RECG Enterprises - a brief history


In January 1998, T.R. Collins Corp. acquired the assets of Sarah, a small gift shop located in downtown Ipswich. Under the direction of Paul Allen, General Manager, River's Edge Card & Gift made its Ipswich debut at 26 Market Street in February 1998. The store continued to carry many brands and items found at Sarah and also expanded into other lines.

By late 1998, space in the 400 square foot location was already tight and a new location was found at 1 Market Street. After a few months of renovations, River's Edge Card & Gift relocated to 900 square feet in the historic Tyler Block and opened in this new location in February 1999.

The remainder of 1999 was met with continued growth and expansion. More lines were brought in to satisfy the public, and existing lines were expanded.

In February 2000, Paul Allen and Connie Canniff, dba RECG Enterprises, purchased the business from T.R. Collins Corp. Though an ownership change had occurred, the direction and growth remained constant.

Once again outgrowing a location, River's Edge relocated to 15 Market Street in September 2000. This new space was a joint venture with Ipswich Party & Paper (formerly of 195 High Street, Ipswich) and consisted of 2,500 square feet of newly renovated retail space. Each business operated independently, but offered one stop shopping for the growing customer base.

In July 2001, RECG Enterprises acquired Ipswich Party & Paper. Both businesses became subsidiaries of RECG, operating in synergy. The businesses complemented each other very well and offered one stop shopping for all your gift giving and party throwing needs. RECG sold Ipswich Party in May 2003.

Today, RECG is your local retailer for Vera Bradley, Yankee Candle, Cat's Meow Village, Colonial Candle, Willow Tree Angels, and much, much more.