We move forward, together.

Who We Are

Sphere 1 Cooperative is a member-owned network of independent construction distributors built to protect independence in an increasingly consolidated market.

We exist to strengthen locally owned distributors through disciplined supplier partnerships, shared expertise, and cooperative governance without sacrificing autonomy or identity.

Sphere 1 is not a volume-first buying group. It is a long-term partnership model designed for distributors and suppliers who believe market knowledge, trust, and brand stewardship still matter.

In a landscape defined by pressure and consolidation, Sphere 1 offers a different path forward.

Our Mission

Sphere 1 Cooperative exists for one simple reason: to protect and strengthen independent distributors in a rapidly consolidating construction supply market.

As large national buying groups and vertically integrated players push for scale at the expense of independence, Sphere 1 was intentionally built as a member-owned, member-governed cooperative that prioritizes long-term partnership, market expertise, and sustainable growth- not short-term volume grabs.

We believe independence is not a weakness. When supported correctly, it is a competitive advantage

What Makes Us Different

1. True Cooperative Structure

Sphere 1 is not owned by private equity, manufacturers, or outside interests. It is owned by its members.

This means:

  • Decisions are made with members, not imposed on them
  • Strategy is driven by long-term health, not short-term leverage
  • Growth is intentional, not opportunistic

When you join Sphere 1, you are not joining a program, you are joining a cooperative and community.

2. Selective, Values-Driven Membership

Sphere 1 is not for everyone – by design.

We are selective about who we invite into the cooperative because our strength comes from trust, alignment, and mutual respect. Members are evaluated on:

  • Market expertise
  • Operational discipline
  • Commitment to partnership
  • Reputation with suppliers and customers

This selectivity protects existing members and preserves the integrity of the cooperative.

3. Supplier Partnerships

Sphere 1 works with a curated group of strategic supplier partners who value:

  • Market education over price dumping
  • Brand stewardship over short-term volume
  • Long-term relationships over transactional leverage

Our distributors do more than move product. They seed new products into the market, train end users, protect brand equity, and create lasting demand.

That is why suppliers partner with Sphere 1 – and stay.

For Suppliers: A Different Type of Partnership

Sphere 1 is intentionally built for suppliers who value long-term brand health over short-term volume spikes.

Our supplier partners are not looking for broad-line exposure at any cost. They are looking for disciplined, knowledgeable distributors who understand their products, protect pricing integrity, and invest in market education.

What Suppliers Gain Through Sphere 1

Market Expertise, Not Just Access

Sphere 1 distributors are specialists. They know their categories, their customers, and their applications. Products are sold with context, training, and credibility – not just a part number.

Brand Stewardship at the Local Level

Our members actively protect supplier brands by educating end users, seeding new products thoughtfully, and avoiding destructive price erosion.

Intentional Rollouts and Product Launches

Sphere 1 distributors help suppliers introduce new products the right way through training, demos, and feedback loops that improve adoption and execution.

A Cooperative Partner, Not a Price-Driven Aggregator

Sphere 1 does not leverage volume to force misaligned programs. Supplier relationships are built collaboratively, with clear expectations, mutual accountability, and shared long-term goals.

Our History

Sphere 1 was created when an industry veteran approached Carol Shackelford about starting a new cooperative. With seven founding members and ten preferred suppliers, Sphere 1 was launched in October 1999.

Charter Members

  • Allied Fastener & Tool
  • B & W Supply
  • Brinker-Brown Fastener & Supply
  • Builders Equipment
  • Carlson Systems
  • Cornerstone Tool & Fastener
  • Hahn Systems
  • Kentec
  • Kwik-Set Fasteners
  • Lynwood Building Materials
  • Northbrook Contractor Supply
  • Numax
  • Puckett Tools & Fasteners
  • Railway Distributing
  • Rainbow Fasteners
  • Triangle Fastener Corporation

Charter Suppliers

  • American Insulated Wire
  • Compass International
  • DeWalt Industrial Tool
  • Ferguson Specialties
  • FlexOvit USA
  • ITW Buildex
  • ITW Ramset
  • Milwaukee Electric Tool
  • Powers Fasteners
  • Trimble Navigation
  • Werner Ladder

1999

Sphere 1 Was Created by 8 Founders

2000

1st Annual Sphere 1 Meeting

2008

Gateway for Growth Launched

2009

Sphere 1 University Created

Explore Partnership with Sphere 1

Sphere 1 grows intentionally and selectively.

We partner with independent distributors and suppliers who share our belief in long-term thinking, disciplined execution, and cooperative accountability. Membership and partnership are not automatic — they are earned through alignment, trust, and shared values.

If you believe independence is worth protecting, and that markets are built through expertise rather than pressure, we invite you to explore a conversation.

Email Vice President Drew Hoyer at DrewH@Sphere1net.com.