COLUMBUS, OH and BOCA RATON, FL — 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 it will begin operation on January 3, 2003. The organization will be headquartered in Columbus, OH.

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

NHRAW President James Truesdell commented, “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.”