READ MORE in the Phoenix Business Journal: Kitchell sells HVAC subsidiary to Pennsylvania firm, shits focus
Strategic transaction positions Kitchell to invest more deeply in its construction, consulting, and development enterprises
PHOENIX — Kitchell, a leading builder, construction manager, capital program manager, and real estate developer, has completed the sale of American Refrigeration Supplies, Inc. (ARS), its HVAC-R wholesale distribution business, to Hajoca, one of the largest privately held wholesale distributors of plumbing, HVAC, pool, and industrial supplies. The transaction closed on January 30.
The transaction reflects Kitchell’s long-term strategy to focus its resources where the company delivers the greatest value across the built environment.
“The HVAC-R distribution market has continued to evolve, and we determined the timing was right to transition ARS to an owner whose core focus is distribution,” said Wendy Cohen, president and CEO of Kitchell. “This decision allows Kitchell to invest more deeply in growing our core construction, consulting, and development enterprises, while positioning ARS to continue building on its strong legacy.”
Since acquiring ARS in 1970, Kitchell has supported the 85-year-old company through decades of growth, expanding its footprint to 34 branches and two distribution centers across seven states.
“ARS has built a strong reputation through its people, relationships, and service,” Cohen added. “We’re proud of what the team has accomplished and confident Hajoca is the right long-term home to support the next chapter of the business.”
Consistent with Hajoca’s people-focused operating philosophy, ARS will continue to operate under its established brand and be led by its local leadership team.
“ARS is a natural fit with Hajoca,” said Rick Fantham, president and CEO of Hajoca. “We look forward to supporting the team’s continued success and see them thrive for decades to come.”
About Kitchell
Founded in 1950, Kitchell Corporation is a privately held company specializing in construction, real estate development and related services. For 75 years, Kitchell has been a leader in the industry, delivering innovative solutions across the built environment. Kitchell provides a broad range of services nationwide, including general contracting, capital program and project management, facilities consulting, development, property management and more. The company is consistently ranked among the top firms both regionally and nationally. For more information, please visit www.kitchell.com.
About Hajoca
Founded in 1858, Hajoca currently consists of 450+ locally-managed locations operating under 60+ different regionally established trade names all committed to serving our customers with a best-in-class experience. Hajoca combines the scale and resources of a national company with the relationships and local decision-making of independent businesses. For more information, please visit www.hajoca.com.
