Consolidation is reshaping the HVAC industry — and its impact extends well beyond contractors.

In the latest episode of Off the Cuff, PHC News Editor Steve Smith sits down with Chris Forth, VP of Regulatory, Codes & Environmental Affairs at Bosch Home Comfort, to discuss how the shift from independent contractors to private equity-backed organizations is changing the way manufacturers do business.

Forth explores how manufacturers are adapting to serve both large consolidated organizations and traditional independent contractors, from strengthening relationships and expanding training to investing in digital tools and new approaches to customer support. He also explains why the industry’s ongoing labor shortage has made both technical and business education increasingly important.

The conversation looks at how evolving HVAC technology is influencing contractor training and product support as well, including Bosch’s emphasis on hands-on education and flexible online learning.

Plus, Forth discusses refrigerant transitions, changing efficiency and environmental regulations, the potential future role of propane as a refrigerant, and why manufacturers will need to remain agile as requirements continue to evolve.

Tune in for a conversation about what consolidation means for HVAC manufacturers, contractors and distributors — and what successful industry partnerships could look like in the years ahead.

You can listen to the PHCPPros Off the Cuff podcast on our website, or on streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts.