How would you assess the state of the roofing industry in 2026?

RT: In 2026, we believe the industry will remain similar to 2025. Reroofing is still the backbone of demand, keeping contractors busy even when new builds slow down. Sustainability is taking center stage, with cool roofs, solar options and storm-ready materials increasing in popularity. Material costs and labor shortages remain challenges for the industry, and we’re focused on making it easier for contractors to navigate them with our expanding tech tools and dedicated teams. Ultimately, businesses that adapt with and embrace new technology, products and trends will lead the way, and we’ll be there to help them do it.

Do you share contractors’ optimism about sales growth in 2026?

RT: Absolutely. We’re seeing strong demand across both residential and commercial roofing, and that’s not slowing down anytime soon. Roofs are essential, so even with some economic uncertainty, the fundamentals of our industry are solid. Contractors are also leaning into technology and efficiency, which gives us confidence in their ability to grow.

What economic factors will play the biggest role in a roofing contractor’s success in the coming year?

RT: Contractors are facing numerous challenges, and they vary by company. Skilled crews are hard to find, and that impacts timelines and costs. Material pricing and inflation will continue to influence margins, even if things have stabilized compared to the past couple of years. Insurance costs and interest rates are also factors, especially for homeowners financing big projects. Contractors who build strong supplier relationships and use technology to streamline operations will be in the best position to succeed in the coming year.

ABC Supply recently announced organizational changes, including the addition of a sixth regional territory and new leadership. How do those moves better position the company for success going forward?

RT: At ABC Supply, everything we do starts with our customers. Adding a sixth region and new leadership means we can deliver even more personalized support across North America. These changes help us stay closer to contractors’ businesses, understand the unique challenges in each region and respond quickly with the right solutions. It’s about strengthening relationships, being more agile and making sure contractors have dedicated teams backing them up.

Were there any trends that developed in 2025 that you will be continuing to monitor in the first half of the coming year?

RT: Technology continues to evolve, and ABC Supply is leading the charge with investments that our customers are asking for. To meet their needs, we’ve grown our tech stack and are rapidly adding more Connect partners so contractors can manage jobs within the platforms of their choice. Today, ABC Supply connects with popular tools like Hover, Roofr, ServiceTitan, EagleView, AccuLynx and JobNimbus through myABCSupply and our API. This push for easier integrations and connected systems is something we’ll keep focusing on next year, as it helps contractors save time and keep projects running smoothly.

What impact did tariffs have on your material supply and costs?

RT: Tariffs added another layer of complexity to an already volatile market. While ABC Supply’s scale and strong supplier relationships helped us minimize disruptions, tariffs did contribute to upward pricing pressure in certain product categories. Our national reach and local branch network allowed us to pivot quickly, source alternatives when needed and keep contractors informed so they could plan ahead. The biggest impact wasn’t just cost; it was uncertainty, and that’s where proactive communication made the difference.

How did you handle price increases, or fears over price increases and material shortages?

RT: Our strategy centered on transparency, flexibility and partnership. We communicated early and often with contractors about market conditions, helping them anticipate changes and adjust pricing strategies. On our end, we leveraged ABC Supply’s size and supplier relationships to secure inventory and offer alternatives when certain materials were impacted. Ultimately, our goal was to give contractors confidence that they weren’t navigating these challenges alone.

What are the biggest concerns moving forward?

RT: Labor shortages and material volatility remain top concerns. Weather-related disruptions and regulatory changes also add complexity. But with strong partnerships and a focus on innovation, we believe contractors can navigate these challenges, and as mentioned before, we’re committed to helping them do just that.

What’s keeping you up?

RT: The biggest thing on our minds is staying ahead of the challenges contractors face, from labor shortages to economic uncertainty and the need for efficiency. We’re focused on making sure they have the products, tech and support to make their jobs easier, keep projects moving and grow their businesses.

How is your company/organization responding to the growing consolidation and private equity involvement in the roofing industry?

RT: Consolidation is changing the landscape, but our approach hasn’t changed: We’re here to help contractors succeed, no matter their size or ownership structure. Whether you’re an independent business or part of a larger group, you’ll get the same level of service, product availability and support from us. Our scale and distribution network allow us to adapt quickly and keep delivering value in a market that’s evolving.

What are you proudest of about your organization as 2026 begins?

RT: We’re proud of how our teams continue to deliver for customers, no matter what the market throws at them. This past year, we’ve expanded training programs, improved technology tools and strengthened our distribution network all with one goal: helping contractors succeed. Seeing that commitment in action every day is what makes us proud heading into the new year.