CertaSite Acquires ABC Fire Extinguisher

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – ABC Fire Extinguisher has been acquired by CertaSite, a  commercial fire protection and life safety company. 

ABC was founded in 1977 and is owned by former Mahoning County Commissioner Frank Lordi. The company offers sales, service and inspections of fire extinguishers and hood ventilation systems for commercial clients in northeastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania.

ABC will maintain its legacy branding and all employees will be retained.

“We are grateful to Frank Lordi and the ABC family for their continued partnership throughout this process,” said Jeff Wyatt, CEO of CertaSite, in a statement. “We are committed to preserve the legacy that these dedicated professionals built and recognize and respect their strong local presence. Our team will provide our new employees with development and career advancement, and expanded services and support to customers. We are thrilled to be expanding our unique brand of customer service in this market.”

The acquisition of ABC Fire Extinguisher is CertaSite’s second in Ohio, following the 2018 purchase of County Fire Protection, which served Kent, Columbus, Toledo and Rimersburg. That office is overseen by Rich Kendle, who will also take over management of the Youngstown office.

“CertaSite and [equity firm] Riverside are the perfect partners to build on the foundation laid by our employees and customers,” said ABC owner Frank Lordi. “Transitioning our business to CertaSite blends our unique industry knowledge with a technology-based platform that offers new product lines, is professional and rooted in best practices, and provides significant value for customers.” 

CertaSite also operates office in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Iowa. 

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.