NEW BRIGHTON, Minn. -- Bell Lumber & Pole Company has acquired the assets of The Oeser Company, a utility pole manufacturer and supplier located in Bellingham, Wash. The transaction enables Bell to further establish itself as a leading supplier of utility poles in North America, advancing Bell's presence in the Pacific Northwest, the company said.

Founded in 1929, the 93-year-old, family-owned producer of treated wood products – from procurement to finished goods – primarily serves the electric utility industry.

Oeser and Bell have conducted business together for decades in support of their respective operations. As a result, Bell and Oeser will be an excellent fit for each other both culturally and professionally, said Tom Bell, president and owner of Bell Lumber & Pole.

"Oeser already shares many of the same values we prioritize here at Bell," said Bell. "We share a values-driven, family-business culture, with similar products and processes, and a focus on caring for customers, community, and serving the greater good."

"This is a great step forward for both Bell and the Oeser Operations," said Chris Secrist, owner of The Oeser Company. "I am confident that this will result in the ongoing operations of the Bellingham plant for decades to come. I am excited to be joining a team that cares just as deeply about its employees and serving customers as we do."