NetPlus Industry Outlook finds distributors embracing opportunities, navigating challenges
A strong start to the year for NetPlus Alliance members is also signaling a strong 2026. In the group's latest quarterly Industry Outlook, distributors shared their optimism, which NetPlus says is grounded in sound strategies and industry observations.
The report is based on a survey of NetPlus members and tracks business results and trends in the industrial and contractor supply markets. The current survey was completed in April, and the report was based on first-quarter results of this year. The survey included an exploration of value-added services, technological challenges, and ERP solutions.
Member purchases from NetPlus suppliers and wholesalers were up nearly 20% in the first quarter compared to the first quarter of 2025. Members largely ended 2025 on a positive note and carried that momentum with them into 2026. Based on the survey, 65% of members’ sales were up year over year by 3% or more in the first quarter, with 40% being up by 8% or more. Seventeen percent reported steady sales figures year over year, while 18% said their sales were down.
Distributors maintain a positive forecast for 2026. Of the 122 survey participants, 77% said they expect sales to be up 3% or more this year. Of those, 41% expect to be up 8% or more, an 11% increase from the previous survey. Another 18% anticipate 2026 sales figures will be steady with 2025 numbers. Just 4% of participating members are looking toward a more challenging year, expecting sales to be down.
Approaching the second half of the year, distributor members shared insights into various successes and challenges they are experiencing. Distributors seem to be making the most of new data center projects across the country, jumping on industry trends that are yielding opportunities for sales growth. Meanwhile, a harsh winter season for several regions slowed work and therefore sales for many distributors, while increasing oil and gas prices increased costs.
“The NetPlus community continues to make the most of the opportunities before them, collaborat-ing strategically to open doors and grow together,” said Jennifer Murphy, president and CEO of NetPlus Alliance. “This is a resilient network; our members and partners consistently maintain a positive outlook, taking what others might see as roadblocks and turning them into lessons in innovation.”
INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY MAGAZINE
The May/June issue of Industrial Supply magazine features an in-depth cover story about GHX Industrial. Plus, we're featuring articles by contributing writers Dr. Bharani Nagarathnam and Frank Hurtte, as well as interviews with numerous product and distribution industry experts.
