By Emma Peterson. 

How large geopolitics impact our industry and how contractors can overcome the challenges they present. 

Running a roofing company takes a lot of time and energy, making it easy to get caught up in your day-to-day operations and miss the larger shifts in the industry. To help you take a step back and look at some of those bigger trends, we invited Wendy Marvin of Matrix Roofing and Home Solutions onto Stories from the Roof sponsored by ABC Supply for a discussion of the geopolitical changes impacting the roofing market. 

The biggest thing that Wendy highlighted was the supply chain issues emerging specifically related to oil. She explained, “Tar is a product of oil and shingles come from tar. And with everything going on with the oil market, we’re likely to see some major supply hits come, and it won’t be pretty. We’ve already seen some shingles have a 200% price increase since 2025 on the West Coast.”  

In response to this, Wendy has her team working on identifying ways to differentiate and expand their offerings. She explained, “We're already talking about it with our company. Both in terms of what other materials we can install that are not oil-based like metal, but also in the context of what other jobs can we do to have more streams of income? Things like Christmas lights or pressure washing...”  

This can sound overwhelming, but the good news is that you’re not navigating these trends and challenges alone. As Wendy put it, “We have an amazing industry. Don't feel alone. Get engaged with the groups, get engaged with the associations and go to the events. The people are caring and supportive and huge assets to have when you’re struggling.”  

Hear more from Wendy in the whole Stories from the Roof episode. It is available to Listen to anywhere you get podcasts.

El evento de roofing y exteriores más grande de Norteamérica regresa en febrero con más de 700 expositores confirmados, una conferencia magistral con un líder de la NFL y los premios más prestigiosos de la industria.

International Roofing Expo (IRE), el evento de roofing y exteriores más grande de Norteamérica, regresa a Las Vegas del 16 al 18 de febrero de 2027, reuniendo a miles de contratistas residenciales y comerciales, profesionales de remodelación, constructores, distribuidores, proveedores y fabricantes que buscan activamente los productos, tecnologías y soluciones empresariales más recientes que están transformando la industria.

Durante tres días llenos de energía, líderes y tomadores de decisiones de todo el mundo se reunirán para descubrir innovaciones de vanguardia y crear conexiones que impulsen el crecimiento de sus negocios. Con los avances tecnológicos y el crecimiento de la actividad de construcción urbana impulsando una expansión sin precedentes del mercado, IRE 2027 es el evento imprescindible para los profesionales que buscan mantenerse a la vanguardia de la transformación de la industria.

Qué esperar en IRE 2027

La expo de este año ofrece una experiencia inigualable con una oferta ampliada de productos, capacitación y oportunidades para establecer conexiones:

• Más de 700 expositores presentarán miles de productos nuevos y líderes en la industria en todas las categorías, incluyendo shingles, roofing de una sola capa, recubrimientos, caulks y selladores, canaletas y desagües para techos, bitumen/asfalto, solar, ventanas, siding y mucho más.

• Más de 60 sesiones dirigidas por expertos, organizadas en nueve áreas especializadas: Negocios en General, Liderazgo, Legal/RR. HH., Finanzas, Ventas/Servicio, Construcción Sustentable, Técnico, Exteriores y Seguridad en el Lugar de Trabajo.

• Un Track Latino dedicado (en Español) reconoce la importante contribución de los profesionales de habla hispana, quienes representan aproximadamente el 30% de la fuerza laboral del roofing.

• Nuevo centro de desarrollo de la fuerza laboral, un espacio educativo dedicado en el piso de exhibición diseñado para impulsar a la próxima generación de profesionales del roofing y abordar los desafíos críticos de mano de obra que enfrenta la industria.

• Nuevo para 2027, IRE llevará la experiencia al aire libre. Esta nueva área de activación contará con demostraciones prácticas de productos, experiencias interactivas con marcas, entretenimiento, food trucks y oportunidades para conectar. Será un nuevo destino para descubrir, participar, recargar energías y vivir la industria del roofing en acción.

