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Industry News

The latest news and information for the construction distribution community, including distributors, manufacturers reps and suppliers.

Visit our Archives under the Industry News heading for the top stories for prior months.

Construction Employment Hits Two-Year High

But industry's 17.7 percent unemployment rate remains double overall rate.

U.S. adds 243,000 Jobs in January

The United States economy gained momentum in January, the second straight month of better-than-expected gains.

Wacker Neuson Ends Contract with Gehl

Will no longer manufacture compact excavators and wheel steer loaders for Gehl.

December 2011 Construction Advances 1.5 Percent over November

Nonresidential construction climbs 3.3 percent for month.

Generac Acquires Gen-Tran Corporation

Acquisition of complementary transfer switch products broadens residential product offering.

4-year Measure Authorizing FAA Programs Advances

Deal to allocate $63B for airport construction projects.

House GOP Unveils 5-year, $260B Transportation Bill

Measure would delegate more power to states to set priorities for projects.

148 of 337 Metro Areas Add Construction Jobs Between December 2010 and 2011

Construction spending increases 4.3 percent year over year.

Construction Begins on Massive Irvine Community

New project in Irvine, CA on former Marine base will have nearly 5,000 homes and 1.2 million square feet of commercial space.

Construction Spending Climbs Most in 4 Months

Construction spending in the U.S. rose in December at the fastest pace in four months, reflecting broad-based gains that signal the industry is stabilizing.

First Report: World of Concrete 2012

Annual concrete extravaganza generates good numbers and strong expectations.

Arrow Fasteners Announces Contest Winners

$10,000 Dream Room Contest draws 15,000 entries.

Hyde Tools Launches New Web Site

Web site, YouTube and digital catalog provide how-to info and more.

Major Named Director of US Sales for Greenfield industries

Industry veteran will lead sales to distributors, private label and national accounts.

New Home Sales Dip 2.2 Percent in December 2011

Rate lags December 2010 by 7.3 percent.

Home Depot Acquires Redbeacon

Online home services platform connects consumers with contractors.

U.S. GDP Grows 2.8 Percent in Q4 2011

Residential fixed investment grows 10.9 percent in quarter.

Porteous Fastener Presents Check to Hope For The Warriors

Nonprofit organization supports U.S. service members, families, and families of the fallen.

Single Family Housing Starts Climb 4.4 percent in December

Overall housing permits and starts dip slightly from November but completions surge 9.2 percent.

California Home Sales Rise for Third Straight Month in December

Sales activity hits 11-month high.

European Construction Rebounded in November

European construction output rose in November after three months of contraction, led by Germany, adding to signs that the euro-area economy may be stabilizing.

Scott Nowatzki Named National Accounts Manager at Starborn Industries

Joins Starborn from GAF Building Materials Corporation.

MovinCool Issues New Spot Air-Conditioner Catalog

Covers complete product lineup including new CM-Series ceiling-mount models.

Wright Tool Partners with SMS Equipment as Preferred Tool Supplier

Canadian distributor is one of the world's largest Komatsu dealerships. 

Chicago Pneumatic Appoints Todd Francis Vice President, North America

New role to focus on new business development, strategic distributor relationship engagement.

Simpson Strong-Tie Acquires Automatic Stamping

Deal gives Simpson entree to the truss plate market.

$1.3 Billion Florida SunRail Project to Break Ground this Month

Construction of first phase of $1.3 billion project will span 31 miles.

Sears/Kmart to Close up to 120 Stores

Full list of closures is yet to be announced.

PIP Names Bonnie DiDomenico North Central Market Manager

Will manage sales in Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, Indiana, West Virginia and Western Pennsylvania.

Mortenson Construction Releases U.S. Solar Industry Market Study

Free report offers outlook for utility-scale solar industry.

Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association Announces 2012 Calendar

Plans a full year of celebrations and training programs for 40th anniversary year.

Registration Filling Fast for 2012 University of Industrial Distribution

19th Annual University of Industrial Distribution takes place March 5-8, 2012 at Indiana University / Purdue University.

Columbus McKinnon acquires Yale Lifting Solutions

CK had previously owned 20% of South African company.

Hyde Tools Announces New Digital Master Catalog

More than 700 items are featured in flip-book style publication.

Affinity Tool Works Acquires HTC and Portamate

Deal adds new mobile bases, workpiece support and workshop products to Affinity's lines. 

IDEAL Industries Networks Division Hires New National Sales Director

Richard Jones hired to manage Networks Division.

LA-CO Announces George Bowman as President

Bowman to helm LA-CO upon retirement of John Hardin.

