VIPAR Heavy Duty, an Illinois-based aftermarket truck parts distribution network, has acquired Power Heavy Duty, a parts buying network based in Pearland, Texas.

In the deal, VIPAR acquired Power's 200 US-based customers and the Power Heavy Duty brand, which will continue to exist under the umbrella of the VIPAR Heavy Duty family.

Current Power president Brett Upton has joined VIPAR and will continue to be the point of contact for member development, recruitment, and other member needs for the Power Heavy Duty line, although all corporate functions including central administration and management, program management, marketing and communications, and technology will be performed by VIPAR.

"Power Heavy Duty members will benefit from this acquisition by having the support and proven experience of VIPAR Heavy Duty management behind the group and brand," said Upton.

Before the acquisition, VIPAR had 500 distribution locations across Canada, the US, Mexico and Puerto Rico. According to VIPAR president and CEO Steve Crowley, the fleets, owner-operators, and independent repair shops served by VIPAR will see a benefit from the Power purchase.

"The acquisition of Power Heavy Duty allows us to take a multi-faceted approach to the independent heavy duty parts distribution business, and be the program group of choice for successful heavy duty parts distributors of all sizes by providing the right programs, tools and products. We want to continue to be the strongest possible channel for our suppliers to bring their products to the marketplace."