June 25 2013 Archives - Modern Distribution Management

Log In

Search

« Browse our Premium Issue Archive

June 25 2013

Double Issue - 2013 Trends Report

Volume:

43

Issue:

12-Nov

Subscribers: Log-in to read this issue of Premium.

Not a subscriber? Click here to learn more and subscribe.

Features
2013-Trends-Report
Subscriber Only
  • Premium

Special Report: 2013 Wholesale Distribution Trends Report

The 2013 Wholesale Distribution Trends Report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Subscriber Only
  • Premium

Bumpy Conditions Drive 2013 Distribution Trends

This article is the introduction to MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report outlining current business conditions.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Economic Trends
  • Premium

Commentary: Positive Signs for Wholesale Distribution in 2013

Here’s the takeaway from MDM’s Mid-Year Economic Update Webcast on June 19, which took the pulse of U.S. economic conditions and the wholesale distribution industry: Many indicators point to the U.S. economy strengthening.

While we may not have the same growth rates as the first few years of recovery, conditions are stabilizing to support sustained growth for the next few years. The primary headwinds are ...

generational-shift
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations

This article is a part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. The article analyzes the impact of the generational shift on the wholesale distribution industry, including technology and customer expectations.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
HR-Selection
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. It provides an update on challenges distributors are facing in hiring talent.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Wallet Share, Demands Drive Accelerated Channel Convergence in Distribution

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. This article looks at the channel convergence trend, where more distributors are looking outside of their core businesses for growth. The trend has accelerated since the recession.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. This article examines the impact of consolidation on the wholesale distribution industry.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
inventory-mgmt
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. It examines current trends in inventory management for distributors, who are facing increased pressure in the supply chain.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
IndVendingRecReading
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Distributors Get Smarter About Vending

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. This article looks at how distributors are getting smarter about how and when they sell and use vending machines.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
data-on-gray-background
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

The Rise of ‘Little Data’ in Distribution

This article is a part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. The article analyzes how wholesaler-distributors are using data more to make better business decisions - but why the industry is not quite ready for Big Data yet.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of ‘Little Data’ in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Other Trends in the Wholesale Distribution Industry in 2013

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. It provides a snapshot of other trends affecting wholesale distribution channels across sectors.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Arrow
Companies
  • Premium

MDM Interview: Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course

This article is available in MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. This is an interview with Tim Kolbus, vice president of global logistics services for Arrow, one of the Top 5 Electronics Distributors in 2013. Earlier this year, Englewood, CO-based Arrow Electronics launched a new brand platform for the global electronics distribution company the first such initiative in the companys history. Kolbus talks about the initiative in this conversation with Associate Editor Jenel Stelton-Holtmeier.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
QA
Companies
  • Premium

MDM Interview: Interline Brands’ Growth in Jan-San Distribution

This article is available in the 2013 Distribution Trends Report. This is an interview with Ken Sweder, president and COO of Interline Brands, one of the Top 40 Industrial Distributors in 2013. Interline Brands has made significant changes in its product mix, expanding aggressively in the jan-san space. Sweder talks about those changes in this conversation with Editor Lindsay Konzak.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Distribution Financial Metrics & Trading Multiples: June 2013

This table highlights key financial metrics and trading multiples for 26 publicly traded distributors in the industrial and building products industries as of June 6, 2013. Download this data below. Also find graphic illustrating median EBIDTA multiples for the same distribution companies.

These materials, prepared by Robert W. Baird & Co. for MDM, are for informational purposes only.

PDF Download
2013-Trends-Report
Subscriber Only
  • Premium

Special Report: 2013 Wholesale Distribution Trends Report

The 2013 Wholesale Distribution Trends Report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Subscriber Only
  • Premium

Bumpy Conditions Drive 2013 Distribution Trends

This article is the introduction to MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report outlining current business conditions.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Economic Trends
  • Premium

Commentary: Positive Signs for Wholesale Distribution in 2013

Here’s the takeaway from MDM’s Mid-Year Economic Update Webcast on June 19, which took the pulse of U.S. economic conditions and the wholesale distribution industry: Many indicators point to the U.S. economy strengthening.

