Industrial and contractor supply distributors who are members of buying group NetPlus Alliance forecast growth for the remainder of 2025 as they focus on strategic enhancements in the first half of the year.

The group’s Industry Outlook tracks business results and trends in the industrial and contractor supply markets based on a survey of NetPlus members. The latest quarterly report was completed in July and is based on first- and second-quarter results.

Member purchases from NetPlus suppliers and wholesalers were up 10% in the second quarter and 7% for the year. Just over half of members surveyed, 51%, said the first half of 2025 was up, year over year. Nearly one-third or 32% indicated their quarter was steady compared to the first half of 2024, and the remaining 17% were down.

NetPlus distributors are still forecasting growth for 2025 even if they’re not seeing it yet, with 67% expecting growth of between 3 and 8% or more, and 10% expect a loss. Compared to the previous survey, there are more expecting sales to stay level once 2025 is fully accounted for.

Growth is attributed to various process improvements and sales strategies members have put in place, while some also nod to economic circumstances outside their control like tariff-related price increases. Distributors who primarily deal in products made in the U.S. are reporting significant growth. Many have also found growth in recent months after previously slowed business has begun to pick up in their area.

“Our members continue to prove that disciplined strategies and strong partnerships drive results,” said Jennifer Murphy, President & CEO of NetPlus Alliance. “Even in a mixed market, they are finding ways to grow by focusing on what they can control, such as process improvements, innovative sales approaches, and a commitment to U.S.-made products. NetPlus is proud to stand beside them, connecting distributors and suppliers so they can achieve sustainable growth together.”