THE Andersons Inc. announced Nov. 17 its plans to combine the Turf & Specialty and Plant Nutrient groups into a yet to be named combined operating group.

"The Turf & Specialty and Plant Nutrient groups have become closely aligned in the customers they serve, the products and services they offer, the manner in which they operate and in their growth strategies," said chief operating officer Hal Reed. "We believe the two groups are stronger together than separate. This move offers additional growth opportunities, enhances profitability and, most importantly, takes our customer service to the next level."

Bill Wolf, who currently serves as the president of the Plant Nutrient Group, will lead the new group and Tom Waggoner, currently the president of the Turf & Specialty Group, will assume a new role as corporate vice president, marketing and operations services.

The company said leadership changes, full integration and subsequent reporting changes will occur throughout 2015.