NetPlus Members Forecast Successful 2026
A majority of NetPlus Alliance members are forecasting a positive outlook of increased sales in 2026.
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The Industry Outlook, a quarterly report based on a survey of NetPlus members completed in January 2026, shows that members are looking forward to increased sales in 2026 and implementation of strategies to enhance profitability.
An overwhelming majority of distributors, 81% of survey participants, said they expect sales to be up 3% or more this year. Of those, 30% expect to be up 8% or more, while 16% anticipate 2026 sales to be steady with 2025.
According to the report, just under 2% of NetPlus members are anticipating a more challenging year, with sales dropping by 3% or more. One member offered a forecast of a decline of over 8% or more in 2026.
“NetPlus distributor members continue to demonstrate their commitment to strategic growth with our supplier partners year over year,” said Jennifer Murphy, president & CEO of NetPlus Alliance. “I’m looking forward to supporting our members as they reach the incredible heights they’re forecasting for 2026, now equipped with tools like our updated group benchmarking figures.”
The NetPlus Alliance Industry Outlook survey includes a series of questions designed to provide NetPlus members with benchmarking data related to gross margin, operating expenses, net profit before tax, inventory turnover, average collection period, and sales per employee.
Overall, members reported a generally positive conclusion to 2025.
Purchases from NetPlus suppliers and wholesalers were up 8% in the fourth quarter and 9.4% for the year, exceeding $600 million in total.
Compared to the fourth quarter of 2024, 25% of surveyed members indicated sales were up 3 to 7%, while another 38% suggested increases of 8% or more.
Another 2% of respondents reported sales being within 2% of 2024. Just under 12% of responses offered a negative view of 2025, citing sales numbers that were down by 3% or more.
To kick off the first quarter, NetPlus members shared steps they’re taking to improve their profitability this year.
In addition to tried-and-true efforts such as hiring more salespeople, building on existing business, adding customers, expanding into new categories and/or geographic areas, etc., some members shared more creative strategies like incorporating thoughtful and robust college internship programs and increased digital self-service options for customers.
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