Private equity firm HCI Equity Partners (HCI) launched an automotive aftermarket distribution platform named Driven Distribution Group.

The launch aligns with Driven Distribution Group’s acquisition of Chicago Parts & Sounds (CPS) — a distributor of auto parts and accessories — which follows the recapitalization of Tri-State Enterprises, Inc. in November 2023.

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

HCI said it aims to create a platform in the automotive aftermarket industry by providing its brands with shared resources, strategic direction, investment and advanced technology. This initiative will enable its companies to deliver customer service by uniting CPS and Tri-State under the Driven Distribution Group umbrella.

“We are thrilled to welcome the CPS team to the Driven Distribution platform,” HCI Partner Scott Gibaratz said in an Oct. 23 news release. “Consistent with our original platform thesis, CPS represents a geographically strategic beachhead in the Midwest and is a great complement to Tri-State’s existing product categories. We look forward to working together to achieve our shared vision for growth.”

Elk Grove Village, IL-based Chicago Parts & Sound is a distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, batters, consumables and accessories. Founded in 1978, the company was then acquired by Bob and Jackie Lederer in 2002.

As part of the transaction, Bob and Jackie Lederer are reinvesting in the Driven Distribution platform while continuing to own and operate Police Department Systems and Coachcraft & Precision Services.