Founded in Wisconsin - Beloit's own ABC Supply

ABC Supply Co., Inc., established in 1982 by Ken and Diane Hendricks, has become a foremost U.S. distributor of roofing and vinyl siding, headquartered in Beloit, Wisconsin. The company has significantly influenced the local economy and expanded across North America through strategic acquisitions and a strong emphasis on customer service. Known for its innovative employee engagement and community development efforts, ABC Supply exemplifies entrepreneurial excellence. With numerous locations in the U.S. and Canada, the company supplies contractors with essential building materials and is recognized for its strong workplace culture and IndyCar sponsorship.

The Founding of ABC Supply

In 1982, Ken Hendricks established ABC Supply, successfully navigating numerous challenges within a fragmented roofing industry. The inefficiencies in the supply chain posed difficulties for contractors seeking local materials. To address this, Hendricks sought to enhance the industry's service reputation through exceptional customer service. He began by acquiring and integrating underperforming Bird & Sons locations, leveraging his industry connections to acquire struggling suppliers at favorable prices. As ABC Supply grew, efficient growth management became essential, prompting the implementation of a cost-control structure and improved vendor agreements. Economic fluctuations impacted growth and complicated acquisitions, yet Hendricks adeptly adapted to industry changes by creating new subsidiaries and expanding product offerings to align with market demands.

ABC Supply's Strategic Growth in the Competitive Roofing Industry

The U.S. roofing industry is characterized by intense competition, with prominent companies such as Tecta America and ABC Supply, as well as numerous smaller and regional firms. This competitive landscape results in frequent price wars and differentiation through a variety of products and high-quality service. Industry growth is primarily driven by increased construction activities. Although new entrants encounter low barriers to entry, suppliers hold significant power due to the limited availability of specialized materials, though this is somewhat mitigated by the presence of synthetic alternatives. Customers, including contractors and homeowners, have strong bargaining power due to the ease of switching providers and the advantage of bulk purchasing. The threat of substitutes is increasing with the introduction of sustainable materials like metal roofs and solar tiles, although their adoption is influenced by cost and performance considerations. The roofing industry remains dynamic, shaped by various competitive forces.

Summary Table:

Force	Impact Level	Key Factors
Competitive Rivalry	High	Fragmented market; price wars; differentiation strategies; steady growth
Threat of New Entrants	Moderate	Low barriers; localized competition; private equity-driven consolidation
Bargaining Power of Suppliers	High	Limited specialized materials; high switching costs; supplier consolidation
Bargaining Power of Customers	High	Price sensitivity; ease of switching; bulk purchasing leverage
Threat of Substitutes	Moderate	Sustainable alternatives gaining traction; cost-performance trade-offs

Ken and Diane Hendricks: Transforming the Roofing Industry with ABC Supply

Ken Hendricks: Founder of ABC Supply - Born in Janesville, Wisconsin, in 1941, he grew up in the roofing industry through his father's company. Leaving high school at 17, he gained experience in roofing while working various jobs. By 26, he had a successful roofing business with over 500 employees. Dissatisfied with suppliers, he entered distribution, and in 1982, he and Diane launched ABC Supply Co., Inc. by acquiring underperforming Bird & Sons locations, creating a nationwide distribution network focused on superior customer service. Despite industry fragmentation, he overcame challenges by acquiring struggling businesses, leveraging contacts, and controlling costs. Economic downturns led to adaptability, expanded product offerings, and new subsidiaries.

Ken's operational strategies significantly enhanced company performance. Open Book Management allowed employees to access monthly financial reports, understand their impact on profitability, and drive efficiency. Bonuses linked to store performance incentivized managers and employees, promoting responsibility and performance improvements. Emphasis on Employee Engagement and Culture fostered a respectful, opportunity-rich environment, with awards like the Ken Hendricks Award celebrating those who embodied company values. Autonomy and Leadership Development empowered store managers, creating a leadership pipeline for growth.

He was named Inc.'s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2006, led ABC Supply to become the fastest-growing U.S. company in 1986. He focused on revitalizing Beloit, Wisconsin, redeveloping key properties and supporting a new stadium for the Beloit Snappers. Hendricks prioritized customer respect and service to enhance the roofing industry's reputation. He passed away on December 21, 2007, at 66. Posthumously, he and his wife, Diane, received a "20 Year Award of Excellence" from the Downtown Beloit Association for revitalizing the city's business district.

Diane Hendricks, a native of Mondovi, Wisconsin, is the co-founder and chairperson of ABC Supply. Overcoming early challenges as a young mother, she ventured into the real estate sector after completing high school. Following Ken's passing in 2007, Diane expanded the company by acquiring Bradco and L&W Supply, growing it to over 970 locations with revenues surpassing $20 billion by 2023. Recognized as a leading female entrepreneur, Diane frequently ranks at the top of Forbes' list of America's Richest Self-Made Women. Her philanthropic efforts have revitalized Beloit, Wisconsin, and she has produced films such as "The Stoning of Soraya M." and "An American Carol" to address societal issues. As the sole owner and chairperson, she has diversified through Hendricks Holding Company, investing in community development in Beloit. Under her leadership, ABC Supply has become the largest distributor of roofing materials and building products in North America, with a strong emphasis on customer service and innovative growth.

