COLUMBUS, OH — In separate, simultaneous meetings on October 7, members of the Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Wholesalers International (ARWI) and the Northamerican Heating, Refrigeration, and Airconditioning Wholesalers Association (NHRAW) voted in favor of consolidation. The single, new association will be known as Heating, Airconditioning, and Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI), and will begin operation on January 3, 2003. The organization will be headquartered in Columbus, OH.

The final vote approving the consolidation of the two associations is the culmination of a year-long effort designed to draw on the strengths of both organizations and mold them into a new association that will become “the single voice of wholesale distribution for the HVACR industry,” according to NHRAW. Directing the consolidating project were NHRAW president James Truesdell, of Brauer Supply Co. (St. Louis, MO), and ARWI president Johnnie Drury, of Fox Appliance Parts (Atlanta, GA). In addition, a joint consolidation task force made up of wholesale and associate members of each association brought the process to a successful conclusion.

“This is truly a momentous occasion for our two associations and for our industry,” said Drury. “We are obviously pleased with the overwhelming — virtually unanimous — support in favor of consolidation from the members of both organizations.”

Truesdell commented, “We are pleased and excited about the future of our industry. HARDI will provide the needed voice to address the many issues we are facing. Our new association will be the focal point for HVACR distribution and provide an opportunity for the best ideas and strongest players to come together.”

Publication date: 10/07/2002