Ferrellgas is Celebrating 85 Years!

Ferrellgas is proudly celebrating 85 years in business! The company has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Read on to learn more about how the company has grown over the years and why employee-owners are so proud to Fuel Life Simply for its customers.

It's All in the Family

Ferrellgas was founded in 1939 in Atchison, Kansas. Back then, it was known as the A.C. Ferrell Butane Gas Company. Alfred Carl (A.C.) Ferrell and his wife Mabel ran the business for years, but after Mabel passed away in 1952, things started to decline. In addition, in 1958, a massive flood destroyed the company’s store and inventory, so A.C. moved the business across the river to Missouri.

The business was still struggling, so A.C. asked his son, current company Executive Chairman James E. Ferrell, to help him out. Mr. Ferrell returned home from serving an infantry officer in the Army to try to save the family business.

Ferrellgas is Born

Mr. Ferrell made some big moves in the early years to get the business in order, starting with renaming the company Ferrellgas. He then expanded by acquiring several smaller propane dealers in the Midwest. And he focused on outstanding service and selling the benefits of propane to communities in the region. Mr. Ferrell believed that by putting the customer first and emphasizing core family values, Ferrellgas would be a success. Slowly but surely, Ferrellgas spread to more towns and cities.

Ferrellgas also branched out to wholesale distribution, and Ferrell North America (FNA) was created. Today, that part of the company is responsible for transporting and purchasing propane throughout the United States. FNA plays a key role in Ferrellgas’ nationwide supply network, allowing the company to shift assets where needed so customers can get propane even in times of high demand. FNA also helps customers when it comes to pricing. Ferrellgas’ vast fleet helps pass the savings on to our customers. You can learn more about Ferrellgas’ nationwide supply network here.
 

The Expansion Continues

There is one business acquisition that turned Ferrellgas into a nationwide company: Buckeye Gas Products Company. Buckeye supplied refineries in Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and several New England states. In 1984, Mr. Ferrell got the opportunity to bid on Buckeye’s propane subsidiary. The bid was accepted, launching Ferrellgas into the big time as the third largest retail propane marketer. Today, it has grown to be the second largest.

In 1998, Mr. Ferrell formed Ferrellgas’ Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Mr. Ferrell sold his interest in Ferrellgas to the employees, giving them a true, vested interest in the company’s success. Mr. Ferrell’s passion for the ESOP is still present today. He believes every employee-owner has a purpose and is a key part of the company. That purpose and passion allows each qualified employee to own a part of the company even today.

Welcome Blue Rhino

Ferrellgas continued to expand over the years. In 2004, the company announced it was merging with Blue Rhino Corporation, the nation’s largest propane tank exchange brand. At the time, Blue Rhino was sold at 29,000 locations.

Today, it is sold at more than 68,000 retailers. You’ve probably seen Blue Rhino propane tanks at stores near you, including hardware, home improvement, grocery, drug, and convenience stores, as well as other mass retailers. Blue Rhino also offers home delivery in some markets and recently launched a selfserve vending program at select locations. Blue Rhino is also celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, and the brand is holding contests and giveaways for customers to mark the occasion.

Giving Back

With its family-oriented roots in mind, Ferrellgas is focused on giving back. That’s why, under Mr. Ferrell’s leadership, the company created the Ferrellgas Century Project. The goal is to make the world a better place ahead of Ferrellgas’ 100th anniversary in 2039.

As part of this mission, Ferrellgas and Blue Rhino have partnered with several nationally recognized charities to support important environmental, social, and governance initiatives. Operation Warm provides new winter coats and shoes to children in need in communities we serve. Operation BBQ Relief cooks and serves hot, freshly grilled meals to people impacted by natural disasters. The International Rhino Foundation and the American Association of Zoo Keepers aim to increase awareness, education, and conservation of the five remaining rhinoceros species on earth. In addition to these charities, Ferrellgas supports local organizations throughout the country.

Looking to the Future

Today, Ferrellgas employs more than 4,000 people nationwide. They are forward focused, always looking to the future with our customers’ needs in mind. Together, they provide safe, affordable propane service to millions of Ferrellgas and Blue Rhino customers. Ferrellgas strives to Fuel Life Simply by making propane easy and convenient. That includes utilizing some of the most up-to-date technology and focusing on safety every single day.

Ferrellgas believes in recognizing the unique abilities of the women and men who have served our country. The company currently employs hundreds of veterans and active military members. Their tenacity, determination, commitment, and ability to adapt make them some of the most valued members of the Ferrellgas team.

The company also honors women and minorities and the important skills and talents they bring to the workplace. Ferrellgas’ President & CEO, Tamria Zertuche, is a proud Hispanic woman whose career with the company began at Blue Rhino 20 years ago. She celebrates the inclusionary, supportive atmosphere at Ferrellgas by elevating natural leaders throughout the company and encouraging their fresh perspective and unique solutions so Ferrellgas can continue to evolve and grow.

Want to know more about what sets Ferrellgas apart? Contact one of our Customer Service Professionals to get started today.