February 4, 2026
Electric Avenue — News Impacting Lighting Markets: February 2026
Supply chain snapshots, distribution center investments and key leadership transitions
Welcome to Electric Avenue, where each month we explore the intersections between the electrical industry and our beloved lighting industry.
With a focus on news, trends, and economic factors shaping the landscape of electrical distribution, construction, contracting, and manufacturing, Electric Avenue is your resource for staying informed of some of the more notable electrical industry events that may impact North American lighting markets.
Each month, Electric Avenue delivers important news on macro market conditions and changing business dynamics affecting commercial lighting projects and general lighting "stock & flow" distribution across North America.
February’s Electric Avenue highlights continued supply chain pressures, major distribution center investments, strategic acquisitions, and key leadership transitions across the electrical industry, alongside economic signals shaping the outlook for 2026.
Electrical Distributor News
Codale Opens Las Vegas Distribution Center
Codale, a Sonepar company, has consolidated three branches into a new central distribution center near the Las Vegas Strip, featuring the first U.S. AutoStore system in Sonepar’s network.
The Kardex-implemented automation enables Codale to efficiently serve high volumes of walk-in customers in a dense urban area—eliminating the need for a more remote facility.
Here's a video showcasing the new CDC » YouTube
Rexel Showcases Data-Driven Sustainability Strategy
In Rexel’s new Sustainability Shapers series, Maxime Jourdain, Director of GIGAMEDIA, highlights the vital role smart buildings play in improving energy efficiency and supporting the energy transition. With buildings accounting for 30% of global energy use, GIGAMEDIA’s data communication solutions—such as Power over Ethernet—are helping reduce emissions by enabling connected, automated systems that optimize energy use.
Jourdain also details GIGAMEDIA’s sustainability journey, including its GO4BLUE ESG program and EcoVadis Platinum certification. With growing demand for sustainable solutions, the company partners with suppliers and customers to deliver low-impact products, support carbon tracking, and embed environmental data into its offerings.
According to Rexel, smart building connectivity is accelerating decarbonization efforts.
World Electric Opens Regional Distribution Center in Greater Atlanta
World Electric, a Sonepar company, has opened a 155,000-square-foot regional distribution center in Suwanee, Georgia, enhancing service across the Southeast. The facility supports faster deliveries, specialized services, and project solutions for commercial and industrial customers, including solar and EV charging markets.
With offerings like prefabricated assemblies, Pro Logistic Services, and jobsite material management tools, the new RDC is designed to help contractors optimize labor and reduce project costs. The facility is managed by Bobby Minter and David Ramsey.
Wesco Ranked #10 on Fortune’s Inaugural AIQ50 List
Wesco International has been named to Fortune magazine’s inaugural AIQ50 list, ranking #10 among Fortune 500 companies leading in AI adoption. The list highlights organizations effectively using artificial intelligence to drive innovation, efficiency, and business value.
Recognized for scaling AI across the enterprise and fostering a strong culture of trust, Wesco’s inclusion reflects its focus on responsible AI governance and workforce development. The company continues to advance its digital transformation while keeping people at the center of its AI initiatives.
According to Wesco, the recognition underscores its enterprise-wide AI strategy.
Agent News
Eric DeMaio Promoted to Partner at Yanow, Inc.
Yanow, Inc. has promoted Eric DeMaio to Partner, expanding his leadership role within the company as he helps shape its strategic direction and growth initiatives. DeMaio, who has been with the firm for 13 years, will continue in his role as Sales Manager while taking on broader responsibilities as a Partner.
President Randy Pinkofsky praised DeMaio’s longstanding commitment to the company’s core values, highlighting his integrity, work ethic, and leadership. “When Eric and I first met 13 years ago, our initial conversation centered on his long-term goals,” said Pinkofsky. “We both thought his career path could lead him to someday become a principal.”
Thea Enterprises Acquires Estrin Zirkman Sales, Expanding NYC Lighting Reach
Thea Enterprises has acquired Estrin Zirkman Sales, a respected agency serving the New York City metro area since 1993. Estrin Zirkman, founded by Michael Estrin, represented approximately 20 lines including Kichler Lighting, Progress Lighting, and American Lighting. Known for its integrity and strong industry relationships, E-Z brings decades of experience to Thea’s growing portfolio. The acquisition strengthens Thea’s presence in the region and enhances its ability to support designers, contractors, dealers, and manufacturers with expanded lighting solutions and service capabilities.
