Consolidated Elec Distributors Bundle

Who Really Owns Consolidated Electrical Distributors?
The ownership structure of a company is a critical factor influencing its strategic direction and market performance. Exploring the ownership of a major player like Consolidated Electrical Distributors (CED) reveals insights into its operational model and market strategies. Understanding Consolidated Elec Distributors SWOT Analysis is essential for anyone looking to understand the company's position.

Founded in 1957, CED's journey from a small entity to a national leader in electrical distribution highlights the importance of ownership in shaping its success. As a privately held company, understanding "Who owns CED?" and the influence of its owners is key to appreciating CED's unique decentralized approach and its ability to adapt to market changes. This exploration will delve into CED ownership, providing clarity on the company's strategic direction and long-term prospects.
Who Founded Consolidated Elec Distributors?
The story of Consolidated Electrical Distributors (CED) began in 1957. It was founded as The Electric Corporation of San Francisco by Richard Worthy. The company later operated under the name Incandescent Supply before officially becoming Consolidated Electrical Distributors in 1964.
While the initial ownership structure and equity split among the founders are not publicly available, the early strategy of CED focused on acquiring and integrating existing electrical distributors. This approach often involved retaining the acquired company's name and local management, indicating a collaborative growth model.
This strategy of acquiring and integrating existing electrical distributors is a key aspect of the early history of the CED company. The company's evolution reflects a focus on expanding its footprint through strategic acquisitions.
CED's early growth strategy involved acquiring existing electrical distributors. This approach helped expand its market presence. The acquisitions often included keeping the acquired company's name and local management.
A significant early acquisition was All-Phase Electric Supply in June 1999. All-Phase was founded in 1959 by Ronald F. Kinney. Kinney's decision to sell was driven by a belief in CED's understanding of the industry.
The decentralized model, which empowers individual locations, likely stems from these early foundational principles. This reflects a vision of localized control and entrepreneurial spirit.
CED's early strategy emphasized growth through strategic partnerships. This approach allowed CED to maintain the unique identity and operational strengths of acquired businesses.
The acquisition of All-Phase highlights CED's commitment to customer service. This approach is a key aspect of CED's operational philosophy.
The decentralized model reflects an entrepreneurial spirit. This approach likely contributed to CED's success in the electrical distribution industry.
The acquisition of All-Phase Electric Supply, founded by Ronald F. Kinney in 1959, is a notable example of CED's early growth strategy. Kinney's decision to sell to CED was influenced by his belief that CED understood the electrical distribution industry and valued All-Phase's culture and commitment to customer service. This acquisition highlights CED's approach of strategic partnerships and maintaining the unique identities of acquired businesses. For more details about the company's target market, read about the Target Market of Consolidated Elec Distributors.
CED's early history reveals a focus on strategic acquisitions and decentralized operations.
- Founded in 1957 as The Electric Corporation of San Francisco by Richard Worthy.
- Acquisition of All-Phase Electric Supply in 1999.
- Emphasis on retaining acquired companies' identities and management.
- Decentralized model fostering local control and entrepreneurial spirit.
- Growth through strategic partnerships.
Consolidated Elec Distributors SWOT Analysis
- Complete SWOT Breakdown
- Fully Customizable
- Editable in Excel & Word
- Professional Formatting
- Investor-Ready Format

How Has Consolidated Elec Distributors’s Ownership Changed Over Time?
The ownership of Consolidated Electrical Distributors (CED) has remained firmly within the Colburn family since its inception. As a privately held entity, CED's ownership structure isn't subject to the same public disclosure requirements as publicly traded companies. This means that detailed information on specific shareholding percentages or investment rounds is not readily available through standard channels like SEC filings. Keith Colburn has previously been identified as a key figure in the company's leadership.
CED's growth strategy has significantly impacted its operational footprint, although not necessarily its core ownership structure. The company has expanded largely through the acquisition of numerous independent distributors. This approach has allowed CED to broaden its reach across the United States while often retaining the acquired companies' brands and local management teams. As of November 2024, CED operates over 500 'profit centers', and as of June 2024, it has more than 700 locations across the United States, solidifying its position as one of the largest electrical supply distribution networks.
Aspect | Details | Status |
---|---|---|
Ownership | Family-owned by the Colburn family | Private |
Reporting Requirements | Not subject to public reporting | Limited Transparency |
Growth Strategy | Acquisitions of independent distributors | Ongoing |
The primary stakeholders of CED are the Colburn family. While the family maintains overall ownership, CED operates with a decentralized business philosophy. This approach empowers individual locations to make local decisions, which is a core aspect of CED's operational strategy. This structure fosters a sense of localized entrepreneurialism within each business unit, even though the ultimate control resides with the owners. For more information on CED, you can read an article about the history of Consolidated Electrical Distributors.
CED is a privately held, family-owned company, primarily owned by the Colburn family.
- CED's growth strategy involves acquiring independent distributors.
- As of November 2024, CED operates over 500 profit centers.
- CED operates with a decentralized business model.
Consolidated Elec Distributors PESTLE Analysis
- Covers All 6 PESTLE Categories
- No Research Needed – Save Hours of Work
- Built by Experts, Trusted by Consultants
- Instant Download, Ready to Use
- 100% Editable, Fully Customizable

