By The Coffee Shops®.

From installation and fabrication to service calls, Malco HVAC Pro Kits keep essential tools organized and ready for fieldwork.

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning professionals need tools that match the work in front of them. Malco created the HVAC Pro Kits to bring together professional-grade tools for installation, service and fabrication, giving technicians several organized options based on their workflow and experience. The kits are available as a backpack or bucket.

For professionals who prefer a backpack, the Malco Exclusive Veto® TECH PAC line includes the Install Pro Kit, Install and Service Pro Kit and Ultimate HVAC Pro Kit. Each configuration builds on the last, allowing a professional focused primarily on installation or handling both installation and service to select an appropriate tool set.

The backpack kits include tools for common cutting, forming and fastening tasks. Depending on the selected kit, options include Max2000® left- and right-cut snips, a five-blade crimper, 13/16-inch notcher, 3-inch hand seamer, duct knife, hole cutter, duct stretcher and C-RHEX® flip bit. The larger configurations add tools such as TurboShear®, Gripped Andy Snips®, a scribe, hex drivers, a TurboCrimper®, flex duct cutter, duct ripper and magnetic torpedo level.

HVAC professionals can also choose between two bucket kits carried in Veto Pro Pac utility bags with cinch tops, vertical pockets and belt clips. The HVAC Snip and Driver Pro Bucket Kit supports cutting and fastening during service and retrofit calls. The HVAC Sheet Metal Pro Bucket Kit expands the selection for duct fabrication on installation and service jobs with tools such as a crimper, notcher, hand seamer and 16-foot magnetic tape measure.

Whether carried in a backpack or bucket, each kit is designed to keep durable tools organized for daily jobsite use.

Learn more about Malco HVAC Pro Kits and find your HVAC Pro Kit.

By The Coffee Shops®. 

Purpose-built cutting and bending tools allow crews to adapt to job-site conditions, address labor challenges and deliver consistent results. 

Metal contractors, fabricators and installers are being asked to accomplish more with fewer people while maintaining the craftsmanship building owners expect. In an upcoming MetalTalk™ episode on October 21 at 11 a.m. PT, Karol Weyman will sit down with Austin Cash, The Malco Group’s product development manager, to explore how smarter field fabrication can help crews increase productivity, improve quality and respond to ongoing labor challenges. 

Bringing fabrication capabilities to the job site 

On-site fabrication gives contractors greater flexibility when plans and actual field conditions do not align. Rather than relying entirely on shop-fabricated custom pieces, crews can produce the flashing, trim and finishing details they need at the job site. 

Field fabrication is particularly valuable when crews need to make precise modifications or create custom components. With the right tools available, installers can complete these details efficiently while maintaining the accuracy required for professional metal work. 

Increasing cutting speed while maintaining precision 

Consistent cutting is essential to reducing material waste and avoiding time-consuming rework. Clean edges also improve the fit and finish of completed assemblies, contributing to both installation quality and the final appearance of the project. Austin will discuss how drill-powered tools can help crews increase production speed while creating accurate, repeatable cuts.  

Improving profitability through field bending 

Field bending tools allow contractors to fabricate custom flashing and trim on-site, as needed. Producing pieces on demand can reduce trips to the shop and help crews complete critical details more quickly and accurately. 

Contractors looking to expand their field fabrication capabilities can explore metal benders that simplify custom work, as well as tool kits and seamers designed to support faster installations. 

Register now and save your spot at this MetalTalk™ webinar and learn how to level-up your worksite!

In this MetalTalk™ episode, Karol Weyman sits down with Austin Cash, The Malco Group’s product development manager, to explore how today's metal contractors, fabricators and installers can increase productivity, improve craftsmanship and reduce labor challenges through smarter field fabrication. From cutting standing seam panels to creating precise bends, hems and finishing details on-site, learn how purpose-built tools help crews work more efficiently while delivering the quality building owners expect.

Register today!

By The Coffee Shops®.

Learn how training, mentorship and industry engagement can help contractors recruit and develop the future workforce.

The future of metal roofing and construction depends on attracting skilled workers and helping them succeed from day one. In a recent MetalCast™ episode, host Karen Edwards sat down with Jon Olson of The Malco Group to discuss how contractors can play a direct role in developing the next generation of trade professionals.

According to Jon, the industry is experiencing a significant generational shift as experienced workers retire faster than new talent enters the workforce. At the same time, many young people have had fewer opportunities to develop hands-on skills before entering a trade career. As a result, training has become more important than ever. “Training in many ways is the industry solution to try and bridge that gap between ‘I'm just starting out’ and ‘I'm here and I'm a productive addition to the team,’” Jon emphasized.

