Executive Summit 2025

January 27-29, 2025 | Grand Hyatt Washington, Washington, DC

Join us for 2025 Executive Summit. The American wholesale distribution industry’s premier strategy event, bringing together top executives of the largest and fastest growing distribution firms representing all lines of trade. Featuring main stage presentations from national political, academic, technology, and industry leaders, executives leave with insights to craft winning strategies and differentiate their business. For over 50 years, executives have viewed the NAW Executive Summit as both critical and elite, delivering an unparalleled experience and a year’s worth of value in a few days in our nation’s capital.

Pricing:

Wholesaler-Distributor Member: $2,995

Larger NAW Community (Affiliate Member, AEC and Fellows): $3,499

Early Bird pricing is available with PROMO CODES. Check your recent NAW emails for your code or email the NAW Events team receive your code. Early Bird expires October 31, 2024.

Communities

At the Summit, attendees will join one of two Communities to engage in collaborative learning and knowledge-sharing with peers who share similar interests and goals. These Communities focus on discussing best practices, innovative approaches, and solving common challenges. During registration, attendees should choose between:

Commercial Growth

For distributors interested in sales, marketing, business development, and customer experience.

Operational Excellence

For distributors interested in operations, technology, people services, and finance.

Both Communities will emphasize innovation and business strategy, providing a competitive edge. They are part of the full program and will meet together four times during the event

Agenda

Use this agenda to guide your attendance. Times are in Eastern Time.

Day One – Monday, January 27

1:00 – 2:00 PM Registration
2:00 – 3:00 PM Community Session 1

Commercial Growth

Digital Doppelgängers
Andrew Davis, Author & Keynote Speaker

In an increasingly digital landscape, AI is revolutionizing how distributors connect with customers, personalize experiences, and drive revenue growth. This session will explore how savvy teams are augmenting their unique talents using the magic of AI.

Operational Excellence

Maximizing Value Through Product Management Information

Featuring: Michael Knight, President and Chief Executive Officer, Endries International, Brandon Lassiter, Vice President of Enterprise Data, Ferguson, Scot Stein, Chief Information and Digital Officer, IEWC
Moderated by: Nick Pericle, Managing Director, ProfitOptics

This session explores how a robust product data governance strategy can drive growth, efficiency, and customer satisfaction for distributors. Attendees will discuss how to establish data governance frameworks that enhance product data quality, streamline operations, and improve the customer experience.

3:00– 3:15 PM Break

3:15 – 5:15 PM Mainstage Sessions

3:15 – 4:15 PM

Prepare for the Future and Identify the Possible

Kim Lear, Founder, Inlay Insights

Dive into the research of Kim Lear for a discussion around different generations and what it means for our workforce today and how we can better plan for the future.

4:15 – 5:15 PM

Connecting and Selling to the Next Generation of Buyers

Featuring: Stephen Madrosen, Founder, Mad Electrician, Kevin Martinez, @_ksparky, Electrician and Content Creator, K Electric Solutions; Cole Mercier, Communications Manager, DSG Supply; Shannon Tymosko, @lady.voltz, Electrical Apprentice, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Moderated by: Jeanette Abrahamsen, VP of Social and Content, Trade Hounds

Join us for a panel led by Trade Hounds on how innovative social marketplaces are forging a new path to reach customers who are looking for your exact products and engaging a new generation of skilled workers.

5:15 – 6:00 PM Break

6:00 – 7:30 PM Welcome Reception and Dinner

Day Two – Tuesday, January 28

7:30 – 8:30 AM              PAC Breakfast
(Pre-Registration Required – Email [email protected])
7:30 – 8:30 AM             General Breakfast
8:30 – 8:45 AM             Break
8:45 – 10:45 AM            Mainstage Sessions

8:45 – 9:45 AM

CEO Panel

Featuring: Julian Francis, President and Chief Executive Officer, Beacon Building Products;
Jason Tillis, Chief Executive Officer, Imperial Dade; Kevin Weadick, Chief Executive Officer, FleetPride
Moderated by: Larry Stoddard, President and Chief Executive Officer, Colony Hardware and NAW Board Chairman

Join a dynamic panel of leading CEOs from top distribution firms as they share their insights on navigating today’s evolving market. This candid conversation will explore how these industry trailblazers are leveraging technology, reshaping business models, and driving innovation to stay ahead in a competitive landscape.

9:45 – 10:45 AM

A Conversation with Oscar Munoz

Oscar Munoz, former CEO and Chairman, United Airlines
Eric Hoplin, President and CEO, NAW

Oscar Munoz became captain of a United Airlines in 2015 that was, in fact, disunited, dead-last behind its competitors and at risk of permanently losing the trust of both employees and customers. Five years later, United was soaring; its stock up 54%, it led the industry toward a sustainable aviation future and – most importantly- the airline had rallied its employees under the banner of “A New Spirit at United.” Born in Mexico to humble circumstances and the first Latino to lead a major airline, Oscar takes audiences behind the scenes to show how putting employees first serves the best interests of customers, shareholders, and the future of the modern corporation.