• Aprendizaje práctico en vivo con centros educativos en el piso de exhibición y demostraciones de situaciones reales en sitios de trabajo, incluyendo roofing de metal, detalles de techos, roofing de una sola capa y técnicas de mejora del hogar, presentadas por destacados expertos de la industria.

• Sesión general: Enfrenta de frente tu mayor desafío: El desarrollo de la fuerza laboral sigue siendo el desafío más importante de la industria del roofing, y la Sesión General de IRE 2027 ofrecerá las estrategias necesarias para abordarlo. Eric Boles, experto en liderazgo y exreceptor de la NFL para los Green Bay Packers y New York Jets, explicará cómo aprovechar al máximo el activo más valioso de una empresa: su gente. Basándose en su experiencia en deportes de alto nivel y en el mundo corporativo, Boles compartirá estrategias prácticas para atraer a la próxima generación de talento, cerrar las brechas generacionales, retener a los empleados de alto desempeño y construir culturas intencionales que impulsen el compromiso y el éxito. Los asistentes saldrán con estrategias claras para transformar el lugar de trabajo en un destino atractivo para el talen

Exhibición y Premios a Productos Innovadores (IPSA)

El Programa de Exhibición y Premios a Productos Innovadores de International Roofing Expo® (IPSA) reconoce los productos y soluciones destacados que están revolucionando el mercado actual. Un distinguido panel de jueces de la industria evalúa las propuestas en las siguientes categorías:

• Software empresarial y productos tecnológicos

• Recubrimientos, caulks y selladores

• Canaletas y desagües para techos

• Productos de roofing (incluyendo roofing de una sola capa, paneles de metal, shingles, roofing sintético y flashing)

• Seguridad y protección contra caídas

• Siding y aislamiento

• Paneles y productos solares

• Herramientas, equipos y maquinaria

• Impermeabilización, flashing, barreras de vapor, underlayments y aislamiento

• Ventanas, puertas, tragaluces y ventanas para techo

Los asistentes podrán descubrir qué innovaciones están estableciendo nuevos estándares en la industria.

Lo que dicen los líderes de la industria

“Este año, IRE ofrecerá aún más oportunidades para descubrir nuevos productos y tecnologías, conocer las nuevas áreas del piso de exhibición y las demostraciones en vivo, y crear conexiones significativas con las personas que están impulsando nuestra industria hacia adelante”, comparte Rich Russo, Show Director de International Roofing Expo. “Hemos trabajado arduamente para crear nuevas experiencias a lo largo del evento y estamos muy emocionados de que los asistentes descubran todo lo que tenemos preparado. Ya sea que hayas asistido a IRE durante años o que nos acompañes por primera vez, habrá más que ver, aprender y experimentar que nunca.”

“IRE me brindó la oportunidad de establecer contactos con socios actuales y desarrollar nuevas relaciones clave que continuarán durante muchos años. También me permitió conocer las tendencias actuales del mercado y descubrir nuevos productos de vanguardia, todo en un mismo lugar.”

— Troy Wormley, W.B.R. Roofing, Inc.

Algunas de las empresas expositoras confirmadas

Empresas líderes a nivel mundial en roofing y exteriores presentarán sus últimas innovaciones en el Expo Hall. Entre las empresas participantes se encuentran GAF, QXO, ABC Supply, Carlisle, SRS Distribution, Sika, CertainTeed LLC, ContractorHUB, EverPro, Atlas Roofing Corporation, Amrize, Owens Corning, Kingspan y Johns Manville, además de cientos de empresas más.

Más allá del piso de exhibición: Conecta, compite y celebra

IRE 2027 va mucho más allá del piso de exhibición, con eventos exclusivos diseñados para crear relaciones duraderas y celebrar la excelencia de la industria:

Día de Servicio Comunitario: Contribuye a la comunidad de Las Vegas junto con otros profesionales, ayudando a renovar viviendas locales y generando un impacto tangible.

