Greenville, S.C.-based Eastern Industrial Supplies recently announced it has signed a definitive letter of intent to acquire privately held PVF distributor M & R Pipe and Supply based out of Birmingham, Ala.
M & R will consolidate with Eastern’s existing Birmingham operation to strengthen Eastern’s footprint in Birmingham and the Southeast.

“This acquisition is in line with our strategic efforts to strengthen our base of business, reinforce customer support and improve operational efficiencies,” Eastern President and CEO Kip Miller said.

Mike Hughes, president of M & R added: “We are all excited to be a part of the Eastern family and feel assured that our joining with Eastern will allow us to make positive changes for ourselves, as well as our customers and vendors.
“Joining Eastern was the right fit for us, both from a cultural and business standpoint. Our core values, beliefs and work ethics are very much the same. It enables us to provide improved IT services, more competitive pricing and will add depth to our organization.”

Miller stated he is impressed with the relationships at M & R and the way Mike Hughes and past partner Rick Whitehead have cared for their employees.

“M & R has a number of longstanding employees, as well as customer and vendor relationships that speak well of their leadership and position in the marketplace. They have recognized the importance of people,” he said.

Hughes will continue working with the company in a management and sales leadership role.