While we may not have the same growth rates as the first few years of recovery, conditions are stabilizing to support sustained growth for the next few years. The primary headwinds are ...

generational-shift
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations

This article is a part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. The article analyzes the impact of the generational shift on the wholesale distribution industry, including technology and customer expectations.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
HR-Selection
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. It provides an update on challenges distributors are facing in hiring talent.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Wallet Share, Demands Drive Accelerated Channel Convergence in Distribution

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. This article looks at the channel convergence trend, where more distributors are looking outside of their core businesses for growth. The trend has accelerated since the recession.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. This article examines the impact of consolidation on the wholesale distribution industry.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
inventory-mgmt
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. It examines current trends in inventory management for distributors, who are facing increased pressure in the supply chain.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
IndVendingRecReading
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Distributors Get Smarter About Vending

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. This article looks at how distributors are getting smarter about how and when they sell and use vending machines.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
data-on-gray-background
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

The Rise of ‘Little Data’ in Distribution

This article is a part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. The article analyzes how wholesaler-distributors are using data more to make better business decisions - but why the industry is not quite ready for Big Data yet.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of ‘Little Data’ in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Other Trends in the Wholesale Distribution Industry in 2013

This article is part of MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. It provides a snapshot of other trends affecting wholesale distribution channels across sectors.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Arrow
Companies
  • Premium

MDM Interview: Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course

This article is available in MDM's 2013 Distribution Trends Report. This is an interview with Tim Kolbus, vice president of global logistics services for Arrow, one of the Top 5 Electronics Distributors in 2013. Earlier this year, Englewood, CO-based Arrow Electronics launched a new brand platform for the global electronics distribution company the first such initiative in the companys history. Kolbus talks about the initiative in this conversation with Associate Editor Jenel Stelton-Holtmeier.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
QA
Companies
  • Premium

MDM Interview: Interline Brands’ Growth in Jan-San Distribution

This article is available in the 2013 Distribution Trends Report. This is an interview with Ken Sweder, president and COO of Interline Brands, one of the Top 40 Industrial Distributors in 2013. Interline Brands has made significant changes in its product mix, expanding aggressively in the jan-san space. Sweder talks about those changes in this conversation with Editor Lindsay Konzak.

The annual report was researched and written by MDM editors based on interviews with dozens of wholesaler-distributors, as well as industry experts and manufacturers. MDM also conducted a survey of its readers to uncover the trends outlined in this report.

The full report is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers. Subscribe below for full access. Or log-in if you are already a subscriber.

Trends outlined in the 2013 report include:

  • Generational Shift Drives Changes in Technology, Customer Expectations
  • Hiring in Distribution Complicated by Lack of Visibility, Shifting Needs
  • The Rise of Little Data in Distribution
  • Distributors Get Smarter About Vending
  • Distributors Get Aggressive with Inventory Management
  • Vendor, Distributor Consolidation Continues
  • Wallet Share, Customer Demands Drive Channel Convergence
  • Other Trends
  • Trend Snapshots for 14 Sectors

The report also includes the following case studies and interviews:

  • 2013 MDM Market Movers
    • Replenex Builds Culture of Cost Savings
    • A&M Industrial Finds Niche in Essential Services
    • Strategic Planning Pays Off for Machinery Tooling & Supply
  • MDM Market Leader Profiles
    • Interline Brands' Focus on Jan-San
    • Arrow Electronics Plots a Global Course
Research & Analytics
  • Premium

Distribution Financial Metrics & Trading Multiples: June 2013

This table highlights key financial metrics and trading multiples for 26 publicly traded distributors in the industrial and building products industries as of June 6, 2013. Download this data below. Also find graphic illustrating median EBIDTA multiples for the same distribution companies.

These materials, prepared by Robert W. Baird & Co. for MDM, are for informational purposes only.

« Browse our Premium Issue Archive

Register for full access

By providing your email, you agree to receive announcements from us and our partners for our newsletter, events, surveys, and partner resources per MDM Terms & Conditions. You can withdraw consent at any time.

Learn More about Custom Reports

Request a Market Prospector Demo

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Get the MDM Update Newsletter

Wholesale distribution news and trends delivered right to your inbox.

Sign-up for our free newsletter and get:

  • Up-to-date news in a quick-to-read format
  • Free access to webcasts, podcasts and live events
  • Exclusive whitepapers, research and reports
  • And more!