Fiesta de Bienvenida: Da inicio a la expo conectando con colegas de la industria en un ambiente relajado y lleno de energía.

Los líderes del roofing del mañana compiten hoy: Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition. Sé testigo de cómo la próxima generación demuestra sus conocimientos sobre roofing, domina la planificación de proyectos y sobresale bajo presión en este evento anual.

NRCA Industry Awards and Reception: Celebra la excelencia mientras la industria reconoce a los ganadores destacados de sus premios más prestigiosos.

NRCA Industry Awards and Reception: Celebrate excellence as the industry honors the distinguished winners of its most prestigious awards.

Las inscripciones ya están abiertas

Asegura tu lugar en el evento de roofing y exteriores más grande de Norteamérica. Regístrate hoy en www.theroofingexpo.com.

El patrocinador oficial de International Roofing Expo es la National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).

Acerca de International Roofing Expo

International Roofing Expo es el evento líder para las industrias de roofing comercial y residencial y de construcción de exteriores. IRE reúne a la comunidad profesional para ayudarla a mantenerse al día con las tendencias y conocimientos de la industria, así como para conocer la mayor selección de productos y servicios. El evento ayuda a los profesionales a mejorar sus negocios a través de capacitación, exhibiciones y networking. International Roofing Expo es propiedad de Informa Markets y es operado por esta empresa. El patrocinador oficial del evento es NRCA y la publicación oficial es Roofing Contractor. Para más información, visita www.theroofingexpo.com.

Doors open in Mississippi and Texas.

ABC Supply Co., Inc., the largest wholesale distributor of roofing and other select exterior and interior building products in North America, recently opened two new locations in Hattiesburg, Mississippi and Royse City, Texas.
The company is excited to announce its newest locations, furthering its commitment to providing enhanced local support to contractors. Learn more about these locations and get to know their respective managers below.

Hattiesburg, Mississippi: Located at 1744 Evelyn Gandy Parkway and open 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. (CT) Monday through Friday. Branch Manager Ryan Yared joined ABC Supply in January 2021, serving in various roles across transportation, management, sales and more, supporting customers across multiple markets. His extensive experience in branch operations and customer service has strengthened his connections with customers on and off the jobsite, earning trust and positioning his team to better serve local contractors.

Royse City, Texas: Located at 1019 Industrial Drive and open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CT) Monday through Friday. Branch Manager Tori Aguilera joined ABC Supply in 2016 as an inside sales representative at the Garland, Texas, location. Over her ten-year career with the company, she has sustained success in both inside and outside sales roles, building customer trust with strong product recommendations and reliable solutions. Tori and her team look forward to serving a new market and building mutual success with area contractors.

About ABC Supply 

ABC Supply Co., Inc. is the largest wholesale distributor of roofing, select exterior and interior building products and outdoor solutions in North America. Founded in 1982, the company focuses exclusively on serving professional contractors by providing products, services and support across major building categories.  

ABC Supply is a 20-time Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award winner and is committed to hiring military veterans. 

ABC Supply also supports contractors through ABC Supply Interiors, Inc. (formerly L&W Supply) and ABC Supply Outdoor Solutions (formerly Town & Country Industries), a division of ABC Supply Co., Inc. Headquartered in Beloit, Wisconsin, ABC Supply has more than 1,000 locations across the U.S. and Canada. More information is available at www.abcsupply.com.

North America's largest roofing and exteriors event returns in February with 700+ exhibitors signed on, NFL leadership Keynote and industry’s most prestigious awards

The International Roofing Expo (IRE), North America’s largest roofing and exteriors event, returns to Las Vegas, February 16-18, 2027, bringing together thousands of residential and commercial contractors, remodelers, builders, distributors, suppliers and manufacturers actively seeking the latest products, technologies and business solutions that are reshaping the industry.

For three power-packed days, decision-makers from around the world will converge to discover cutting-edge innovations and forge connections that drive business growth. With technological advancements and surging urban construction activity fueling unprecedented market expansion, IRE 2027 is the must-attend event for professionals determined to stay ahead of industry transformation.

