Did you hear the news? There's an election coming up...

We're not flashing our yard signs on this week's episode. Rather, we're taking a look at what the future may hold for wholesale distributors in an ever-changing political, technological, and financial landscape. We kick off by discussing the current economic landscape, including weakening manufacturing in Japan and its implications for the global economy. The conversation touches on the anticipated rate cuts by the Federal Reserve and the ongoing balancing act between inflation and economic growth.

We then shift our focus to the escalating U.S.-China trade tariffs, exploring the geopolitical ramifications and the potential inflationary effects on global markets. The discussion highlights the importance of staying informed about supply chain dynamics, especially as companies navigate these turbulent waters.

Next, we delve into the future of supply chain management, emphasizing the rise of artificial intelligence and its expected market growth. We stress the importance of viewing AI as a long-term investment rather than seeking immediate returns. The episode also covers key trends such as data analytics, sustainability, and the need for workforce development in the face of technological advancements.

In our manufacturing and distribution segment, we revisit the bankruptcy of True Value Hardware, discussing its impact on local businesses and the broader distribution network. We highlight the challenges faced by smaller retailers and the potential for consolidation in the industry.

Finally, we explore the evolution of B2B marketplaces, noting the shift from niche to mainstream and the importance of customer obsession in driving revenue and profits. We conclude by emphasizing the need for businesses to adapt to changing market conditions and to leverage technology to enhance customer relationships.

Join us as we unpack these critical topics and provide insights that matter to wholesale distributors and manufacturers. If you want to stay updated, don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on our social media channels!

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Not to sound like a broken record, but the almost-daily advancements in AI make it nearly impossible for wholesale distributors to ignore the coming tide. Now, with Swarm AI's latest development, is the dam about to burst?

In this episode of Around the Horn in Wholesale Distribution, we take a look at this and all the latest trends impacting the wholesale distribution and manufacturing industry. From supply chain resilience to labor market fluctuations to the effects of the east coast hurricanes, we analyze how global events and market trends are shaping the future of distribution.

• Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: Why are companies easing up on their supply chain strategies despite ongoing challenges in regions like the Panama Canal and South China Sea? Are businesses ignoring the lessons learned from the pandemic?
• Labor Market Trends: What impact will the Boeing machinists' strike and other labor disruptions have on wholesale distribution? Are we headed for more job losses, or will the market stabilize?
• Private Equity and Distribution: How is private equity influencing the distribution industry, and what does the bankruptcy of True Value reveal about the future of smaller wholesale businesses?

Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.

Want even more insight to the stories we discuss each week? Subscribe to the Around The Horn Newsletter.

You can also hear the podcast and other excellent content on our YouTube Channel.

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With all the hype around the AI revolution, one question remains: is AI actually helping wholesale distributors and manufacturers?

This week, hosts Kevin Brown and Tom Burton explore this question while diving into the latest industry trends impacting manufacturers, wholesale distributors, and the global supply chain.

From inflation’s effect on interest rates to the evolving geopolitical landscape, Kevin and Tom discuss the forces shaping the industry. Plus, learn how to harness AI for supply chain optimization and unlock insights that can drive your business forward. Tune in for practical tips and expert analysis to keep your organization competitive in 2024 and beyond.

Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.

Want even more insight to the stories we discuss each week? Subscribe to the Around The Horn Newsletter.

You can also hear the podcast and other excellent content on our YouTube Channel.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok.