Mike Hockett examines where wholesale inventory levels are at today, where they are headed and MDM’s latest data on just how big of an issue excess inventory may be entering 2024.
Human Resources
Article
Data: Distributors, Manufacturers Seeing Slow Progress on Labor Front
The 3Q23 Baird-MDM Survey revealed new quantitative data on industry-wide frontline hiring/retention, and plenty of interesting commentary.
Economic Trends
Article
Wholesale Revenue Expectations Improve as Monthly Growth Continues
Mike Hockett examines the latest economic trending data as it pertains to wholesale distributors, including their revenue expectations through next year.
Sales & Marketing
Article
Tech as a Teammate: How to Use Automation to Lighten the Sales Load
Technology has the power to lighten the load on a distributor’s sales team, freeing time to focus on higher-quality deals, says Gartner’s sales VP.
Human Resources
Article
How Changing Demographics Are Killing Profits
In Part 1 of a three-part series, Randy MacLean uses government data to explain why labor has become scarce and expensive before outlining action to exploit the opportunity it actually presents.
Human Resources
Article
4 Elements of a Distributor’s Culture that Foster Growth
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.