David Luck significantly impacted ABC Supply Co., Inc. by leveraging his Bridgestone/Firestone experience. Joining as the first external president in 1998, he became CEO in 2008 after founder Ken Hendricks. Under his leadership, ABC Supply grew substantially, acquiring Bradco Supply Corp. in 2010, becoming the largest U.S. distributor of exterior building materials with over 450 branches and nearly $4.8 billion in revenue. Luck emphasized employee development and customer satisfaction, maintaining influence as a board member post-2013 retirement. He balanced entrepreneurial freedom with disciplined operations, fostering an "employee-first" culture recognized by multiple Gallup Great Workplace awards. Strategic decisions, such as acquiring Bradco and enhancing services, strengthened ABC Supply's market position and ensured long-term success.

Keith Rozolis is the President and CEO of ABC Supply Co., Inc., a leading building products distributor. Joining in 1999, he became President and CEO in 2014, contributing significantly to its growth. Previously, he worked at Bridgestone/Firestone and MAACO Enterprises. He holds a B.S. from Bucknell University and an MBA from Northwestern. Known for strategic initiatives and employee development, Rozolis has helped establish ABC Supply as an industry leader. He has been married for over 30 years and has three children.

Mike Jost is the President and COO of ABC Supply Co., Inc., North America's leading distributor of roofing and building products. Starting as a salesperson in 1998, he advanced through roles such as branch manager, Sales and Marketing Manager, Business Manager, District Manager, Vice President of Operations, and COO. As of January 1, 2025, he fully assumes his role as President and COO. Jost managed North American operations, including branches, manufacturing, marketing, and strategic initiatives like the Customer Service Delivery System. He holds a BA from the University of Virginia and an MBA from The George Washington University. His "people-first" leadership has greatly contributed to the company's growth and success.

ABC Supply: Leading North America's Building Product Market with Robust Growth and Strategic Expansion

ABC Supply provides an extensive array of building products tailored for contractors throughout North America, addressing both exterior and interior requirements. Their exterior offerings encompass roofing materials such as asphalt shingles and metal roofing, a variety of siding options including vinyl and fiber cement, as well as gutters and ventilation systems. Additionally, they offer EIFS for enhanced exterior solutions. For interior projects, ABC Supply delivers doors and windows in various materials, along with interior doors and trim board. Their comprehensive inventory also includes tools, fasteners, lumber, and solar solutions, complete with roof-loading and contractor training. Notable products include asphalt shingles, favored for re-roofing due to their cost-effectiveness, and vinyl siding for its low maintenance. The demand for solar products is increasing, and gutters play a vital role in preventing water damage, often accompanying roofing and siding orders.

ABC Supply's financial performance is marked by strong sales of approximately $12.1 billion in 2024, supported by nearly 800 locations across North America and a workforce exceeding 15,000 associates. The company has been honored with its 14th consecutive Gallup Great Workplace Award, underscoring strong employee engagement. ABC Supply continues to expand through strategic acquisitions, including Exterior Building Supply and Midwest Wholesale Materials, as well as opening new locations. In the broader industry landscape, companies like Beacon Roofing Supply and GMS Inc. report record sales and growth despite economic challenges, with Beacon achieving record net sales and GMS navigating market pressures and steel price deflation.

ABC Supply: Catalyzing Economic and Cultural Growth in Beloit

ABC Supply is fostering economic and cultural advancement in Beloit, Wisconsin, through substantial development initiatives. The ABC Supply Stadium invigorates the downtown area with a 3,500-seat venue for the Beloit Sky Carp, enhancing the region's vibrancy. The District Master Plan Framework is designed to guide future downtown revitalization, promoting a unified community vision. The ABC Supply Learning Center supports employee development with cutting-edge training technology, underscoring the company's dedication to workforce advancement.

ABC's community development efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to local engagement. Philanthropic initiatives include Meals on Wheels deliveries and over $18.5 million in charitable contributions through the Hendricks Family Foundation. Collaborations with Habitat for Humanity and the United Way further illustrate this commitment. Economically, the company's headquarters serves as a cornerstone of the local economy, while co-founder Diane Hendricks spearheads downtown redevelopment.

Closing

In conclusion, ABC Supply Co., Inc. exemplifies visionary leadership and strategic growth within the building materials industry. From its modest beginnings to its current position as North America's largest distributor of roofing materials and building products, the company has consistently prioritized customer service and employee engagement. Under the leadership of Diane Hendricks and key executives such as Keith Rozolis and Mike Jost, ABC Supply continues to foster economic and cultural growth in Beloit, Wisconsin, while expanding its market presence through strategic acquisitions and innovative product offerings. As the company looks to the future, its commitment to community development and an employee-first culture positions it for sustained success in a dynamic industry.

Founded in Wisconsin - Beloit's own ABC Supply

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