From October 21st to 24th, 2024, industry leaders, innovators, and collaborators gathered at the Hyatt Regency Chicago for the highly anticipated 2024 Industrial & Safety – U.S., Mexico and Safety Network Divisions’ North American Meeting. This premier event brought together 998 members, suppliers and service providers to explore growth opportunities, share best practices, and honor outstanding achievements.

Marisol Fernandez, President of AD’s Electrical & Industrial Business Unit commented on the meeting, “The 2024 AD North American Meeting showcases the power of collaboration and innovation across our countries and divisions. It’s incredible to see so many attendees come together to share insights, celebrate achievements, and shape the future of our industry.”

This year’s meeting was particularly notable for recognizing the entrepreneurial excellence and commitment to progress embodied by AD members and suppliers. The Spirit of Independence Awards Dinner, held on October 22nd, celebrated the “Best of the Best” with accolades that spotlight the innovators and trailblazers within the AD community.

Mike Carr, President of AD’s Industrial & Safety Divisions remarked, “This event is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our community. From recognizing outstanding accomplishments to fostering valuable connections, the energy and enthusiasm here are unmatched. Together, we are building a stronger, more dynamic future for everyone involved.”

 

2024 Award Highlights

Centennial Club Awards: Honoring over 100 years of success, Carter, Milchman & Frank Inc. and Mars Supply received this prestigious recognition.

Best Workplace Awards: Superior Glove Works Ltd., Safety Products Inc., and Levitt-Safety Ltd. were celebrated for fostering environments where employees thrive.

Industrial & Safety – U.S. and Safety Network Annual Planning Excellence Awards: AHB Tooling & Machinery and Saf-T-Gard International exemplified outstanding planning processes.

Member of the Year Awards:

      •   ISD Tier 1: P&I Supply

      •   ISD Tier 2: Industrial Supply Company (Terre Haute, IN)

      •   Safety Network Tier 1: Stauffer Glove & Safety

      •   Safety Network Tier 2: Safety Services Inc.

Supplier of the Year Awards:

      •   ISD Tier 1: Brady Corporation

      •   ISD Tier 2: SureWerx

      •   Safety Network Tier 1: Superior Glove Works

      •   Safety Network Tier 2: Black Stallion

Service Provider Excellence Award: Rivet MRO was recognized for going above and beyond in contract compliance, marketing engagement, reported sales, and member participation.

Giving Back Award: Replenex Inc. earned this award for their impactful community initiatives.

Special individual honors included MVP Awards, presented to Darla Smith (Campbell Supply Company) and Amy Underwood (Scientific Sales), whose leadership and innovation were pivotal in driving network success. 

 

Building Momentum for the Future

The meeting also emphasized collaboration and knowledge-sharing through conference booth appointments, strategic partner briefings hosted by sponsors, functional roundtables, and executive network meetings. Bill Weisberg, AD’s Chairman and CEO, inspired attendees with insights on AD’s transformative role in supporting independent distributors and fostering industry growth.

AD extends heartfelt congratulations to all award recipients and gratitude to every attendee and sponsor who contributed to making the 2024 AD North American Meeting a success. Together, we continue to shape the future of the industrial and safety channels.