The DPA Buying Group, a marketing and networking organizaation headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, has released a list of awards recently given to several members of the group. The honors were presented at the group's annuyal buying and networking conference, held at the Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa in Fort Meyers, Florida.

Over 150 distributors and suppliers were in attendance for the group’s annual networking and sales meeting.

The Founder's Award, the group's most presitigious honor, was given to Alleghany Supply & Maintenance Co., of Duncansville, Pennsylvania. The company was founded in 1971, and serves the janitorial, laundry and kitchen markets throughout the Mid-Atlantic.

“They have been a part of DPA for 14 years and are always looking for opportunities to support our preferred vendors,” says Zachary T. Haines, DPA executive director.

Wyoming, Michigan-based Miner Supply Company is DPA's Distributor of the Year. Americo Manufacturing Company, in Acworth, Georgia was honored as Supplier of the Year.

DPA also recognized its five and 10-year members.

“These members have been a valuable part of DPA’s success and we want to thank them for their loyal support,” Haines said.

The five-year honors were presented to Robinson Supply Company, Columbus, Georgia; Knight Marketing Corp. of NY, Maspeth, New York; and Hy-Grade Inc., Seymour, Indiana. The 10-year award was presented to Chemical Distributing, Vero Beach, Florida.

During the conference, DPA distributors and suppliers met one-on-one, attended sales presentations and took part in roundtable discussions. The presenters sales expert, Barry Wright who discuseed value-building. Members also enjoyed an evening fillied with Latin dancing, live steel drum music and crab racing.

“DPA’s conference would not have been a success without the support of our members," Haines said. "Their enthusiasm, dedication and commitment will continue to be the most important factor in DPA’s continued growth.”