Home Depot has completed a $5.5 billion acquisition of GMS Inc., a leading distributor of drywall, ceilings, steel framing and other building materials, the home improvement store announced in a news release Thursday .

The deal was made through Home Depot’s specialty trade subsidiary, SRS Distribution Inc. The subsidiary focuses on supplying building materials to professional contractors rather than retail customers.

The merger gives Home Depot a bigger role in serving professional contractors, also called “Pros,” by offering more products and services for both residential and commercial construction projects, the release says.

Home Depot CEO Ted Decker said the combined companies will make it easier for contractors to get the materials and support they need for every project.

“We wa

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