Hajoca Acquires American Refrigeration Supplies

Leading HVAC-R distributor serving the Southwest joins Hajoca's growing platform

Feb. 4, 2026 at 4:47pm

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Hajoca, a major HVAC distributor, has acquired American Refrigeration Supplies (ARS), a leading HVAC-R distributor serving the Southwest United States. ARS has been owned by Kitchell, a construction and real estate development company, since 1970. The acquisition represents an important step forward in Hajoca's vision to build a leading HVAC platform across North America.

Why it matters

The deal strengthens Hajoca's position in the HVAC distribution market, adding 34 branches and two distribution centers across seven states to its existing network. It also demonstrates ongoing consolidation in the HVAC industry as larger players seek to expand their geographic reach and product offerings.

The details

Founded in 1940 in Phoenix, ARS has grown steadily over the past 85 years. Kitchell, which has owned ARS since 1970, is proud of the business's accomplishments and believes Hajoca is the right long-term partner to support the next chapter of ARS's growth. Consistent with Hajoca's acquisition philosophy, ARS will continue to operate under its established brand and be led by its local leadership team.

  • Hajoca acquired ARS in February 2026.
  • Kitchell has owned ARS since 1970.

The players

Hajoca

A major HVAC distributor that is building a leading HVAC platform across North America through acquisitions.

American Refrigeration Supplies (ARS)

A leading HVAC-R distributor serving the Southwest United States, founded in 1940 and based in Phoenix, Arizona.

Kitchell

A leading construction and real estate development company that has owned ARS since 1970.

Wendy Cohen

President & CEO of Kitchell.

Rick Fantham

President & CEO of Hajoca.

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What they’re saying

“ARS has built a strong reputation through its people, relationships, and service. We're proud of what the team has accomplished and confident Hajoca is the right long-term home to support the next chapter of the business.”

— Wendy Cohen, President & CEO of Kitchell

“ARS is a natural fit with Hajoca, driven by its values, people, manufacturer partnerships, and commitment to customers. We look forward to supporting the team's continued success and see them thrive for decades to come.”

— Rick Fantham, President & CEO of Hajoca

“We are thrilled that ARS has found its forever home with Hajoca. ARS is deeply committed to our people, customers, and manufacturers, and we are fortunate to be joining forces with such an aligned partner.”

— John White

What’s next

The acquisition is expected to strengthen Hajoca's position in the HVAC distribution market and support the continued growth and success of the ARS business.

The takeaway

This acquisition demonstrates the ongoing consolidation in the HVAC industry as larger players seek to expand their geographic reach and product offerings. It also highlights the importance of finding the right long-term partner to support a business's next chapter of growth.