10:45 – 11:00 AM Break

11:00 – 12:00 PM Community Session 2

Commercial Growth

The Value-Added Edge

Featuring: Derrick Murdock, Chief, Executive Officer, IPS Packaging & Automation; Jerry Willard, Chief Operating Officer, IPS Packaging & Automation
Moderated by: Brad Weinbrum, Founder & Chief Transformation Officer, Nivalmi Consulting

As competition intensifies in the distribution industry, offering value-added services can be a game-changer, transforming your business from a mere supplier to a strategic partner. This session will explore how distributors can identify, implement, and monetize value-added services that meet evolving customer demands, drive differentiation, and create new revenue streams.

Operational Excellence

Harnessing Technology for Enhanced Supply Chain Performance

Dr. Meg Reiss, Chief, Executive Officer & Founder, SolidIntel Inc.

This session will explore the critical role of technology in transforming supply chain operations for distributors. Attendees will learn about innovative solutions, data-driven decision-making, and strategies to enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness.

12:00 – 1:00 PM             Lunch and Open Conversation in your Community Session
1:00 – 1:15 PM               Break
1:15 – 5:00 PM               Mainstage Sessions

1:15 – 1:45 PM	The Possibility Playbook Featuring: Jim Derry, Chief Executive Officer, Field Fastener and NAW Board Member JD Ewing, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, COE Distributing and Chairman of NAW Institute for Distribution Excellence Board of Directors Moderated by: Bart Tessel, Chief Innovation Officer, NAW This session will focus on how offerings from NAW aid leading distributors to foster leadership growth, drive innovation, and create a supportive community for their organizations. We will seek to highlight the tangible benefits members have received from engaging in programs, events, and cutting-edge initiatives throughout 2024 and encourage others to lean in throughout 2025.
1:45 – 2:45 PM	Fireside Chat with Dana Perino Dana Perino, Political Commentator, Fox News Moderated by Brian Wild, Chief Government Relations Officer, NAW
4:00 – 5:00 PM	Behind the Scenes of History David Hume Kennerly, Pulitzer Prize Winner, Former Chief White House Photographer A magical mystery tour with Kennerly through some of the major events of the last 50-plus years as seen through his eyes and camera. From the night Robert Kennedy was shot, to the battlefields of Vietnam, Watergate, the resignation of Nixon and the swearing-in of President Ford. His talk takes you in the room a with President Ford as he ended the Vietnam War; Egyptian President Sadat’s historic trip to Israel; the horrors of Jonestown; inside Reagan and Gorbachev’s Fireside Summit in Geneva; in the governor’s mansion with George W. Bush as the 2000 election ended in a tie; riding with President and Mrs. Obama’s in an elevator on Inaugural night 2009, and with Trump the night he won the presidential election in 2016. Kennerly was there for all of that and more. He will take you along for the photographic ride of your life.

5:00 – 6:30 PM Break

6:45 PM Depart for National Portrait Gallery

7:00 – 10:00 PM Distributors Deliver Gala

Day Three – Wednesday, January 29

5:30 – 5:45 AM     Depart for the National Mall
5:45 – 6:45 AM     Fun Run on the National Mall (Pre-Registration Required)
6:45 – 7:00 AM     Return to the Grand Hyatt
8:00 – 8:30 AM     Breakfast and Open Conversation in your Community Session
8:30 – 9:30 AM     Community Session 3

Commercial Growth

Modern Pricing Mastery
Featuring: Charley Hale, Chairman and CEO, Motion & Control Enterprises; George Vorwick, President & CEO, United Electric Supply;
Steve Whitaker, Vice President of Pricing & Cost, Rexel USA
Moderated by: David Bauders, CEO, SPARXiQ

This session will delve into how distributors can navigate the challenges of pricing in an increasingly complex market. Topics will include implementing effective pricing strategies, integrating pricing tools with change management, and taking proactive steps to maintain profitability amidst market disruptions.

Operational Excellence

Current Risks and Events in Global Trade
Dan Gardner, President, Trade Facilitators Inc., Co-Founder: Trade XCelerators

The discussion will focus on the intersection of these policy shifts with current challenges such as volatile geopolitical conditions, escalating freight costs, recent port strikes, tariffs, and social compliance issues.

9:30 – 9:45 AM Community Conclusion and Key Takeaways
9:45 – 10:00 AM Break
10:00 – 12:00 PM Mainstage Sessions

10:00 – 11:00 AM

Defining Resilience
Adam Markel, Resilience Researcher, Author of Change Proof

In an era where change is the only constant, Adam Markel’s keynote on Change Proof resilience offers invaluable insights for individuals and organizations navigating the complexities of the modern workplace. Drawing on his extensive experience as a resilience researcher, keynote speaker, and bestselling author, Markel provides a roadmap for harnessing the power of resilience to thrive amidst ongoing change and disruption. His latest bestseller, Change Proof: Leveraging the Power of Uncertainty to Build Long-term Resilience, underscores the necessity of developing resilience before it’s needed, highlighting that resilience is multifaceted—encompassing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions. Through engaging narratives and practical strategies, Markel elucidates how resilience is not merely about enduring but about thriving—transforming adversity into opportunity and growth

11:00 – 12:00 PM

Data Behind the Dollars – Economic Forecast
Alan Beaulieu, President and Principal, ITR Economics

The session will provide ITR’s expert views on what to expect from the economy covering such topics as industry trends, business to business activity, trade, inflation, interest rates and more. Attendees will also learn about a method by which their company can take advantage of their own data to make better-informed decisions based on the economic environment. Using leading indicators, the audience will find out how to identify where they are in the business cycle and which inputs should guide their business strategy to help them make the right decisions at the right time.

