Longtime Vernon Plumbing Supply Business Closes

VERNON, CT — A regional plumbing supply business in Vernon that served both professionals and homeowners for generations closed this month.

The New Shepard Supply Co. at 369 Talcottville Road went dark several days ago. A sign posted on the glass door by its owner, The Portland Group, thanked customers, but also offered just a terse announcement that the location "will be closed permanently."

The message also gave customers and plumbing firms a referral to the company's Middletown location. Shepard's roots can be traced back to the founding of Middlesex Supply in 1929 by the Miller family. Middlesex Supply also operates branches in Middletown and Clinton.

The Portland Group, also a fourth-generation company, has owned Shepard Supply since 2018, when it acquired Middlesex Supply.