Two automotive and truck parts distributors in the Upper Midwest, Automotive Parts Headquarters and United Auto Supply, are joining forces.

Wisconsin-based United Auto Supply’s 13 locations will join APH’s family of corporate stores under the Auto Value flag.

APH, based in St. Cloud, Minn., is a member of HDA Truck Pride and also stocks heavy-duty parts. About half of United's 13 locations already sell heavy-duty parts in addition to automotive items.

“We’ve had a great relationship with the United Auto Supply team for many years and we’re honored that they’ve chosen to partner with APH,” said APH president Corey Bartlett.

The United Auto Supply management team is expected to join the APH management team. When United Auto Supply’s 13 stores are converted, APH will have a total of 98 corporate stores across the upper Midwest.

APH was established in 1920 in Minneapolis and today operates Auto Value stores throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and Michigan. It also has 35 independent stores in addition to the corporate shops.

United Auto Supply has been serving Southwest Wisconsin, Southeast Minnesota and Northeast Iowa since 1958 through a distribution center and 13 store locations.

"APH is an aggressive and growing 94-year-old company and we are proud to join their team," said Dick Beirne, president of United Auto Supply, noting that it will give the company an expanded inventory to draw from.