Supplier relationships and distribution performance are important to maintaining product availability and serving mechanical construction projects. Merit Brass has received the 2026 PVF Supplier of the Year award from Affiliated Distributors (AD), recognizing its engagement with independent distributors and support for their business growth.
The award is part of AD's Spirit of Independence Awards program, which recognizes suppliers and distributors for supporting independent distribution. Within the PVF category, the recognition considers supplier engagement, sales support and participation in incentive and marketing initiatives.
Merit Brass supplies products to distributors serving the pipe, valve and fitting market, which supports plumbing, mechanical and industrial applications.
The award follows a leadership change at Merit Brass. Darren Hilliard assumed the president and CEO role effective Oct. 1, 2026. Alan Lipp and Marc Schlessinger, who previously served as co-CEOs, moved into co-chair positions on the board.
The leadership transition comes as Merit Brass continues to emphasize distributor relationships and customer support. Executive leadership and distributor partnerships are relevant to how suppliers coordinate product availability, service and sales initiatives across the supply chain.
For mechanical contractors and construction procurement teams, supplier-distributor coordination can affect access to pipe, valves and fittings used in building systems and industrial projects. Recognition within AD's PVF network underscores the importance of supplier engagement with independent distribution channels.
The award does not indicate a specific construction contract or project, but it highlights Merit Brass' position within the distribution network that serves the mechanical and plumbing trades.
Source: MCAA.
