Blackford Capital has acquired Empire Distributing, significantly expanding its Patio Consolidation Platform and enhancing its offerings in the outdoor living market.

Target Overview

Empire Distributing, co-founded in 1978 by Mike and Lois Rupp in Arcade, New York, is a leading distributor in the outdoor living and hearth products sector. The company services over 780 dealers across the Northeast and Midwest United States, offering a comprehensive range of products including fireplaces, stoves, gas logs, inserts, fire pits, fire tables, BBQ grills, kitchen islands, outdoor heaters, and fireplaces. With an extensive portfolio comprising more than 75 product lines from over 100 industry-leading manufacturers, Empire Distributing operates from nearly 200,000 square feet of office and warehouse space across three facilities, positioning itself as a prominent player in the industry.

The company has established a robust dealer distribution network that enhances the Patio Consolidation Platform’s overall capabilities. This acquisition enables Blackford Capital to leverage Empire's extensive resources and relationships, thereby facilitating expansion into new geographical markets while enriching the breadth of product offerings available to customers.

Industry Overview in the United States

The outdoor living market in the United States has experienced significant growth as homeowners increasingly prioritize outdoor spaces for leisure and entertainment. This sector encompasses a variety of products designed to enhance the functionality and aesth