What to expect at IRE 2027

This year's expo delivers an unmatched experience with expanded products, education and networking:

• 700+ exhibitors showcasing thousands of industry-leading and new products across every category, shingles, single-ply roofing, coatings, caulks and sealants, gutters and roof drains, bitumen/asphalt, solar, windows, siding and more.
• 60+ expert-led sessions organized into nine specialized tracks: General Business, Leadership, Legal/HR, Money Matters, Sales/Service, Sustainable Building, Technical, Exteriors and Workplace Safety.
• A dedicated Latino Track (en Español) recognizes the vital contribution of Spanish-speaking professionals who comprise approximately 30% of the roofing workforce.
• New workforce development hub, a dedicated education hub on the show floor designed to cultivate the next generation of roofing professionals and address critical industry workforce challenges.
• New for 2027, IRE is taking the experience outdoors. This brand-new activation area will come alive with hands-on product demos, interactive brand experiences, entertainment, food trucks and opportunities to connect. It will be a new destination to discover, engage, recharge and experience the roofing industry in action.
• Live, hands-on learning with show floor education centers, real-world job site demonstrations featuring metal roofing, roof details, single-ply roofing and home improvement techniques presented by top industry experts.
• General session: Tackle Your Biggest Challenge Head-On: Workforce Development remains the roofing industry's most critical challenge, and IRE 2027's General Session will deliver the playbook to solve it. Eric Boles, leadership authority and former NFL wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers and New York Jets, reveals how to maximize your most valuable asset: your people. Drawing from elite sports and corporate experience, Boles shares actionable strategies to attract next-gen talent, bridge generational gaps, retain peak performers and build intentional cultures that drive commitment and success. Attendees will leave with a definitive playbook to transform the workplace into a destination for elite talent.
• Qualifying competition for the world championship for young roofers: A prestigious international competition with a 60-year history is coming to IRE. The Team USA Qualifying Competition will take place on the show floor at the International Roofing Expo. Two-person teams will compete in one of the selected disciplines. Winners of the competition at IRE will represent Team USA at the International Federation of the Roofing Trade’s World Championship for Young Roofers in Budapest, Hungary, in November 2027.

Innovative Product Showcase and Awards (IPSA)

The International Roofing Expo® Innovative Product Showcase and Awards Program (IPSA) recognizes the standout products and solutions revolutionizing today's marketplace. A distinguished panel of industry judges evaluates entries across these categories:

• Business Software and Technology Products
• Coatings, Caulks and Sealants
• Gutters and Roof Drains
• Roofing Products (Including Single Ply, Metal Panels, Shingles, Synthetic Roofing & Flashing)
• Safety and Fall Protection
• Siding and Insulation
• Solar Panels and Products
• Tools, Equipment and Machinery
• Waterproofing, Flashing, Vapor Barriers, Underlayments and Insulation
• Windows, Doors, Skylight and Roof Windows

Attendees can discover which innovations are setting new industry standards.

What Industry Leaders Are Saying

"This year's IRE will bring even more opportunities to discover new products and technologies, experience expanded show-floor features and live demonstrations and make meaningful connections with the people driving our industry forward,” shares Rich Russo, Show Director, International Roofing Expo. “We have been working hard to create new experiences throughout the event, and we cannot wait for attendees to see what is in store. Whether you have been coming to IRE for years or you are joining us for the first time, there will be more to see, learn and experience than ever before."

"IRE provided me with the opportunity to network with existing partners and develop new key relationships for years to come. It gave me the ability to learn current market trends and witness new cutting-edge products all in one place."

— Troy Wormley, W.B.R. Roofing, Inc.

Some of the exhibiting companies signed on

World-leading companies in roofing and exteriors will present the latest innovations in the Expo Hall. Companies include GAF, QXO, ABC Supply, Carlisle, SRS Distribution, Sika, CertainTeed LLC, ContractorHUB, EverPro, Atlas Roofing Corporation, Amrize, Owens Corning, Kingspan and Johns Manville and hundreds more.