NetPlus Alliance Hires New VP of Supplier Development

Todd Washburn signs on to fill key vendor relations slot.

NJ homebuilders begin breaking ground for stronger 2012

After buying land at affordable prices in 2011, some homebuilders in New Jersey are poised to start construction in 2012.

Dry, warm winter a 'godsend' for Lambeau Field construction workers

Expansion project for Green Bay Packers stadium benefits from mild winter.

Hiring Takes Off in December — U.S. Adds 200,000 Jobs

Construction industry adds 17,000 jobs.

Templin Promoted to Affiliated Distributors' Industrial Division President

AD establishes strategic business units for each Division.

Radians Acquires Carolina Safety Sport

Acquisition expands Radians' hi-viz product lines and domestic manufacturing capabilities.

Radians Acquires Carolina Safety Sport

Acquisition expands Radians' hi-viz product lines and domestic manufacturing capabilities.

Opportunities in federal construction despite cuts to building funds

Funding for federal building construction took a hit in the 2012 budget.

IGLOO Reports a Decade of Growth in Three Years

New products and new markets make the difference.

KNIPEX Promotes Todd Shumate to VP of Sales

Will lead North American sales force.

Construction Spending Shows Modest Growth in November

Overall spending climbs over October; only nonresidential construction trends flat.

Construction jobs outlook for 2012: not good

146 out of 337 metro areas lost construction jobs between November 2010 and 2011; Federal construction investments are set to drop 6.2 percent in 2012.

General Tools Takes Another Top Tool Award

Energy Audit IR Thermometer/Scanner with Star Burst Laser Targeting (IRTC50) wins top reader award.

Sales of New Residential Homes Advance in November

New homes sales climb 1.6 percent over October: rate trends 9.8 percent above November 2010.

U.S. GDP Grows 1.8 Percent in Q3

Final sales of domestic products grows 3.2 percent.

Simpson Strong-Tie Issues New Fastener Catalog

Catalog and Fastener Finder enable quick searches.

Ingersoll Rand Compressors Granted Class 0 Recertification

Oil-free rotary screw and centrifugal air compressors meet Class 0 per ISO 8573-1:2010.

Radians Moves into New Facility

Adds staff to better serve growing customer base.

SafeWorks picks Elzinga for VP of Engineering

Will lead new product development for Power Climber Wind, Power Climber and Spider brands.

Ideal Appoints New Director of Sales & Marketing

Richard Jones named to key position for U.S. business unit.

Igloo Products Corp. Names Jeffrey Cartwright President/COO

David Thornhill to Become EVP and Chief Product Officer.

Librock named Dynabrade president

Ned T. Librock moves up from director of marketing.

2,600 Companies to Exhibit in Cologne

Three months left before world's premier tool show returns to Cologne, March 4-7, 2012; German industry remains upbeat.

Brad Fulkerson Appointed Managing Director of Laticrete Supercap

Will lead brand development of the Supercap self-leveling concrete finishing system.

Wind-lock To Open New Warehouse/Distribution Center in the West

New Reno, NV warehouse will begin shipping in Q1.

L.B. White Launches New Web Site

New site features application and maintenance videos and Google Maps dealer locator.

Reed Updates Web Site

Site features easier navigation of operator's manuals, parts and accessories and enhanced photo library. 

Sonnhalter Announces Online Content Webinar

Feb. 2 webinar addresses "8 Content Initiatives You Need to Seriously Consider for 2012."

BatteryJack and Bigtime Battery Extend Warranty to Two Years on All Titan Brand Power Tool Batteries

Covers more than 180 replacement power tool batteries.

CGW Launches New Combined Metal Fab/Industrial Products Catalog

164-page catalog contains more than 200 new products.

Exclusive: Understanding Load Factor Implications for Specifying Onsite Generators

Maximum permitted average load factor varies depending on the generator set's rating, the specific application and the manufacturer's recommended guidelines.

Unemployment rate falls to 8.6%

But construction lost 12,000 jobs in November.

DDI System Launches Inform SBE

Small business edition software is for distributors with less than 10 users.

Sonnhalter Releases Three New Podcasts

Topics cover distribution trends, supply chain management and attendee comments from the 2011 STAFDA Convention.

ISM Year-End Report: Economic Growth Continues in 2012

Economic growth in the United States will continue in 2012, say the nation's purchasing and supply management executives in their December 2011 Semiannual Economic Forecast.

Wells Fargo Issues Q4 Construction Quarterly Report

Predicts gradually improving construction market in 2012.

Sales Catalogs Easily Migrate to the iPad

Mobilistics launches MobiOrder enterprise level catalog and order entry solution.

