New business spotlight on Makdad Supply Co.
Opening a store in Williamsport seemed like the best next business move for Jack Makdad.
“We felt the demographics of the market were perfect,” he said.
Makdad Supply Co., Inc. operates several stores throughout central Pennsylvania. Recently, it partnered with the Hite Co. in Williamsport to open up its newest site at 1306 Commerce Drive.
“It made it a very attractive expansion,” Makdad said.
The partnership with Hite, he noted, allows his company to increase competitiveness through sharing of costs, combined trucking and other services.
Makdad is a wholesale distributor of HVAC/R supplies and services and is involved in all aspects of residential and commercial heating ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration. The company stocks more than 22,000 parts and supplies.
With headquarters in Altoona, the company also has stores in Johnstown, DuBois, State College, and Harrisburg.
The local store opened in March. Ribbon-cutting ceremonies were held May 17.
“I’m excited,” Makdad said. “This has gone very smoothly. The partnership has made it good. There is a lot of commonality between the two businesses.”
His company, he noted, is a family-owned one started by his father Charlie in 1948. While many businesses are selling many of their products online, Makdad has remained a strong brick and mortar presence.
“We are not an online company,” he said. “Contractors need stuff today.”
The military, HVACR contractors, commercial and industrial property owners, and public and private institutions, including schools and hospitals are among the company’s customers.
“We support the community,” he said.
The local store will employ four people.
Makdad is a member of the Blue Hawk Cooperative of HVAC/R wholesalers.