If 2024 was busy, 2025 is shaping up to be pivotal. The A2L refrigerant phasedown isn’t just a regulatory hurdle — it’s a moment for distributors to lead, ensuring their teams and customers are equipped to handle these changes safely and effectively.

At the same time, new executive orders from the Trump administration are introducing fresh opportunities and challenges, impacting everything from federal workforce policies to energy strategies. These shifts are shaping the road ahead for HVACR businesses. 

The good news? HARDI is ready to guide members through the complexity, offering timely resources, actionable insights and strong advocacy to help you navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.

Reflecting on the 2024 annual conference 

The 2024 annual conference showcased the strength of the HARDI community and its partnerships. Here are a few highlights:

Record attendance: 2,030 attendees joined us;

Wholesaler representation: More than 550 attendees from 181 wholesaler companies;

Innovative solutions: The Solution Center featured 65 providers;

Sold-out booth program: Every exhibitor space was filled;

Generous member support: 45 unique sponsors made the event a success.

These achievements are a testament to the energy and collaboration within our industry. Building on this momentum, HARDI is ready to support members in adapting, growing and leading through 2025.

HARDI also announced changes to its board of directors: Randy Roberts, representing Rheem Mfg., recently concluded his service, and Bryan Davenport of Trane Technologies has been nominated as the new OEM representative on the board. Additionally, Mike Gallagher resigned from his position at Rheem Air Distribution, allowing Ken Schreiber to step in to complete the term.

Advocacy in action: Staying ahead of regulatory challenges

Navigating regulatory shifts can feel daunting, but HARDI’s Advocacy team has your back.

Here are some recent developments:

A2L phasedown. HARDI helped secure clarity from the Department of Energy, ensuring that systems purchased before 2026 can still be used for repairs — a win for flexibility and business planning.

State-level advocacy. In New York, HARDI intervened to prevent a refrigerant shortage by advocating for an enforcement discretion provision.

Looking ahead, we’re gearing up for the Congressional Fly-In on May 19-20 in Washington, D.C. This annual event gives members a platform to connect directly with lawmakers, sharing real-world insights on the challenges and opportunities our industry faces.

Market intelligence: Insights you can act on

HARDI’s State of the Channel 2025 report is now available, providing an essential resource for anyone navigating the complexities of the HVACR industry. The report is available for purchase by members and nonmembers and offers in-depth analysis on the trends shaping our channel.

Key highlights include:

 Market outlooks: Projections for residential and nonresidential sectors;

Regulatory updates: Key insights into the HFC phasedown and the Inflation Reduction Act;

Performance metrics: Benchmarking data, regional distributor performance and channel share analysis;

Survey results: Feedback from suppliers and contractors through our Voice of the Supplier and Voice of the Contractor surveys.

New to this year’s report are expanded analyses of the commercial market, water heaters and refrigerant supply and demand. This isn’t just data — it’s your guide to making informed, strategic decisions for the year ahead.

Responding to talent development trends

The HVACR workforce is changing, and businesses are rethinking how they attract and retain top talent. HARDI has observed a growing need for:

Better onboarding programs that set employees up for long-term success;

Expanding and diversifying talent pools to keep pace with industry growth;

Sales teams who are technically skilled and well-versed in market trends and regulatory requirements.

HARDI is committed to addressing these challenges with resources that help you build a workforce ready for what’s next.

A look ahead

2025 is a year of big changes, but it’s also a year of exciting opportunities. HARDI members have always shown resilience, resourcefulness and leadership in navigating challenges, and this year will be no different.

With the right tools, insights and a strong community, HARDI members are uniquely positioned to adapt and thrive. We’re proud to stand alongside you, providing the support you need to lead the way in wholesale HVACR distribution.

Here’s to a year of growth, innovation and success — together, we’re ready for what’s next.