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As distributors adopt AI for quoting, order entry and other workflows, they need to know exactly how vendors are using their data. This piece explains the risks of cross-customer AI training and outlines the questions distributors should ask to protect proprietary knowledge, customer information and years of accumulated expertise.
November 10, 2026
The workflow automation firm’s research finds widespread AI access to confidential commercial information, with 16% of surveyed managers reporting improper data handling through AI tools during the past year.
From supplier negotiations to difficult employee conversations, AI personas could help distributors practice before the stakes are real. This piece explores how simulated counterparts can strengthen training, preserve veteran expertise and support hiring.
As distributors face growing pressure to deploy AI across their businesses, more technology doesn’t necessarily mean more value. This piece explains why a more intentional, permission-based approach to AI — one that prioritizes trust, governance...
The companies moving beyond isolated pilots are building a repeatable operating foundation around data, integration, governance and measurable business ownership.
The electrical distribution giant’s investment builds on nearly $4 billion committed to its transformation since 2021, with AI applications targeting inventory availability, sales productivity and customer service.
The federal government’s new AI-powered america.gov site offers a lesson for distributors: Customers shouldn’t have to navigate your internal complexity to get answers. This piece explores five ideas worth borrowing — and what the latest...
Rising fuel, labor and operating costs are putting added pressure on distributor margins. This article explores how AI-powered route optimization can help distributors cut unnecessary fleet miles, improve delivery efficiency and reduce costs — without...
NAW’s 2026 AI Adoption Index suggests early returns are showing up as time saved, greater throughput and avoided hiring long before they appear as broad job reductions.
Wesco, TD Synnex and Performance Food Group earned spots on Fortune’s expanded ranking recognizing AI implementation and business impact. The recognition puts distribution’s AI progress in the spotlight and offers a timely connection to NAW’s...
Emerging technology is becoming more specific, more capable and more fluent in how wholesale distribution operates. Here, NAW’s Dan Schuberth offers his perspective on how the advantage will go to companies that pair it with...
The electrical distribution giant said its new worldwide Data & AI platform now brings predictive models to operations representing 95% of company revenue, with applications spanning inventory, sales and customer experience.
Details on the deal are very limited, but directionally meaningful toward adding a new dimension to Fastenal’s AI ambitions among distribution’s greater arms race of AI build-and-buy solutions. Here’s our analysis of what this Fastenal...
