Are distributors and manufacturers ready to meet the challenges of economic uncertainty, AI-driven transformations, and evolving buyer expectations?

In episode 120, we're joined by guest Mark Brohan to explore the key trends shaping wholesale distribution and manufacturing as 2024 comes to a close. Will macroeconomic confusion be sparked by interest rate changes? What about the resurgence of onshoring and nearshoring, and the rise of B2B e-commerce marketplaces?

Mark Brohan provides valuable insights into how digital transformation and AI are reshaping the industry, with a particular focus on data-driven decision-making, warehouse automation, and personalized buyer experiences. Mark shares his expertise on the intersection of digital commerce and supply chain strategy, highlighting the importance of modernizing systems to meet the needs of digitally savvy buyers.

From the impact of geopolitical tensions on sourcing strategies to the ever-growing competition in the distribution sector, this episode asks that all-important question in a rapidly changing landscape: what's next?

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In this trans-Pacific episode, Kevin checks in from his Hawaiian vacation to join Tom in a rich discussion on the intersection of macroeconomic trends, wholesale distribution strategies, and emerging technologies. What are the implications of rising small business confidence, evolving tariff policies, and the AI-driven solutions that are shaping the future of distribution and manufacturing?

Key segments include insights into how distributors are strengthening contractor relationships, the rising importance of e-commerce in B2B sales, and the transformative role of AI in optimizing operations. Kevin and Tom shed light on the economic drivers and technological innovations influencing the industry.

As always, listeners are treated to practical takeaways as Kevin and Tom analyze the news - from leveraging AI for structured data analysis to fostering customer-centric strategies that align with evolving buyer expectations. The episode underscores the importance of adapting to new trends while maintaining a firm grasp on traditional values like service and reliability.

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The blockchain ain't just for crypto anymore...

As the new U.S. administration embraces emerging technologies to create cost-effective efficiencies, so goes the world of wholesale distribution and manufacturing. and we're here to guide you along this exciting new path!

In this episode of Around The Horn in Wholesale Distribution, we explore how blockchain and AI are reshaping the future of wholesale distribution and manufacturing. We first break down the role of blockchain in procurement transparency and traceability, explaining how smart contracts could drastically reduce administrative costs and processing cycle times.

Then, we discuss the increasing adoption of AI in B2B e-commerce, emphasizing its potential to enhance customer experiences and streamline digital sales.

And then it's a deep dive into the news: updates on U.S. manufacturing activity, insights on the impact of tariffs on global trade, and highlights of the growing demand for watchable podcasts as an engagement tool for modern audiences.

Packed with actionable takeaways and expert perspectives, this episode is a must-listen for distributors navigating today’s dynamic business environment.

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What’s the future of wholesale distribution amidst economic shifts and technological innovation?

Episode 117 of Around the Horn in Wholesale Distribution dives into the pressing challenges and opportunities facing wholesale distribution and manufacturing today. Hosts Kevin Brown and Tom Burton explore the economic landscape, supply chain complexities, and how AI-driven innovations like smart CRMs and digital twins are reshaping the industry.

How will potential tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and inflation impact your business? Are you ready to embrace the transformative power of AI, from predictive insights to automating purchasing decisions? What role will nearshoring and advanced manufacturing technologies play in stabilizing supply chains and fueling growth?

Join Kevin and Tom as they unpack these questions, highlight key economic indicators, and share actionable insights for manufacturers, distributors, and sales leaders navigating this rapidly changing landscape.

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What a week! With barely time to catch their breaths, hosts Kevin Brown and Tom Burton are joined by Alex Chasovsky from the Bundy Group to look at how policy changes might affect manufacturers, wholesale distribution, and the global supply chain.

The episode dives into the current economic landscape, particularly in light of recent Federal Reserve meetings and interest rate discussions. Alex shares his insights on the dichotomy between the consumer side of the economy, which appears strong, and the struggles faced by the industrial sector, particularly in manufacturing and distribution.

We then explore the implications of potential tariff changes under the new Trump administration, touching on the need for balanced trade practices and the impact of tariffs on various industries. We also look at the likelihood of tax cuts and regulatory changes that could benefit manufacturers, highlighting the challenges of navigating fiscal policy in a high-interest-rate environment.

The takeaway? It's all about the importance of staying informed and adaptable in a rapidly changing economic landscape.

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So...did some big event happen recently?

A change in administration means a change in policy, and in some cases, a BIG change. What does this mean for wholesale distributors and manufacturers?

On this week's episode, we start with the Federal Reserve's recent decision to cut interest rates by a quarter point, marking the second cut of the year. What are the the implications of this move and subsequent rate changes?

We also analyze the latest Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) data, which showed unexpected growth in the services sector, and discuss how this might influence the manufacturing and distribution landscape. And what was Wall Street's reaction to the recent elections and the potential for a business-friendly environment under the new administration?

In our manufacturing and distribution segment, we explore an article that outlines how the new administration's policies may impact corporate tax rates, labor rights, and trade policies.

As we move into e-commerce and marketing, we share four key tips for B2B marketers to optimize their strategies for 2025, focusing on adapting to expanding buying groups and leveraging intent data. We also discuss the continued dominance of Amazon in the B2B marketplace and the need for distributors to provide unique value propositions to compete effectively.

Finally, we touch on the critical importance of cybersecurity in the tech landscape, highlighting the need for businesses to reassess their priorities in light of increasing cyber threats.

Join us next week as we welcome Alex Chesovsky, an expert in economics and distribution strategy, to further explore these topics and provide insights into the future of our industry. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and insights!

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Is another rate cut coming? And what's happening with China's first manufacturing expansion in months? And is that a reduction in inflation we're seeing???

The latest data indicates that the U.S. economy grew at a slower-than-expected pace of 2.8%, alongside inflation figures and job growth statistics. The conversation highlights the potential for an interest rate cut in the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting, driven by these economic indicators.

Meanwhile, in the global markets, we discuss China's manufacturing activity, which has shown signs of expansion for the first time in six months. This uptick could have significant implications for U.S. exporters, particularly in agriculture and technology. But lookout for ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Red Sea and Suez Canal, that could hinder supply chain stability.

In our manufacturing and distribution segment, we explore the potential resolution of the Boeing strike and its implications for the industry. We also delve into B2B marketing strategies, drawing parallels between trick-or-treating (it's the season!) and effective marketing practices, emphasizing the importance of consistency, variety, personalization, and balance in outreach efforts.

Finally, we discuss the growing interest in AI among B2B companies, highlighting the challenges they face in implementing effective AI strategies due to siloed data and lack of cohesive planning. Two words: harmonizing data.

As always, we appreciate your support and encourage you to subscribe and share the podcast!

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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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