Beyond the show floor: Connect, compete, celebrate

IRE 2027 extends far beyond the exhibition hall with exclusive events designed to build lasting relationships and celebrate industry excellence:

Community service Day: Give back to the Las Vegas community alongside fellow professionals by revitalizing local homes and making a tangible difference.

Welcome Party: Kick off the expo connecting with industry peers in a relaxed, energizing atmosphere.

Tomorrow's roofing leaders compete today: The Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition. Watch the next generation demonstrate their roofing knowledge, master project planning and excelling under pressure at this annual signature event.

NRCA Industry Awards and Reception: Celebrate excellence as the industry honors the distinguished winners of its most prestigious awards.

Registration now open

Secure your spot at North America's largest roofing and exteriors event. Register today at www.theroofingexpo.com.

The Official Show Sponsor of the International Roofing Expo is the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).

About International Roofing Expo

The International Roofing Expo is the premier event for both the commercial and residential roofing and exterior construction industries. The IRE brings the professional community together to help them stay current on trending knowledge and to see the largest selection of products and services. The event helps professionals improve their business through education, exhibitions and networking. The International Roofing Expo is owned and operated by Informa Markets. The official show sponsor is NRCA and the official show publication is Roofing Contractor. For more information, please visit www.theroofingexpo.com.

By Emma Peterson.

Get ready for the largest roofing contractor conference in Texas!

The 2026 annual Texas Roofing Conference is coming up at the end of October (10/21/26-10/23/26 to be precise). This conference is organized by the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) and provides attendees with the opportunity to attend cutting-edge educational sessions, explore a two-day expo featuring the latest roofing products and network at a variety of fun events!

Experience incredible education

This year’s show boasts a variety of industry-leading speakers for its education program. Whether you’re a commercial contractor or residential roofer, attending these courses is a sure-fire way to find new ideas to build your business!

Here’s a few sessions The Coffee Shops® has bookmarked:

• The 5 Revenue Drivers Behind High-Performing Roofing Service Division: This session will be taught by Chad Westbrook of Service Alignment on Thursday, October 22. In the session, Chad will explain how contractors can “turn service work into dependable, profitable revenue.”
• OSHA Defense Mastery: also on October 22, this session will be taught by the incredible Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese. During the 50-minute session, Trent will cover a practical roadmap for handling OSHA inspections. This is the perfect sessions for those wanting “a better understanding of how to reduce exposure before an incident occurs and how to respond if OSHA knocks.”
• NRCA update on roofing industry technical issues: in this session, the National Roofing Contractors Association’s Mark Graham will give attendees an update on building code changes, FM guideline revisions and other technical details that “change how roofing contractors design, bid and install roof systems.”
• Leadership, Performance, Teamwork, Resilience and Accountability: This session is actually the keynote of the 2026 show! It is taught by Clint Bruce, who is a former NFL linebacker, a Navy SEAL veteran and business founder. His presentation will draw on his experiences and focus on the role of leadership, performance, teamwork, resilience and accountability in success.

See the full schedule of sessions!

Explore innovations on the expo floor

The expo floor (which will be open 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. on 10/22 and 10 a.m - 2 p.m. on 10/23) will host more than 150 manufacturers, suppliers, software and service providers such as ABC Supply, QXO, Polyglass, Tamko, Malarkey Roofing Products, Owens Corning, MetalVue by Sherwin-Williams, SRS Distribution, GAF, READYSLATE, JobNimbus, Eagleview and Johns Manville! Each exhibitor booth will showcase the newest, more innovative products and services in the roofing material and technology market.

There are also some fun prize opportunities! On October 22, door prize drawings will kick off at 2 p.m. (you must be present to win). As for October 23, there will be a $5,000 RCAT Raffle Winner drawing at 1:30 p.m.!

