A Legacy of Independence in Metalworking Distribution
As PM Industrial Supply approaches its 70th anniversary, this Los Angeles-based metalworking distributor stands as a testament to family-owned business resilience. While many regional distributors have succumbed to industry consolidation pressures, the Gerin family has successfully transitioned leadership to the third generation—a rarity in today’s distribution landscape.
The Family Business Evolution
Zack and Jason Gerin recently assumed control of the Southern California operation, continuing a tradition that began with their grandfather. Both brothers grew up working alongside their father, developing a deep connection to the business that would shape their career paths. “The more involved I became, the more I realized this was something I wanted to continue being part of,” explained Jason Gerin, who serves as warehouse supervisor.
The company’s origins trace back to New York in the 1950s, when founder Mark Gerin transitioned from sales representation to establishing his own small warehouse operation in Brooklyn. According to his son Barry, now company chairman, Mark had long harbored ambitions of moving westward. “He always wanted to come to California,” Barry recalled, noting the family’s eventual relocation to Los Angeles in 1969.
Navigating Modern Distribution Challenges
Today, PM Industrial Supply operates from its Chatsworth location, serving metalworking companies throughout Southern California with cutting tools, coolants, and machine shop supplies. The company has grown significantly from its humble beginnings, now employing over 30 staff members and maintaining extensive inventory.
However, the distribution environment has transformed dramatically. President Zack Gerin acknowledges increased competitive pressures: “Ten or fifteen years ago, we enjoyed more exclusive relationships with suppliers. As industry consolidation accelerated, maintaining that exclusivity became increasingly challenging.”
Despite these market shifts, the Gerin family maintains that independence provides distinct advantages. As one industry publication recently highlighted in their coverage of this leadership transition, remaining independent allows for greater flexibility and personalized customer service that larger competitors often struggle to match.
Building for the Future
The current leadership team emphasizes their commitment to sustaining the business for potential fourth-generation involvement. While the company has evolved significantly from its origins—described by former executives as “unrecognizable” compared to its early days—the core values of family ownership and customer focus remain central to PM Industrial’s identity.
The Gerin brothers recognize that competing as an independent distributor requires adapting to new market realities while preserving the qualities that have sustained their business through nearly seven decades of operation.