According to Thea Enterprises, the acquisition expands its NYC metro reach.
Executive Moves
Eric Genoway Named President of North Coast
Sonepar has appointed Eric Genoway as President of North Coast, effective March 16, 2026. With 21 years at the company, Genoway brings deep experience and continuity, having advanced from driver to SVP of construction sales and operations.
He will succeed Cory McCulloch, who is retiring after more than 40 years. Genoway aims to build on North Coast’s legacy of growth and associate empowerment, continuing its focus on customer-centric service and market leadership across the Pacific Northwest.
United Electric Supply CEO George Vorwick to Retire After 47 Years
United Electric Supply has announced the retirement of CEO George Vorwick, effective May 1, 2026, after 47 years in the electrical industry. Vorwick, known for his integrity and leadership, served as CEO since 2009, driving growth through operational improvements and strategic acquisitions. He was also a committed industry advocate, earning NAED’s Arthur W. Hooper Award in 2024. Tony Buonocore, current President, will succeed him as CEO, reflecting United’s focus on leadership continuity and long-term stability.
Richelle Bishoff Named VP Industrial Solutions at Border States
Border States has appointed Richelle Bishoff as Vice President of Industrial Solutions, succeeding Shane Kerska ahead of his planned retirement on March 31, 2026. A 15-year employee-owner, Bishoff brings extensive experience in supply chain operations and customer-focused leadership, most recently serving as VP of Procurement. She will lead the company’s industrial strategy, focusing on growth and enhanced customer experience. Bishoff also serves as Deputy Chair of the Leadership Council and was recognized in tED Magazine’s 30 Under 35 Awards.
Gregory O'Brien Named SVP of Global Services at Wesco CSS
Wesco has appointed Gregory O'Brien as Senior Vice President of Global Services for its Communications & Security Solutions (CSS) business. O'Brien now leads a global team of over 1,000 sales and technical professionals delivering advisory, deployment, managed services, and supply chain solutions across key markets.
Charlie Hoertz Joins Border States as VP of Digital Transformation
Border States has appointed Charlie Hoertz as Vice President of Digital Transformation, a newly created role focused on advancing enterprise-wide technology, data, and process modernization. Hoertz brings over 15 years of global experience, including leadership roles in manufacturing, supply chain, and commercial functions. He will lead initiatives involving AI, automation, analytics, and IoT to enhance efficiency and customer experience. Hoertz holds degrees from Ohio State and LSU and teaches digital transformation at Ohio State’s Fisher College of Business.
Economic Factors
ABC Construction Backlog: Data Center Work Drives Backlog Gains for Large Contractors
According to Associated Builders and Contractors, the Construction Backlog Indicator inched up to 8.2 months in December, driven by continued momentum in the data center sector. While large contractors saw their highest backlog since 2021, smaller firms experienced their lowest in the same period.
“Backlog fell sharply for smaller contractors during 2025,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “That decline was largely due to the fact that nonresidential construction momentum is confined to the data center segment.” ABC’s confidence index also rose slightly but remains below year-ago levels.
According to Associated Builders and Contractors, backlog momentum remains uneven.
ABC Non-Resi Construction Spending: Nonresidential Construction Spending Flat as Manufacturing Slows
National nonresidential construction spending was essentially flat in October and declined 0.9% year over year, totaling $1.25 trillion on a seasonally adjusted annualized basis, according to an Associated Builders and Contractors analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data. Private nonresidential spending dipped 0.2%, while public spending edged up 0.1%.
“Nonresidential construction failed to gather momentum at the start of 2025’s third quarter,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu, citing a sharp drop in manufacturing investment as CHIPS Act megaprojects wind down. He noted data centers remain a key growth area, while contractor confidence points to improved conditions in early 2026.
According to Associated Builders and Contractors, spending remains uneven across sectors.
