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Legacy, Leadership, and Growth: A Conversation with Hadid Thomas of Supra Office Solutions & EMSCO Scientific

Updated: Apr 5

Philadelphia Business Spotlight: How Hadid Thomas is Building Legacy Through Strategic Sales and Adaptability


On a recent episode of Beyond the Brand, I had the opportunity to sit down with Hadid Thomas, Senior Account Manager at Supra Office Solutions and EMSCO Scientific. Based in Philadelphia, these Black-owned businesses are disrupting the traditional office supply and distribution industry by focusing on relationships, adaptability, and long-term vision.

Our conversation was full of insights for anyone leading a family business, building a professional legacy, or navigating what it means to grow in a competitive and constantly evolving marketplace.

About Supra Office Solutions and EMSCO Scientific

Founded in 2011, Supra Office Solutions offers full-service office supply and facility management solutions. Competing with national giants like WB Mason and Office Depot, they differentiate through service, customization, and relationship-driven sales.

Through their acquisition of EMSCO Scientific, the company expanded into the research and life sciences sector, servicing institutions like Johnson & Johnson, Merck, and the University of Pennsylvania. Supra’s pivot into scientific supply and PPE distribution during COVID-19 helped solidify their reputation as a resilient and forward-thinking business.

Leadership Built on Merit, Not Inheritance

Although Supra is a family business, Hadid didn’t walk into a leadership position. He started at the ground level and earned his way through results and perseverance.

“There’s no nepotism here. If you can perform, you stay. If not, you step aside. That’s the culture,” Hadid shared.

This performance-first mindset allowed Hadid to become the longest-tenured salesperson at Supra, a position he holds with pride.

Pivoting Through COVID: How Agility Became Their Advantage

When the pandemic disrupted supply chains and reduced demand for traditional office supplies, Hadid and his team quickly shifted into PPE sourcing and distribution. Leveraging EMSCO Scientific's infrastructure, they were able to remain operational—and profitable.

“I was running our COVID response division and learning logistics, sourcing, and compliance in real time. That experience changed my entire approach to business.”

Their ability to pivot didn’t just help them survive—it positioned them for long-term sustainability in new verticals.

Relationships Are the Real Currency

For Hadid, sales success comes down to one thing: relationships.

“Some of our largest contracts—millions of dollars—came from relationships I built over time, not aggressive selling. It’s about trust.”

One example? A long-standing connection led to Supra securing accounts with the Philadelphia Phillies and several universities in the PACC (Philadelphia Area Collegiate Consortium), proving that consistency and integrity go a long way in deal-making.



Building a Future: Real Estate, Business Expansion, and Mentorship

Outside of his core role, Hadid is diving into real estate investment, focusing on multifamily properties in Philadelphia, showing that entrepreneurship runs deep in both mindset and mission.

He credits much of his professional growth to mentors who offered strategic guidance across industries. It’s a reminder that being in the room is good—but learning from those ahead of you is what accelerates growth.



Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs, Professionals, and Leaders in Philadelphia

If you’re in the process of building a business or legacy—especially here in Philadelphia—Hadid’s journey is full of valuable lessons:

  • Legacy requires consistency. Building something that lasts takes time, intention, and resilience.

  • Adaptation is non-negotiable. If the market shifts, your model should too.

  • Relationships matter. Invest in trust before you ever ask for a sale.

  • Authenticity wins. You don’t need to become someone else to be professional.

  • Surround yourself with mentorship. Accelerate your learning through those who’ve done it before.


About Beyond the Brand

Beyond the Brand is a content series led by Mejire Arijaje, Owner of Minuteman Press Philadelphia, featuring interviews with local entrepreneurs and professionals who are shaping culture and commerce through creativity, leadership, and grit.

🎥 Watch the full interview with Hadid Thomas on YouTube📍

Supra Office Solutions - https://www.supraos.com/


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