Van Meter Inc., a Cedar Rapids-based distributor of electrical and mechanical supplies and solutions, announced Tuesday that it will expand its business territory to the east and west in 2016. The company has entered into an agreement to purchase Bright Electrical Supply Co. Located in downtown Chicago, Bright Electrical Supply is known for its expertise and customer service in lighting distribution. Van Meter also plans to open a new branch in Omaha in the second quarter of 2016. The acquisition of Bright Electrical Supply, which is expected to be complete by year’s end, and the new branch in Omaha will expand Van Meter’s presence in the Midwest to 16 locations. Recruitment efforts are underway to staff a team at Van Meter’s Omaha branch.