Core X Partners emerges from a rebranding of RLS Partners, signifying a pivotal moment in the company’s trajectory. This strategic shift underscores CORE X Partners’ dedication to innovation, expansion, and providing unmatched service to its North American cold storage and logistics clientele.
CORE X Partners: A Unique Model for Family Businesses
Founded in 2020 by Tony and Russell Leo, along with business leader Tom Casey, CORE X Partners initially operated as an affiliate of RLS Logistics, a thriving third-generation cold chain solutions provider under the Leo family’s ownership. CORE X Partners distinguished itself with a unique strategy, securing capital to address the enduring requirements of family-owned cold chain businesses and their customers. In three years, CORE X Partners has established a national cold chain network encompassing 52 million cubic feet through acquisitions of six family businesses and the construction of a new Massachusetts facility.
Central to the CORE X Partners model are its Partnering Regional Operators (PROs). These entrepreneurial owner-operators retain a stake in their existing businesses while investing in the CORE X Partners parent company. This structure recognizes the value customers place on entrepreneurial acumen and personalized service, especially amidst industry consolidation leading to dissatisfaction and limited choices. Customers also demand newer, more efficient facilities and seek growth alongside trusted cold chain providers.
Dedicated Operations and Leadership at CORE X Partners
Previously supported by the RLS Logistics operating team, CORE X Partners has recently assembled a dedicated team under President Ken Johnson, a 30-year industry veteran. This team comprises over 25 professionals across sales, transportation, IT, human resources, safety, and quality.
“Building a successful business grounded in family values and service has been rewarding. To sustain rapid growth, RLS Partners formed its own operating team and rebranded as CORE X Partners. RLS Logistics remains under the Leo family’s ownership and operation,” stated Russell Leo, CEO of RLS Logistics.
CORE X Partners Poised for Continued Expansion
CORE X Partners actively pursues opportunities to expand its PRO network and customer base. “We’re honored by the trust of our family partners and anticipate doubling our North American operations within two years. Investing in new facilities for our PROs and customers is a priority,” commented Tom Casey, Co-founder and Chief Investment Officer.
“CORE X Partners perfectly embodies our unique industry model,” affirmed President Ken Johnson. “It signifies our commitment to the growth of family-owned and entrepreneurial cold storage operators and their customers.”
Defining CORE X Partners
CORE encapsulates the organization’s foundational principles: Cold Storage Expertise, Outstanding Service, Regional Relationships, and Entrepreneurial Empowerment. The X symbolizes collaboration between the network’s decentralized operations and its customers. CORE X Partners is a premier cold chain storage and logistics provider, dedicated to fostering growth for family-owned and entrepreneurial cold storage operators while delivering exceptional customer service.
