Fueled by Product Data
How Banner Solutions is Using PIM to Accelerate eCommerce
Thursday May 21, 2026 @ 1PM ET | Virtual
For many distributors, the path to digital growth stalls before it truly begins — often because product data feels too incomplete, too inconsistent or too overwhelming to fix. But waiting for “perfect” data can be a losing strategy.
This webinar explores a more pragmatic approach: how distributors can start with what they have, continuously improve their product data and unlock meaningful gains in eCommerce performance along the way. You’ll hear how PIM serves as a foundation for better product discovery, stronger search performance and more effective use of emerging technologies like AI — not as a silver bullet, but as a force multiplier built on better data.
Central to this session is a real-world case study from door hardware distributor Banner Solutions. Its digital leader will share how his team evolved from fragmented, imperfect product data to a scaled, high-performing digital business — growing eCommerce from single-digit penetration to more than 40% of total orders while expanding its online catalog significantly. His story reflects where many distributors are today: in the middle of the journey, making progress without having everything figured out.
What you’ll learn:
- How to take a “start where you are” approach to product data — and avoid the trap of over-engineering
- Practical steps to mature product listings and improve product discovery
- Lessons from Banner Solutions’ journey, including how better data contributed to major eCommerce gains
Meet the speakers:
Karan Kakar
Senior Enterprise Customer Success Manager
Akeneo
Karan is a Senior Customer Success Manager for North America at Akeneo, responsible for managing the relationship between Akeneo and a subset of its customer base. In his role, Karan brings a deep level of business knowledge and expertise on how Akeneocan help customers grow and scale in the world of Product Experience, positioning himself to his customers as their trusted advisor. Karan has been with Akeneo for just under 7 years. Before joining Akeneo, Karan held a similar role in the Healthcare IT space where he advised large doctor’s offices and hospitals on optimizing business aspects and leveraging new technologies to scale and improve various processes and operations, ultimately providing the best possible service and care to their patients.
Kimberly Ayala
Director of Customer Success
Akeneo
Kimberly Ayala is an innovative Customer Success leader with over 15 years of experience guiding enterprise customers through transformative technology initiatives. Renowned for her expertise in strategic account management, risk mitigation, sales, and change management, Kimberly excels at forging enduring partnerships that drive mutual growth. As the Director of Customer Success at Akeneo, Kimberly spearheads regional strategy and leads a dedicated team of Customer Success Managers (CSMs) committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences. Her “everybody can win” philosophy and strategic vision enable her to tackle challenges with enthusiasm and creativity. Passionate about professional development and continuous learning, Kimberly actively contributes to the Customer Success community, always eager to share insights and learn something new every day.
Ben Smith
Chief Digital Officer
Banner Solutions
Ben Smith, Chief Digital Officer at Banner Solutions, leads with a people-first philosophy—backed by more than two decades in wholesale distribution. His career centers on building and executing digital enablement and eCommerce strategies that move the needle on revenue growth, operational efficiency, and brand enhancement.
Vesna Brajkovic
Senior Editor
Modern Distribution Management
Vesna Brajkovic joined MDM’s editorial team as Senior Editor in May 2023 after covering the transportation and freight logistics industries as a B2B publication editor for more than seven years. At MDM, she provides in-depth market analysis and insights for the wholesale distribution sector through Premium-member content, such as articles, blogs, research reporting and more.
This webinar sponsored by:
