Wolff Bros. builds loyalty among employees with a pleasant work environment, training and incentives.

One of the most high-profile challenges facing Wolff Bros. Supply is the rapid spread of the big-box home centers. Wolff Bros. competes by emphasizing service in its showrooms.

In response to disappointing results for its plumbing group in the third quarter, Hughes Supply is accelerating efficiency measures and evaluating the idea of branch consolidation within the group.

Wholesalers, manufacturers and research firms say the upward trend of 2000 will continue this year for the plumbing industry.

American Standard Cos. announced an operational consolidation and streamlining action that will result in the reduction of 1,200 positions on a global basis during 2001.

Messe Frankfurt, the organizer of the biennial ISH show, has formed a partnership with ASA, CIPH and PHCC-NA to introduce ISH North America in the fall of 2002.

Elkay Manufacturing is testing an online system that will provide order status and inventory information to its customers and reps.

John A. Hanna has been named executive vice president and chief financial officer for North America at Rexel Canada, formerly known as Westburne.

Faced with rapid change, people are drawn to that which is familiar and less complicated. The latest designs in baths and kitchens respond to consumer demand for simplicity, comfort and tradition.

Products at the Kitchen/Bath Industry Show range from the luxurious to the practical.