Cook & Boardman expands Division 10 footprint with BMSI acquisition
Cook & Boardman has acquired BMSI, expanding its access and specialty building products services in the Midwest and Southwest regions of the United States.
Elena Whitmore 
The Cook & Boardman Group LLC has announced the acquisition of Building Material Supply Inc. (BMSI), a specialty building products provider headquartered in Edina, Minnesota, with an additional location in Phoenix, Arizona. With this move, the company aims to strengthen its presence in Division 10 architectural solutions across key regions in the U.S.. While financial terms of the deal were not made public, the acquisition marks a continued growth strategy under the majority ownership of Platinum Equity, which took a controlling stake in Cook & Boardman in 2023.
BMSI to operate under its existing name
Founded in 1997, BMSI supplies a wide range of Division 10 architectural specialty products to customers in the Midwest and Southwest. Following the transaction, the company will continue operating under its current name, and customer relationships will remain intact. Jeff Lehman, former owner of BMSI, will take on the role of General Manager, leading the transition under the Cook & Boardman umbrella. Lehman noted, “This acquisition will enable us to reach new heights. Together, we will drive our mission forward with enhanced strength and innovation.”
David Eisner, CEO of Cook & Boardman, emphasized the strategic value of the acquisition, stating, “BMSI has built a strong reputation in the Midwest and Southwest, which has been driven by their excellent customer service and deep-tenured relationships.” Eisner added that expanding Division 10 offerings is a key focus area for the company going forward.
Ongoing expansion under Platinum Equity ownership
BMSI represents the twelfth acquisition completed by Cook & Boardman since Platinum Equity became its majority shareholder. Littlejohn & Co., LLC, which previously held a majority interest, remains an active minority investor in the company. Legal counsel for the transaction was provided by K&L Gates LLP.
About Cook & Boardman and Platinum Equity
Established in 1955, The Cook & Boardman Group is a leading U.S. provider of integrated access and security solutions, offering a broad product portfolio through its nationwide network of more than 80 locations. The company delivers solutions across Division 8, Division 10, Division 27, and Division 28, covering commercial doors and hardware, electronic access systems, cabling, audiovisual installations, and IT infrastructure services. Its customer base spans sectors such as healthcare, education, government, hospitality, industrial, and multi-use facilities.
Platinum Equity, founded in 1995 by Tom Gores, manages around $47 billion in assets and has a portfolio of approximately 50 operating companies. The firm is known for its “M&A&O®” strategy, focusing on acquiring and operating businesses across diverse sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, media, and technology.
