Home Depot’s trade distribution subsidiary SRS Distribution has reached an agreement to buy building-products distributor GMS for $110 a share in a deal totaling $5.5 billion, the companies announced Monday.

(Reuters) -Home Depot said on Monday unit SRS Distribution has agreed to acquire specialty building products distributor GMS for about $4.3 billion, stepping up its efforts to capture more demand from professional contractors. The deal also comes amid threats of a hostile takeover for GMS from billionaire Brad Jacobs-led rival QXO.

Home Depot is buying specialty building products distributor GMS Inc. in a deal valued at approximately $4.3 billion. The Atlanta home improvement chain said Monday the transaction will help strengthen Home Depot’s relationship with professional contractors.