Reaching New Heights At The LMC Annual In Chicago
Few sentiments rang truer than “unity is strength” at the recent LMC Annual Meeting in Chicago. Hundreds of LMC dealers, suppliers and the LMC team spent three days together building upon the trust and quality that defines the co-op. As LMC’s largest event of the year, the Annual proved highly successful, equipping LMC dealers with education sessions, exclusive savings and lasting partnerships. In addition to measurable savings, dealers gained insights that exemplify the value of being part of LMC.
Learning That Drives Results
Dealers participated in more than 20 unique education sessions led by industry professionals, the LMC team, and fellow dealers. From in-depth tutorials to panel discussions, each session offered practical strategies to improve key areas of their businesses. Education sessions offered dealers experiences beyond the ordinary, including the standout “Kitchen & Bath Training Event.” Curated by LMC’s Kitchen & Bath department, this exclusive off-site training immersed designers in hands-on experiences with the latest trends, products and innovations at Chicago’s historic “The MART.”
Other standout sessions included “Marketing = ROI,” dealer marketing leaders highlighted how strategic marketing fuels growth and brand visibility. “Powering Dealer Success through Technology Innovation,” led by LMC’s Director of Technology Innovation, explored how tools and data-driven strategies are driving smarter operations across the LMC network.
Aptly featured during Women’s History Month, “Women Building the Future: Voices from the Industry,” brought together female leaders from across the industry to share practical advice, lessons learned and strategies for advancing women at every stage of their careers. The day concluded with the Welcome Reception on the show floor, offering attendees the opportunity to connect and set the stage for a productive day to follow.
Hitting the Ground Running
Paul Ryan, LMC’s President and CEO, opened Day 2 of the Annual with an update address covering LMC’s performance and key initiatives. Zuern Building Products was named 2025 ProDealer of the Year. Red River Lumber and Peter Lumber were recognized for being LBM Journal’s Dealer of Year for 2026. 100 LMC dealers celebrated 100 years or more in business.
Following Ryan was Keynote Speaker Ryan Manion, CEO of the Travis Manion Foundation, a nationally recognized advocate for veterans and families of the fallen servicemen and women. Manion shared her powerful message of service, resilience, and leadership.
The show floor greeted by more than 300 suppliers alongside the LMC team.
Also, an Annual staple, the New Products Area drew crowds throughout the day. Dealers explored the display to browse more than 150 entries and products submitted by suppliers showcasing the latest innovations and advancements in the industry.
The LMC Department booths served as a resource, with directors, traders, buyers, and more on hand to educate dealers on everything LMC has to offer and how to leverage their programs and grow their business. It also highlights one of the best parts of any LMC event: the opportunity for dealers to connect face to face with the team they work with day to day.
As the day concluded, the Annual transitioned to the evening event at Chicago’s iconic House of Blues. Dealers, suppliers, and Team LMC came together to celebrate the day’s connections, enjoying a live performance by Sixteen Candles.
Finishing Strong
On the final day of the LMC Annual, dealers made their way to the New Products Area to see which products would make it to the top three. Ekena Millwork’s Faux Iron Industrial Millwork won first place, Huber Engineered Woods’ ZIP System Multi-Purpose Tape took second place, and third went to Milwaukee’s M18 HOTSHOT Jump Starter.
LMC is the leading and longest-standing Forest Products and Building Materials Buying Group in the U.S., serving 1900 independent lumber and building material locations since 1935. In addition to its core dealer base, they’ve long supported component manufacturers and have expanded to serve millwork shops, gypsum specialists, commercial packaging companies, and post-frame building manufacturers.
The next LMC Annual will take place in Tampa, FL, from March 23–25, 2027, setting the stage for another year of growth and innovation. We hope to see you there!
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