MDM’s Distribution Market Research Resources​
Modern Distribution Management is the best place for data and analysis on the wholesale distribution industry. Listed below are MDM’s top reports for anyone looking for a comprehensive look at trends and market data for this channel. Please call 202-872-0885 for customer service regarding research reports and content on the MDM website or fill in the form below.
 Research from MDM
MDM Annual Economic Outlook Report
The MDM Annual Economic Outlook Report is the most comprehensive guide to the $8‑trillion U.S. wholesale distribution industry. Built on deep economic analysis, government data, and academic partnership, it delivers sector‑level forecasts, benchmarking insights, and revenue projections through 2026. With 20 in‑depth sector reports and 109 subsector breakouts, the Outlook provides the clarity leaders need to evaluate market conditions, compare performance, and plan with confidence. It’s the industry’s definitive annual resource for strategic decision‑making.
Includes the following data by distribution sector on:
- revenue and employment growth trends;
- forecast summary;
- number and size of distribution companies;
- gross margins and other operational statistics;
- wages and revenues per employee;
- inventory data;Â
- and more.
MDM MRO Market Trends Report
The MDM MRO Market Trends Report is the industry’s most comprehensive analysis of the U.S. maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) market. This 59‑page report delivers the deepest data and insight available on market size, sector dynamics, growth drivers, and long‑term trends shaping MRO demand. Published infrequently due to the market’s gradual rate of change, it serves as a definitive reference for distributors, manufacturers, consultants, investment banks, and private equity firms evaluating market opportunities.
The full report is available as a complete edition or as five standalone sector‑specific sections—Industrial, Commercial, Electrical, Construction/Facility, and Electronics—allowing readers to focus on the segments most relevant to their business. With detailed analysis, market modeling, and sector‑level breakdowns, the MRO Report provides unmatched clarity for strategic planning, market sizing, and competitive assessment.
Access the 2024 reports using the MDM Store links below:
- Full version – $2,995
- Industrial MRO section – $1,495Â
- Commercial MRO section – 1,295
- Electrical MRO section – $1,295
- Construction/Facility MRO section – $1,295
- Electronics MRO section – $1,295
Quarterly MDM Research Reports
MDM Quarterly Forecast
This comprehensive MDM Forecast is a guide to the U.S. wholesale distribution economy, providing a historical, current and future snapshot of numerous key economic indicators in one convenient place along with our exclusive sector-specific forecasts for 19 different product categories. Its economic indicator data is updated quarterly.
Issued 4/year | $195 each
No cost to MDM Premium and NAW Members
MDM Quarterly M&A Report
This report delivers the quarterly results, analysis, and commentary from the latest Baird‑MDM Industrial Distribution Survey, exploring revenue performance, pricing, and business expectations for the current quarter and the rest of the year. Each edition includes a wealth of market‑specific data and respondent commentary, giving leaders a clear benchmark for assessing performance, tracking pricing movement, and informing near‑term planning.
MDM Quarterly MarketPulse Report
MarketPulse is MDM’s quarterly research report based upon the results of the quarterly Baird-MDM Industrial Distribution Survey, which polls approximately 400 distributors and manufacturers about past and projected revenue performance, business conditions and pricing impacts — all for the most recently completed quarter, current quarter and rest of year. It also collectes plenty of respondent commentary.
Whitepapers & Case Studies
MDM Whitepapers
MDM Whitepapers deliver deep, research‑driven analysis on the trends, challenges, and emerging opportunities shaping wholesale distribution. Each paper is built from original reporting, interviews with industry leaders, and collaboration with a sponsoring organization to explore a focused strategic topic. These reports provide actionable insights, real‑world examples, and expert perspectives — with full PDF downloads available after a brief contact form.
Published throughout the year | Free
MDM Business Case Studies
The MDM Case Studies Series features deep‑dive profiles of wholesale distribution companies that have undergone significant transformation or change management in recent years. Each case study offers a clear now‑and‑then perspective, tracing how these organizations reshaped their operations, culture, technology, and strategy to achieve their current success. Through detailed narratives and strategic insights, the series highlights the pivotal decisions, leadership approaches, and execution models that enabled meaningful, measurable change.
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