MovinCool Issues Guide to Cooling IT Equipment in Heated Buildings

Guide addresses self-contained, ceiling-mounted small-space air conditioners.

Milwaukee Launches M18 FUEL Line of Next Generation Cordless Tools

Extreme-performance cordless power tools feature brushless motors and intelligent hardware and software.

Columbus McKinnon Turns Former Plant into Training Center

Facility will host series of training classes.

MAPI: GDP to expand in 2011

Investment in business equipment and increased exports will drive economic growth over the next five years according to a new report.

New Residential Sales Up in October

Estimate sees new single-family home sales climb 1.3 percent over September.

IRWIN Tools Launches Domestic Spanish-Language Web Site and Online Catalog

Becomes first tool manufacturer in U.S. to offer full Spanish-language Web site.

U.S. Construction Ticks Up in October

Residential building advances 3.4 percent; public construction rises 1.8 percent.

Capital Safety Ownership Changes

KKR acquires fall protection manufacturer for $1.1 billion.

Subaru Promotes David Frank to VP, Sales and Marketing

Moves up from director of sales for OEM accounts.

STAFDA Announces 2012 Officers

Kramer Darragh becomes president; Rick Lamb becomes vice president for 2012.

Cologne Prepares for 2012 International Hardware Fair

2,600 exhibitors from 50 countries book space for world's largest tool show, March 4-7 in Cologne, Germany.

Fastenal Signs Supply Deal with Corporate United

Inks four-year contract to supply industrial supplies for $50 billion buying group.

U.S. GDP Grows at 2.0 Percent Annual Rate in Q3 2011

Growth rate improves from 1.3 percent in Q2; is driven by higher personal consumption, nonresidential fixed investment, exports and federal government spending.

Grainger to close 25 branches

Despite an anticipated 11% to 12% sales increase for the year, Grainger told financial analysts that it plans to close 25 branches by the end of December.

IDG co-founder Doug Smith dies

Was recognized as the nation's Outstanding Distributor of the Year in 1994.

New Residential Housing Improves in October

Single family housing permits, starts and completions all climb over September.

STAFDA 2011 Convention Concludes on High Note

Convention and Trade Show in San Antonio draws more than 4,200 industry professionals.

Multiquip Begins Shipping MQ Power Tier 4i Generators

Initial shipments of four Tier 4i models are underway.

Protecta Issues Safety Recall on Lanyards

Potential disconnection hazard has been identified in a limited series of shock absorbing lanyards.

Power Tool Institute Calls for User Comments on Proposed Ruling

CPSC petition seeks to require active flesh detection technology for all table saws.

Ames True Temper Donates More than $660,000 in Tools to Habitat for Humanity

Donation of 25,000 lawn and garden tools will support post-Hurricane Irene and Susquehanna Valley flood response projects in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Ryan Companies US, Inc. promotes Mike Ernst to Director of Construction Operations

Fifteen-year Ryan company veteran recently directed Cedar Rapids' flood recovery work.

Louisville Ladder to Unveil New Products at STAFDA

New products include redesigned stage platform, modular guard rail systems and longer extension ladders.

NetPlus Alliance Seeks New VP of Supplier Development

Buying group seeks industry veteran for key management position.

The Home Depot and Home Depot Foundation Accomplish Pledge to U.S. Veterans

$10 Million donated and 320 volunteer projects completed.

Knipex Ratcheting-Action Cable Shears Receive Highest Honor at 2011 NECA

Earns Showstopper award at National Electrical Contractors Association Convention.

Logistics Opens Warehouse In Orlando

Facility opened to serve distributors in Florida and Georgia.

IronPlanet to Host February Auction in Florida

Leader in online auctions brings global marketplace to winter Florida auctions.

Streamlight Announces Q3 Recycling Results

Company and distributors collect more than 3,200 pounds of rechargeable batteries.

Powers Fasteners Continues Expanding in Key Markets

Adds Jeremy Woods to staff serving the Dallas, Texas market.

General Tools Digital Sliding T-Bevel Earns This Old House Top 100 Honor

Selected from thousands as one of best new home products of the year.

Darragh Company Acquires Tool Central

Acquisition adds five locations to Darragh Co.

Construction spending fails to advance in September

$787.2 billion annual rate betters August by just 0.2 percent; YTD figures lag 2010 by 3.5 percent.

Wind-lock Adds Installation Videos To Packaging

Company adds QR codes to product packaging; scanning codes takes users to installation videos.

Sonnhalter Releases QR Code Podcast

Discusses benefits of QR Code use by manufacturers.

Council Tool Names New National Sales Manager

Joe McShane joins Council from Ames True Temper.

