As MDM contributor Stuart Mechlin likes to say, “The trend is your friend.”  With that in mind, many of the articles we’ve presented in the past month have been focused on informing our readers about what they can expect going into 2013 and what they should keep in mind as they adapt their strategies for success in the new year.

Readers recognize the value of staying on top of trends in the industry. Our article on Top 12 Trends in Distribution for 2013 continues to be one of the most popular on our website. Despite a lot of uncertainty at the end of 2012, top distributors are focused on taking market share and growing their reach in 2013, and that’s reflected in the trends we’re tracking. Read more in 12 Trends in Distribution for 2013.

Another popular report has been the recent issue focused on distributor collaborations. Associate Editor Jenel Stelton-Holtmeier’s case study on three distributors that share branches was especially insightful, providing an interesting look into how working together can often reap more rewards than trying to go it alone.

Here are some other recent articles that can help frame your perspective as we move further into 2013:

• 2013 Economic Outlook: Plan for Growth
• The Shifting Competitive Landscape
• Grainger’s Multichannel Model Builds Customer Loyalty, Stickiness
• Analysis from Al Bates: Sales Grow, But Distribution Profits Stagnate

Access the MDM Premium archives to read more.