---
title: Networking Plays a Critical Role in Distributor Growth
description: Learn how networking and relationship building through NetPlus Alliance can facilitate distributor growth and create new opportunities within the industrial distribution and contractor supplies world.
image: https://blog.netplusalliance.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Dan-Judge-200x300-1.jpg
---

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# Networking Plays a Critical Role in Distributor Growth

 November 30, 2018 by [NetPlus Alliance](https://blog.netplusalliance.com/author/netplusalliance)

![](https://blog.netplusalliance.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Dan-Judge-200x300-1.jpg)

Dan Judge, Chairman and CFO

 

Over the years, I’ve talked about networking and the importance of reaching out and forming partnerships with others in our industry. The theme at this year’s Annual Meeting was the Power of Partnership. Despite rapid changes in our industry and the economy, networking and relationships continue to remain the backbone of everything we do here at NetPlus.

Networking has played a critical role in my own growth and development. It’s also led me to many business opportunities that might have otherwise passed me by. In the 1970s and 1980s, I networked within two local associations: The Niagara Frontier Industrial Distributors Association and a similar organization for New York State. On a national level, I participated in the Operations Management Committee of the National Industrial Distributor Association where I met with distributors from around the country. These memberships led to opportunities to form partnerships, cultivate sustainable relationships and create new opportunities.

Networking pays off. Every NetPlus member has many opportunities to network including our Annual Meeting, regional meetings and [various training sessions with NetPlus manufacturers and rep agencies](https://www.netplusalliance.com/events/continuing-education/). Take advantage of these opportunities to join with other distributors from around the country and share ideas. You won’t regret it. Whatever time and money you invest to participate will come back to you many times over.

If you’re not networking yet, there’s no better time to start than now. Who knows, you might meet a new customer or a new supplier. If you’re in the market to grow through acquisition or sell your company, you might discover a willing seller or a willing buyer. No matter what the end results are, networking is a worthy investment to help grow your business.

Thank you to those that attended the [Annual Meeting](https://www.netplusalliance.com/events/annual-meeting/) to network and engage. Mark your calendar for Oct. 6-8, 2019, for our next convention in Dallas, Texas.

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