Let's face it: when it comes to the tech adoption curve, wholesale distributors and manufacturers can be a little behind (Are you? Hint: if you don't know what "adoption curve" means, you are). On this episode, we dive into the critical role that digital resources play in driving both growth and customer engagement. From providing valuable digital content, to the challenges of balancing self-service experiences with the need for personalized interactions, we'll help you assess your own digital landscape...and show you how it directly impacts your ROI. In addition, we take a deep dive into th ..read more

AI may be the most recent technology game-changer for wholesale distribution and manufacturing, but it's by no means the only one. In this week's episode, we're joined by guest Lin Chase, Ph.D., a 35-year veteran of enterprise technology and artificial intelligence and University Administrator. Together, we discuss the evolving landscape of technology in the manufacturing and distribution industry. We also dive into the reasons behind the surge in investment in Mexico's manufacturing infrastructure, as well as the importance of semantic planning in data management and how it can reshape B2B co ..read more

A monster acquisition is reshaping wholesale distribution and manufacturing: Home Depot's acquisition of SRS distribution, a move that expands their reach to tradesmen and building materials across 47 states. What's the real magic behind this move? It  emphasizes the importance of meeting buyers where they are and adapting to their preferences. In this episode, we dive into this development and talk about how you can adapt in the same way.  (Spoiler: it's about combining B2C simplicity with B2B depth in e-commerce and marketing strategies).  The other major story this week was ..read more

In this week's episode, Kevin and Tom are joined by Scott Costa, Publisher of the Electrical Distributor magazine (tED). Scott gives his unique insight to the importance of data-driven decisions in B2B marketing and the false allure of solely relying on intent data, emphasizing the need to focus on creating demand earlier in the process rather than just capturing existing intent. We also delve into the significance of resiliency in supply chains, particularly in the context of manufacturing and distribution: how can businesses adapt and innovate to navigate supply chain challenges effectively ..read more

These are tumultuous times in wholesale distribution: U.S. small business sentiment fell in February to the lowest level since May due to continued concerns around inflation. In addition, the consumer price index, a broad measure of goods and services costs, increased 0.4% for the month and 3.2% from a year ago. Combine this with strikes at East Coast ports and shipping restrictions through the Panama Canal, and you've got a messy situation. but when it comes to those all-important buyers, these economic data hardly matter: they're more concerned with the customer journey. In fact, 86% of B2B ..read more

According to Reuters, U.S. wholesale inventories fell more than initially thought in January of 2024, which could negatively impact economic growth estimates for the first quarter. Inventories dropped 0.3% instead of dipping 0.1% as estimated last month.  At January's sales pace it would take wholesalers 1.36 months to clear shelves, up from 1.34 months in December. So what does this mean for wholesale manufacturers and distributors? How does it affect your bottom line when it takes longer to turn over your inventory, or longer to get inventory in your warehouse? And what can you do to m ..read more

In the competitive world of wholesale distribution, businesses are increasingly recognizing the transformative power of tailoring their marketing efforts to meet the unique needs of individual clients and stakeholders. It's no longer a "one size fits all" marketplace: personalizing your customer journey and customer experience is key to retaining business. This week, Tom and Kevin, along with their guest Mike Hockett, Executive Editor of Modern Distribution Management, dive into this topic to reveal that B2B Market Personalization may be the hottest trend of 2024. We also take a closer look at ..read more

In 2006, there were less than 80 B2B marketplaces in the world. Within the next two years, that number will top 1,000. At the same time, Generative AI is reshaping the job market, subtly influencing job postings rather than triggering widespread layoffs. The tools for wholesale distribution and wholesale manufacturing are increasing exponentially...so how does this effect your wholesale channels? This week, Kevin and Tom take a hard look at the latest news on these two important subjects, and provide their unique perspective—and decades of experience—to the explosion of both AI and B2B marketp ..read more

In 2006, there were less than 80 B2B marketplaces in the world. Within the next two years, that number will top 1,000. At the same time, Generative AI is reshaping the job market, subtly influencing job postings rather than triggering widespread layoffs. The tools for wholesale distribution and wholesale manufacturing are increasing exponentially...so how does this effect your wholesale channels? This week, Kevin and Tom take a hard look at the latest news on these two important subjects, and provide their unique perspective—and decades of experience—to the explosion of both AI and B2B marketp ..read more

 For the first time in two decades, the U.S. has purchased more goods from Mexico than it has from China, providing further evidence for how much global trading patterns have shifted. Indeed, supply chain managers have seen an increasing need to adopt new technologies, including a growing initiative to increase nearshoring or onshoring efforts. Disruptions in wholesale distribution and manufacturing seem to be everywhere…but that only creates new opportunities for businesses that have the willingness—and the know-hot—to adapt. On this episode, Tom and Kevin are joined by Mike Franz of InS ..read more