June 25 2017 Archives - Modern Distribution Management

Log In

June 25 2017

2017 Market Leaders & Distribution Trends Special Issue

Volume:

47

Issue:

12-Nov

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

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

Features

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

While U.S. GDP growth in first quarter of 2017 was a tepid 1.2 percent, for many distributors, the new year marked a shift in outlook for the industry. But there’s also a shift in customer expectations, as highlighted by the trends examined in this issue.

This article includes:

  • An overview of distributor revenue
  • How distributors are adapting to economic conditions
  • Insights from industry executives on economic trends

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

amazon-v-grainger

If it can't dominate an industry digitally, Amazon will buy the bricks and mortar to get there.

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

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

  • Can Grainger Make it up on Volume?
  • 2017 State of M&A in Distribution: ‘Never Been a Better Time to Sell’
  • Don’t Confuse Rules with Policies

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

The distribution industry has seen a surge in discussions about leadership and culture. With an uneven economy, new threats of disruption and the continuation of a massive generational shift in distribution, exhibiting strong leadership is critical for any company that wants to prosper.

This article includes:

  • How does a company measure strong leadership?
  • The generational change
  • How strong leadership leads to a strong company culture

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

sales-model-lone-wolf

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

Distribution sales have traditionally been driven by outside salespeople who set their own course for how and where to sell in a given territory. But purchasing behaviors have changed, driven by technology and a generational shift, which means that sales models will need to change, as well, to capture and maintain business going forward.

This article includes:

  • A shift in purchasing
  • The changing sales model
  • Refocusing outside sales

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

There’s no escaping Amazon. Thanks to the company’s recent mammoth grocery store bid, even a trip to Whole Foods for organic marinara sauce or a bundle of kale could inflate Jeff Bezos’ already exorbitant income.

This article includes:

  • Retooling delivery processes to minimize threat
  • How Amazon is changing the way many distributors operate
  • Why increasing the speed of delivery may be inevitable

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

Amazon’s impact on e-commerce and delivery expectations in distribution is evident, but distributors and industry analysts have identified several other ways the online giant is disrupting the industry – online and off.

These include:

  • Extended credit terms
  • Marketplace selling
  • Price transparency

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

“Attitude is everything” is a phrase easily forgotten in the day-to day-hustle, but the “soft skills” that enable someone to interact effectively with other people continue to be more important than just a motivational catch phrase.

This article includes:

  • Identifying and addressing this soft skills gap
  • Easing HR issues
  • Improving productivity

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

data-changing-channels

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

While data-sharing among distributors and their supply channel partners has been discussed for years, new technologies and skillsets have increased the usability of even more data. As a result, respondents to the recent MDM market trends survey noted an increase in requests for data-sharing up and down the supply chain.

This article includes:

  • New technologies and skillsets equals even more data
  • Customers' need for more information
  • Data creates an opportunity to improve the value you provide to customers

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

The “era of the customer,” as many have labeled today’s business climate, means distributors are being asked to provide more services yet charge the same price, or sometimes less, for the products they sell. Response to customers’ new demands vary by company size, sector and geography, but all distributors agree that retaining business and growing market share while remaining profitable is critical for survival in today’s increasingly competitive landscape.

This article includes:

  • More services, lower prices
  • Customers are demanding faster delivery and more informationl
  • B2B customers look to bring products to the end users more quickly and efficiently

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

MDM identified a handful of other distribution trends to watch for the rest of 2017 and into next year. Look for stories on these and other topics relevant to the industry in future issues of MDM Premium and at mdm.com.

Other trends include:

  • The millennial effect
  • New wasy to approach training
  • Shifting the focus of delivery

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

The sector snapshots are part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue. The sector snapshots provide a quick look at key trends affecting each of the 15 distribution sectors included in MDM's Market Leaders lists.

Snapshots are provided for the following sectors: Industrial, Electrical, Power Transmission & Bearing, HVACR & Plumbing, Building Materials & Construction, Electronics, Fasteners, Fluid Power, Gases & Welding Equipment, Hose & Accessories, Industrial PVF, Jan-San, Pharmaceuticals, Plastics and Safety.

