Crescent Electric Supply Company, established in 1919 by Titus B. Schmid in Dubuque, Iowa, is a leading distributor of electrical hardware in the United States. Headquartered in East Dubuque, Illinois, the company operates over 130 branches across more than 25 states, serving contractors, utilities, institutional, and industrial customers with a comprehensive range of electrical, lighting, automation, and datacomm products.
Key Strategic Focus
Crescent Electric emphasizes delivering locally-stocked inventory tailored to regional market demands, ensuring prompt and reliable service. The company has expanded its reach through strategic acquisitions, including Stoneway Electric in Washington and Idaho, Interstate Electric Supply in Idaho and Oregon, Mesco Electrical Supply in Ohio, National Electric Supply in New Mexico, Womack Electric Supply in Virginia and North Carolina, and Lowe Electric in Georgia and South Carolina. These acquisitions have bolstered Crescent's market presence and diversified its product offerings.
Financials and Funding
As of 2024, Crescent Electric reported annual revenues of approximately $580 million, with a workforce of around 1,280 employees. The company remains privately held by the Schmid family, maintaining financial independence without reliance on external funding.
Technological Platform and Innovation
In 2013, Crescent Electric launched a state-of-the-art e-commerce platform featuring over 200,000 products, robust search capabilities, local inventory checks, and streamlined ordering processes. This initiative underscores the company's commitment to leveraging technology to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
Leadership Team
- Scott Teerlinck: Served as President and CEO until December 2024.
- Kristi Dahlke: Appointed Chief Financial Officer in March 2022.
- Edwin Ojeda: Joined as Senior Vice President of Industrial in October 2021.
- Seth Erickson: Became Chief Transformation Officer in December 2020.
Leadership Changes
In December 2024, Scott Teerlinck departed from his role as President and CEO to pursue other opportunities. The company has yet to announce his successor.
Competitor Profile
- Market Insights and Dynamics: The electrical distribution industry is characterized by significant competition, with companies striving to offer comprehensive product lines and exceptional service to capture market share.
- Competitor Analysis:
- Graybar: A major competitor with a broader employee base and higher revenue, offering a wide range of electrical and communications products.
- Werner Electric: Competes in similar markets, focusing on electrical components and equipment.
- Van Meter Inc.: Operates in overlapping regions, providing electrical supply services.
- Summit Electric Supply: Another key player in the industry, offering a range of electrical products and services.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Crescent Electric has established long-standing relationships with leading manufacturers, including a partnership with General Electric since 1925. These collaborations enable the company to offer a diverse and high-quality product portfolio to its customers.
Operational Insights
The company's decentralized inventory management allows branch and district managers to tailor stock to local market conditions, enhancing responsiveness and customer satisfaction. This approach differentiates Crescent Electric from competitors employing centralized distribution models.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Crescent Electric continues to explore acquisition opportunities to expand its geographic footprint and diversify its product offerings. The company is also investing in e-commerce and digital solutions to meet evolving customer expectations and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
Contact Information
- Website: www.crescentelectric.com
- LinkedIn: Crescent Electric Supply Company
- Facebook: Crescent Electric Supply Company
- X (formerly Twitter): @CrescentElectrc