Attend events and make connections

And if the education opportunities and expo weren’t enough to keep you busy, RCAT has also planned a few special events during the 2025 Texas Roofing Conference:

• RCAT Annual Golf Tournament: hosted at the Cowboys Golf Club 1600 Fairway Dr, Grapevine, Texas 76051), this is your opportunity for some friendly competition! Players must register an advance.
• Welcome Reception: kick off the show by attending the welcome reception at the Gaylord Texan Mission Plaza. This event runs from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and is open to all fully registered conference attendees and exhibitors.
• Awards Luncheon: take a break from attending education sessions and exploring the expo floor with RCAT’s Annual Business Meeting & Awards Luncheon!

These are not just a great opportunity have some fun, but also to network with their peers and make connections with industry leaders that will last beyond the show!

The 2026 show will be hosted at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center. Make sure you have your tickets!

Keith Rozolis to retire as CEO and continue as executive advisor and board member; Mike Jost named chief executive officer.

ABC Supply Co., Inc., the largest wholesale distributor of roofing, select exterior and interior building products and outdoor solutions in North America, today announced that Chief Executive Officer Keith Rozolis plans to retire effective December 31, 2026. As part of the company's leadership succession plan, President and Chief Operating Officer Mike Jost has been appointed chief executive officer effective January 1, 2027.

Rozolis joined ABC Supply in 1999, helping establish the company's first strategic marketing department and ushering in a period of significant growth and transformation. During his tenure as CEO, beginning in 2014, the company has strengthened its market position, more than doubled its location count and expanded its footprint across North America. He also guided the business through major acquisitions, the expansion of new business verticals and strategic investments in technology, operations and customer service.

“Leading ABC Supply has been the greatest privilege of my career,” said Keith. “I am extremely proud and humbled by all we have accomplished together. The company is in great hands with Mike, and I couldn't be more confident about what's ahead for ABC Supply.”

ABC Supply Founder Diane Hendricks reflected on Keith's leadership and the lasting impact he has had on the company.

“Keith's impact on this organization has been tremendous,” said Hendricks. “Through years of growth and change, he helped strengthen a culture that puts people first and promotes the American dream. We are grateful for his leadership, friendship and countless contributions.”

Mike Jost has served as president and chief operating officer since 2024 and has spent decades driving operational excellence, customer service and strategic growth across the organization. He is widely respected by associates, customers and suppliers alike for his steady leadership and deep understanding of the business.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead ABC Supply into its next chapter,” said Jost. “Our strategy remains the same, our commitment to customers is unwavering and our culture is our greatest asset. We have strong momentum, an exceptional team and a solid foundation for continued growth. I look forward to building on what we've achieved together.”

Brent Fox, chairman of the board of ABC Supply, expressed the Board’s confidence in the company's future.

“Keith leaves ABC Supply stronger than ever, with a thoughtful succession plan in place,” said Fox. “Mike is a proven leader who has been an integral part of the organization’s success. We are confident he will continue building on that foundation through growth and innovation in the years ahead.”

The leadership transition will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027, and Rozolis will remain involved with the company as executive advisor and as a member of ABC Supply's board of directors. Until then, Rozolis and Jost will work closely to ensure a seamless leadership transition.

About ABC Supply 

ABC Supply Co., Inc. is the largest wholesale distributor of roofing, select exterior and interior building products and outdoor solutions in North America. Founded in 1982, the company focuses exclusively on serving professional contractors by providing products, services and support across major building categories.  

ABC Supply is a 20-time Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award winner and is committed to hiring military veterans. 

ABC Supply also supports contractors through ABC Supply Interiors, Inc. (formerly L&W Supply) and ABC Supply Outdoor Solutions (formerly Town & Country Industries), a division of ABC Supply Co., Inc. Headquartered in Beloit, Wisconsin, ABC Supply has more than 1,000 locations across the U.S. and Canada. More information is available at www.abcsupply.com. 

