How distributors can use e-commerce to add value | SpartanNash to add Tally inventory robots to 15 stores | White Cap acquiring Tri-Boro Construction Supplies
Expectations for supply chains are rising, with companies looking for more safety, sustainability, productivity and value creation at lower costs, and industrial distributors should use e-commerce as a "platform to simplify research, buying and fulfillment, and a springboard to create deeper value," writes Kirk Talmontas, vice president of e-commerce at Fastenal. Talmontas details how distributors can optimize the supply chain and add value by helping buyers shift to more strategic transactions.
Fifteen SpartanNash stores in Indiana and Michigan will be using Simbe's autonomous inventory robot, Tally, to collect real-time data intelligence following a successful pilot project. SpartanNash said data collected by the robot will help keep inventory updated, fresh and affordable while also freeing up associates to serve customers.
Construction materials firm White Cap will acquire Tri-Boro Construction Supplies, a central Pennsylvania-based provider that offers concrete and construction supplies and rebar fabrication.
The benefits of a distributor "owning the shop floor" of a particular customer include a holistic view of the buyer's needs and the ability to offer personalized services and create a long-term partnership, writes Jeff Pomerantz, founder of Dalworth Tool & Supply. Shared technology is essential to maintaining this partnership, and a scalable software platform "can help distributors improve customer satisfaction, increase sales and reduce costs," Pomerantz writes.
Gartner research reveals 65% of supply chain executives globally believe it will be easier to invest in new technology this year and 73% of related IT budgets will go to boost growth and performance, according to Gartner research. Gartner predicts eight significant technology trends for 2023, including actionable artificial intelligence, mobile asset optimization and industry cloud platforms.
By using "nudges" -- or follow-up exercises -- along with peer sessions and in-person trainings, Home Depot was able to create a successful leadership development program that boosted both engagement and skills, according to Michael Cabe, the company's senior manager of learning strategy. Cabe offers three lessons for companies that want to follow their strategy including how to create effective nudges that already enhance the skills leaders use on a daily basis.
Top-down management must meet with bottom-up employee transformation to create real company change -- or else end up with a muddled middle dissatisfying to everyone, writes Rachel Bellow, co-founder of the Bonfire career development program for mid-career women. Tools like training programs, such as those that promote accountability, and attentive listening can help with true culture change, Bellow writes.
