Sonepar has announced a significant strategic consolidation of its Midwest electrical distribution operations, combining Echo Electric, Springfield Electric, Richards Electric, Pepco, and Holt under the Echo Electric brand. The newly formed entity will represent a substantial business with $1.2 billion in annual sales, spanning over 500,000 square miles across nine states.
The merger brings together five established distributors with a collective 400 years of industry experience. Led by Chris Scarbrough, previously president of Springfield Electric, the new organization aims to leverage combined resources to provide enhanced customer service and expanded capabilities.
Rob Taylor, President of Sonepar Americas, highlighted the strategic benefits of the consolidation, emphasizing improved inventory access, specialized expertise, and expanded service capabilities. The move will create greater career development opportunities for the 1,300 associates involved.
This consolidation represents Sonepar's sixth U.S. operation exceeding $1 billion in annual sales. By unifying these distribution networks, Echo Electric seeks to establish itself as a premier electrical equipment and services provider across the Midwest, serving electrical contractors, industrial and utility markets, and institutional clients.
The merger reflects Sonepar's broader strategy of strategic growth and transformation in the electrical distribution sector, positioning the company to more effectively serve evolving market needs and support the ongoing electrification of infrastructure and industry.
