Distribution Trends

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Two contractors, while they generally agreed with the way priorities were ranked in a survey of their peers, had their own takes on what they want to see from distributors. 

Trust, communication, and shared planning are the keys to good distributor-contractor relationships. Those relationships have been tested lately. 

Staying “job-ready” during winter isn’t about hoarding inventory, tying up cash, or guessing what might sell. It’s about planning smart, stocking intentionally, and working with suppliers who understand their business.

Nearly 2 million fewer a/c and heat pump units were shipped in 2025 compared to 2024, according to the latest data from AHRI. 

The 2026 "State of the Channel" report is based on HARDI’s proprietary data, industry surveys, and expert analysis.

The partners in Lantern, a machine learning software firm focused on product distribution, pitched the technology to HVACR distributors during the recent HARDI conference. 

Sales increased by 2.4% in December, and overall growth for 2025 came in at 2.8%.

The partnership is designed to help HARDI LATAM members better understand and communicate the competitive advantage of AHRI certification in Latin American markets, where product differentiation is critical in highly price-competitive environments.

Brendan Recchia, an experienced Winsupply local company president, will lead Winsupply of Clayton. The company opened the 18,000-square-foot facility at the end of November and plans a grand opening for the spring.

The acquisition represents an important step toward Hajoca’s goal of building a leading HVAC platform across North America, a press release from the company said.