Two decades ago, a group of independent HVACR distributors recognized a fundamental truth: strength lies in numbers.

Six million maps. Thirty-six million books. Seventy-five million manuscripts. The Library of Congress is recognized as the largest library in the world.

Don J. Locke (1923-2000), founder of Locke Supply Co., began work in the plumbing business in 1946 while attending the University of Oklahoma. He graduated in 1948 after serving 2 1/2 years in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

Founded in 1977 by Chat and Carol Howard, the company has been a trusted resource for plumbing professionals and homeowners in the Coastal Empire (the lower coastal plain in southeast Georgia) for more than four decades.

In an industry where competition is fierce and margins are tight, independent wholesalers often face an uphill battle against larger, more consolidated players.

April marks the beginning of the second quarter of 2025, with oil pricing, as of this writing, at $67.05/barrel for WTI and Brent at $70.37/barrel. 

New agreements have been signed with rep firms covering Western New York State and Quebec.

This milestone means that HVACR professionals can now earn Continuing Education Hours (CEHs) toward their NATE certification renewal by completing select HARDI courses.

All in the plumbing, heating, cooling and piping industry are invited to the event, which will take place on Thursday, May 1, at General Plumbing Supply in Piscataway, New Jersey.

The independent manufacturers rep agency is based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and will cover the territory of Colorado and Wyoming for Braxton Harris.