Three executives share how they implement elements of a ‘good company culture’ in order to grow their business, attract new employees and keep existing employees invested.
Market Analysis
Article
Ferguson Eyes Market Opportunities, Acquisitions Despite Headwinds
We extract key takeaways from the plumbing, HVAC, PVF and industrial supplies distribution giant’s earnings call on Sept. 25.
As distributors look to modernize their facility equipment, financing is always the biggest question. This Q&A sheds light on what distributors should keep in mind as they consider buying vs. leasing.
Economic Trends
Article
September Wholesale Data: Major Downshift in Revenue Outlook
Mike Hockett examines the latest economic trending data as it pertains to wholesale distributors, including their revenue expectations through next year.
Expert Perspective
Article
Glimpsing the Future: Will You Be a Flintstone or a Jetson?
Nelson Valderrama explores a fictional (but increasingly likely) 2030 wholesale distributorship that includes physical, technological and cultural changes in the making today.
Facilities Maintenance (MRO)
Article
The State of Grainger’s Footprint: What’s Changed and What Hasn’t
Mike Hockett analyzes the MRO products giant’s physical presence, which has surpassed 30 million square feet.
Strategy
Article
How Distributors Can Drive Value Amid New Business Models
New manufacturing business models are disrupting traditional distribution channels, creating risks and opportunities. Several actions can allow distributors to add value for OEMs alongside growth and profitability for themselves.
Branding for Distributors
Article
Inside Global Industrial’s ‘Engaged’ Sports Marketing
Mike Hockett dives into the distributor’s sponsorship of a NASCAR XFINITY Series race car, focusing on the many benefits the distributor is seeing from it.
Economic Trends
Article
August Wholesale Data: 2023-2024 Expectations Further Regress Slightly
We examine the latest economic trending data as it pertains to wholesale distributors, including their revenue expectations through next year.
The proposed rule would expand federal purchasing recommendations across existing and new-purchase categories in healthcare, laboratories, professional services, foodservice, uniforms and clothing.
Facilities Maintenance (MRO)
Article
Home Depot’s HD Supply Eyes Deeper MRO Market Penetration
After re-acquiring HD Supply in 2020, The Home Depot reveals plans for the MRO distributor’s role in expanding market reach.
Quarterly MDM-Baird Distribution Survey
Article
Analysis: What Can Manufacturers Do to Reduce Distributor-Supplier Friction?
In the latest Baird-MDM quarterly industrial distribution survey, we asked how manufacturers could make partnerships more efficient. See our analysis and plenty of respondent commentary.

