Rosemont, IL – November 14, 2025 – Independent Suppliers Group (ISG) hosted its annual Industry Week '25 in Denver, drawing nearly 1,000 attendees and over 120 exhibitors. The three-day event brought together ISG members, suppliers, and industry partners for impactful networking, educational seminars, and a focus on this year’s theme:
Independent Powered.
The week began with the City of Hope Giveback Games, an evening of friendly competition, connection, and meaningful impact. Wednesday’s General Session offered a dynamic look at the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the independent distribution channel. ISG President and CEO James Rodgers emphasized the power of the independent, celebrating a sold-out tradeshow, strong member performance, and the introduction of a new framework to help dealers navigate disruption, strengthen partnerships, and drive transformation in a rapidly changing business environment. He also unveiled the
Independent Powered theme, underscoring the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience that defines independent distribution.
The HON Company’s Jacey Putlak shared how HON supports dealers in building capabilities, followed by OPI CEO Steve Hilleard, who led a discussion with forward-thinking ISG members on succeeding in today’s market. Greg Welchans, President & CMO of Distribution Management, highlighted DM’s Imaging support, product breadth, and U.S. delivery model. As the 2026 NBPI City of Hope Spirit of Life Honoree, Welchans also delivered a moving message on the importance of continuing the industry’s support of City of Hope’s mission.
The session continued with remarks from Paul McKinney, ISG Chairman of the Board and CFO & COO of Eakes Office Solutions, along with special recognitions for Board Members Jordan Kudler of Legacy Workplace Solutions and Kevin Johnson of Warehouse Direct. Keynote speaker Dr. Dhamu Thamodaran, retired Executive Vice President from Smithfield Foods, discussed strategies for navigating today’s volatile, uncertain business environments. The morning concluded with the ISG Member and Supplier Awards, the prestigious NAOPA ceremony, and the reveal of Industry Week ’26, set for the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center in San Diego, November 1–5, 2026.
Educational seminars throughout the day covered topics including AI, wholesale trends, and sales strategies, while evening events such as the Office Products Women in Leadership Reception, NEXT Young Leaders Mixer, and “On Mountain Time” Welcome Reception sponsored by ACCO Brands fostered deeper connections.
The final day opened with peer-to-peer exchanges where independent dealers and distributors connected, shared experiences, and sparked thoughtful conversations. The energy then carried into the Industry Week ’25 Tradeshow, where ISG Members explored new products, services, and exclusive show specials from more than 120 supplier partners driving innovation and growth across the channel. The week concluded with engaging breakout sessions and wrapped up with the Whiteout Wonderland Party, sponsored by HON, ending on a high note with the “Rocky Mountain Riches” contest that awarded $3,000 in prizes.
“As an industry veteran of 34 years, and with all the dynamics in play in our industry at this time, the recent ISG Industry Week conference and trade show in beautiful Colorado, could not have come at a better time. Collaborating with fellow dealers, suppliers, SP Richards, and system providers greatly helped me to better understand these dynamics and pivot my business accordingly!” said Sandy Grodin, Owner, El Paso Office.
“This was the best show I have attended in several years. I felt we had much more traffic this year. With lots of changes in the industry, this event gives suppliers and ISG members a great chance to catch up and create synergies for the coming year.” said John Purcell, Sales Director, Domtar-New Receiptco.
ISG looks forward to welcoming members, suppliers, and partners to Industry Week ’26 at the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, November 1–5, 2026.
About the Independent Suppliers Group
Founded in 1977, Independent Suppliers Group is a leading global organization providing sales, marketing support, and purchasing power for the community-based independent business products dealer. The organization’s members are located throughout the U.S. and in 6 foreign countries. Collectively, Independent Suppliers Group members produce $8.4 billion in end-user sales. For more information, contact Independent Suppliers Group headquarters (Phone: 847-699-3330); or visit the Independent Suppliers Group website at
www.isg.coop.
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