Why This Matters to Distributors: The deal signals that a well-capitalized global manufacturer is now positioned to use existing Republic Wire supplier relationships as the commercial foundation for a much broader U.S. product push.
Nexans has signed an agreement to acquire Republic Wire Inc., a family-owned American manufacturer of low-voltage copper and aluminum wire products headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, in a deal that gives the Paris-based cable manufacturer its first major U.S. manufacturing and distribution platform in the low-voltage segment.
The transaction values Republic Wire at approximately 680 million euros ($791 million), with an additional earn-out of up to 43 million euros ($50 million) potentially payable in 2028 based on performance through year-end 2027. Republic Wire generated 520 million euros ($605 million) in revenue over the 12-month period through February 2026. The deal is expected to close in early third quarter, subject to regulatory approval.
Founded in 1982, Republic Wire serves electrical wholesale distributors, utilities and municipalities across the United States and Canada from a single manufacturing and distribution campus outside Cincinnati. The company operates a 32,500-square-meter production facility with significant automation and a newly completed 30,000-square-meter warehouse and distribution center. A capacity expansion program currently underway is expected to increase production by approximately 30% by year-end 2026. Republic Wire employs more than 200 people and sells through a national network of 18 independent sales agencies.
Julien Hueber, chief executive officer of Nexans, called the U.S. the company’s single largest growth opportunity in low- and medium-voltage cable. “Republic Wire gives us the expanded platform, the customer relationships and the operational credibility we need to compete in this highly dynamic market,” Hueber said.
Nexans estimates the U.S. low-voltage segment at 12 billion euros ($14 billion), driven by sustained residential and commercial construction demand and accelerating investment in data center infrastructure. The company projects approximately 23 million euros ($27 million) in annual run-rate synergies within three years, generated through commercial cross-selling, manufacturing technology transfer and purchasing scale.
The acquisition follows Nexans’ purchase of Electro Cables in Canada and reflects a deliberate effort to build an integrated North American commercial presence. The management team, led by Ron and Jeremy Rosenbeck, will remain in place under an earn-out structure designed to sustain continuity through the ownership transition. Ron Rosenbeck, who co-founded Republic Wire more than four decades ago, said he found comfort in Nexans as a cultural match. “In Nexans, I found a partner who shares those values, not just a buyer,” Rosenbeck said.
Do not miss any content from Distribution Strategy Group. Join our list.
Share this article:
