Hajoca has acquired American Refrigeration Supplies (ARS), a Phoenix-based HVAC-R distributor with 34 branches across the Southwest, from Kitchell, the companies said.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Founded in 1940, ARS operates 34 branches and two distribution centers across seven states, serving HVAC and refrigeration contractors. Kitchell, a construction and real estate development firm, has owned the business since 1970.
The deal expands Hajoca’s presence in the Southwest and adds to its portfolio of HVAC-focused distributors as the company continues to build out its heating and cooling distribution platform.
“ARS has built a strong reputation through its people, relationships, and service,” Wendy Cohen, president and CEO of Kitchell, said in a statement. “We’re proud of what the team has accomplished and confident Hajoca is the right long-term home to support the next chapter of the business.”
Hajoca, founded in 1858, operates more than 450 locally managed locations under more than 60 trade names across North America, distributing plumbing, HVAC, pool, and industrial supplies. The company said ARS is its sixth significant acquisition centered on HVAC distribution, following prior transactions including the 2023 acquisition of Gustave A. Larson Company.
With the addition of ARS, Hajoca said it now operates more than 175 HVAC-focused locations.
Hajoca said ARS will continue to operate under its existing name and leadership, consistent with the company’s approach of maintaining local brands and management teams after acquisitions.
“ARS is a natural fit with Hajoca, driven by its values, people, manufacturer partnerships, and commitment to customers,” Rick Fantham, Hajoca’s president and CEO, said in a statement.
John White and Becky Booth of ARS said the company would maintain its focus on employees, customers, and supplier relationships as part of Hajoca.
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