What We Are Reading
What We’re Listening To: EW Chats with Greg Knowles on Business, Books, and Lessons Learned
In the latest Electric Wholesaling podcast, industry veteran Greg Knowles shares insights from his new book, From Nothing to Next. Drawing on decades of experience—including founding ATI Electrical in 2005—Knowles offers practical strategies for distributors aiming to make smarter decisions and drive profitable growth. The conversation touches on lessons from ATI’s work on major Las Vegas projects like the MGM Sphere and T-Mobile Arena, offering listeners a thoughtful preview of the business advice covered in his book.
Listen to the podcast episode here »
Rexel’s Jordan Lomheim on AI, Data Centers, and the Future of Distribution
In part three of an exclusive interview with tED magazine, Rexel USA’s Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer Jordan Lomheim shares insights on the company’s expansion into data centers and AI. He highlights the strategic role of Talley in building a telecom platform and notes data centers as a major growth vertical, supported by Rexel’s supply chain, partnerships, and technical expertise.
Lomheim emphasizes AI’s potential to transform every role in electrical distribution, not by cutting costs, but by enabling smarter, faster customer engagement. He underscores the importance of change management, AI literacy, and scalability—key to navigating a rapid technology shift. “We’re in the early stages,” he says, “but AI adoption across this industry is going to accelerate rapidly.”
According to tED Magazine, AI will reshape distribution roles.
Five Key Construction Trends Set to Shape 2026
According to Construction Dive, contractors will need to stay focused on high-performing sectors like data centers and infrastructure in 2026, as broader construction activity shows signs of slowing. Data center demand remains strong, fueled by AI and cloud growth, though power constraints and labor shortages could limit new buildouts. Infrastructure, backed by remaining IIJA funds, is expected to hold steady—at least until potential reauthorization hurdles later in the year.
Material costs are projected to rise modestly, with tariffs and labor remaining top concerns. Meanwhile, interest rates are expected to ease, offering potential momentum for delayed manufacturing and residential projects. Experts say success in 2026 will depend on targeting resilient sectors and adapting to continued policy and supply chain uncertainty.
According to Construction Dive, adaptability will be critical.
DC Power Poised to Transform Building Infrastructure
Electrical Business reports that Cence Power co-founder Bolis Ibrahim presented a compelling case for direct current (DC) power during its “Rewiring the Future” session. He highlighted how Class 2 low-voltage DC systems can reduce installation complexity and improve energy efficiency, especially in commercial lighting retrofits.
Ibrahim also introduced Class 4 fault-managed power systems, capable of safely transmitting up to 450 VDC. As electrification and sustainability targets grow, DC distribution—centralized or decentralized—is emerging as a strategic solution for modern, energy-efficient buildings.
According to Electrical Business, DC systems are gaining traction.
Economic Factors
Border States Highlights Supply Chain Trends and 2026 Economic Outlook
Border States’ latest supply chain update notes continued resilience in global supply chains, despite volatility in transportation costs, labor markets, and raw material pricing. Elevated copper and aluminum prices, driven by demand from electrification and data centers, along with new tariffs, are adding pressure across construction, industrial, and utility sectors.
The U.S. economy is growing moderately, with interest rates expected to ease gradually in 2026. Border States remains focused on inventory investment, transparency, and close collaboration with customers to manage risks and navigate changing conditions.
Daily Copper Prices
Data source: Yahoo! Finance
Global Container Freight Rates
Above: Container rates from China to West Coast USA. Data source: Freightos
The FBX01 global ocean freight container pricing index tracks the cost of shipping 40-foot containers between major ports in China and East Asia and the West Coast of North America. This index, developed in partnership with the Baltic Exchange, includes key Chinese ports like Shanghai (PVG) and Ningbo (NGB), and U.S. ports such as Los Angeles (LAX) and Chicago (ORD).
FBX1 reflects what shippers typically pay on an all-in basis. Lower numbers often seen online are ocean-only quotes that exclude many real costs and may only be valid for a single sailing.
This trade route is a vital artery for global commerce, facilitating the movement of billions of dollars' worth of goods across the Pacific. Commonly shipped items on this route include electronics, clothing, furniture, toys, and machinery.