12:00 PM Executive Summit Adjourns

Download Agenda in PDF

Featured Speakers

**Alan Beaulieu**
*Economic*
*Consulting Principal*
ITR Economics

Gala

Experience the “Art of the Possible” at our annual gala and distributors deliver award ceremony held at the National Portrait Gallery at 6-10 PM on Tuesday evening. As we dine, we will be surrounded by priceless portraits of remarkable Americans who helped shape our national identity. Your dedication and support of the distribution industry will be in good company with the many faces and stories of inspiring Americans, reminding us of who we are, and what can aspire to be.

Fun Run

Join us on Wednesday morning, January 29, for an early morning run/walk at the National Mall before the Summit starts. Kick-start your day with exercise, fresh air, and scenic views of Washington, D.C. Open to all fitness levels, it’s a great opportunity to network in a relaxed setting and get in some steps. Indicate your interest during registration or email [email protected] if you have already registered. Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire. We’ll send additional details to participants on where and when to meet up once the event is closer.

Accommodations and Event location

NAW has reserved a block of rooms at a discounted rate at the event facility, the Grand Hyatt, Washington on 1000 H Street NW. Use the link below to reserve your room with the NAW group discount code. The hotel will sell out so book early.

Make the most of your time in DC! Explore what the area has to offer.

Reserve your hotel

Call for Nominations

The NAW Distributors Deliver Award

This prestigious award honors the groundbreaking efforts of wholesaler-distributors who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to innovation, philanthropic contributions, and driving transformative change within the industry. Nominate a deserving individual today and let us recognize the leaders shaping the future of our industry on the industry’s largest stage.

Nominate

Submit Your Photos

We are excited to celebrate our industry’s rich history and achievements at this year’s Summit. We invite you to submit photos and videos of your company throughout the years. Submissions will be showcased throughout the Summit, highlighting the incredible journey and contributions to the industry and how your history is part of shaping the years to come.

Submit Photos and Videos

Read the 2024 Summit Highlights

Discover the key moments and highlights from the 2024 Summit. Get a glimpse of the extraordinary experiences that await you and see why attending the 2025 Executive Summit is a must for distribution industry leaders.

Read Now

A few of our attending companies:

2J Supply Co Inc

ABC Supply Co Inc

ADI

Applicate Commerce

Beacon Building Products

Benco Dental Co

Bob Barker Co Inc

Bunzl Distribution USA Inc

Campbell Companies

Conklin Metal Industries

D & C North America/Descours & Cabaud

Dot Foods Inc

Ellsworth Corporation

Endries International Inc

Equipment Controls Co

Ferguson Enterprises

Field Fastener First Supply LLC

Fontel, Inc.

G L Huyett

Genuine Parts Co

Graybar Electric Co Inc

Gypsum Management & Supply Inc/GMS

Hillman Group

Hydradyne LLC

IDI Distributors Inc

IEWC

IFP Motion Solutions

ILMO Products Co

IPS Packaging & Automation

ISCO Industries LLC

Johnson Supply

Kenny Pipe & Supply Inc

Kimball Midwest

Kirby Risk Electrical Supply

Livingston & Haven Inc

Manufacturers Reserve Supply Inc

Martin Inc

MGX Beverage Group

Mighty Auto Parts

Neuco Inc

OmniCable Corporation

ORS Nasco

Pace Supply Corp

R.S. Hughes Co Inc

Reece Supply Co of Dallas

Reece USA

Replenex

Rocket Industrial/Packaging Tape Inc

RS Americas

Salem Fabrication Technologies Group

Shorr Packaging Corp
Uline

United Electric Supply Co Inc

Valin Corporation

Waldom Electronics

WESCO Distribution Inc

Winsupply Inc

Interested in speaking?

The NAW Programs Committee invites members of our business community, academic scholars, and subject matter experts to share their experiences and best practices with individuals in the distribution industry profession.

Thought Leadership Proposal Form

Thank you to our event sponsors:

Thank you to our Strategic Partners:

Sponsorship Opportunities

Contact Adam Isenberg at [email protected] to learn about sponsorship opportunities.

Cancellation Policy

Any cancelation received 120 days prior to the start date of this event will be refunded 100%. Cancellations received between 120 and 30 days before the start date of this event will be held as a credit that your organization can apply to any event registration fee for employees of the same company for 18 months from the cancelation date. Any cancellations closer to an event than 30 days will not be eligible to receive a credit. All cancellations must be sent to [email protected] for processing. Any credits unused after 18 months from the cancelation date will be written off