ABC Supply Co. Inc. has announced this year’s recipients of the company’s Ken Hendricks Award, the company’s highest honor.

The 2025 honorees are Jeff Lee, managing partner of ABC Supply’s North Little Rock, Ark., location and Matt Cooper, vice president of ABC Supply’s West Region. 

In a news release last week, ABC Supply said the two associates have consistently embodied the company’s “core values and character.”

The Ken Hendricks Award, named after ABC Supply’s late co-founder, honors associates who embody the company’s seven Core Values: Respect, Opportunity, Work Hard–have fun, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Family, Give Back, and American Pride.

“Beyond being extraordinary leaders who continuously drive our teams to success, Jeff and Matt make their associates, customers and communities feel valued,” says Mike Jost, ABC Supply’s president and chief operating officer. 

“These two individuals have truly earned this recognition through their dedication and hard work over the years,” he continued

Jeff Lee 

Lee began as branch manager of the Bradco Supply North Little Rock location in 2002 and joined ABC Supply when it acquired the company in 2010. Here are some of his awards and achievements throughout his time at ABC Supply: 

• In 2015, he was inducted into ABC Supply’s President’s Club.
• In 2016, he became a managing partner.
• Since 2012, he has led the North Little Rock branch to win 13 awards, including Gold, Platinum and Diamond Level.

Matt Cooper 

Cooper began his career with ABC Supply in 1991 as a warehouse roof stocker in San Marcos, Calif., after serving as an ammunition technician and rifle range instructor in the United States Marine Corps. 

He held various roles, from inside sales representative to inventory and purchasing in West Chicago, Ill., until his promotion to branch manager in 1994. Here are some of his awards and achievements throughout his time at ABC Supply: 

• From 1994 to 1995, Cooper managed the Muskegon Heights branch before taking over the Grand Rapids branch from 1995 to 2000. In 1997, he was named Manager of the Year.
• In 2000, he became Chicago District manager, earning the Midwest Special Recognition Award. 
• In 2001, he was inducted into the President’s Club.
• In 2003, he received District Manager of the Year. 
• Since 2016, Cooper has served as vice president of the company’s West Region.

“We are so grateful that Jeff and Matt chose ABC Supply as their home to grow their careers,” says ABC Supply Chairman Diane Hendricks. “They embody so much of what Ken believed made a good leader and person.” 

Lee and Cooper will be recognized at the annual Founders’ Celebration at ABC Supply’s National Support Center in Beloit, Wis., in August. 

To learn more about the award, visit abcsupply.com/ken-hendricks-award.