Wise Move

Distributor acquisition pairs Alabama electrical supply co. with Kentucky outfit

Lighting, electrical and plumbing supplies distributor Wiseway Supply (Florence, Kentucky) acquired Northport (AL) Electrical Supply, and opened a new branch in Louisville, KY on March 28. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Northport is an electrical parts distributor, serving the residential and commercial industries. Established in 1990 by owners Mike Hannah and Tommy Brown, the company distributes a range of products, including flashlights, combat driver/impact drill combinations, LED ballast, recessed lighting, dusk-to-dawn fixtures and more. Additionally, Northport Electrical Supply offers a variety of parts from suppliers such as 3M, PECO Fasteners, ILSCO and others.

Northport Electrical Supply will maintain operations under its established name. Wiseway Supply encompasses Wiseway Supply, Park Supply, Plumbers Wholesaler Supply and Stearns Supply. Together, they operate as the Park/Wiseway Supply Group from 18 supply locations across central Ohio to central Kentucky, including the greater Cincinnati and Lexington areas. Those are backed by a distribution center in Cincinnati with nationwide shipping capabilities. The company was founded in 1972 by “Biz” and Jackie Cain. Wiseway Supply also has six decorative plumbing and lighting showrooms.

“This is a win for everyone — our customers, our employees and our supplier partners,” Wiseway Supply Group President of the South Division of Park Lee Cobb said in March 25 news release. “Joining forces will enable us to continue providing the personal, local service our customers expect while gaining access to expanded product lines, enhanced technology and deeper operational support.”

The deal came a days after Wiseway announced the opening of a 24,000-square-foot branch in Louisville.

The new facility serves electrical and plumbing contractors, builders, excavators and retail customers throughout the Louisville metro, Jefferson County and surrounding counties of Oldham, Shelby, Floyd, IN and Clark, IN.