MADISON, WI, January 13, 2026 – First Supply has acquired Able Distributors, a heating, ventilation, and cooling supplier with four branch locations across the Chicagoland area: Chicago, South Chicago, Northfield, and McHenry. The acquisition supports First Supply’s long-term growth strategy and strengthens its presence in a key Midwest market. Able Distributors brings more than four decades of experience serving HVAC contractors and will continue operating with its existing team and locations as part of the First Supply family.
“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,” said Michael Bleier, President of Able Distributors. “First Supply chose Able Distributors because they value that same approach and are committed to protecting what makes us trusted in this market. 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.”
First Supply has been thoughtful and intentional about expanding its presence in the Chicagoland market, viewing the region as a key part of its long-term growth strategy. The acquisition of Able Distributors reflects First Supply’s continued investment in its people, customers, and communities, while remaining grounded in a culture built on trust, support, and development.
“At First Supply, growth is intentional and guided by long-term strategy,” said Katie Poehling Seymour, President and CEO of First Supply. “We continue to invest in markets and capabilities that position us to serve customers better and operate more efficiently. 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.”
With the addition of 48 new team members, First Supply looks forward to welcoming Able Distributors’ employees and supporting their continued success as part of the organization.
About Able Distributors
Able Distributors a heating, ventilation, and cooling supplier with four branch locations in the Chicagoland area: Chicago, South Chicago, Northfield, and McHenry. Able has spent the past 45 years building strong relationships with the Greater Chicagoland HVAC contractor community and is supported by a team of 48 employees. With a focus on hydronic heat and radiant systems, the company offers a broad range of solutions, including high-efficiency forced air systems, condensing boilers, ductless mini-splits, and small-duct systems. For more information, visit abledistributors.com.
About First Supply
Founded in 1897 in La Crosse, WI, First Supply is a fifth-generation, family-owned leader in HVAC, plumbing, lighting, waterworks, industrial PVF, pump, well, and septic supplies. As the largest Wisconsin-based wholesaler, First Supply serves the Upper Midwest with 52 locations, including distribution branches, Waterworks branches, Gerhard’s Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Stores, and Kohler Stores by First Supply. The company continues to invest in the future, including the operation of a state-of-the-art distribution center that expands capacity and supports efficient service across its network. Learn more at FirstSupply.com.
Contact:
Brooke Barney
608-893-3705
