Carr Company – Florida’s leading representative for manufacturers of decorative, plumbing and HVAC products – has acquired Ludwig, Smith & Walker, a leading plumbing and mechanical manufacturers’ representative serving North and South Carolina.
The acquisition marks a strategic expansion of Carr Company’s presence across the Southeast and supports its long-term goal of diversifying its geographic footprint.
Founded in 1979 in Concord, North Carolina, Ludwig, Smith & Walker (LSW) has grown into one of the region’s leading manufacturers’ representatives. The firm represents a portfolio of high-quality brands in fixtures, water heating, plumbing systems and professional tools and is known for its disciplined sales execution, deep market knowledge and responsive service.
“We’ve known the LSW team for many years and share the same values,” said Michael Hobbs, President of Carr Company. “This partnership is a chance to broaden our footprint and capabilities into more diversified markets beyond Florida. Strategically, it will be a win-win for our team, our customers and the great brands we represent.”
LSW and Carr Company already share several manufacturers and customers, creating immediate operational synergies. Many builders and contractors served by Carr Company operate across both Florida and the Carolinas, supporting a more integrated regional approach.
LSW’s fixture portfolio includes Bootz Industries, Maax, Aker, Mansfield Plumbing, and Speakman. The firm also represents Navien tankless water heaters and boilers, DAB Pumps and Halo Water Systems, along with a range of plumbing systems, professional tools and instrumentation.
“We’re enthusiastic about this partnership,” said Stephen Ludwig, Vice President of Ludwig Smith & Walker Inc. “Carr Company shares our commitment to disciplined execution and customer service while giving our team the support to grow and evolve.”
A third-generation Florida business, Carr Company completed this strategic acquisition to strengthen its business pipeline, expand its team’s talent and expertise, and position the organization for long-term growth across the Southeast.
Starting February 1, Ludwig Smith & Walker will operate as a division of Carr Company and retain its corporate identity for the near term. Customers and manufacturers will continue working with the same local representatives they know and trust, while the combined organization invests in expanded resources, training and support.
This includes steps to bring new team members into Carr Company’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan. The ESOP trust holds 100% of the company’s stock for the benefit of employees, and each individual’s ownership stake increases over time.
