Gypsum Management & Supply Inc., a network of approximately 300 distribution yards with product offerings of wallboard, ceilings, steel framing and construction products, has bought Engler Meiser & Justus Inc., a distributor of drywall, acoustical ceilings and related interior construction products to the Chicago market and exterior insulation finishing system (EIFS) related products to the southeastern U.S.
Founded in 1962 and headquartered in Westmont, Ill., EMJ operates under multiple brand names, including Westmont Interior Supply House and Contractors Acoustical Supply in Chicago. By becoming an Armstrong Ceilings distributor, EMJ and its two Chicago area locations add to GMS’s commercial capabilities in the market. EMJ’s EIFS locations in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Doraville add to GMS’s product offerings in the southeast. Gary Wietecha, current vice president of operations at EMJ, is expected to continue to lead the business going forward, working with GMS’s central division.
“Our partnership with EMJ significantly expands our presence and further enhances our service levels in the greater Chicago market,” comments John C. Turner Jr., president and chief executive officer of GMS.
Stout served as sell-side advisor to EMJ in connection with the transaction. Huck Bouma PC and Rothschild Barry & Myers served as legal counsel to EMJ. Eversheds Sutherland served as deal counsel to GMS.