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

company-profile-SBP-holdings

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

Challenging conditions in oil and gas markets continue to present some hurdles for hose and rigging equipment distributor SBP Holdings, but a balanced growth strategy over the years has made a “rock solid” company, according to President & CEO Don Fritzinger. Fritzinger recently spoke with Editor Jenel Stelton-Holtmeier about the company’s approach to changing markets and M&A.

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

Customer satisfaction drives Dakota Supply Group. The Fargo, ND-based electrical, HVAC and plumbing distributor recently launched its After Hours Experts initiative to provide technical, service and sales support for customers beyond the routine Monday to Friday, 8-to-5 schedule. CEO Todd Kumm spoke with Associate Editor Eric Smith about how the company works to differentiate amid changing customer demands.

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

In 2017, MDM is recognizing distributors that are innovative in their approach to their markets. Virginia Beach, VA-based industrial distributor Incredible Supply & Logistics was founded in 2010 in Chris Faison’s garage. The company leveraged its logistics expertise to carve out a successful niche serving the government and defense contractors.

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

Modern Distribution Management's monthly Industrial Inflation Index measures a cross-section of industrial supplies.

This index includes:

  • Abrasives Products
  • Cutting Tools
  • Power Transmission Equipment
  • Fasteners
  • Valves, etc.
  • Power Tools
  • Material Handling Equipment
  • Belting
  • Hand Tools
  • Misc. Metal

Subscribers should log-in below to read this article.

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

  • MDM Pricing Trends Report: First Quarter 2017
  • How to Navigate Key HR Issues in 2017
  • Market Snapshot: Cutting Tools Market Demand in the United States
2017-Dist-Trends-Issue

The 2017 Distribution Special Issue is the most comprehensive report on the wholesale distribution industry. This eighth edition was researched and written by MDM and is based on interviews with dozens of distributors, industry experts and manufacturers, as well as a survey of readers to uncover the most important issues facing distribution today.

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.

PDF Download

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

While U.S. GDP growth in first quarter of 2017 was a tepid 1.2 percent, for many distributors, the new year marked a shift in outlook for the industry. But there’s also a shift in customer expectations, as highlighted by the trends examined in this issue.

This article includes:

  • An overview of distributor revenue
  • How distributors are adapting to economic conditions
  • Insights from industry executives on economic trends

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

amazon-v-grainger

If it can't dominate an industry digitally, Amazon will buy the bricks and mortar to get there.

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

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

  • Can Grainger Make it up on Volume?
  • 2017 State of M&A in Distribution: ‘Never Been a Better Time to Sell’
  • Don’t Confuse Rules with Policies

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

The distribution industry has seen a surge in discussions about leadership and culture. With an uneven economy, new threats of disruption and the continuation of a massive generational shift in distribution, exhibiting strong leadership is critical for any company that wants to prosper.

This article includes:

  • How does a company measure strong leadership?
  • The generational change
  • How strong leadership leads to a strong company culture

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

sales-model-lone-wolf

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

Distribution sales have traditionally been driven by outside salespeople who set their own course for how and where to sell in a given territory. But purchasing behaviors have changed, driven by technology and a generational shift, which means that sales models will need to change, as well, to capture and maintain business going forward.

This article includes:

  • A shift in purchasing
  • The changing sales model
  • Refocusing outside sales

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

There’s no escaping Amazon. Thanks to the company’s recent mammoth grocery store bid, even a trip to Whole Foods for organic marinara sauce or a bundle of kale could inflate Jeff Bezos’ already exorbitant income.

This article includes:

  • Retooling delivery processes to minimize threat
  • How Amazon is changing the way many distributors operate
  • Why increasing the speed of delivery may be inevitable

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

Amazon’s impact on e-commerce and delivery expectations in distribution is evident, but distributors and industry analysts have identified several other ways the online giant is disrupting the industry – online and off.

