LA PLATA, Md.—Southern Maryland Oil, Inc. (SMO), headquartered in La Plata, Charles County, announced that they have purchased the heating fuel division of Waldorf-based The Besche Company. This transaction, which
is scheduled to be completed on July 31, includes Besche's tank wagon petroleum and HVAC business, as well as their Clinton Bulk Plant in Prince George's County.
"Bringing SMO and Besche together makes a lot of sense for our clients, but also for our companies which will enable an easy transition," said John Combs, president of SMO in a press release. "Both our companies are family owned and have been serving the Southern Maryland Region for many decades. Together, we have over 150 years of combined experience."
SMO has been in business for 86 years, while Besche was founded 66 years ago.
SMO says that many of the two company's service offerings are similar, including fuel oil and kerosene delivery; HVAC equipment sales, including air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, boilers, water heaters; and HVAC service. SMO also offers propane delivery and propane conversions, as well as extensive commercial fuel services, which will now be available to Besche clients.
"This acquisition will also allow us to take the best of both companies and offer even greater value and services to all our clients," said Combs. "For example, SMO has an online portal that allows clients to manage their accounts online. It's really an industry first and we are excited to share this feature with our new Besche clients."
Many of the employees from the Besche Company will join SMO, according to SMO's press release. The Besche Company will retain its retail businesses, including its Sunoco/Citgo stores and transportation dealer business.
More information about SMO can be found at http://SMOenergy.com/. More information about Besche can be found at http://www.besche.com/.
Financial Disclosure: The Besche Company was a client of Southern Maryland Online at the time of publication.