Customers will continue working with the same trusted team and brand, now backed by ABC Supply

ABC Supply Co., Inc., the largest wholesale distributor of roofing and other select exterior and interior building products in North America, has acquired the assets of Martini Brick Sales, Inc., located at 3749 Apollo Road in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Independently owned and operated since 1957, Martini Brick Sales has built a long-standing reputation for service and expertise in the exterior masonry cladding space, supported by a tenured team of managers and associates. The company distributes brick, block, stone, milled stone, faux stone, cast stone, anchorage and drainage products, angle iron and fireplace construction components.

“Martini Brick Sales has earned the trust of contractors and builders in Corpus Christi through decades of expertise and strong customer relationships,” said Matt Belcher, Southwest Region vice president at ABC Supply. “Our goal is simple: continue delivering the service, expertise and products customers rely on every day while providing additional resources and support to help the team serve the market even better.”

The business will continue to operate under the Martini Brick Sales name, retaining its associates and current leader as a business development manager. Existing customers will continue working with their trusted contacts, ensuring a seamless transition and enhanced local service, backed by ABC Supply’s resources and support.

About ABC Supply

ABC Supply Co., Inc. is the largest wholesale distributor of roofing, select exterior and interior building products and outdoor solutions in North America. Founded in 1982, the company focuses exclusively on serving professional contractors by providing products, services and support across major building categories.

By Emma Peterson. 

Wendy Marvin explains how a strong roofer-supplier relationship is game changing. 

Roofing is a challenging business to succeed in, with contractors needing to navigate everything from insurance policies to evolving building codes and more. But one thing that can make it a little easier to operate as a roofer is having the right supplier relationships. To learn more about this, Megan Ellsworth hosted Wendy Marvin of Matrix Roofing for an episode of Stories from the Roof.  

Wendy and Matrix are coming up on their 20th anniversary in business and looking back at those two decades in operation, Wendy highlighted the importance of the support of their long-term roofing supplier, ABC Supply. She explained, “Even as large as they are, ABC has done things for me that have really helped our company...We’ve had some business hurdles we've had to overcome, and they've been behind us every time.” 

One example of how ABC Supply has backed Matrix comes from 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown. Wendy shared:  

During the COVID shut down we had jobs open but weren’t able to work. And we called ABC and told them straight, ‘Look, we don't know if we're going to make our payment this month.’ And they took it in stride, telling us ‘Okay, no problem, just stay in contact with us and let us know how things go.’ And it just showed how invaluable that relationship was to us. You can’t put a dollar value on that type of support. 

Her advice for other contractors wanting this type of close and supportive relationship with their supplier? Remember, it’s a two-way street. She elaborated, “It's two-sided, when you show respect, then it’s likely to be reciprocated. If you don’t show the care and respect you want, you won’t get it back. Take the time to get to know the people, from your rep to the person that's in finance. You have to have caring from both sides to build a relationship.” 

Listen to the whole episode to learn more about building a strong relationship with your supplier.

Three-time RODE Award recipient honored for leadership and safety excellence

 ABC Supply Co., Inc., North America's largest wholesale distributor of roofing and select exterior and interior building products, is proud to celebrate delivery driver Chris Johnson for being named the 2026 Home & Commercial Services Top Driver by Netradyne, a leader in AI-powered fleet safety technology. Donald Martin, another ABC Supply driver, was also selected as a finalist in the Home & Commercial Services category. The award recognizes drivers who set the benchmark for safety, professionalism and leadership within their fleets.

As part of Netradyne’s inaugural Driver Awards Program, the Top Driver Award honors drivers with exceptional GreenZone® scores, sustained safe-driving streaks, minimal risky driving events and consistent adherence to safe driving practices. “These drivers demonstrate what excellence looks like every single day,” said Heather Engen, Chief Customer Officer at Netradyne. “The Driver Awards celebrate the habits and leadership that create safer roads and stronger safety cultures. We're proud to recognize drivers who lead by example and the fleets that invest in coaching and continuous improvement.”

