As the PHCP-PVF industry heads into 2026, distributors are facing familiar pressures with new intensity: labor shortages, retirements, rising customer expectations, and the need to move faster with fewer resources. According to recent American Supply Association research, nearly three-quarters of companies are already experimenting with AI, moving well beyond simple tools and into forecasting, sales support, and process automation. What was once optional is quickly becoming foundational as businesses look for ways to preserve institutional knowledge, improve accuracy, and maintain service levels amid ongoing workforce transitions.

Looking ahead, AI adoption will be defined by human-AI collaboration rather than replacement. From capturing the expertise of retiring employees to meeting Gen Z’s expectations for intuitive workplace technology, distributors that invest in both their people and their systems will gain a clear edge. The most successful organizations will focus on “human-in-the-loop” strategies where AI handles repetitive, error-prone tasks while employees focus on judgment, relationships, and high-value work. In 2026, speed, accuracy, and adaptability won’t be nice-to-haves—they’ll be the standard for staying competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
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