Supply House Times

Winsupply, based in Dayton, Ohio, has been a leader in PHCP-PVF distribution since 1956, offering entrepreneurs opportunities for ownership supported by a strong network. With over 170 decorative plumbing showrooms nationwide, the company’s culture emphasizes local ownership and personal investment, fostering a strong commitment to reputation and community values.

Trust is essential for a successful supply house, and Google reviews can be a powerful yet underutilized tool to build that credibility.

The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from February 25-27, featuring over 670 exhibitors and showcasing innovative, sustainable products. KBIS 2025 is slated to be the largest show in history.

The AHR Expo, scheduled for February 10-12 in Orlando, will showcase trends like decarbonization and A2L refrigerants, with 1,865 exhibitors including Caleffi North America. Attendees can connect with experts and explore new products, while the Podcast Pavilion celebrates its five-year anniversary.

LOT/T – Leaders of Tomorrow… Today – is a group within AIM/R launching a column with Supply House Times to tackle challenges for emerging leaders in plumbing, HVAC, and irrigation. We spoke to founders about the group’s history and evolution from its original name, “LOT.”

The importance of relationships in the PVF and HVAC industries is essential, and there are practical tips for building and maintaining them. Networking at trade shows and utilizing personalized marketing can help foster trust and loyalty, setting your business apart in a competitive market. Ready to enhance your partnerships? Let’s get started.

In the past five years with Supply House Times, I've gained insights into the supply chain and the challenges faced by PHCP-PVF wholesalers and contractors. Following Nicole Krawcke’s departure from Plumbing & Mechanical, I am now the Editorial Director for both publications, which allows me to connect with everyone in the supply chain to enhance our collaboration.

Should we train or not? Is that even a question? Continuing education is crucial in most industries, especially in the Kitchen and Bath sector, where professionals must stay updated on trends, technologies, and design.

In the cold, gloomy Midwest, I aim for two daily goals: 30 minutes of light exercise and learning something new, often from the American Supply Association website, which I highly recommend.

A guide for PHCP/PVF companies to effectively use Handshake for university and early-career recruiting. It focuses on building a strong employer presence, creating engaging job postings, and fostering university partnerships.

Workers in the PHCP and PVF industries encounter daily challenges, including maintaining cleanliness and safety. As a leader, it’s essential to prioritize safety through training and clear policies to prevent accidents that could result in downtime or costly claims.

Members of The American Supply Association are optimistic about eCommerce growth in 2024, as highlighted by the 2024 State of eCommerce Study in collaboration with the Distribution Strategy Group.

ASA new Monthly Sales Report shows industrial PVF firms reported a modest 0.2% increase in year-over-year sales for December 2024.