Merit Brass, a family-owned and operated leader in the pipe, valve, and fitting (PVF) industry for more than 88 years, proudly announces that Co-CEO Alan Lipp has been named the recipient of the 2025 American Supply Association (ASA) Industrial Piping Division (IPD) Award of Excellence.

Alan formally received his award at the ASA Network 2025 breakfast on November 13. His wife, Peggy Lipp, and their children—Jordan Lipp, Alison (Lipp) Riegle and Kevin Lipp—attended the breakfast to celebrate his remarkable accomplishment. Kevin has spent more than 14 years at Merit and currently holds the position of director of pipe sales. As a member of the company’s fourth-generation ownership, he plays a key leadership role in the organization.

The IPD Award of Excellence, granted selectively by a nominating committee and approved by ASA’s IPD Advisory Council, honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions and demonstrated dedicated service to the PHCP-PVF industry. Alan’s longstanding involvement—including his service on the ASA IPD Advisory Council and the Affiliated Distributors (AD) Supplier Advisory Council—reflects his deep commitment to advancing the industry.

With decades of experience, Alan has positioned Merit Brass as a leader in global market insights, providing invaluable expertise to wholesalers and their supply chains. His deep understanding of the PVF industry and its challenges has driven Merit’s success and strengthened its partnerships.

Beyond his professional achievements, Alan is known for his kindness, dedication and genuine care for customers, vendors and colleagues, many of whom regard him as a friend. His impact on the PVF industry was further recognized in 2024 when he was inducted into the PVF Hall of Fame by The Wholesaler Magazine.

“Alan’s leadership and passion for our industry, combined with his devotion to family, customers and associates, make this recognition well-deserved,” said Darren Hilliard, president of Merit Brass. “We are incredibly proud to celebrate his contributions to Merit Brass and the broader PVF community.”

Merit Brass, led by third-generation Co-CEOs Alan Lipp and Marc Schlessinger, alongside President Darren Hilliard, remains committed to excellence, innovation and service in the PVF industry.

For more information, visit meritbrass.com.