Top distributors see sales increase 8.9%

USA: The top US hvacr distributors saw average growth of 8.9% in the last financial year according to a new survey.

The new study by HARDI (Heating, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Distributors International) found that 84% of the top 50 had a sales increase in fiscal 2014, averaging growth of 8.9%, and another 10% maintained flat sales year to year.

“This year’s Top 50 reaffirms that it’s a good time to be in the HVACR industry, especially so if you’re an aggressive distributor willing to invest in growth-driving strategies,” commented HARDI ceo Talbot Gee in the association’s magazine Distribution Center.

The survey covers figures from more than 80 distributors, representing a total of $14.7bn in sales. Among all respondents, 74% reported increased sales in 2014; 15% had flat sales, and 9% saw a sales decrease.

Projections for 2015 remain positive. Among all respondents to the survey, 88% said they expect hvacr sales to increase. Double-digit percentage increases were projected by 31 distributors.

Watsco remains at the top of the Top 50 list. The world’s leading distributor enjoyed a 5% increase in HVACR sales in 2014. “Residential HVAC equipment sales in the U.S. jumped 8% with gains in market share, while commercial refrigeration products sale soared by 14%,” according to a report on Watsco by Zacks Investment Research.