Malco supports workforce development through several initiatives, including its Head of the Class program, participation in SkillsUSA competitions and classroom engagement through the Building Talent Foundation. Jon explained that these programs expose students to career opportunities while rewarding achievement and encouraging interest in the trades.

Training, however, goes beyond formal programs. Jon emphasized the importance of creating a "winning and learning" environment where both mentors and apprentices remain open to learning. He noted that contractors should avoid assuming new workers understand concepts that may seem basic to seasoned professionals and instead focus on meeting students where they are.

Technology also plays an important role in attracting younger workers. Jon shared that contractors who invest in modern tools, training resources and educational content demonstrate a commitment to employee success. Resources such as product videos, troubleshooting guides and hands-on demonstrations can help workers gain confidence while improving productivity on the jobsite.

When discussing recruitment, Jon encouraged contractors to become involved with organizations such as SkillsUSA, serve as judges at competitions, mentor students and provide jobsite exposure. He believes helping students understand the pride that comes from building their communities can be one of the industry's strongest recruiting tools. “Allowing these aspiring trade pros to understand how rewarding this can be in building their community is a key aspect of showing them the benefits of their labor,” he explained.

Ultimately, workforce development starts with engagement. By investing in training, apprenticeships and mentorship, contractors can help ensure a stronger future for metal roofing and construction.

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about recruiting and training the next generation of trade professionals.

Acquisition adds local expertise and capabilities in Brazil while creating new opportunities to serve customers across the Americas.

The Malco Group is expanding its presence in Latin America following Aspen Pumps Group's acquisition of Brazil-based Forming Tubing, an established manufacturer of tubular components for the refrigeration and air conditioning market. Forming Tubing will be managed by The Malco Group, Aspen Pumps Group's Americas headquarters and operating platform.

The acquisition advances The Malco Group's strategy to build a stronger HVACR platform across the Americas by adding established local expertise, customer relationships and manufacturing capabilities in Brazil. It also creates opportunities to expand the solutions available to customers and improve how The Malco Group reaches and serves trade professionals throughout Latin America.

"Forming Tubing gives The Malco Group an established presence in an important HVACR market and brings us closer to customers throughout the region," said Rich Benninghoff, CEO of The Malco Group. "The company has a strong business, deep market knowledge and trusted customer relationships. Together, we can build on those strengths and create new opportunities for both businesses across the Americas."

Forming Tubing will continue to operate in Brazil under its established brand and current leadership, maintaining the local expertise, customer relationships and commitment to quality and service that have built its reputation over more than three decades.

Over time, the partnership creates opportunities to expand Forming Tubing's reach while bringing more of The Malco Group and Aspen Pumps Group portfolio to customers in Brazil and across Latin America. Forming Tubing's local presence can also support more efficient regional logistics and greater product accessibility, beginning with Aspen Pumps products currently sold in the Brazilian market.

"This is about combining local strength with global reach," Benninghoff said. "Forming Tubing has built a strong business in Brazil, and our goal is to help accelerate its next stage of growth while creating a stronger platform to serve customers throughout the region."

About The Malco Group

The Malco Group is a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality HVACR and building construction products based in the Americas. With a focus on innovation, precision engineering and field-tested performance, The Malco Group powers the success of trade pros and businesses across the continent. Its portfolio includes ACE Chemical, Aspen Pumps, Beckett, Big Foot Systems, C&D Valve, HydroBalance, Malco Tools, Unilite and Veto Pro Pac. Follow The Malco Group on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest innovations and product launches, or visit malcogrp.com.

About Aspen Pumps Group

Aspen Pumps Group, headquartered in the United Kingdom, is a global leader in condensate removal pumps, tools and installation and maintenance accessories for the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) aftermarket. Aspen's innovative product offering is delivered through highly respected products and brands. Aspen has strong partnerships with a global network of wholesalers who value Aspen's service offering, continuous product innovation and extensive product range. The company is backed by Inflexion, a leading mid-market private equity firm with over £11bn assets under management. For more information about Aspen, visit www.aspenpumps.com.

By The Coffee Shops®.  

How direct collaboration with technicians and tradespeople influences product development. 

The success of Veto Pro Pac was built on solving one tradesperson's challenge, but according to founder Roger Brouard, the company's growth has depended on understanding the needs of many different trades. 

During an episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Roger described how customer feedback led the company beyond residential construction and into new industries. One of the most significant opportunities emerged during the 2008 recession when heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians began reaching out with a specific request. "They really liked our bags, but the pockets were not big enough to accommodate their meters," Roger explained. 

