New Hope, Minnesota (November 21, 2024) – Horwitz, a Midwest based mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) specialty contractor, is proud to announce the acquisition of Preferred Electric, a well-established electrical contractor specializing in commercial and industrial sectors. This acquisition is a strategic step in establishing Horwitz’s vision of becoming a more comprehensive specialty service provider, enhancing its capacity to meet the evolving needs of both current and future clients. Through this partnership, Horwitz is creating a unified MEP team that upholds the high standards for innovation clients expect.

Founded by Clint Kruger in 2008, Preferred Electric has earned a reputation as a value driven electrical contractor. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business, Preferred Electric has served commercial, healthcare, and industrial markets with high-quality, client-centric service. Among its notable clients are the VA Hospital, a major semiconductor fabrication company, and several printing press firms.

Since its founding in 1918, Horwitz has used strategic acquisitions in automation, insulation, and industrial ventilation to expand its construction and service offerings into building systems adjacent to its core business in mechanical systems and plumbing. With the addition of Preferred Electric, Horwitz strengthens its electrical division, adding new expertise and operational capacity to take on larger and more complex projects. The cultural and organizational alignment between Preferred Electric and Horwitz brings valuable synergy, enhancing the company’s solutions-focused approach.

As part of this acquisition, Clint Kruger will join Horwitz as general manager, where he will lead the expanded electrical team, now operating as Preferred Electric, a Horwitz Company. His entrepreneurial spirit and people first approach will continue to drive the firm’s growth and enhance client value. Kruger’s industry insights and relationships with key partners will support Horwitz’s ongoing expansion within the electrical market.

“The addition of Preferred Electric’s skilled team enables Horwitz to deliver a more comprehensive MEP service offering,” said Matt Dekkers, CEO of Horwitz. “Our clients will benefit from our combined resources and expertise, allowing us to respond more effectively to their needs on both new construction and renovation projects. Clint’s leadership aligns seamlessly with Horwitz’s values, and we look forward to the exciting growth this partnership will bring.”

For Preferred Electric’s clients, this acquisition offers expanded support, broader service capabilities, and access to Horwitz’s full suite of specialty services. As a Horwitz company, Preferred Electric will leverage new resources to scale its operations, providing best-in-class service with an even stronger capacity for innovative, client-focused solutions.

Horwitz’s ownership structure reflects a balanced approach that combines the financial backing of Svoboda Capital Partners with the strategic vision and hands-on leadership of key employee-owners. With Clint Kruger, Zack Blake, and Ed Belland joining the ownership team, this diverse ownership mix strengthens Horwitz’s ability to grow, innovate, and maintain a client-first approach, with employees deeply invested in the company’s success.

Looking ahead, Horwitz and Preferred Electric are focused on continued growth and service excellence. By integrating teams, expertise, and resources, the company will add even more value to current clients and attract new clients seeking comprehensive MEP services.

“With decades of hands-on expertise, Preferred Electric is excited to become a part of the Horwitz team,” said Clint Kruger, founder of Preferred Electric. “This acquisition strengthens our commitment to our core markets while expanding our ability to serve clients with greater resources and capabilities. Together, we’ll deliver unmatched value, ensuring every project benefits from our combined strengths and experience.”

About Horwitz
With over a century of experience, Horwitz leverages deep technical expertise and a collaborative approach to deliver comprehensive mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) services, including design, fabrication, construction, and maintenance, to commercial and industrial clients across the Midwest. As a turnkey specialty contractor, Horwitz integrates advanced technology with in-house engineering to optimize system performance for critical industries such as data centers, pharmaceutical manufacturing, healthcare, and more.

To learn more about Horwitz, please visit www.horwitzllc.com.

About Preferred Electric, now a Horwitz Company
Founded in 2008 by Clint Kruger, Preferred Electric has deep roots in the Twin Cities market and a legacy dating back to 1927 through the acquisition of Commercial Electric Company of the Twin Cities. Preferred Electric is committed to excellence and brings a high level of expertise to every project. With a team of highly trained professionals, the company delivers tailored, reliable electrical solutions across commercial, healthcare, and industrial sectors.

To learn more about Preferred Electric, please visit www.preferred-elect.com.