Dead River Acquires Charlie Burnham Energy & Heating

Dead River Co. of South Portland, Maine, acquired the full-service propane and heating oil delivery business and HVAC business of Charlie Burnham Energy & Heating Service, based in Freeport, Maine, Cetane Associates announced.

HVAC industry experts Charlie Burnham and George Gyorgy founded Charlie Burnham Heating Service in 1991. In 2009, Jim Enrico joined the company and the implementation of software and technological innovations helped them grow the business. The three partners established the delivered fuels side of the business in 2013.

Co-founder Charlie Burnham stated, “For more than 31 years, our company’s team has been serving our Southern Maine neighbors. Our factory-trained and manufacturer-certified technicians are experienced veterans. We believe our Charlie Burnham brand has strong synergies with Dead River Company’s values. And, we’re proud to see our dedicated work carry forward in the great hands of Dead River.”

Dead River Company, founded in 1909 by Charles Hutchins, had its roots in the forest products industry. In 1936, Dead River entered the petroleum business and has since grown to be the largest full-service home heating provider in northern New England, operating locally managed offices throughout Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts.

Casey Cramton, Dead River Company President and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “We appreciate the expert reputation for excellence and great service that Charlie Burnham Energy & Heating Service has built and will work steadily to preserve their legacy. We are excited to have their employees join our team and look forward to ensuring everyone feels right at home at Dead River Company.”

The transaction closed on October 12, 2022. Cetane Associates (www.cetane.net) served as the sole arranger and financial advisor to Charlie Burnham, Inc.