Hills Distribution Acquires Bender Supply in Major Consolidation Move

MERIDEN, Conn. – March 30, 2026 – In a significant move reflecting a broader trend of industry consolidation, Hills Distribution announced today its strategic partnership with Bender Plumbing Supply, a fourth-generation, family-owned institution in the Connecticut market. The deal integrates a nearly 80-year-old company into a rapidly expanding regional platform, signaling a major shift in the competitive landscape for plumbing, HVAC, and hydronic supplies across the Northeast.

Backed by private equity firm Grove Mountain Partners, Hills Distribution has been methodically assembling a network of established regional distributors. The addition of Bender, with its six locations and esteemed showrooms along Connecticut's "Gold Coast," fortifies Hills' presence and underscores its strategy of acquiring respected local leaders to build a dominant regional force.

A Shifting Market Landscape

The partnership arrives as the Northeast's plumbing and HVAC distribution sector undergoes a profound transformation. The market is not only consolidating but also adapting to a significant technological shift driven by state-level energy policies and consumer demand. Ambitious goals for heat pump adoption across ten Northeast states, which aim for heat pumps to constitute 90% of residential heating and cooling shipments by 2040, are reshaping inventory and expertise requirements for distributors.

This environment favors larger, well-capitalized players who can manage extensive inventories of new technologies while maintaining high service levels. Hills Distribution's growth strategy appears tailored to this reality. By creating a platform of strong local brands, it aims to combine the scale and resources of a large corporation with the trusted relationships and market knowledge of established family businesses. This model positions it to compete effectively against national giants like Ferguson and Watsco, as well as other powerful regional players such as F.W. Webb and The Portland Group, who are all vying for market share in this evolving industry.

The U.S. plumbing and heating supplies wholesaling industry is projected to reach $132.8 billion by the end of 2026. Hills Distribution's move to absorb a key Connecticut player like Bender is a clear indicator of its intent to capture a larger piece of this lucrative and expanding market.

Preserving a 78-Year Legacy

For Bender Plumbing Supply, founded in 1946, the decision to join a larger platform marks a new chapter in its long history. The company has cultivated a sterling reputation over four generations, built on deep customer relationships, technical expertise, and a commitment to service that has made it a go-to supplier for both trade professionals and homeowners.

A crucial element of the deal is the commitment to operational continuity and the preservation of the Bender brand and culture. Max Bender, a member of the founding family, will remain in his role as President, leading the existing executive team. This arrangement was a key factor in the decision, ensuring that the principles that made the company successful will be maintained.

"When we considered the next chapter for our business, it was critical to find a partner who shared our values and respected what has made Bender successful for nearly 80 years," said Max Bender. "Hills Distribution and Grove Mountain Partners stood out for their integrity, long-term mindset and commitment to supporting our people, customers and brand. We are confident they are the right partner to help us continue building on our legacy."

This sentiment reflects a common challenge for successful family enterprises: how to secure future growth and scale without sacrificing the identity and community trust built over decades. The partnership structure appears designed to address this, providing Bender with the backing of a larger network while allowing its leadership to continue steering the ship.

The Power of the Platform Model

With the addition of Bender, the Hills Distribution platform now comprises four distinct, well-regarded companies: Plimpton & Hills, Coastal Supply Group, RJ Murray Company, and Bender Plumbing Supply. Together, these businesses create a formidable network spanning the Northeast, designed to leverage shared resources while maintaining distinct local identities.

Ron LaBusch, CEO of Hills Distribution, welcomed Bender to what he described as a "growing platform of like-minded, customer-focused distributors." This approach—building a family of brands rather than a monolithic entity—is central to the strategy.

The backing from Grove Mountain Partners provides the financial muscle and strategic vision for this expansion. Stephen Fraser, Chairman of Hills Distribution and a partner at Grove Mountain, emphasized the alignment of values as the foundation of the partnership.

"We are delighted to partner with a company that reflects the same principles that define Hills Distribution—integrity, service and a long-term commitment to customers and associates," Fraser stated. "Bender has built an outstanding business over decades, and we look forward to supporting their continued growth as part of the platform."

For contractors and homeowners, the practical implication is the promise of an enhanced customer experience. The combined entity aims to leverage deeper inventory positions, meaning better product availability and access to a wider range of equipment. Furthermore, shared logistics and operational efficiencies could translate to improved service, all while customers continue to interact with the local Bender teams and showrooms they know and trust.

The Road Ahead for Hills Distribution

The acquisition of Bender Plumbing Supply is not an endpoint but rather another milestone in an ongoing campaign. The official announcement noted that Hills Distribution "continues to seek partnerships with high-integrity, like-minded plumbing and HVAC distributors across the Northeast." This clear statement of intent signals that further consolidation under the Hills banner is likely.

The firm's focus on businesses with strong customer service, a positive employee culture, and a vision for long-term growth suggests a disciplined and strategic approach to its acquisitions. Rather than simply rolling up companies, Hills and Grove Mountain appear to be curating a portfolio of regional leaders that can collectively elevate the platform's value and market position.

As the Northeast market continues to adapt to new energy standards and technologies, the ability to offer both scale and specialized local knowledge will be a critical competitive advantage. By integrating Bender Plumbing Supply, Hills Distribution has not only expanded its geographic footprint but has also deepened its well of experience and customer loyalty, positioning its platform for sustained growth in the years to come.