To commemorate Plumbing Manufacturers International’s (PMI) 70th anniversary, the 2024 PMI Annual Report takes readers on a journey through the association’s “Past, Present, and Future,” which forms the core theme of this year’s report.
Beginning with a reflection on PMI’s founding and historical milestones, the report highlights recent achievements before delving into the industry’s proactive approach to “rethinking water” in response to the growing challenges posed by climate change.
“Over the past 70 years, the resilience and innovative spirit of the plumbing manufacturing industry have been clear and continue to drive us forward,” stated PMI CEO/Executive Director Kerry Stackpole in the report. “These qualities are crucial as we confront the many challenges facing both our industry and society today.” Stackpole, along with 2024 PMI Board of Directors President Chip Way from Lavelle Industries and PMI Immediate Past President Sal Gattone from LIXIL, co-authored a letter introducing the report.
The report’s content spans PMI’s rich history, vibrant present, and a future full of promise.
Founded in 1954, PMI was established as plumbing manufacturing pioneers began seeing the commercial success of their innovations. Post-war America embraced these modern plumbing products, integrating them into the new homes being built nationwide.
In the following decades, PMI members set and upheld crucial codes and standards for fixture fittings, piping, valves, and other components. As environmental concerns over water and sanitation grew, PMI members responded by voluntarily developing water-efficient and lead-free products.
Today, PMI’s mission of ensuring safe, responsible plumbing remains steadfast. PMI members are advancing sustainability initiatives, cultivating a diverse and skilled workforce, and contributing to efforts to improve water resources for underserved communities. The report showcases these efforts, along with other significant activities from the past year.
As global water shortages become more pressing, PMI members are looking ahead to develop innovative solutions. This includes safe water reuse, reimagining toilets, and reinventing plumbing systems to maximize water efficiency.
A critical aspect of this work is developing the next generation of plumbers and skilled trades workers needed to install and maintain these advanced systems. PMI and its members have launched various programs and initiatives to support workforce development in this area.
As PMI progresses, the association’s original work on codes and standards continues to be of utmost importance. “For the past seven decades, PMI members have established and maintained plumbing codes and standards relevant to the times,” Stackpole emphasized. “Their technical expertise, combined with effective advocacy for water efficiency and responsible plumbing, has been our cornerstone for the first 70 years and will continue to be our legacy.”
You can read the 2024 PMI Annual Report by visiting safeplumbing.org.
About Plumbing Manufacturers International
Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI) is the leading trade association for plumbing product manufacturers, producing over 90% of the United States’ plumbing products and representing more than 150 iconic brands. PMI members are at the forefront of developing safe, reliable, and innovative water-efficient plumbing technologies. According to the Plumbing Manufacturing Industry Economic Impact Study, PMI members contribute 517,696 jobs and generate $116.7 billion in economic impact across the U.S.
With a vision of ensuring safe, responsible plumbing, PMI advocates for plumbing product performance that enhances water efficiency, sustainability, public health, safety, and consumer satisfaction through its Rethink Water initiative and other programs. PMI members manufacture water-efficient toilets, urinals, faucets, showerheads, and other products at more than 70 locations nationwide, distributing them online and in over 24,000 home improvement stores, hardware stores, and showrooms across all 50 states.
For more information on PMI, contact the organization at 1750 Tysons Blvd., Ste. 1500, McLean, Va., 22102; tel.: 847-481-5500; fax: 847-481-5501, or visit safeplumbing.org.
