BREA, Calif. — Controls Group North America (CGNA) — a member-owned organization of wholesale distributors and vendor partners representing various industries, including HVAC, controls, building automation, refrigeration, combustion/burner boiler, industrial, and equipment — celebrated its 40th anniversary via a conference in Huntington Beach, California. The event served as a celebration and an opportunity to reconnect with members, share best practices, discuss industry-related topics, talk to industry experts, and take away information to improve and expand their already successful businesses.

The organization has endured significant changes over the last 40 years. Despite these changes, the foundation and backbone of the organization and its members have remained steadfast. CGNA distributors have maintained their philosophy and commitment to two-step distribution, customers, and employees. 

One of the most significant value propositions of CGNA is its shared inventory technology platform, which allows members to buy and sell inventory to each other. This platform enables a small, one-location members to access 250-plus warehouses and a member specializing in refrigeration to supply a commercial thermostat to their contractor customer. Such transactions require peer-to-peer relationships.

“CGNA's story is a unique one, and it demonstrates the importance of relationships in business and life,” said Sarah Monteleone, president, CGNA. “CGNA is more than just a group of controls distributors and manufacturers; it's a group of like-minded individuals working toward a common goal of excellence in the industry. Our passion for what we do and the relationships we form within the organization set us apart and enable us to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and industry trends.”