East End Plumbing Supply has been a cornerstone of the Louisville area since 1973, providing contractors, home builders, and DIY customers with years of industry experience and a deep understanding of the latest trends and innovations. As a family-owned and -operated wholesale distributor now in its third generation of family leadership, the company is known for its commitment to quality products and customer service. On June 27, the company celebrated the completion of an expansion to its showroom at its headquarters at 1705 Research Drive, Louisville, KY. 

The idea for expansion was simple. East End Plumbing’s President and CEO Scott Jackson explains, “We’re in a prime location on one of the busiest corners in an industrial park. While flying to Las Vegas for the KBIS show, I had an idea to expand our existing showroom footprint. I drew the plans on a napkin. When the flight landed, Jackson showed the drawing to colleague Kenny Griffin, vice president and COO, who smiled and said, “From there, we were off and running.”

Innovative Showroom and Product Offerings

Once the company received its permits, the addition was constructed within a year. The showroom received a 3,000-square-foot addition, creating a stunning new showroom space that totals 4,400 sq. ft. Designed with 18-foot-high ceilings and ground-to-ceiling windows flooded with natural light, the space exudes modern elegance and stands out in the busy industrial corridor. “We incorporated high-gloss floors into the new showroom, blending the old and new space. It looks like a museum,” says Griffin. 

A significant achievement during the expansion was securing a higher-level partnership with Kohler. While the company carries the Sterling brand, the expansion allowed for a larger space for the manufacturer’s lines. “One reason for the expansion of the showroom was to accommodate all the products we wanted to show,” said Griffin. In addition to Kohler, the new space boasts the largest Delta display in town. Jackson explains, “When we expanded, we doubled the space for Delta and Brizo, allocating 24 feet of showroom space for each. At first, the companies couldn’t believe the amount of real estate we allocated!”  To which he declares, “Go big or go home.”

As one of the largest wholesale distributors in the area, the partnerships with its manufacturing partners flourish due to East End’s impressive showroom and service standards and its ability to pivot quickly. “We’re a third-generation family-owned and operated company, and if we sit on our hands, the world will pass us by. I admire Scott for making sure that doesn’t happen,” states Griffin.

The expansion wasn’t limited to the interior. The entire exterior of the building received a facelift, transforming its appearance and increasing its curb appeal. “We painted the entire building, added new windows, and landscaped. It’s like a brand new building,” exclaims Jackson.

And one that stands out within its community.

Community and Employee Engagement

East End Plumbing Supply’s expansion was a team effort, reflecting the company’s strong community and employee culture. Griffin proudly shares, “Our employees have just grasped this addition. Everybody helped, and they wanted to be involved.” The company held an open house on June 27, celebrating the new look and space with its team members, customers, and the community. The showroom was filled with guests, and every person who attended had their photo taken in front of a backdrop with East End’s logo and was gifted T-shirts and hats as giveaways. Jackson chuckles as he says, “Many times, I will be in other stores shopping, and I’ll see someone wearing our logoed items. They do so with pride, and I smile knowing how our community embraces the company.”

Looking Ahead

East End Plumbing Supply’s expansion marks a significant milestone, but it’s just the beginning. The company is already exploring opportunities for further growth, including additional branches and potential acquisitions. As Jackson puts it, “We’re not going anywhere. We’re growing and expanding. We’re looking for opportunities to continue this momentum.”

With its commitment to quality, innovation, and community, East End Plumbing Supply is well-positioned for a bright future, continuing to serve the Louisville area with excellence.