First Supply has acquired Able Distributors, an HVAC supplier with four branch locations across the Chicagoland area, as the Wisconsin-based wholesaler continues a long-term expansion strategy in one of its priority Midwest markets.
Able Distributors operates branches in Chicago, South Chicago, Northfield and McHenry and has spent more than four decades serving HVAC contractors in the region. First Supply said Able will continue operating with its existing team and locations as part of the First Supply organization.
Able President Michael Bleier said the deal aligns two companies with similar relationship-driven approaches to serving contractors, while expanding what Able can offer its customers through deeper inventory, support and solutions.
First Supply President and CEO Katie Poehling Seymour said the acquisition reflects the company’s “intentional” growth strategy, emphasizing investments that improve service levels and operating efficiency while supporting local teams with added infrastructure and resources.
First Supply added 48 team members through the transaction and said it plans to support Able employees as they integrate into the broader organization.
Able Distributors focuses on hydronic heat and radiant systems and also supplies products such as high-efficiency forced-air systems, condensing boilers, ductless mini-splits and small-duct systems. First Supply, founded in 1897 and still family-owned, serves the Upper Midwest across HVAC, plumbing, lighting, waterworks, industrial PVF, pump, well and septic categories through 52 locations, including showrooms and specialty retail stores.
KEY QUOTES:
“For 45 years, we’ve built our business on strong relationships with Chicago-area contractors and a reputation for finding solutions, being thoughtful, and showing up when it matters… This partnership allows us to offer more inventory, more support, and more solutions, while delivering the same level of service our customers expect every day.”
Michael Bleier, President, Able Distributors
“At First Supply, growth is intentional and guided by long-term strategy… Partnerships like this allow us to expand in a way that makes sense for our business, while giving our teams the tools, infrastructure, and support they need to succeed.”
Katie Poehling Seymour, President and CEO, First Supply
