LOCKPORT, NY – NetPlus Alliance members are still forecasting growth for 2025 as we approach a strong ending to the year for more than 60% of NetPlus members.
The Industry Outlook, a quarterly report based on a survey of NetPlus members, tracks business results and trends in the industrial and contractor supply markets. The latest quarterly survey was completed in October 2025, and the report was based on third-quarter results of 2025.
Member purchases from NetPlus suppliers and wholesalers were up 8.1% in the third quarter and 8.2% for the year. Of those surveyed, 63% of distributors expect they will be up this year, with 30% saying they will be up by 8% or more. About 22% of respondents expect to be level with 2024 sales, and 15% believe their sales figures will be down from 2024; only 4% (five surveyed members) significantly so. Solely comparing the third quarter of 2025 to the third quarter of 2024, 53% said they were up; 31% said they were up by 8% or more and 22% by 3-7%. Sales were steady for 29% of respondents and 18% reported seeing a drop in sales, with only 4% significantly down on average.
Across the board, growth was attributed to added salespeople, new or growing clients, new supplier partnerships, market/geographic exploration, product or category expansion, and previously slowed business organically picking up — a note we also saw several times in the previous survey. Those facing a tougher year pointed to tariff confusion, subsequent price increases, slow local economies, and halted projects on their customers’ side.
“This year offered challenges that our members turned into opportunities to learn, deepen relationships, and think strategically,” said Jennifer Murphy, President & CEO of NetPlus Alliance. “I am confident there is continued growth in store for our distributor members and supplier partners as we approach the new year.”
NetPlus Alliance builds relationships and provides opportunities for the advancement of member companies for their long-term success in the supply chain. With 140 years of combined industrial distribution experience, NetPlus Alliance negotiates improved pricing, rebates, and terms with more than 200 manufacturers on behalf of 400+ industrial and contractor supplies distributor members. NetPlus members drive market growth and profitability through stronger channel partnerships, financial incentives, progressive marketing, joint sales planning, training programs, and business best practices. Learn more about NetPlus Alliance at netplusalliance.com.