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Yonah Group, a self-funded SF led by Army veterans Michael Maniaci and Miles Kirwin, has announced the acquisition of the Pella Windows & Doors distributorship serving Connecticut and parts of New York (Pella CT-NY). The acquisition marks a strategic investment in the region’s home improvement market and reflects the growing momentum of veteran-led business ownership. The deal was supported by investors Chip Paulsen, Chris Hartman, Matt Bauer, Troy Kirwin, Joe Whaley, and others, along with a lending partner. It also represents a successful transition for longtime owner-operator Desmond Rea, who spent decades building Pella CT-NY into one of the leading Pella distributorships in the country.
Founded in the 1940s, Pella CT-NY is the independent, exclusive wholesale distributor and service provider of Pella Corporation’s Windows & Doors throughout Connecticut and parts of New York. The company offers high-quality solutions backed by expert consultation, professional installation, and reliable service—serving homeowners, builders, and architects. The business is well positioned to benefit from sustained renovation demand, an aging housing stock, and increased suburban investment.
Michael and Miles met in 2014 as students at the U.S. Army Ranger School. After leading soldiers in complex environments, both went on to build successful private-sector careers—Michael as a building products investment banker at Credit Suisse and Raymond James, and Miles as a management consultant at Deloitte and later Chief of Staff at a tech startup.
“We’ve spent our careers leading teams in high-stress environments. Now we’re channeling that experience into building a customer-first, locally owned business,” said Miles Kirwin.
“This is more than a business—it’s a platform to create great jobs, serve the community, and deliver industry-leading products from the top window and door brand in the U.S.,” added Michael Maniaci. “We’re investing in talent, technology, and training to make Pella CT-NY the top choice in the market.”
Legal (buyer): Whiteford, Taylor & Preston / Legal (Seller): Braunstein Turkish / DD: Hood & Strong / M&A Advisor: Benchmark Business Group
