New research reveals how buying behavior is changing—and what it means for your ecommerce strategy We recently partnered with BigCommerce to better understand how contractors and institutional buyers are sourcing HVAC, electrical, and industrial supplies—and what they now expect from distributors in 2025 and beyond. The full report is now live: … [Read more...] about New Research: What HVAC Buyers Expect from Distributors in 2025
Growth Strategies
Embraco Builds Compressor Plant in India: Why it Matters
As global demand continues to grow for high-efficiency, variable-speed, and natural refrigerant-ready compressors, manufacturers are rethinking their supply chains. One of the most recognized names in refrigeration technology: Embraco (part of Nidec Global Appliance) is taking a major step with the construction of a new $120 million compressor factory in India. While this … [Read more...] about Embraco Builds Compressor Plant in India: Why it Matters
Why is B2B Distribution like making Orange Juice?
This week I have been preparing for two excellent conferences that I am speaking at in the next 2-3 weeks (Enable Catalyze and MDM SHIFT) and talking with channel leaders on calls… It’s an uncertain time in the business that has many leaders somewhat paralyzed or in a wait and see attitude on what to do for the balance of 2025. How to Make Orange Juice In this uncertain time … [Read more...] about Why is B2B Distribution like making Orange Juice?
Johnstone Supply Orion Group – Making Training and Programs a Differentiator
We have been featuring leading HVACR distributors in a Spotlight series over the past few months, and I sat down to do an update on the Johnstone Supply Orion Group (JSOG) story. I've been a fan of what JSOG is doing as an organization with their strategic vision and the focus they have on helping their end customers grow and thrive. JSOG's goal is to continue "Our Journey … [Read more...] about Johnstone Supply Orion Group – Making Training and Programs a Differentiator
HVACR Contractor Loyalty Research Survey Results are In
Over the years, many HVACR distributors have launched programs designed to increase contractor sales. These programs may be called frequent buyer programs, loyalty programs, or incentive programs. While there are nuances to the three, the commonality is that contractors are recognized for their support. The concept helps distributors market themselves, and drive … [Read more...] about HVACR Contractor Loyalty Research Survey Results are In
Ferguson Chugs Along, Accelerates HVAC Growth
Last week Ferguson announced its FY25 Q2 earnings with their analyst call. Ferguson continues to diversify into multiple markets beyond plumbing, including HVACR, lighting, waterworks, facilities supply, fire and fabrication, industrial and mechanical. They see opportunities to increase sales, and their market share, in these large markets, and continue to invest for … [Read more...] about Ferguson Chugs Along, Accelerates HVAC Growth
Prokeep and Allied Join Forces to Support HVAC Distributors
Big news in the HVAC channel for Allied Air distributors that are seeking to differentiate themselves, be more accessible to their contractors (and their contractors' field technicians), and are seeking to grow ... especially with their house / uncoded accounts! Prokeep and Allied Air Enterprises According to its press release ..."Prokeep, distribution’s leading customer … [Read more...] about Prokeep and Allied Join Forces to Support HVAC Distributors
How HVACR Distributors can create a Successful Contractor Loyalty Program
It is always fun to write about Distributor Loyalty programs and Channel Marketing Group. David Gordon has been involved with over 100 programs (as he started his career in the incentive space and has worked with countless distributors on their programs. I was fortunate to be involved and help lead 9 loyalty programs as a program, so we spend a lot of time talking about … [Read more...] about How HVACR Distributors can create a Successful Contractor Loyalty Program
Distributor Spotlight: Johnstone Supply Orion Group – Part 2
In Part One of our Distributor Spotlight series, we started to share the Johnstone Supply Orion Group (JSOG) Story. The original intent was to edit the article, but the information was so interesting that we decided to share is unedited which meant it needed to be told in two parts. Distributor Spotlight: Johnstone Supply Orion Group - Part 1 - HVACR Trends In Part One - … [Read more...] about Distributor Spotlight: Johnstone Supply Orion Group – Part 2
Distributor Spotlight: Johnstone Supply Orion Group – Part 1
I have been writing a Distributor series for/with Modern Distribution Management this past year where we profile large public distributors (WATSO, Ferguson, WESCO, Fastenal, and MSC Industrial). We write about the available information they release publicly to the market. That has been a fun experience taking a deep dive into the public side, but the independent distribution … [Read more...] about Distributor Spotlight: Johnstone Supply Orion Group – Part 1