New Residential Home Sales Climb in September

Sales of new single-family houses rise 5.7 percent over August.

NCFI Residential and Commercial SPF Insulations Earn First ICC Approval

Approval is first based on latest 2012 building codes.

Puzio Retires from NetPlus Alliance

Buying group's vice president Karl Puzio steps down.

Topcon Promotes Painter

Bill Painter becomes global senior manager of 3D road construction.

Snap-on Launches New Web Site for Industrial Brands

Web site includes Williams, Bahco and CDI Torque Products.

New Jersey Contractor First to Achieve Top-Level Certification

Atlantic Concrete Cutting, Inc. achieves highest level of certification in CSDA program.

IPG Promotes Made In America

Intertape Polymer Group joins national drive to promote Made in America products and American jobs.

Bosch Launches 18V Best Built Challenge Video Series

Video series highlights Bosch durability and runtime in jobsite conditions and head-to-head comparisons.

Pramac America Moves to New North America HQ

New facility will house management, sales, marketing, logistics and accounting.

CSDA Offers Concrete Cutting Course Online

Cutting Edge course is first step toward Operator Certification.

United Rentals Announces Q3 2011 Results

Company grows rental revenue 19.1 percent in quarter.

New Residential Housing Starts Continue Double Digit Growth

Building permits slide 5.0 percent from August but housing starts climb 15.0 percent.

IDEAL Announces Cash Back Promotion on LanTEK II Certifiers and Accessories

Rebates of up to $3,250 are available until Dec. 31, 2011.

US Departments of Transportation and Commerce Partner to Boost Domestic Manufacturing

Partnership will help revitalize the domestic railway manufacturing sector and create jobs.

Topcon Announces Magnet Cloud-based Software

Allows real-time collaboration between project manager, field crews, office personnel and engineers.

2012 International Builders' Show Registrations Run 25 Percent Ahead of 2011

NAHB expects 50,000 attendees and 800-plus exhibitors.

Convenience Products Introduces Patented Non-stick Valve Technology

Non-stick valve is now available on one-component straw foam and gun foam products.

Sonnhalter Releases Alternative Energy Market Overview

Report provides a resource for companies expanding in the industry.

Subaru Appoints New Leadership Team

Company names Ishii, Hori and Murphy to top slots for U.S. operations.

Heads & Threads International Reorganizes

Expands product offering to include packaged fasteners, kitting services, blister packs, private labeling and custom packaging.

PFERD Inc. Announces New Director of Sales

Mark Noe named to top sales management position.

Registration Opens for 2012 University of Industrial Distribution

Takes place March 5-8, 2012 at Indiana University / Purdue University, Indianapolis, Indiana.

Fomo's Caffoe Wins Smart Business Innovation Award

Company also names new Eastern Regional Sales Manager.

New Publications Address Four Leading Causes of Death in Construction Industry

New safety guides cover four most lethal construction accidents types.

Verisk Analytics Launches IRONwatch on AT&T Network

Equipment location and recovery solution has no monthly fees.

Toshiba Surveillance Launches Redesigned Website

Improves visitor experience with more features, faster navigation.

NAHB Lobbies Congress to Lift Housing Market Barriers

Says housing construction jobs can be 'Key Engine of Job Growth'.

Koelnmesse names new COO

Katharina Hamma becomes new Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse.

Manufacturing expands for 26th month

The latest Institute for Supply Management survey shows that output at the nation's factories grew for the 26th consecutive month in September.

ABC Supply Names 20 New Managing Partners

Promotes branch managers to managing partner positions.

Construction Inches Up in August

All categories report modest increases over July.

Construction Jobs Increased in 146 of 337 Metro Areas Between August 2010 and August 2011

Private sector demand improved while public sector activity declined.

Habitat for Humanity and The Home Depot Foundation Partner to Renovate Veterans' Homes

Partnership will remodel homes of nearly 100 military veterans.

New Single Family Home Sales Slip Again in August

Sales drop 2.3 percent from the revised July level, but track 6.1 percent above 2010 level.

TechSpray Promotes Ngai

Doug Ngai is new product manager of process chemicals.

Delmar Publishes Job Site First Aid Field Guide

Guide helps prepare contractors, construction workers and others for possible emergency situations.

Coalition Applauds Congressmen for Legislation to Strengthen Enforcement of Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Orders

New bill would strengthen U.S. enforcement of existing antidumping and countervailing duty orders.

Woodman Tools SkatePlateH20 Has Arrived 

SkatePlate and water jet system is designed for cutting tile, granite, masonry or concrete.

Simpson Names Fitzmyers New Chairman, CEO

Founder Barclay Simpson Moves to Chairman Emeritus.

