THE NETWORK BEHIND
THE INDUSTRY.
For nearly three decades, we’ve been uniting chemical distributors, suppliers, and industry leaders around common goals: safety, integrity, and growth.
ABOUT US
Founded in February 2000, The CDN is a private network alliance of independent, privately held, commodity and specialty chemical distributors with a strong, supportive organizational culture that is unique to this industry.
CDN members are equity owners and trusted business partners, representing companies that have operated for an average of more than 70 years. Each member maintains a strong, strategic alignment with our key domestic program suppliers and partners.
All members hold affiliation with the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) and maintain certification under Responsible Distribution®, ACD’s recognized environmental, health, safety, and security program—or an equivalent third-party verified safety and security program.
CDN’s mission is to foster collaboration and develop innovative programs that enhance operational efficiency, create shared value, and strengthen relationships among our members, supply partners, and customers worldwide.
MISSION, VISION & VALUES
Mission
To empower our member companies through collaboration, advocacy, and shared best practices in chemical distribution.
Vision
To be the trusted resource and partner in safe, sustainable, and efficient chemical supply and services.
Values
Safety. Integrity. Innovation. Sustainability. Partnership.
OUR HISTORY
Our Beginnings
CDN evolved out of a group called ChemSource, which was comprised of three Illinois-based chemical distributors. ChemSource came together to take advantage of the economies and increased marketing power being part of a group affords. The success of ChemSource led the group to expand beyond the Midwest. In February 2000, The Chemical Distribution Network was founded and held its first association meeting in June of 2000.
CDN Expands
Since 2000, CDN has grown its membership, launched strategic supplier programs, and fostered greater collaboration across its network. In 2015, CDN added a Sourcing Manager to accelerate global product development, leading to the formation of CDN Imports, LLC in 2018—extending the network’s reach and sourcing capabilities worldwide.
CDN Today
Headquartered in Warrenville, Illinois, CDN continues to build upon its strong foundation of collaboration and shared success. The network actively seeks new member companies, develops strategic supplier relationships, and enhances its programming to ensure relevance and value. Through association meetings and ongoing engagement, CDN delivers timely, practical content that supports member growth and strengthens the organization’s collective impact.
CDN TOMORROW
Innovating for the Future
Looking ahead, CDN continues to invest in tools and technology that strengthen collaboration and deliver greater value to members and suppliers alike. A new member-only website enhances connectivity across the network, offering streamlined communication, shared resources, and new opportunities for engagement. Through ongoing innovation and a commitment to continuous improvement, CDN is building the foundation for the next generation of distributor collaboration.
Our Members
MEMBER QUOTES