Last month’s cover story by Gary Druckenmiller spoke to the virtually untapped potential of the hvac business-to-business market. This month, we can report on a new major player attempting to fill that void. The new eCaribou.com is the first electronic supply chain management business for the $150-plus billion hvacr industry.

By directly linking buyers and manufacturers, the site aims to create the first efficient marketplace for the 40,000 U.S. service companies and over 7 million commercial properties to purchase equipment, parts, goods, and services online. The company’s goal is to become the leading online destination to integrate hvacr industry e-commerce, content, and community by bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers.

In addition, the site contains discussion groups, plus informational databases to share industry information, operational ideas, equipment analysis, and repair management procedures.

The site offers a no-cost membership designed to help members purchase equipment and services while reducing duplication and processing of their current paper-based purchasing systems. Beyond that, the website will offer users the means to “personalize” their own experiences with options such as free e-mail, search engines, yellow pages, and even news, weather, and sports.