Lion Plumbing Supply is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, but the milestone is about more than looking back.

Hands-on training remains one of the most effective ways to turn product knowledge into practical skills. 

Shaw Supply, a wholesale plumbing and mechanical distributor that opened its doors in Long Island City, New York, in August 2025, is a brand-new independent in an industry where that’s become a rarity.

Strong partnerships don’t happen by accident. They are built on trust, communication, shared goals and a genuine commitment to each other’s success.

Ninety years in, the Platsky Company story isn’t defined by a milestone. It’s defined by the people who built its reputation—one delivery, one handshake and one commitment at a time.

The role of the manufacturers’ representative continues to evolve as we adapt to changing customer expectations, digital transformation, workforce challenges and new market opportunities.

As Rheem approaches its second century in business, the company continues to balance its legacy of reliability with a forward-looking strategy centered on innovation, sustainability and stronger channel partnerships. 

In the HVAC industry, innovation is often born in the field,  shaped by the everyday frustrations technicians face on the job.

For independent wholesale distributors across North America, succession planning has become one of the industry’s most pressing conversations.

As our nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States, it also serves as a reminder that the strength of our country has always been shaped by the individuals willing to serve and protect it.