Lyon Workspace Products Publishes New Modular Drawer Cabinet (MDC) catalog

56-page guide covers 250 pre-engineered cabinets plus much more.

OSHA/CSDA Alliance Puts Safety First

Releases three new Best Practice guides.

IDEAL Promotes Nick Shkordoff to Group VP/GM of Electrical Division

Glenn Hollister to head up new Safety & Health Division.

Four-star General Stanley McChrystal to keynote ISA 2012 event

2012 ISA Product Show & Conference set for April 22-24 in San Antonio, Texas.

August Existing-Home Sales Leap Despite Headwinds

Total existing-home sales rise 7.7 percent.

Simpson Strong-Tie to Supply Software and Truss Plates to U.S. Component Industry

Mike Bugbee will lead new business unit.

Residential Housing Sends More Mixed Signals in August

Permits climb 3.2 percent but starts slide 5 percent for month.

Brokk Names Bigwood VP of Sales and Marketing

Peter Bigwood was president of Atlas Copco Construction Tools for 16 years.

Irwin celebrates National Tradesmen Day

Irwin Tools invites nation to thank a tradesman today.

Second Annual Sonnhalter Tool Drive Raises $26,000 Worth of Tools for Habitat for Humanity

Agency partners with Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity on Tool Drive.

Pferd Named One of Top 100 Companies in Germany

Prestigious awards recognize most innovative small and medium size companies.

IDEAL Announces Money4Meters Promotion

New promo pays electricians cash back for old multimeters.

Jore Corporation acquires ReciproTools

Recip saw multi-tool product line expands Jore catalog.

Porter-Cable Sponsors University of Maryland Solar Decathlon Team

Donates tools and accessories to build solar-powered house for national engineering competition.

Cat Lift Trucks Launches Lift Truck Cost Calculator

Tool provides real time cost savings analysis for electric and internal combustion lift trucks.

RIDGID Awards Four PHCC Scholarships

Awards go to students enrolled in plumbing-heating-cooling apprentice programs.

Manasquan Premium Fasteners Expands Product Line

Adds Starborn Industries, Simpson Strong-Tie and 6 Lobe Star Drive Screws.

PB Swiss Tools Is Recertified for ISO

Earns recertification for Standards 9001, 13485, 14001, OHSAS and FSC.

DDI Presents Online Webinar Thursday, Sept. 8 at 11:00 am EST

See the "Turnkey" solution that only DDI System can deliver!

JET/Wilton Challenger Van Hits the Road

Nationwide distributor tour will range from Minnesota to Florida this fall.

U.S. Construction Dips 1.3 Percent in July

Through July, year-to-date construction lags 2010 rate by 3.5 percent.

Liftex Releases 2011 Catalog and Updates Web Site

Includes sling product, safety, inspection and operating information.

Carhartt Appoints Juszak to Director of Retail Marketing

Carhartt strengthens retail marketing team and prepares for continued growth.

Irwin Tools Honors America's Tradesmen

Rolls out the red carpet for National Tradesmen Day, Sept. 16.

U.S. Construction Fatalities Decline 10 percent from 2009 to 2010

Industry safety awareness and compliance efforts credited.

New Orders for U.S. Manufactured Goods Rise 2.4 Percent in July

Inventories reach highest levels since 1992; transportation equipment rises 1.5 percent.

Bonsal American Hires New Senior Marketing Manager

Meredith Murchison joins ProSpec team from Huber Engineered Woods.

U.S. GDP rises 1 percent in Q2

Nonresidential structures increase 15.7 percent; residential fixed investment grows 3.4 percent during quarter.

ClarkDietrich Introduces Interior Wall, Steel Framing BIM System

BIM Wall Creator offers robust database to enhance collaboration and create information-rich wall types.

Exclusive: Midwest Geospatial Equipment Dealer Volunteers to Help Ugandan Development

Springfield-based distributor has donated time and Topcon equipment to Uganda since 2000.

Enerpac Acquires PocketSHEAR

Products are for shearing and sealing tendons in post-tensioned concrete.

Epicor Announces Cloud Computing for Distributors

Next-generation ERP now available in Software as a Service model for small and growing distributors.

Intercorp Relocates Portland Branch

Company moves to larger and more strategic location.

Join SnowCare for Troops

Boss Snowplow sponsors second year of Project EverGreen SnowCare for Troops program.

Multiquip Announces Tier 4i Engines in Power Generators

WhisperWatt portable power generators meet 2011 environmental standards.

Harrington Hoists Earns ISO 9001:2008 Certification

Certification drives business process improvement to maximize customer service and value.

