INDIANA — In a significant move for the Southern Indiana building industry, R.P. Lumber Co., Inc. has officially finalized the acquisition of Bender Lumber, a staple of the region since 1931. The deal, which closed on February 13, 2026, marks the end of an era for the family-owned Indiana institution and a major expansion for the Illinois-based buyer.
Founded nearly a century ago, Bender Lumber has grown into a cornerstone for contractors and homeowners alike. The company’s eight locations, Bedford, Bloomington, Columbus, Linton, Madison, Martinsville, Paoli, and Washington, employ more than 100 people.
The outgoing owner, John Bender, expressed confidence in the transition, noting a long-standing friendship with the Plummer family, who own R.P. Lumber. John Bender’s entrepreneurial legacy extends beyond timber; he was also one of the original founders of the Pizza Hut franchise.
This acquisition brings R.P. Lumber’s total store count to 99 locations across seven states, including Illinois, Missouri, Wyoming, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Indiana.
This is the company’s second major move in the Hoosier state in recent months, following their October 2025 acquisition of the two-location Dye Lumber operation. With the Bender deal complete, R.P. Lumber now operates 10 locations in Indiana.
R.P. Lumber leadership emphasized that the transition is designed to be seamless:
- Job Security: Existing employees at all eight Bender locations will remain in place.
- Infrastructure: R.P. Lumber plans to invest in new technology, equipment, and expanded inventory to enhance the customer experience.
- Local Culture: Despite the change in ownership, the company intends to maintain “small-town roots,” with a focus on local decision-making and community involvement.
“We have long respected the entire Bender Lumber team,” said Jason Plummer, President of R.P. Lumber. “We are grateful for the opportunity to build on the foundation laid by Mr. Bender, his brother, Paul, and their father.”
The company plans to host local events at each of the eight newly acquired stores to celebrate the transition and honor the Bender family legacy.
Information: Southern Indiana Business Report.
