According to a recent McKinsey report, more than 90% of B2B companies have shifted to a virtual or hybridized sales model due to COVID-19. Though dramatic, this shift reveals an emerging trend away from face-to-face sales.
When it comes to digital presence — e-Commerce, ERP software, social media, websites, etc. — the wholesale-distribution sector is somewhat all over the map. A recent survey conducted by Supply House Times asked several industrial PVF distributors to anonymously comment on their company’s utilization of and plans for adopting e-Commerce.
After you get done reading the flurry of activity occurring at ASA as we head into the late summer/early fall part of the calendar, I want to direct your attention to two other ASA-related expertly written pieces in this issue that all companies in this supply chain should read.
The industrial PVF sector is facing a set of challenges that market experts describe as “the perfect storm.” Top concerns among pros in the industrial sector include commodity price increases, tariffs and trade disruption, freight inflation, fleet shortages and — of course — the ongoing lack of skilled labor.
Yes, I want to give back to the industry. Yes, I want to have my voice heard on the “big” issues. But probably the biggest reason is that through ASA, I have the opportunity to interact with other distributors, and I get to learn what sets highly successful business owners apart from everyone else.
AD reported its member sales in the first six months of 2021 were $28.1 billion, an increase of 30% across its 13 divisions and three countries. Same-store sales were up 17%. Purchases by member companies from AD supplier partners were up 34%. Net distributions to its members were up 37%.
Since Memorial Day this year, Dirk Beveridge, distribution expert and founder of UnleashWD — a design, innovation and strategy firm that helps distributors become market leaders — has been touring the U.S. in his 38-foot RV visiting independent distributors across various industries.