Fry-Wagner Sells KC Operations to Memphis-based Armstrong Company

Posted August 5, 2025

The Armstrong Company, a moving company, has expanded into the Kansas City area following its acquisition of Fry-Wagner Moving and Storage’s KC operations.

Established in 1908 and headquartered in St. Louis, Fry-Wagner is a fourth-generation family-owned and operated logistics company. Fry-Wagner President Larry Fry sold the Kansas City operations to Armstrong to focus his efforts solely on the company’s St. Louis operations, according to a release.

“They are well-equipped to carry forward our legacy of outstanding service while providing new opportunities and resources for our team,” Fry said in the release.

Earl Kawaoka, who has served at Fry-Wagner for 27 years, will serve as president of Armstrong’s Kansas City operations. Kawaoka most recently served as the executive vice president and general manager for Fry-Wagner. Furthermore, Fry-Wagner’s Kansas City team will continue to serve under the Armstrong name.

“The Armstrong Company looks forward to continuing the legacy the Fry family built in Kansas City since their entrance into the community in 1981,” Armstrong CEO Todd Watson said in the release. “We strive to provide the same level of honesty and integrity and expand upon their past success to connect local customers on a global scale and meet any relocation, warehousing and other logistical needs.”

Memphis-based Armstrong Company is a global residential and commercial moving company. The acquisition of Fry-Wagner’s Kansas City operations expands its operational presence to 34 markets in the U.S.