New Residential Sales Coast in July

New home sales slip slightly from June but remain 6.8 percent above 2010.

Ergodyne Announces New Marketing Director

Consumer industry pro Mike Dinndorf to head marketing efforts.

New process makes for quick construction

Cross-laminated timber speeds construction, gains fans in U.S.

SureSet to Launch New Paving Line in USA

Company seeks partners in U.S.

Blount International Acquires Woods Equipment Company

Deal worth $185 million includes Woods and TISCO brands.

Saint-Gobain Technical Fabrics is now Saint-Gobain ADFORS

Global name change designed to reinforce position in markets.

Fomo Upgrades Online University

Online courses expand knowledge of low pressure spray polyurethane foam application  and training.

Contractor Supply Adds New Videos

Video channel adds 11 new videos this week.

OSI WINTeQ Takes Field Training to the Web

Window and door professionals can now qualify for a 15-year warranty on new construction installations upon completing online course.

Emerson EGS Electrical Group Unveils New Website

Consolidates individual brands into one, easy-to-navigate site.

Grainger Announces Intent to Acquire Fabory Group

Will acquire leading European fastener distributor for $344 million.

The Home Depot Announces Second Quarter Results

Sales for quarter were $1.4 billion; up 4.2 percent over Q2 2010.

New Residential Construction Falters in July

Building permits and housing starts slide from June but still show improvement over 2010. Housing completions rise 6.1 percent over June.

NetPlus Alliance Celebrates First Year of GAIN Program

Program to return with more chances for cash bonus rewards.

MIT Studies Take a Life-Cycle Approach to Evaluating the Real Costs and Environment Impacts of Infrastructure

New studies provide more accurate life cycle costs for concrete and asphalt roadways.

Industry Mourns the Loss of Subaru Engine President Jay Peck

Respected industry veteran spent entire career serving the small engine market.

DELTA Power Equipment Names Regional Sales Managers

Managers named for Northeast, Southeast, Midwest and Western U.S.

Wind-lock Adds QR Codes to Sales Staff Business Cards

QR codes will link smartphones to short videos introducing each salesperson.

Contractor Supply Launches New Video Channel

New videos to be uploaded weekly.

Wildeck Acquires Arizona-Based Ladder Industries

Waukesha, Wisconsin manufacturer expands West with acquisition of custom stair and safety ladder products maker.

Fed to Keep Interest Rates Low Until 2013

In an unusual step, the Federal Reserve vowed Tuesday to keep interest rates low for at least the next two years.

Exclusive: Brooklyn Deck Pro Stands on Starborn

Urban Exteriors celebrates a decade of high-quality decking & woodworking in Brownstone Brooklyn, NYC.

Construction Employment inches to 15-month High in July

But workers are leaving the industry, imperiling future growth.

Exclusive: Fomo seals the leaks in a 100-year-old home

Spray foam insulation eliminates drafts and reduces air infiltration by more than 20 percent in a 1912 colonial home.

ISA announces Golden Eagle Employee Recognition Program

New program helps distributors laud employees with 35-plus years of service.

ITW Muller Appoints Rob Payne to Industry Manager

Will provide distributor and OEM support in Western U.S. and Canada.

Sphere 1 Announces Members and Vendors of the Year

Also welcomes new members and elects new board members.

Topcon Announces User Contest

How do you Topcon? video contest runs though October.

DMT Celebrates 35 Years

Issues Anniversary diamond sharpening set.

Fomo Names Bazela Western Regional Sales Manager

Will manage sales for Handi-Foam brand lines.

Got a better measuring tape?

IRWIN Tools and Edison Nation call for innovative measuring devices.

DELTA Ships First 300 Unisaws

New company reaffirms commitment to manufacture products in the USA.

Powers Fasteners hires Stephen Ludwig

Will serve as Director of newly developed Electric Tools & Accessories segment.

U.S. Construction runs flat in June

Highway work slides 1.6 percent for May, but commercial construction edges up 1.8 percent for month.

Subaru Industrial Power Adds Service Center

Billiou's brings 65 years of repair expertise to Subaru network.

Weiler Publishes Solutions Resource Guide

Catalog includes Weiler Industrial Grade and Vortec Pro Professional Grade Products.

Keson Donates Marking Chalk for U.S. Service Members in Afghanistan

Tool manufacturer makes its mark with U.S. troops that work to uncover and eliminate deadly IEDs.

U.S. GDP climbs 1.3 percent in Q2

Federal consumption rises 2.2%; residential fixed investment climbs 3.8%.

RSC Opens Regional Office in Indianapolis

Kelly Williams tapped to serve as region vice president.

