmental sustainability.”

The appointment coincides with the company’s recent new facility announcement. The new building will triple current capacity with 85,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space and 38,000 sq. ft. of office and special event space. The property has ample parking, and three docks for shipping and receiving. The company will consolidate its two main facilities at the new property. In January 2014, the Iowa City location will move to the completed building with the St. Louis headquarters facility to follow in May.

Bissinger’s origins date back to 17th France, where it was awarded the title of “Confiseur Imperial” for confectionery excellence by King Louis XIV. The St. Louis store first opened its doors in 1927 and has since grown into an international business spanning retail, wholesale and catalog sectors. Bissinger’s may be found at the larger national stores such as Whole Foods Market, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s as well as the high-end boutique retailers like local Straub’s and Draeger’s Markets across the country.

“We are grateful to be here carrying on the legacy that started in Paris centuries ago,” said Fogerty. “Bissinger’s remains committed to crafting high-quality confections sourcing all-natural ingredients that promote a healthy and socially responsible world.”