Who Sits on Consolidated Elec Distributors’s Board?
As a privately held entity, information regarding the board of directors of Consolidated Electrical Distributors (CED company) is not publicly available in the same way it is for publicly traded corporations. The leadership structure is primarily managed by key executives and the owning family. As of November 2024, Kurt Lasher is listed as the President and CEO of Consolidated Electrical Distributors. Other individuals listed in leadership roles from January 2013 include Richard W. Colburn and Carol C. Grigor as Directors, and David T. Bradford as V/S, and David Verbeck as AS. Keith W. Colburn was also listed as CEO in January 2013.
The Colburn family's ownership implies significant voting power and control over strategic decisions within CED. The structure of who owns CED is therefore heavily influenced by this family's stake. Further details on the specific distribution of ownership and voting rights are not available due to the company's private status. The decentralized business model of CED grants substantial autonomy to the managers of its individual business units, often referred to as 'profit centers.' This approach influences how strategic decisions are made at the local level.
Leadership Role | Name | Date |
---|---|---|
President & CEO | Kurt Lasher | November 2024 |
Director | Richard W. Colburn | January 2013 |
Director | Carol C. Grigor | January 2013 |
V/S | David T. Bradford | January 2013 |
AS | David Verbeck | January 2013 |
CEO | Keith W. Colburn | January 2013 |
The decentralized structure of CED, where local expertise is valued, means that while central leadership sets the overall vision, many strategic decisions are made at the branch level. This approach reflects a distribution of operational control and decision-making authority. For more insights into the business model, consider reading about Revenue Streams & Business Model of Consolidated Elec Distributors.
CED's leadership is primarily managed by key executives and the owning family, with Kurt Lasher as President and CEO as of November 2024. The Colburn family's ownership implies significant control. The company's decentralized structure empowers local decision-making.
- Kurt Lasher is the current President and CEO.
- The Colburn family holds significant ownership.
- Decentralized model supports local autonomy.
- No public information on board structure.
Consolidated Elec Distributors Business Model Canvas
- Complete 9-Block Business Model Canvas
- Effortlessly Communicate Your Business Strategy
- Investor-Ready BMC Format
- 100% Editable and Customizable
- Clear and Structured Layout

What Recent Changes Have Shaped Consolidated Elec Distributors’s Ownership Landscape?
In recent years (2024-2025), Consolidated Elec Distributors, also known as CED, has continued to expand its operations, primarily through acquisitions. A notable acquisition in March 2024 was Parrish-Hare Electrical Supply, a Texas-based company. This strategy is part of a broader trend of consolidation within the electrical wholesaling industry, where larger distributors are acquiring smaller, independent entities.
Other significant acquisitions by the CED company include Amperage Electrical Supply in November 2022, Wildcat Electric Supply in 2021, and Frost Electric Supply, Nu-Lite Electrical Wholesalers, and Sun Valley Electric in 2019. These moves have helped CED increase its geographic footprint and broaden its offerings of products and services. The company's focus on strategic acquisitions showcases its dedication to long-term growth within the consolidating market.
Acquisition Year | Acquired Company | Location |
---|---|---|
2024 | Parrish-Hare Electrical Supply | Texas |
2022 | Amperage Electrical Supply | Roselle, IL |
2021 | Wildcat Electric Supply | Houston, TX |
2019 | Frost Electric Supply | Maryland Heights, MO |
2019 | Nu-Lite Electrical Wholesalers | Harahan, LA |
2019 | Sun Valley Electric | Las Vegas, NV |
The electrical equipment market was valued at around $170 billion in 2024, with further growth expected in 2025. CED's extensive network of over 700 locations and its decentralized model enabled it to achieve over $10 billion in sales in 2024. The company's private ownership structure allows it to pursue long-term growth strategies without the pressures of public market scrutiny.
CED is a privately held company. The ownership structure allows for strategic acquisitions and long-term growth plans. This structure provides flexibility and focus, which is beneficial in a consolidating industry.
With over 700 locations, CED has a strong market presence. The company's decentralized model supports its extensive reach. CED achieved over $10 billion in sales in 2024, demonstrating its strong market penetration.
CED's acquisition strategy focuses on expanding its geographic footprint. The company aims to enhance its product and service portfolios. Recent acquisitions include Parrish-Hare Electrical Supply in 2024.
The electrical wholesaling industry is undergoing consolidation. Large distributors are actively acquiring smaller companies. This trend is driving strategic moves by major players like CED.
Consolidated Elec Distributors Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- Covers All 5 Competitive Forces in Detail
- Structured for Consultants, Students, and Founders
- 100% Editable in Microsoft Word & Excel
- Instant Digital Download – Use Immediately
- Compatible with Mac & PC – Fully Unlocked

Related Blogs
- What are Mission Vision & Core Values of Consolidated Elec Distributors Company?
- What is Competitive Landscape of Consolidated Elec Distributors Company?
- What is Growth Strategy and Future Prospects of Consolidated Elec Distributors Company?
- How Does Consolidated Elec Distributors Company Work?
- What is Sales and Marketing Strategy of Consolidated Elec Distributors Company?
- What is Brief History of Consolidated Elec Distributors Company?
- What is Customer Demographics and Target Market of Consolidated Elec Distributors Company?
Disclaimer
All information, articles, and product details provided on this website are for general informational and educational purposes only. We do not claim any ownership over, nor do we intend to infringe upon, any trademarks, copyrights, logos, brand names, or other intellectual property mentioned or depicted on this site. Such intellectual property remains the property of its respective owners, and any references here are made solely for identification or informational purposes, without implying any affiliation, endorsement, or partnership.
We make no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of any content or products presented. Nothing on this website should be construed as legal, tax, investment, financial, medical, or other professional advice. In addition, no part of this site—including articles or product references—constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any securities, franchises, or other financial instruments, particularly in jurisdictions where such activity would be unlawful.
All content is of a general nature and may not address the specific circumstances of any individual or entity. It is not a substitute for professional advice or services. Any actions you take based on the information provided here are strictly at your own risk. You accept full responsibility for any decisions or outcomes arising from your use of this website and agree to release us from any liability in connection with your use of, or reliance upon, the content or products found herein.