Rural Areas Lose Residents in Record Numbers

National migration to urban areas will continue, further eroding small towns.

Fastenal expands into metalworking

Over the past year, Fastenal has invested aggressively to establish itself as a major national supplier to the metalworking industry.

Milwaukee turns up the heat

Milwaukee wows the trade press with a blaze of suitably red-hot new tools.

Topcon Total Stations Chosen for Europe's Largest Construction Project

105 MS05AX units to be used in London tunneling project.

New Residential Sales Dip in June

Sales of new single family homes slide from May but rise slightly over June 2010.

False Hope for Housing as Foreclosures Decline

Residential market recovery could drag out until 2016.

Powers Fasteners Adds to Sales Team

Powers Fasteners has added new sales people to their force in two key markets, Denver, Colorado and Columbus, Ohio.

Intercorp Makes a Statement with New Packaging

Metallic logos and color-coded boxes add shelf appeal.

Little Giant Launches Fiberglass Line

National television campaign to drive traffic to stores.

RSC Acquires Independent Aerial Equipment

Purchase expands RSC presence in Northeastern U.S.

Housing starts jump 14.6 percent in June

Single family housing starts surge 9.4 percent.

Koelnmesse Taps Hamma for COO Slot

Will lead operations for world's fifth largest trade show venue, site of the International Hardware Fair in 2012.

Sonnhalter Partners with Habitat for Humanity for Second Annual Sonnhalter Tool Drive

First event collected more than $16,000 in tools and materials for Cleveland Habitat projects.

Multiquip EarthSmart  Light Tower Shines at Space Shuttle Atlantis Launch

Zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell powered light tower can be run indoors or out.

MovinCool Announces Summer Cool-Off Rebate Offer

Rebate offers $300 off CM25 and CMW30 ceiling-mount spot air conditioners.

Logistics Adds Western Regional Sales Manager

Ed Miner to drive safety and industrial sales programs in California and the West.

It's 2017, where did all the kids go?

Declining youth populations signals a new split in America.

Korpershoek to Lead Topcon Global Marketing

Hirayama named new managing director of Topcon Europe.

Little Giant Launches Select Step Video Campaign

YouTube video campaign promotes the Select Step Ladder System.

Propex Names New Commercial Director for European Concrete Systems Divison

Philippe Combier has been with Propex for over 12 years.

Pferd Christens New Facility

Ribbon cutting of 100,000-sf facility draws local and international dignitaries.

Fastenal sales up 22.9%

Fastenal reported that its second quarter sales rose 22.9% to $701.7 million, compared to $571.1 million in the same period last year.

Industrial Supply named Rayovac Outstanding Distributor

Salt Lake City-based distributor takes Q2 2011 award.

Irwin Sells BernzOmatic to Worthington Industries

Worthington adds brand to its Pressure Cylinders division.

Construction Jobs Slump Again in June

Downturn in public work offsets private sector gains.

Parker updates PAGE International Hose Website

New site features easier navigation, information library and latest product listings.

Harrington Hoists Announces New Board Members

Carlo A. Lonardi and Scott D. Miller join Harrington Board.

Epicor Introduces Enhanced Service and Maintenance Module for Distributors

Service dispatch enhances Prophet 21 ERP system.

Conney Safety acquires Mettam Safety Supply

Conney Safety Products announced that it has completed the purchase of Mettam Safety Supply Company of Danville, Ill.

RSC Opens New Branches in Portland and Fort McMurray

Branches serve metro Portland, OR and Alberta, Canada.

Ergodyne Partners with OutDry

Patented lamination process creates perfectly sealed, waterproof gloves.

CSDA Survey Finds Concrete Cutting and Drilling Market on Upswing

Nearly 50 percent of sawing and drilling contractors report increased productivity over last year.

Intercorp Dallas Branch Moves Into Larger Distribution Warehouse

Move increases Dallas branch inventory capacity.

Manufacturer Shipments, Inventories and Orders Advance in May

Durable goods new orders climb 2.1 percent; transportation equipment surges 6.3 percent. 

Big Iron Expands Services With Focus Auctions And Entry Into Two New Territories

Extends services into Minnesota and Illinois; hires new district managers.

Wacker Neuson Announces 2nd Technical Academy Class

Commercial/Industrial Concrete Flatwork Finisher Prep Course to be held September 12-13, 2011.

TrynEx International Moves to New Plant

Manufacturer of SweepEx moves into 130,000-square-foot facility in Madison Heights, Michigan.

U.S. Construction Still Soft in May

Private and public construction projects dip 1 to 2 percent from April.