These include:

  • Extended credit terms
  • Marketplace selling
  • Price transparency

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

“Attitude is everything” is a phrase easily forgotten in the day-to day-hustle, but the “soft skills” that enable someone to interact effectively with other people continue to be more important than just a motivational catch phrase.

This article includes:

  • Identifying and addressing this soft skills gap
  • Easing HR issues
  • Improving productivity

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

data-changing-channels

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

While data-sharing among distributors and their supply channel partners has been discussed for years, new technologies and skillsets have increased the usability of even more data. As a result, respondents to the recent MDM market trends survey noted an increase in requests for data-sharing up and down the supply chain.

This article includes:

  • New technologies and skillsets equals even more data
  • Customers' need for more information
  • Data creates an opportunity to improve the value you provide to customers

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

The “era of the customer,” as many have labeled today’s business climate, means distributors are being asked to provide more services yet charge the same price, or sometimes less, for the products they sell. Response to customers’ new demands vary by company size, sector and geography, but all distributors agree that retaining business and growing market share while remaining profitable is critical for survival in today’s increasingly competitive landscape.

This article includes:

  • More services, lower prices
  • Customers are demanding faster delivery and more informationl
  • B2B customers look to bring products to the end users more quickly and efficiently

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

MDM identified a handful of other distribution trends to watch for the rest of 2017 and into next year. Look for stories on these and other topics relevant to the industry in future issues of MDM Premium and at mdm.com.

Other trends include:

  • The millennial effect
  • New wasy to approach training
  • Shifting the focus of delivery

 

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

The sector snapshots are part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue. The sector snapshots provide a quick look at key trends affecting each of the 15 distribution sectors included in MDM's Market Leaders lists.

Snapshots are provided for the following sectors: Industrial, Electrical, Power Transmission & Bearing, HVACR & Plumbing, Building Materials & Construction, Electronics, Fasteners, Fluid Power, Gases & Welding Equipment, Hose & Accessories, Industrial PVF, Jan-San, Pharmaceuticals, Plastics and Safety.

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

company-profile-SBP-holdings

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

Challenging conditions in oil and gas markets continue to present some hurdles for hose and rigging equipment distributor SBP Holdings, but a balanced growth strategy over the years has made a “rock solid” company, according to President & CEO Don Fritzinger. Fritzinger recently spoke with Editor Jenel Stelton-Holtmeier about the company’s approach to changing markets and M&A.

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

Customer satisfaction drives Dakota Supply Group. The Fargo, ND-based electrical, HVAC and plumbing distributor recently launched its After Hours Experts initiative to provide technical, service and sales support for customers beyond the routine Monday to Friday, 8-to-5 schedule. CEO Todd Kumm spoke with Associate Editor Eric Smith about how the company works to differentiate amid changing customer demands.

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

This article is part of MDM's 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue.

In 2017, MDM is recognizing distributors that are innovative in their approach to their markets. Virginia Beach, VA-based industrial distributor Incredible Supply & Logistics was founded in 2010 in Chris Faison’s garage. The company leveraged its logistics expertise to carve out a successful niche serving the government and defense contractors.

Subscribers should log in below to read this article.

Not a subscriber? Subscribe below or learn more. The full 2017 Distribution Trends Special Issue is available to download in PDF format to MDM Premium subscribers.

Modern Distribution Management's monthly Industrial Inflation Index measures a cross-section of industrial supplies.

This index includes:

  • Abrasives Products
  • Cutting Tools
  • Power Transmission Equipment
  • Fasteners
  • Valves, etc.
  • Power Tools
  • Material Handling Equipment
  • Belting
  • Hand Tools
  • Misc. Metal

Subscribers should log-in below to read this article.

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

  • MDM Pricing Trends Report: First Quarter 2017
  • How to Navigate Key HR Issues in 2017
  • Market Snapshot: Cutting Tools Market Demand in the United States
2017-Dist-Trends-Issue

The 2017 Distribution Special Issue is the most comprehensive report on the wholesale distribution industry. This eighth edition was researched and written by MDM and is based on interviews with dozens of distributors, industry experts and manufacturers, as well as a survey of readers to uncover the most important issues facing distribution today.

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.

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!