Johnson is a three-time recipient of ABC Supply’s Recognition of Driver Excellence (RODE) award and a Driver Trainer known for the pride and passion he brings to the job every day. “Chris embodies safety, professionalism and teamwork in everything he does,” said Jacob Crass, branch manager of ABC Supply’s Clarksville, Tennessee, location. “He’s always looking for ways to improve and help the drivers around him do the same. We’re proud to see him recognized for the positive impact he has on our team and our customers.”

This recognition reflects ABC Supply’s ongoing commitment to building a strong safety culture across its fleet. By investing in driver training, recognition and data-driven coaching tools like Netradyne, ABC Supply continues to support professional drivers while helping make roads safer for the communities it serves.

About ABC Supply 

ABC Supply Co., Inc. is the largest wholesale distributor of roofing, select exterior and interior building products and outdoor solutions in North America. Founded in 1982, the company focuses exclusively on serving professional contractors by providing products, services and support across major building categories.  

ABC Supply is a 20-time Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award winner and is committed to hiring military veterans. 

ABC Supply also supports contractors through ABC Supply Interiors, Inc. (formerly L&W Supply) and ABC Supply Outdoor Solutions (formerly Town & Country Industries), a division of ABC Supply Co., Inc. Headquartered in Beloit, Wisconsin, ABC Supply has more than 1,000 locations across the U.S. and Canada. More information is available at www.abcsupply.com. 

About Netradyne

Netradyne provides AI-powered technologies for smarter fleets and safer roads. An award-winning industry leader in driver safety and fleet management, Netradyne empowers thousands of commercial fleet customers across North America, Europe and Asia to enhance driver performance, reduce risk, improve fuel efficiency,= and optimize operations.

Netradyne sets the standard among fleet operating companies for enhancing and sustaining safety and efficiency outcomes through driver trust and lasting behavior change. Using AI-vision technology to analyze 150 billion minutes and 30+ billion miles, Netradyne offers an industry-first driver and fleet scoring system that recognizes and rewards safe, fuel-efficient driving behaviors. Founded in 2015, Netradyne is headquartered in San Diego with offices in San Francisco, Nashville and Bangalore.

Tringham to lead growth and enhance operational performance across British Columbia

ABC Supply Co., a wholesale distributor of roofing, siding and other select exterior building products in Canada, has announced that Darcy Tringham has joined the company as district manager of the company’s newly formed British Columbia District.

With Tringham’s addition, the company will now be divided into three regions (Prairies, Eastern and British Columbia), enhancing regional expertise and local customer support.

Tringham brings more than 20 years of industry experience, with a strong background in building material distribution, leadership and customer service. He began his career working alongside his father in their family roofing business on Vancouver Island, which gave him firsthand insight into the needs of contractors and the importance of reliable service and solutions.

Throughout his career, Tringham has progressed from frontline roles on the order desk to branch leadership and category management positions. This experience has given him a comprehensive understanding of branch operations, sales and product strategy, as well as growth opportunities across the British Columbia market.

“Darcy’s industry experience and proven leadership skills make him a strong addition to our team,” said Michelle Dagenais, managing director of branch operations. “He has an incredible track record of supporting teams, building customer relationships and driving growth. We’re excited to have him join the ABC Supply family and look forward to the impact he’ll make across British Columbia.”

In his new role, Tringham will support branch managers and sales teams in driving strategic growth, empowering associates and leveraging data-driven insights to strengthen overall performance across the district.

About ABC Supply Co.

ABC Supply Co. is a division of ABC Supply Co., Inc., the largest wholesale distributor of roofing and other select exterior and interior building products in North America. Since its founding in 1982, ABC Supply’s sole focus has been serving professional contractors and “making it easy” for them to do their jobs by offering the products, support and services they need.

ABC Supply Co. has over 20 locations across Canada. More information is available at www.abcsupply.ca. Contractors can find resources for growing and improving their businesses on the ABC Supply Co. blog.