ACD Press Release

ACD Honors Two Members with 2026 Responsible Distribution Excellence Award

Chicagoland Quad Cities Express, Inc. & Chem/Serv, Inc. recognized for their dedication, innovation, and commitment

Arlington, VA –Yesterday, during its annual ChemEdge Conference and Trade Show, the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) named Chicagoland Quad Cities Express, Inc. of Bridgeview, Illinois and Chem/Serv, Inc. of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, as the recipients of the 2026 Responsible Distribution Excellence Award. This award is presented to companies that demonstrate continuous improvement and a sustained, rigorous commitment to ACD Responsible Distribution^TM – a mandatory, third-party verified environmental, health, safety, and security program. In celebration of the 20^th anniversary of the Excellence Award, two winners were announced for just the third time in the award’s history.

ACD President and CEO, Eric R. Byer, and Responsible Distribution Senior Director, Caroline Brooks, present the 2026 Responsible Distribution Excellence Award to Chicagoland Quad Cities Express, Inc.

ACD President and CEO, Eric R. Byer, and Responsible Distribution Senior Director, Caroline Brooks, present the 2026 Responsible Distribution Excellence Award to Chem/Serv, Inc.

“For two decades, the Responsible Distribution Excellence Award has recognized the companies that define what leadership looks like in our industry,” said Caroline Brooks, Senior Director of Responsible Distribution. “We're proud to recognize Chicagoland Quad Cities Express, Inc. and Chem/Serv, Inc. for carrying that tradition forward through their commitment to safety, continuous improvement, and operational excellence. They have raised the bar for our industry and represent the enduring strength of Responsible Distribution.”

Chicagoland Quad Cities Express, Inc., is a family-owned chemical transportation and logistics company serving customers throughout the supply chain. The company was recognized for making Responsible Distribution the foundation of its business strategy and company culture.

Their notable achievements include:

• Successfully using Responsible Distribution to guide the company's transition from first- to second-generation ownership.
• Developing a best practice internal audit process that connects all Responsible Distribution Code requirements.
• Implementing a digital carrier sign-in system that strengthens safety verification, reduces paperwork, and has contributed to fewer operational incidents.
• Partnering with customers and fellow ACD members to improve supply chain performance, inventory management, and product recycling.

“Receiving the Responsible Distribution Excellence Award is an incredible honor for our entire team. Responsible Distribution isn't just a program we participate in—it's the way we run our business every day. As we've grown and transitioned to a new generation of leadership, it has

remained the foundation for how we prioritize safety, serve our customers, and continuously hold ourselves to a higher standard. We're grateful to ACD for this recognition and proud of every employee whose commitment made it possible,” said Terri Wintermute, President of Chicagoland Quad Cities Express, Inc..

Chem/Serv, Inc. is a specialty chemical distributor serving customers across the Upper Midwest. As a participant in Responsible Distribution for more than 30 years, the company was recognized for embedding the program into every aspect of its operations and business management system.

Their notable achievements include:

• Building a proactive safety culture through robust employee training, routine audits, and company-wide STOP Work Authority.
• Converting its sales fleet to 100% hybrid vehicles and implementing facility and transportation improvements that reduce environmental impact.
• Designing its facilities around Responsible Distribution principles, incorporating enhanced safety systems and operational efficiencies.
• Demonstrating a proactive approach to emergency preparedness through realistic response exercises and continuous improvement.

“For more than 30 years, Responsible Distribution has shaped how we operate, how we train our employees, and how we invest in the future of our business. This award reflects the dedication of our entire team and their unwavering commitment to doing things the right way. We're honored to be recognized by ACD and remain committed to building on that legacy for years to come,” said Andrea Nagle, CEO of Chem/Serv, Inc.

The Responsible Distribution Excellence Award has been presented to more than two dozen companies since 2006 who exemplify the principles of ACD Responsible Distribution^TM. The award recipients are nominated by third-party verifiers and peers to earn this distinctive recognition. Company representatives join ACD leadership at the ChemEdge conference in August each year to receive the award in front of their colleagues and encourage other members to learn from their best practices. To learn more about the program, click here.

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The Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) partners with our more than 400 chemical distribution industry members to provide the education, connection, standards, and advocacy they need to responsibly move the essential products our world depends on. As leaders in the $27B+ chemical distribution industry, ACD member companies commit to the highest standards in quality, safety, sustainability, and performance through ACD Responsible Distribution^TM. For more information, visit www.acd-chem.com.