History

Ongoing Commitment to Excellence & Connections

Wade and Joan Ewers founded Ritway in 1988. It began as a commitment to excellence and 8,000 square feet of warehouse space near the juncture of I-40, I-75, and I-81 in Knoxville. Now into its third decade, Ritway is dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service possible. Ritway has grown by constantly adjusting, reshaping and rethinking its services to meet a myriad of client needs and wants.

Logistically, the Knoxville address made great practical sense. More than three-quarters of the U.S. population resides within 500 miles of the company’s storage and shipping bays.

Both Joan and Wade Ewers are driven to understand each client’s business. “And, once we do,” says Wade, “we immediately begin serving you on a deeper level.”

Throughout the company’s history, its commitment to the business hasn’t wavered. Nor its commitment to people. Length of employment for Ritway’s leadership team averages 15 years and, for the remainder of the company, close to nine.

“People are our most important resource,” says Wade. “We want to sustain the company by attracting people of similar values and run the business like it’s family.” And, as Ritway continues to grow through versatility of service, innovative thinking and refinements in technology, that essential people-based orientation remains at the core of its mission.

Joan Ewers, CEO

Joan Ewers, CEO

Wade Ewers,President & COO

Wade Ewers,President & COO

Santana Ewers, VP Systems, Controls & Benefits

Santana Ewers, VP Systems, Controls & Benefits

“Ritway is typically my first stop in pursuing merchandise material for my business and I would estimate our bottler procures about 70% of our annual merchandising materials through Ritway.

- Laverne Harley, Liberty Coca-Cola -