Distributors Take Ownership of AI with Strategic Investments
Major distributors are shifting their approach to artificial intelligence by investing directly in AI companies and technology rather than relying on software vendors. This change is evident in recent transactions involving Fastenal, Grainger, Builders FirstSource, Winsupply, The Home Depot, and United Rentals.
In 2025, these distributors made strategic investments or acquisitions tied to AI and automation, with a common goal of gaining closer access to technology and technical expertise connected to inventory, supply chains, purchasing, sales, fulfillment, and other core operations.
Fastenal acquired Rampp.ai in June, bringing agentic AI technology and talent into the company. Grainger paid $210 million for technology, intellectual property, and talent from Adroit Worldwide Media, with a focus on strengthening inventory management within its High Touch Solutions North America business.
Builders FirstSource invested $25.3 million in Digs' Series A financing and entered a five-year commercial agreement to integrate the AI platform into their digital ecosystem.