CHARMER AND PEERLESS GET TOGETHER IN NYC

Charmer Group and Peerless Importers have agreed to merge their operations in the New York metro area, a move that was much anticipated ever since Southern entered the NYC market two years ago. The new company, entitled Empire Merchants, will be owned equally by both parties, and will be a member of The Charmer Sunbelt Group. The transaction will be completed in the next several months after receiving regulatory clearance and other customary conditions. E. Lloyd Sobel will lead Empire