OEM fastener components distributor Endries International is expanding further, this time in the U.S. south.

The Brillion, WI-based company announced March 1 that it has acquired Ace Bolt & Screw Co. — a like fasteners distributor based in Jackson, MS. 

Ace Bolt & Screw was founded in 1959 by Randal Clark and Tom Keaton. Clark and sons Randy and Mike have significantly expanded the business since Keaton’s passing in 2003, adding five additional locations, with five in Mississippi and one in Georgia. Ace’s most recent expansions were new branches in Richland, MS in 2022 and Gluckstadt, MS during 2020.

“We are honored to welcome the Ace family into the Endries fold,” Endries Chairman and former CEO Steve Endries said in a news release. “Ace’s culture and business model perfectly complement our growth strategy.”

It marks Endries’ 12th acquisition since 2018 and the fifth since 2022. Its previously most recent deal was in the form of Joliette, Quebec-based Viscan in November 2023.

“This acquisition presents an exciting opportunity to expand Endries’ existing offerings, enhance product accessibility and strengthen our market presence in the southeastern United States.” added Michael Knight, Endries’ President and CEO.

Randy Clark will continue to lead Ace going forward as its president, while Mike Clark will transition to retirement.

“In joining forces with Endries, we see the potential to expand our reach and continue offering unparalleled services to our customers,” Randy Clark said. “We are excited about the possibilities this collaboration brings.”.

On MDM’s 2023 Top Distributors Lists, Endries was No. 35 for industrial supplies and No. 9 for fasteners.

Knight’s insights about AI ethics were featured in a session of MDM’s Feb. 7 AI Summit (free to view on-demand), which were further highlighted in this Feb. 28 Premium piece, and Knight was also a guest on the MDM Podcast back in October 2023.