Wilton Brands LLC, a leading supplier in the food, paper and textile crafting industries, is pleased to announce that Sue Buchta has been appointed CEO, effective immediately. Ms. Buchta, a seasoned executive who is currently serving as Wilton Brands’ Executive Vice President overseeing sales, marketing, ecommerce and product development, and previously served as President and CEO of Papyrus-Recycled Greetings Inc., will spearhead the company’s evolution and position Wilton Brands for future growth.

“Sue’s extensive experience, outstanding track record, and passion for the category make her the right person to chart Wilton Brands’ next chapter of growth and lead our transformation strategy,” stated Cathy Stauffer, Chairman of the Wilton Brands Board of Directors. “Sue will work closely with our leadership team, employees and business partners to continue to invigorate our brands and move the business forward. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I thank Dan Butler for his contributions and dedication to Wilton Brands.”

Ms. Buchta has over 20 years of leadership experience in product development, marketing, sales and general management. Prior to Wilton Brands, she spent 15 years with American Greetings Corporation, most recently serving as President and CEO of Papyrus-Recycled Greetings in Chicago, where she demonstrated an ability to lead a complex organization focused on innovation and creativity. Prior to American Greetings, Ms. Buchta held numerous leadership positions with Rubbermaid Home Products, a division of Newell Rubbermaid.

Ms. Buchta stated, “I am excited to build upon Wilton Brands’ strong heritage, iconic brand portfolio and loyal customer base to evolve the brands for today’s lifestyles and for the future. Wilton Brands has built an impressive foundation over its history. I look forward to expanding the availability and visibility of our products, evolving our marketing strategy and enhancing our ability to bring new ideas and innovation to market.”

“I am proud to have led the teams across Wilton Brands and it has been a privilege to work with the many talented employees, retail partners and the Board,” said Mr. Butler. “Sue is extremely well suited to lead the Wilton Brands platform and position the company for long-term growth. I wish her and the team much success.”

About Wilton Brands

Wilton Brands LLC (“Wilton Brands”) helps consumers in over 100 countries create, decorate and celebrate. Headquartered in Woodridge, Ill., Wilton Brands creates world class inspiration and creative content, effective instruction and education, and innovative products that ensure the consumer's success. Wilton is the global leader in cake decorating and bakeware products. Simplicity Creative Group offers a family of well-known craft, sewing, knitting, hobby and home decorating brands which includes: Simplicity® Pattern Company, Wrights®, Conso®, Boye® Needle, E-Z Quilting®, Dimensions and British Trimmings. In addition, EK Success Brands® is the leader in paper crafting products as well as a supplier of some of the craft industry’s most respected brands of jewelry making and kids’ crafts under the Jolee’s Boutique®, K&Company®, Inkadinkado®, ® K&Company SMASH®, Sticko®, Perler®, Martha Stewart Crafts™, and American Girl Crafts® brands. More information can be found at www.wilton.com and www.simplicity.com.