Sonepar Consolidates Midwest Electrical Distribution with New Echo Electric Brand

Sonepar has announced a strategic consolidation of its Midwest electrical distribution operations, combining five regional companies into a unified Echo Electric brand. The new organization will represent $1.2 billion in annual sales and cover an extensive territory spanning nine states in the central United States.

The consolidated entity includes Echo Electric, Springfield Electric, Richards Electric, Pepco, and Holt, bringing together a collective 400 years of industry experience. This strategic merger will create a more robust distribution network with expanded inventory, specialized expertise, and enhanced service capabilities across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, Nebraska, and southern South Dakota.

Chris Scarbrough, who previously served as Springfield Electric's president for a decade, will lead the new Echo Electric organization. He emphasized that the brand name represents a lasting impression of excellence and a commitment to delivering top-tier customer experiences.

The consolidation represents a significant milestone for Sonepar, positioning Echo Electric as the company's sixth U.S. operation exceeding $1 billion in annual sales. By integrating these regional distributors, Sonepar aims to create a more cohesive and powerful presence in the Midwest electrical distribution market.

Rob Taylor, President of Sonepar Americas, highlighted the strategic advantages of this merger, noting that connecting distribution networks and resources will provide substantial benefits for both customers and associates. The move allows for greater operational synergies, potentially leading to more efficient service and expanded professional opportunities for employees.

Echo Electric will offer a comprehensive range of electrical products and services, including specialized solutions such as panel and switchboard assembly, control panel design, cable management, digital solutions, and industrial infrastructure support. The company will operate across more than 60 locations, serving electrical contractors, industrial and utility markets, and institutional clients.

This consolidation reflects Sonepar's broader strategic approach of creating integrated, scalable distribution networks that can provide enhanced value to customers while fostering growth and innovation within the electrical distribution industry.