Ferguson has acquired Factory Direct Appliance, Inc., a kitchen and laundry appliance manufacturer.
Along with five showrooms in Kansas City, Factory Direct Appliance has two outlying locations in Des Moines, Iowa, and Omaha, Neb. Dennis and Suzanne Birkestrand, who previously spent 22 years with the Maytag Company, originally founded the company in 1988. Joined later by partners Rod Holsapple and Steve Johnson, Factory Direct Appliance has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in the greater Kansas City area. Post-acquisition, the company will operate as Factory Direct Appliance, a Ferguson enterprise.
“We want the Factory Direct Appliance experience to be the most memorable, successful and enjoyable aspect of the home building or remodeling process for both contractors and their customers,” said Dennis Birkestrand, Factory Direct Appliance president. “I know Ferguson shares the same customer service philosophy, and I’m confident this acquisition will help further position the company as a true market leader.”
“This acquisition, in combination with the acquisition of Karl’s Appliance earlier this year, demonstrates our commitment to the appliance business,” said Ferguson CEO Frank Roach. “Similar to Ferguson, Factory Direct Appliance is known for its long-standing relationships with both its builder and retail customers. We are excited about our new association with Factory Direct and look forward to serving our customers in Kansas City, Des Moines and Omaha.”
In January, Ferguson acquired Karl’s Appliance, one of the 30 largest appliance dealers in the country. Karl’s Appliance has six showrooms in northern New Jersey and a similar showroom layout as Factory Direct Appliance.
