Value Added HVAC Distributors (VAD) and its three subsidiaries, Virginia Air Distributors, Allied HVAC Distributors and South Carolina Air Distributors, have announced a strategic partnership with The Master Group, Canada's largest and leading HVAC-R distributor. VAD will continue to operate as a stand-alone U.S. company with the current management team including founder Ken Baker, who will continue to serve as chairman, and Chris Baker as president and CEO. 

Founded in 1987 as an independent distributor, VAD has maintained sustained growth over the past three decades by staying true to its foundational principles of providing opportunity-filled work environments for employees and always going above and beyond to service customers. 

"Over the past 35 years, VAD and The Master Group have enjoyed a long-standing relationship, working together on distributor advisory councils and making numerous best practice visits to each other's offices," Baker said. "Most importantly, the values of our two companies are aligned, which creates a solid partnership for the future."

"Our vision is to become the dominant player in North America, and when we considered strategic partners in the United States, VAD and their quality management team was our first choice," continued Master Group CEO Louis St-Laurent.

"Investing in greater technology solutions that support highly skilled employees will be essential for the future — especially considering the aging infrastructure and demand for energy efficiency," added Neil McDougall, president of The Master Group.

Baker said, "The timing of this partnership is perfect as it enables us to capitalize on our momentum as we continue to grow, both organically and by attracting well-managed, customer-focused firms to join us. Together with Master, we are well-positioned to achieve our vision of being the No. 1 HVAC distributor in North America as we continue to lead the industry in building strong teams and partner relationships with employees and customers."