Barnes & Thornburg Transaction Wins ACG Indiana ‘Deal of the Year’

On May 7, 2026, ACG presented the award, which recognizes outstanding transactions that demonstrate unique strategic value, meaningful impact on Indiana’s business community and exceptional execution by the parties involved.

In December, the firm represented Indianapolis-based LDI in the acquisition of Dealers Wholesale, a leading diversified building products distributor. The deal brought together two Indiana organizations with deeply aligned cultures, shared long-term values and a commitment to investing people and sustainable growth. The deal also highlighted the strength of Barnes & Thornburg’s middle-market M&A practice as it was the eighth transaction led by the firm to win ACG Indiana’s “Deal of the Year” since 2014.

Founded in Indianapolis in 1963, Dealers Wholesale serves builders, developers and contractors across 20 states, supplying products, including commercial doors, frames and hardware, electronic access control and residential hearth and outdoor living products. The deal positions Dealers Wholesale for continued growth through technology investments, geographic expansion and broadened service capabilities.

LDI, a fourth-generation family office founded in 1912, is among the top 15 largest private companies in the Indianapolis area. Its companies employ more than 1,500 people across 20 countries.

The BT team was led by partner Kep Carmichael and included Tyler Watson (lead deal associate), Otto Frenzel (junior deal associate), David Hall (debt financing), Anthony Glenn (labor and employment), Michele Alexander (tax), Joel Bowers (environmental) and Mina Amir-Mokri (employee benefits).