Dayton Reporter

Matt Detmer, vice president of business development at Detmer and Sons, said the key to expansion has been acquisition. The company will continue to grow, after being acquired by Ace Hardware in early August.

"The biggest thing is over the last 15 years or so, we've purchased a handful of other HVAC companies, and that has kind of been the key for us to expand our footprint and get involved in communities that we weren't involved in previously," Detmer said. "So really through acquisition, has allowed us to expand our footprint over the years."

Detmer and Sons was founded in 1978 by Detmer's grandfather, Frank Sr., and his father, Frank Jr., who were both employed within the HVAC sector at the time. It was during this time they embarked on their own entrepreneurial journey within the industry. As a result, they transitioned from their previous roles to establish their very own HVAC business.

Detmer became part of the company while he was still a student. Initially, he took on a part-time role, handling parts for his father. Over time, this evolved into assisting with onsite jobs. It was during this period his interest in the HVAC field grew into a true passion. Eventually, he made the decision to leave his part-time firefighting position and fully dedicate himself to HVAC, working as a field technician.

Communities in Ohio that Detmer and Sons service consist of Dayton, Beaver Creek, Centerville, Oakwood, Kettering, New Carlyle and Springfield.

In August, Detmer and Sons was acquired by Ace Hardware. It noted Detmer will maintain his role in overseeing the business, and alongside his brother Eric Detmer, he will remain actively engaged. This partnership will grant them access to Ace's extensive expertise and resources, allowing them to offer a broader range of products at more competitive prices.