Evergreen Elects New Board of Directors and Supplier Advisory Council

Craig LaRue, California Service Tool, named Chairman; Andy Jordan, Total Tool Supply named President.

Starborn Industries Celebrates 50 Years

New website combines company history and detailed product information.

Capital Safety Announces New President of Americas

Joe Reimer pegged to top post.

OSHA Tightens Homebuilder Safety Regs

Fall protection standards are tightening for homebuilders nationwide.

Pending Home Sales Rebound in May

Pending home sales rose strongly in May: all regions saw gains over 2010.

International Hardware Fair 2012 Ramps Up

World's largest tool show runs March 4-7, 2012 in Cologne, Germany.

Thomas & Betts Issues 2011 NEC Code Changes Guide

Free 156-page handbook is available in print, as a PDF or an eBook.

Simpson Strong-Tie Debuts Version 3.3 of DeckTools Software

Software allows users to design photo-realistic, 3D custom decks in real time.

Carhartt Picks Black Diamond Group as licensee for Carhartt-brand footwear

New Carhartt-branded footwear will be available in spring 2012.

ToolWatch Announces Cloud Platform

ToolWatch Enterprise customers can now access data and track tools from anywhere using cloud-based software.

E-Z-GO Promotes Collins to VP, Integrated Supply Chain

Textron division includes Cushman utility vehicles and E-Z-GO golf cart brands.

MSA wins 2011 Environmental Packaging of the Year Award

NRHA recognizes packaging for MSA Espresso Polarized Safety Glasses.

Powers Fasteners and Christy Associates join forces in Florida

Powers teams with prominent Florida rep agency to improve customer service.

Wind-lock Adds 1,000 Products to Drywall Tool Line

Wholesale distributor expands offering of top lines.

ELFA Survey Shows Eqiupment Finance Volume Up 30 Percent

May 2011 equipment finance rate trends up 30 percent year over year.

New Residential Sales Dip in May

Sales dip in May from April but rise 13.5 percent year over year.

Swanson Speed Bevel Named A Top Tool at Hardware Show

Wins Editor's Choice Award from Popular Mechanics.

Parex Adds to Marketing Team

Karine Galla and Heidi Larsen named product managers.

Ergodyne Announces 14th Annual 65 Roses Golf Classic

Charity outing July 18 will benefit Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Wells Fargo Releases Q2 Construction Quarterly Report

Equipment sales are up; Highway and street construction show signs of improving.

Atlanta-Based Companies Join Forces to Bring Help to Joplin

Delta Air Lines, The Home Depot, Chick-fil-A, Coca-Cola and Georgia-Pacific fly In volunteers and supplies.

China Begins Work on World's First Megalopolis

Mega city of 42 million is a harbinger of the future of cities on Earth.

DELTA Names Mark Strahler Director of Product Development

Previously was VP of Sales for DELTA.

Interline Brands Announces New Senior Vice President of Sales

John McDonald joins Interline from Service Brands International.

Residential Construction Jumps Ahead in May

Permits advance 8.7 percent; starts move up 3.5 percent.

Builders Break Ground on More Homes

Housing starts and permits both climb in May.

DeWalt throws down the gauntlet

Massive power and hand tool launch event puts the industry on notice.

PIP acquires Bouton brands

Protective Industrial Products Inc. (PIP) announced its acquisition of the Bouton brand and the Bouton safety glass and safety goggle business.

Intercorp Publishes New Catalog and Website

Website features improved user navigation and product information.

Epicor Hosts Webinar for Distributors

Dr. Bill McCleave to present June 23 webinar.

Keson Wins NRHA's Top Packaging Award for Long-Run Measuring Wheel

Tool manufacturer builds on momentum of revamped company brand image.

Hyde Tools Wins National Awards for Packaging and Merchandising

Hyde 14-in-1 multi-tool packaging and counter merchandiser takes NRHA award.

Construction Jobs Stall in May

Industry added just 2,000 jobs for the month.

DRONCO America LLC Established

U.S. and German abrasives manufacturers form new joint partnership to serve U.S. customers.

IDEAL Appoints Kellermann Vice President/General Manager

Will manage retail and industrial sales groups, SK Hand Tool and Western Forge divisions.

U.S. Construction runs flat in April

Industry continues to trend well below 2010 YTD rates.

LINE-X Launches Iceland Sweepstakes

Four Days, Zero Nights Sweepstakes grand prize is an adventure vacation for two to Reykjavik, Iceland.

Sonnhalter and DigiKnow Offer Free QR Code Webinar

Learn how to plan, create, measure and market QR codes.

DEWALT Carpentry and Framing Complete Handbook Now Available

Book contains more than 300 detailed illustrations on every facet of the framing process.

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