The results of our survey and research our team at Channel Marketing Group did in concert with Prokeep on the channel are in and show some clear gaps and opportunities for the channel In the HVACR channel world, where speed often wins the deal, distributors are under increasing pressure to serve more customers, faster—without adding headcount. Traditional sales models, … [Read more...] about Powering Sales Focus and Productivity with Proactive Communication Tools
Market Analysis
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?
HVACR April Earning Results – Watsco and Lennox
We take a deep dive on the latest earning results from Lenox and WATSCO in this column. HVAC manufacturer Lennox (light commercial equipment) and Watsco (distributor), and industrial manufacturer ABB, reported quarterly earning this week. Tariff discussions dominated the commentary both from the companies being proactive as well as questions from stakeholder … [Read more...] about HVACR April Earning Results – Watsco and Lennox
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
7 Reasons to Use This eCommerce Resource
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been observing the quarterly reports and other communiques by distributors in a number of industries – Watsco, Ferguson and similar – and there has been a recurring trend … growth in their eCommerce business. Admittedly, for most of them, a deeper dive would probably reveal that this is not seismic growth in new customer business but a … [Read more...] about 7 Reasons to Use This eCommerce Resource
Update: Auer Steel & Heating Supply HVACR Advocacy continues in 2025
We started following the Auer Steel and Heating Supply Company in 2024. It was interesting to see on social media a distributor who was committing resources to HVACR advocacy and outreach. The team was going to local high schools, tech colleges and hosting events every month to get the next generation inspired to join the HVACR Channel. Auer Steel's goal (led by Jon Hirsch) … [Read more...] about Update: Auer Steel & Heating Supply HVACR Advocacy continues in 2025
