PDI’s new GLAD Training Center is redefining workforce development in the plumbing industry — blending hands-on education, product expertise, and a people-first culture to empower employees, elevate customer service, and inspire the next generation of tradespeople.

The Southern Wholesalers Association’s Women in Leadership group is transforming the PHCP industry by fostering mentorship, education, and next-gen engagement—empowering women at every stage to lead, grow, and redefine what success looks like in a once male-dominated field.

Master distribution partnerships are reshaping the PHCP supply chain by giving wholesalers faster access to deep inventory, flexible fulfillment, and a competitive edge in uncertain times.

The pipe, valves and fittings industry is a close-knit community — it relies upon each other to create, build and grow business, communities and industries. Driven by those who innovate, motivate and elevate others, they create long-lasting partnerships that keep the industry moving forward. 

Water is one of the world’s most precious resources, and the PHCP industry plays a critical role in guarding it.

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

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.

How do you go about placing the spotlight on the PHCP industry as a viable career path? For Coburn Supply Co., it found a unique way to spotlight not only the industry, but also its company.