Rather than making assumptions, he immersed himself in their work. Roger connected with a local HVAC contractor, met with technicians, examined the bags they were currently using and spent weeks accompanying them on service calls. "I would go out and go on service calls with the heating and cooling techs and got to understand how they work," Roger said. 

The experience led to the development of an entirely new product line designed around the unique tools and workflows of HVAC professionals. It also established an approach that would later influence products for marine trades, electricians, plumbers and other specialized users. Karen noted the importance of that customer-focused mindset, saying, "Manufacturers that listen to the end user and take that feedback and integrate it into their products always seem to do very, very well." 

That philosophy continues with newer innovations such as the EVO platform, which allows users to customize and adapt tool organization systems for different jobsite conditions. Roger said the goal was to create a system that provides "much more customization and adaptability for guys working in the field so they can work smarter and more efficiently." 

Looking back, Roger believes one key factor separates the company from many competitors. "Most of these bags have been designed by designers who never seriously swung a hammer in their life," he said. 

For contractors and technicians, that connection to real-world experience remains at the heart of the brand's appeal. Products developed alongside end users are often better equipped to support the demands of the trades they serve. 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about tool organization and storage solutions. 

By The Coffee Shops®. 

Contractor support starts with workforce development and practical jobsite solutions. 

Labor shortages continue to challenge contractors across roofing, metal construction and other skilled trades. According to Rich Benninghoff, CEO of The Malco Group, manufacturers have an important role to play in helping contractors work more efficiently while also supporting the industry's future workforce. 

Speaking with Karen Edwards on a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Rich explained that workforce capacity remains one of the biggest issues facing contractors today. He pointed to retirements and competition for skilled labor as factors reducing the number of available workers while demand for projects continues to grow. "There are less people to do more work," Rich pointed out. 

As crews become harder to staff, manufacturers are increasingly focused on helping contractors maximize efficiency. Rich said Malco concentrates on solutions that “improve time, quality, rework" and other factors that can help crews accomplish more with fewer people on the job. 

Addressing workforce shortages also means helping attract and develop the next generation. Rich highlighted the company's longstanding support of industry education initiatives such as SkillsUSA and Head of the Class. "We wanted to have our brand name Malco to be synonymous with help supporting solutions and quality," Rich said. 

Programs like The Malco Group’s Head of the Class allow instructors to recognize outstanding students, while SkillsUSA provides opportunities for contractors and manufacturers to connect with future tradespeople. Rich said these initiatives help establish trust early in a worker's career and reinforce Malco's commitment to training, support and professional development. 

By maintaining a presence in schools, trade programs and industry events, The Malco Group aims to support workers from their first experience with tools through the entirety of their careers. Swing by Booth1376 at METALCON to get a look at the Malco Groups’ latest innovations in making jobsites more efficient.  

As labor challenges continue, partnerships between manufacturers, educators and contractors may prove increasingly important for sustaining the industry's workforce pipeline. 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about workforce development and contractor support. 

By The Coffee Shops®.

Make sure these sessions and exhibitors are on your METALCON short list.

METALCON is just around the corner happening October 7-9 in Orlando, Florida! With over 60 education sessions and 250 exhibitors, it’s important for attendees to plan their schedules carefully. From new products and services to innovative solutions, you won’t want to miss the chance to talk to these Coffee Shop partners: Carlise Architechtural Metals, Central States Manufacturing, Malco, Roof Huger, Van Mark, ATAS International, Inc., Metal Construction Association (MCA), Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings and more! Don’t forget to stop by booth 408 to meet the MetalCoffeeShop team!

Featuring an impressive lineup of industry experts and motivational speakers, the METALCON headline sessions just scratch the surface of the learning opportunities.

Keynote: nothing Can Stop You

Former Major League Baseball pitcher Jim Abbott shares his remarkable journey from Flint, Michigan, to throwing a no-hitter at Yankee Stadium. Born without a right hand, Jim developed creative ways to pursue his goals while learning the importance of accountability and trust. His inspiring keynote explores how mindset can transform adversity into personal growth, helping attendees recognize their own challenges as opportunities to build resilience, adapt and celebrate the experiences that shape who they are.

Register today!

Keynote: Building Through Uncertainty: A Market Outlook for the Construction and Design Industries

What economic forces will shape construction and design during the next 12 months? Former American Institute of Architects Chief Economist Kermit Baker examines the indicators influencing project activity, sector growth and client priorities. Attendees will gain a data-driven view of shifting pipelines, regional market differences and emerging opportunities. The session provides a forward-looking framework to help industry professionals anticipate risks, align business planning with changing conditions and make informed decisions in an uncertain market.

Register today!

