Special Feature
Did you know that the Magic City has a locally owned delivery service? Kats Delivery Inc, which operates under trade names Kats and The TakeOut Bham, was founded in 2014 after owner Maurice Mercer saw a need.
Mercer first witnessed the need after his mother, the late Kathryn Jenkins, RN MSN retired UAB nurse, was diagnosed with Scleroderma, an autoimmune disability that limited her ability to do even the most normal of day-to-day activities, including her grocery shopping. While Mercer lived close enough and was able to shop for his mom, the former UAB charge nurse began to think of those who did not have the support she did. This inspired him to create Kats Delivery and Mercer named the business after his mother.
Since 2014, Kats has grown to serve many clients in cities across Alabama including Clanton and Troy. In addition, in December 2021, Kats acquired Birmingham staple, The TakeOut Bham, which was originally founded in 2010. Kats primarily services areas I-65 South Hoover- Shelby County. The TakeOut Bham services downtown Birmingham, Jefferson County, and Highway 280 East into Shelby. While Kats began as a grocery delivery company, the company has expanded its services to include on-demand restaurant delivery, catering delivery, and white label meal prep delivery.
Kats has been recognized as the 2019 Shelby County Small Business of the Year. In 2021, Mercer was also nominated for the CEO award given by the Birmingham Business Journal. Kats is always looking for responsible and professional drivers. Most of the current drivers have over one year tenure but several have three to four years. “It is important to have reliable professional drivers,” Mercer said, adding, “All professional drivers looking to add to their gig opportunities should visit our website and join our team.”
Kats has managed to maneuver and survive the pandemic. Mercer stresses the importance of supporting local businesses and Alabama-based businesses. Throughout the years as a business owner, Mercer has never wavered in his faith. As a believer, Mercer has even lost customers and couriers as a result of sharing his faith. “My faith is what has sustained us these nine years,” he says, adding that he knows God has a plan for him and the customers he serves. “We are grateful for our long-term customers who continue to stick by us over the years.” Birmingham Christian Family readers who visit www.KatsDelivery.com can use code BC2024 or www.TheTakeOutBham.com use code 2024BC for $10 OFF your next purchase. †
