What We Do

The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) is one of America’s leading trade associations and the national voice of the $8.6 trillion wholesale distribution industry, the backbone of the supply chain that supports more than 6 million jobs and powers nearly one-third of the U.S. economy. Founded in 1946, NAW represents industry trade associations and companies spanning every sector of distribution.

At the core of NAW’s mission is advocacy. NAW champions policies that strengthen free enterprise, protect the supply chain, promote economic growth, and ensure wholesale distributors have a strong voice in Washington and state capitals across the country. Through government relations, public affairs, and the NAW Legal Policy Center, NAW works to advance the interests of distributors and defend the critical role they play in the American economy and way of life.

In addition to advocacy, NAW delivers executive education, thought leadership, benchmarking and research, innovation initiatives, networking, strategic partnerships, shared resourcing, and industry intelligence tailored for CEOs, senior executives, and rising leaders across the distribution sector.

5.9 Million Employees Nationwide

35,000 Employers

$8.2 Trillion in Economic Activity

Who We Serve

NAW serves the most dynamic, innovative, and forward-looking companies across the wholesale distribution industry, representing every line of trade and both publicly traded corporations and closely held, family-owned businesses. Wholesale distributors are the backbone of the supply chain and the critical link between manufacturers and the businesses, retailers, institutions, and government entities that keep America running. From powering infrastructure projects and supporting local economies to ensuring essential products reach communities nationwide, distributors quietly drive nearly every sector of commerce.

Member Benefits

NAW is more than a trade association. We are committed partners in helping wholesaler-distributors tackle today’s challenges while identifying tomorrow’s channel disruptors.

NAW is 100% focused on the business of distribution. Our unique position as the umbrella organization representing the entire industry enables us to bring together the largest and best-in-class distribution firms to share best practices with their non-competing peers, strengthening every corner of our industry.

Join NAW!