(Reuters) -Home Depot said on Monday unit SRS Distribution has agreed to acquire specialty building products distributor GMS for about $4.3 billion, stepping up its efforts to capture more demand from professional contractors. The deal also comes amid threats of a hostile takeover for GMS from billionaire Brad Jacobs-led rival QXO.

Home Depot's SRS Distribution unit is buying GMS, a building-products distributor, for about $4.3 billion. Home Depot is trying to attract more sales from contractors and other home professionals. The deal is expected to close in early 2026.

Home Depot is buying specialty building products distributor GMS for $4.3 billion, the second notable acquisition in a little over a year that emphasizes a deliberate push by the home improvement chai