September 2026

After spending nearly two decades learning every job in wholesale distribution, Ray Shaw took the leap and opened Shaw Supply. Read about the road he traveled to launching one of the PHCP industry’s newest independent distributor company.

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New Kid on the Block

Ray Shaw just opened the newest independent distributor company in the PHCP industry — after spending nearly two decades learning every job in it first.

September 1, 2026

Ruth Mitchell

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.

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Plumbing Supply, But Cooler

Saffron Supply Company opens decorative plumbing showroom.

September 1, 2026

I’m no journalist, so bear with me. I’m just some dude who’s fortunate enough to be part of Saffron Supply Company.

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2026 Heating Season Preview

Private equity, new efficiency mandates and the rise of heat pump water heaters are reshaping the season ahead.

August 3, 2026

Dan Foley

Fall heating season is here. What market forces are changing how we do business? What does the future business and technical climate look like for the PHC contractor?

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Holding the Line

Here’s how HVAC distributors navigate a market that refuses to sit still.

August 3, 2026

Nobody said 2026 would be easy. The refrigerant transition that reshaped purchasing patterns last year did not simply resolve itself when the calendar turned.

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What CDG’s AI Strategy Signals for the Future of Distribution

Successful AI adoption is less about chasing technology trends and more about thoughtful change management, freeing people to focus on relationships, strategy and service while streamlining routine workflows.

September 1, 2026

Artificial intelligence (AI)is no longer a topic reserved for technology conferences and trade press speculation.

Fearture

When Temporary Pricing Stops Being Temporary

The decision to start a temporary price usually has an owner. The decision to end it often doesn’t.

September 1, 2026

In October, a contractor walked into a supply branch holding a competitor’s quote.

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PMI Perspective

Filter First: A Cost-Effective Path to Safe Drinking Water in Schools

As more states confront aging school infrastructure and concerns about lead exposure, PMI is helping policymakers embrace a practical solution that delivers clean drinking water to children.

September 1, 2026

Kerry Stackpole

Across the country, lawmakers are searching for effective ways to protect children from lead in drinking water.

Sales & PVF Perspective

The Lessons That Still Guide Me Today

Lasting business success comes from surrounding yourself with excellent people, listening honestly, serving customers well and finding purpose in making a difference every day.

September 1, 2026

Ernie Coutermarsh

Terms that I see everywhere today are influencer and thought leader. I do not purport to be one, but in reflecting on my long industry career, I certainly benefited from many of them.

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PVF Market Overview

Energy Uncertainty Shapes PVF Market Outlook

At the same time, strong industrial construction, reshoring, energy infrastructure and data center growth are driving a robust North American PVF market outlook for 2026.

September 1, 2026

Stephen Letko

No one knows when the war with Iran will end or what the outcome may be. As of this writing, President Donald Trump has paused a massive military strike against Iran in response to requests from several Persian Gulf states.