Distribution Solutions Group to acquire Winzer and FastServ Supply
Distribution Solutions Group Inc. a specialty distribution company, announced a definitive agreement to acquire GradeEight Holdings LLC (GradeEight), a multi-brand MRO distribution platform utilizing a national network of franchisees under Winzer Corporation (“Winzer”), and retail-facing storefronts through FastServ Supply located in Texas and Arkansas.
Founded in 1978, Winzer is a principal operating company of GradeEight Holdings LLC. Through its MRO distribution model, Winzer serves customers across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Canada, supported by distribution facilities in Texas and Michigan.
A key differentiator of the business is its network of more than 270 franchisees, serving approximately 12,000 customers and providing access to a product portfolio of over 65,000 SKUs. In addition to its MRO distribution operations, GradeEight operates FastServ Supply, a brick-and-mortar retail chain with eight locations across Texas and Arkansas. Both businesses, along with their e-commerce site, serve a diverse range of end markets, including automotive, construction, manufacturing, transportation & logistics, government and public sector, energy, agriculture, and other industrial sectors.
“GradeEight, through its Winzer and FastServ Supply businesses, has successfully built a differentiated on-site business with committed franchisees serving a loyal customer base and enjoying a strong market presence across the MRO market and retail channels,” said J. Bryan King, chairman and chief executive officer of Distribution Solutions Group. “Their complementary capabilities, broad marketplace coverage, and established presence enhance DSG’s platform and our ability to serve customers across key regions. We are excited to invest in tools, products, and other growth opportunities for its franchisees and FastServ locations to deepen engagement with their customers. We are pleased to welcome the GradeEight team to DSG and look forward to leveraging our combined strengths to drive continued growth and value for our customers, suppliers and associates.”
“This transaction represents an exciting new chapter for GradeEight. By joining DSG and working alongside the Lawson Products team, we gain access to expanded resources, product categories, and operational capabilities that will benefit our customers and supplier partners,” said Cody Patterson, CEO of GradeEight Holdings. “We are grateful for the relationships we have developed over the years and believe this combination positions our franchisees, our business and our employees for continued success and new opportunities in the future.”
GradeEight Holdings generates approximately $110 million in annual sales and is expected to be accretive to DSG’s Adjusted EBITDA margins on a go-forward basis. The transaction will be funded through DSG’s existing cash and availability under its amended credit agreement and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.
INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY MAGAZINE
The September/October issue of Industrial Supply magazine features an in-depth cover story about Rotator Products. Plus, we're featuring articles by contributing writers Dr. Bharani Nagarathnam and Frank Hurtte, as well as interviews with numerous product and distribution industry experts.
