Let's face it: when it comes to the tech adoption curve, wholesale distributors and manufacturers can be a little behind (Are you? Hint: if you don't know what "adoption curve" means, you are).

On this episode, we dive into the critical role that digital resources play in driving both growth and customer engagement. From providing valuable digital content, to the challenges of balancing self-service experiences with the need for personalized interactions, we'll help you assess your own digital landscape...and show you how it directly impacts your ROI.

In addition, we take a deep dive into the news that affects wholesalers the most: the impact of inflation on the economy, the potential of the industrial metaverse for businesses of all sizes, and a new look at the building blocks for AI in your business.

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AI may be the most recent technology game-changer for wholesale distribution and manufacturing, but it's by no means the only one. In this week's episode, we're joined by guest Lin Chase, Ph.D., a 35-year veteran of enterprise technology and artificial intelligence and University Administrator. Together, we discuss the evolving landscape of technology in the manufacturing and distribution industry. We also dive into the reasons behind the surge in investment in Mexico's manufacturing infrastructure, as well as the importance of semantic planning in data management and how it can reshape B2B commerce (and just what the heck is "semantic planning" anyway?).

We also explore the potential applications of virtual reality and augmented reality in training and safety measures within manufacturing settings, as well as the need for strategic data planning and the integration of AI for future growth and efficiency. We cover a lot, so grab a cup of coffee and get ready for some incredible insights!

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A monster acquisition is reshaping wholesale distribution and manufacturing: Home Depot's acquisition of SRS distribution, a move that expands their reach to tradesmen and building materials across 47 states. What's the real magic behind this move? It  emphasizes the importance of meeting buyers where they are and adapting to their preferences. In this episode, we dive into this development and talk about how you can adapt in the same way.  (Spoiler: it's about combining B2C simplicity with B2B depth in e-commerce and marketing strategies). 

The other major story this week was a tragic one: the major bridge collapse on the East Coast. The human toll was awful, and the disaster compounds with disruptions for inbound and outbound traffic for ships. How will this disaster—combined with the rebound of durable goods orders in February—impact the economy?

We also highlight the importance of understanding the changing buyer journey and how AI can enhance the customer experience. Additionally, we discussed the role of AI in manufacturing and cybersecurity, particularly Microsoft's Copilot in aiding cybersecurity officers.

We cover a lot this week, so don't miss out! Remember to follow us on all the social platforms: YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.

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In this week's episode, Kevin and Tom are joined by Scott Costa, Publisher of the Electrical Distributor magazine (tED). Scott gives his unique insight to the importance of data-driven decisions in B2B marketing and the false allure of solely relying on intent data, emphasizing the need to focus on creating demand earlier in the process rather than just capturing existing intent.

We also delve into the significance of resiliency in supply chains, particularly in the context of manufacturing and distribution: how can businesses adapt and innovate to navigate supply chain challenges effectively? Additionally, we explore the evolving landscape of e-commerce and marketing, touching on the complexities of B2B intent data and the considerations surrounding data maturity in organizations.

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These are tumultuous times in wholesale distribution: U.S. small business sentiment fell in February to the lowest level since May due to continued concerns around inflation. In addition, the consumer price index, a broad measure of goods and services costs, increased 0.4% for the month and 3.2% from a year ago. Combine this with strikes at East Coast ports and shipping restrictions through the Panama Canal, and you've got a messy situation.

But when it comes to those all-important buyers, this economic data hardly matters: they're more concerned with the customer journey. In fact, 86% of B2B retailer buyers said they're willing to switch suppliers if another B2B web store offers a better experience, according to new survey data from Sana Commerce.

So what are wholesale distributors and manufacturers supposed to do with this? Where do you focus your attention and resources? How do you look at this data and see its relevance to your business? This week, Kevin and Tom look behind the headlines to bring you deep analysis and insight into these topics and more - it's an episode to help you make heads or tails of a constantly changing wholesale marketplace!

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According to Reuters, U.S. wholesale inventories fell more than initially thought in January of 2024, which could negatively impact economic growth estimates for the first quarter. Inventories dropped 0.3% instead of dipping 0.1% as estimated last month.  At January's sales pace it would take wholesalers 1.36 months to clear shelves, up from 1.34 months in December.

So what does this mean for wholesale manufacturers and distributors? How does it affect your bottom line when it takes longer to turn over your inventory, or longer to get inventory in your warehouse? And what can you do to mitigate the risk and the cost,

On this week's episode, Tom and Kevin and joined by Mike Mortensen, CEO of ARG Industrial, to get deep insights to these issues and more. We also take a look at how risk is becoming the "new normal" for the global ocean shipping industry that handles 80% of global trade, as well as how developments in generative AI could create more rapid change in the workplace and the economy than previous waves of tech advances.

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In the competitive world of wholesale distribution, businesses are increasingly recognizing the transformative power of tailoring their marketing efforts to meet the unique needs of individual clients and stakeholders. It's no longer a "one size fits all" marketplace: personalizing your customer journey and customer experience is key to retaining business. This week, Tom and Kevin, along with their guest Mike Hockett, Executive Editor of Modern Distribution Management, dive into this topic to reveal that B2B Market Personalization may be the hottest trend of 2024. We also take a closer look at looming ethical questions regarding the use of AI in wholesale manufacturing and distribution, including why industrial organizations are such ripe targets for ransomware attacks. 

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In 2006, there were less than 80 B2B marketplaces in the world. Within the next two years, that number will top 1,000. At the same time, Generative AI is reshaping the job market, subtly influencing job postings rather than triggering widespread layoffs. The tools for wholesale distribution and wholesale manufacturing are increasing exponentially...so how does this effect your wholesale channels? This week, Kevin and Tom take a hard look at the latest news on these two important subjects, and provide their unique perspective—and decades of experience—to the explosion of both AI and B2B marketplaces.

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 For the first time in two decades, the U.S. has purchased more goods from Mexico than it has from China, providing further evidence for how much global trading patterns have shifted. Indeed, supply chain managers have seen an increasing need to adopt new technologies, including a growing initiative to increase nearshoring or onshoring efforts. Disruptions in wholesale distribution and manufacturing seem to be everywhere…but that only creates new opportunities for businesses that have the willingness—and the know-hot—to adapt. On this episode, Tom and Kevin are joined by Mike Franz of InSupply to provide insight to these issues and a whole lot more: 2023’s dramatic increase in B2B eCommerce, the risks of Deep Fakes to your cybersecurity, and more intriguing economic news. 

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The fragility of the world’s supply chains has been underscored again by escalating tensions in the Red Sea and decisions by major shipping companies to bypass the Suez Canal in favor of a longer and safer route around Africa. But "longer" can mean two things: delays in delivery and more expense. What does this mean in the face of other economic factors that point to a booming recovery (and potentially no recession)?

Meanwhile, AI continues to dominate the tech landscape. According to a Forbes report, tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney are increasing in popularity, allowing marketing teams to streamline or automate the creation of all sorts of content. However, FTC Chair Lina Khan has launched an inquiry into generative AI partnerships, looking to find whether such partnerships pursued by dominant companies "risk distorting innovation and undermining fair competition."

So what does this all mean to wholesale manufacturers and distributors? This week, Tom and Kevin give their unique insight to the news that affects WD the most, offering valuable solutions and expert perspective.

Leave a Review: Help us grow by sharing your thoughts on the show.

Learn more about the LeadSmart AI B2B Sales Platform: https://www.leadsmarttech.com/

Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.

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