The Hays, Kansas-based company and its network of S&W Supply stores will be rebranded following the transition to the family-owned distributor
St. Cloud, Minn.—Don Bickle Jr. and Tim Bickle, owners of Hays, Kansas-based Warehouse Inc. and its network of S&W Supply stores, announced Tuesday they have partnered with Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc. (APH), a thirdgeneration, family-owned auto parts distributor based in St. Cloud, Minnesota.
APH supports more than 300 locations across the Midwest. As part of the transition, Warehouse Inc.’s nine corporate locations will be rebranded as S&W Supply Auto Value. Following the transition, Don Jr. and Tim Bickle will remain involved as senior advisors, and Ryan Bickle, vice president of sales, will continue in a leadership role.
S&W Supply’s roots date to 1934, when Claude Sutter and Don Wells founded the company during the Great Depression. What began as a small automotive parts operation grew steadily, with Don and Lyle (Bickle) Wells helping expand the business and relocate it to Hays, where it remains today.
In 1966, Warehouse Inc. was established to support wholesale distribution across western Kansas. Today, the company serves customers in automotive, heavy-duty, industrial, agricultural and oilfield markets. The decision to partner with APH reflects a shared commitment to people, service and
long-term growth.
“Family and service have always been at the heart of S&W Supply,” Don Jr. said. “Joining the APH family ensures our employees and customers will continue to be supported while expanding our reach and capabilities for the future.”
Tim Bickle said, “Joining APH gives us the opportunity to strengthen our operations and expand the services we offer to our customers. With their resources and support, we can innovate more quickly, streamline processes, and continue building on the foundation our family established more than 90 years ago.”
“APH was a natural partner,” Ryan Bickle said. “They share our values and our approach to growth — investing in people, maintaining a strong culture and staying focused on the customer.”
For APH, the partnership represents both a strategic expansion and the continuation of a longstanding relationship.
“We are honored that Don and Tim chose to join the APH family,” said Corey Bartlett, CEO and owner of APH. “S&W Supply and Warehouse Inc. share our customer-first mindset and commitment to service, making this a strong fit as we grow into new markets. We’re excited to welcome their team and build on the impressive business they’ve created.”
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