December 10, 2013 - Modern Distribution Management

Day: December 10, 2013

Conflict Minerals Rule Has Unexpected Consequences for Distributors

The first filing deadline for the conflict minerals provision of the Dodd-Frank Act is fast approaching. While the provision – requiring disclosure of the use of tungsten, tin, tantalum and gold sourced in and around the Democratic Republic of the Congo – only directly applies to public manufacturers, the actual impact is much broader than anticipated, and many distributors aren’t sure of the steps they need to take to comply.

This article examines the conflict minerals rule and how its effects are being felt all along the supply chain. It also provides practical information on how distributors can prepare for helping customers comply with the new rule.

This article includes:

  • An overview of the SEC Final Rule on Conflict Minerals
  • Analysis of the broader impact of the rule
  • Steps for creating a game plan to address the rule's impact

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  • The Growing Cost of Product Liability
  • The Counterfeit Challenge
  • Global Markets Are Not Just for Large Companies Anymore

Commentary: Lions and Tigers and Drones, Oh My!

The distribution industry sometimes misjudges the short-term impact of disruptive events. Publisher Tom Gale's perspective provides his predictions on some recent disruptive announcements, including Amazon's plans for drone package delivery.

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Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. Subscribers also have access to the following related articles:

  • The Growing Cost of Product Liability
  • The Counterfeit Challenge
  • Global Markets Are Not Just for Large Companies Anymore

MDM Interview with Guy Blissett: Uncertainty + Change = Opportunity?

The role of distributors is changing, says Guy Blissett, wholesale distribution lead for IBM Corp. and author of The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors’ 2013 edition of Facing the Forces of Change: Reimagining Distribution in a Connected World. New technologies and ways of leveraging them to engage with customers and supply chain partners are emerging every day. While today’s environment can be daunting, Blissett says, it’s also full of opportunity.

This interview includes Blissett's take on:

  • New technologies distributors should be watching
  • How new technologies can be used in distribution for a competitive advantage
  • The importance of innovation

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Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. Subscribers also have access to the following related articles:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • MDM Interview: Avnet's Roy Vallee Reflects on Changes in the Industry
  • Commentary: Lions and Tigers and Drones, Oh My!

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