Report: HD Supply prepares for IPO

Reuters is reporting that industrial distribution giant HD Supply is preparing for an initial public offering.

The San Diego-based industrial distribution company split from Home Depot about six years ago when private equity firms paid $8.5 billion for the company. Atlanta-based Home Depot kept a 12.5% stake in HD Supply. 

The same private equity investors -- Bain Capital, Carlyle Group and Clayton, Dubilier & Rice -- are at work selecting underwriters for the IPO deal, according to the report.

HD Supply had $7 billion in revenues in 2012.

On its website, HD Supply describes itself as a "supplier of maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) products to owners and managers of multifamily, hospitality, educational and commercial properties; healthcare providers; and municipal and government facilities. We also are experts in interior upgrade and renovation projects."