Winsupply Inc., one of the largest wholesale distributors in the United States, has announced its acquisition of Florida-based United Lighting & Supply Co. (ULS), further expanding its footprint in the Southeastern U.S. market.
Winsupply, headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, operates a network of over 600 locally owned and managed wholesale distribution companies. The company specializes in distributing products for the residential, commercial, and industrial construction and maintenance markets. With a focus on serving a broad range of sectors, Winsupply provides a variety of goods, including plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and industrial products. Through acquisitions and organic growth, Winsupply has steadily expanded its presence across the country.
Founded in 1973, United Lighting & Supply Co. (ULS) is a family-owned business based in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, with additional locations in Pensacola, Destin, and Lynn Haven, Florida. ULS specializes in the wholesale distribution of electrical supplies, lighting, and major household appliances. The company operates a combination of traditional wholesale locations and showrooms where customers can view lighting and appliance displays. ULS serves a broad customer base across multiple markets, including residential, commercial, industrial, and government sectors, providing essential products for construction, maintenance, and installation.
The acquisition brings four ULS locations into the Winsupply family, with the company continuing to operate under its established name as “United Lighting & Supply Co., A Winsupply Company.” ULS will continue to serve customers with its well-established facilities, which are known for their extensive inventory and knowledgeable customer service.
Jay MacDonnell, former president of ULS, expressed excitement over the acquisition: “United Lighting & Supply Co. is proud to become part of the Winsupply Family of Companies. We look forward to going into the future as a part of the Win team.”
The addition of United Lighting & Supply strengthens Winsupply’s regional presence in southeastern Alabama and northwest Florida. The company’s locations, particularly in Pensacola and Destin, which feature lighting and appliance showrooms, complement Winsupply’s existing distribution network.
Jeff Dice, president of Winsupply Inc., commented on the acquisition: “United Lighting & Supply’s four locations in the southeast complement our existing footprint in this region of the country as we continue to expand our presence in the market. United Lighting & Supply has been under the same management since its founding, and we’re delighted that Jay and Deborah MacDonnell will continue to contribute to the success of the company.”
This acquisition marks Winsupply’s second this year, following its purchase of Kansas-based Industrial Sales Co. earlier in May. These acquisitions are part of Winsupply’s long-term growth strategy, which also includes the establishment of new Local Companies. Since the beginning of 2024, Winsupply has added over 20 new Local Companies, further expanding its product offerings and geographical reach. Among its latest expansions are Winsupply Virginia Beach, which focuses on HVAC products, and Winsupply Jacksonville Beach, which serves customers with a variety of plumbing, HVAC, hydronics, and electrical solutions.
As Winsupply continues to grow both organically and through strategic acquisitions, it remains focused on its mission to deliver high-quality products and services to its customers, while providing opportunities for local ownership in the wholesale distribution sector.
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