Industry Outlook: Metal Construction Code Updates: What’s Changed and What it Means

Code changes can lead to permit delays, redesigns and compliance gaps when they are missed or misunderstood. Industry experts Bill Beals, Paul Deffenbaugh and Bob Zabcik will break down significant recent and upcoming updates affecting metal construction. Covering design, specifications, fabrication and installation, the session will help attendees understand current compliance requirements, distinguish the roles of standards organizations and prepare for emerging trends that could influence future projects and business decisions.

Register today!

Industry Outlook: 2027 the Future of Metal Construction

Industry leaders examine the economic, regulatory, material and jobsite forces expected to shape metal construction through 2027. Panelists Kermit Baker, Jeff Henry, Vincent Sagan and Benton Trotter will connect current market realities with the challenges and opportunities ahead. Attendees will explore how supply conditions, evolving codes and construction pressures are influencing project costs, delivery methods and building practices, gaining practical insights for managing risk and positioning their businesses for the next 12 months.

Register today!

The formal sessions are just one way to learn. Attendees will also enjoy a massive exhibition hall where they can network and learn from each other. Make sure our MetalCoffeeShop booth 408 is on your list too!

While you’re in the hall, don’t miss our Coffee Shops partners including: Western States Metal Roofing, BITEC, Franklin International, Giddy Up, H.B. Fuller / GSSI, Latinos en Roofing, MARCO Industries, Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA), McElroy Metal, MetalForming Inc., MFM Building Products, RoofScope and more!

Don’t miss the metal event of the year! Register for METALCON and use code 30MCS for $30 off passes!

HVAC professionals need tools that can keep up with the demands of the jobsite. Malco Tools’ HVAC Pro Kits bring together essential, professional-grade tools organized by application and packed in a premium Veto TECH PAC backpack for convenient, durable organization on the go. With three options available, HVAC pros can choose the kit that fits their work, from the Install Kit to the Install & Service Kit or the Ultimate Pro Kit for maximum productivity.

Each kit is designed to help keep the tools you need organized, accessible and ready for the next job, making it easier to spend less time searching through your tool bag and more time getting the work done.

• Install Kit: Essential tools for HVAC installation professionals
• Install & Service Kit: A broader selection for installation and service work
• Ultimate Pro Kit: A comprehensive setup designed for maximum productivity
• Premium organization: Each kit comes packed in a durable Veto TECH PAC backpack
• Application-focused: Tools are selected around the needs of HVAC trade professionals

Explore the HVAC Pro Kits from Malco Tools and find the setup built for your work.

MCS Influencer Jon Olson says when customers understand the long-term value behind the investment of a metal roof, price becomes just one part of the conversation.

Selling metal roofing comes with its challenges — especially when upfront cost is part of the conversation. But price is only one piece of the story. Helping building owners understand the long-term value of metal roofing, from durability and lower lifecycle costs to energy efficiency and sustainability, can turn hesitation into confidence. Here are a few key selling points that can help you make the case and close more metal roofing sales.

When reviewing the costs of metal roofing solutions with customers, it often helps to lay out the longevity differences between asphalt and metal roofs so the total cost can be compared. While conventional asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 30 years, metal roofing systems can last for 40 to 70 years, or more — delivering two to three times the service life. This extended durability reduces replacement costs, minimizes material waste and lowers the environmental impact associated with repeated roof replacement cycles.

Other costs to consider when comparing metal roofing to asphalt shingles are:

• Insurance - In many states the cost to insure a metal roof is lower than an asphalt shingle roof. Work with local insurance agents to understand the typical savings in your area so you can provide customers with ballpark savings. 
• Utilities - An often-overlooked benefit of metal roofing is that many of the coatings on metal roofs are reflective, reducing the heat absorbed by the sun, making it easier and more cost effective to cool the building in the summer.  
• Maintenance - Metal is generally low maintenance. Metal roofing is easy to clean with mild soap and water. This means roofs can typically be cleaned with household products, decreasing the environmental impact of maintaining the roof. 

Once customers understand the financial differences, lean into environmental benefits. Metal roofing is one of the most sustainable roofing materials available, containing typically 25% or more recycled content and is 100% recyclable at the end of its service life. Recycling metal roofs helps reduce landfill waste and support a circular economy. In contrast less than 10% of asphalt roofing waste is recycled in the United States. 

Furthermore, building owners are finding that pairing solar panels with metal roofs helps reduce the long-term cost of the solar panels as the roof does not need to be replaced mid service life of the solar panels. This drives the cost of ownership for solar panels down and in turn increases sustainability.    

Metal roofing has a strong story to tell. When customers understand the long-term value behind the investment, price becomes just one part of the conversation. Using these key talking points to help tell that story can build confidence and close more metal roofing sales.