Inflation slowed in October for the first time in months, with prices remaining flat compared with September and rising 3.2% year over year, according to the Labor Department's consumer price index. Core inflation, which excludes more volatile products such as gasoline and food, increased 4% from a year earlier and 0.2% over the previous month.

NAW CEO Eric Hoplin recently joined the DCKAP Driven podcast to discuss the future of distribution and the evolution of the industry, particularly the role of technology in distribution. Hoplin offers insights into the dynamic world of distribution and the innovative strategies at NAW aimed at modernizing distribution and establishing a next-generation trade association.

Two-thirds of retailers analyzed by LSEG Workspace for Reuters are likely to have an overabundance of inventory for the second consecutive holiday season and face the challenge of offloading goods as increased consumer spending is roughly on par with inflation, write Ananya Mariam Rajesh and Savyata Mishra. Analysis reveals the issue is most predominant among dollar and department stores and clothing and accessories chains.

AI is a valuable tool for data analysis, prediction and automation in supply chain management, yet human oversight remains irreplaceable when it comes to unexpected changes, product issues, brand expectations and individual needs, writes Damien Pacaud, chief technology officer for QIMA. "Brands and suppliers who develop a comprehensive strategy, implementing AI with already established, trusted inspectors, new partners and those with previous issues, will have a tremendous leg-up when working to mitigate risk for quality, safety and efficiency on the line," Pacaud writes.

Today's "New Customer" is more informed, connected and value-driven and demands "transparency, sustainability, and personalized experiences from businesses" and a "stake in the supply chain narrative," writes Vivek Ghelani, Digital Supply Chain Institute director of research. This shift will require supply chain professionals to take numerous steps, including investing in digital infrastructures, employing IoT, blockchain and other technologies to provide comprehensive visibility and traceability and redesigning operations to minimize environmental impact.

Black Friday's time-limited deals can be maximized as a strategy by business-to-business marketers, whether for services such as software-as-a-subscription or even engaging prospects by offering free whitepaper access or tickets to conferences and events, advises Roast's Alexandra Sheppard. Traditional B2B channels such as LinkedIn are less likely to suffer from inflated Black Friday media costs, Sheppard writes, making them a good bet for B2B marketers to make the most of the event's buzz.

With interest rates soaring, some small companies are reconsidering equipment purchases, re-evaluating loan terms and increasing customer-account collection efforts. Small businesses have been paying 9% or higher interest on short-term loans during the past three months, an increase from 6.7% a year earlier and 4.6% in August 2021, says the National Federation of Independent Business.

Led by Ron Staffieri, the distinguished former CEO of Chattanooga Shooting Sports, Ron will share his tools, tactics, and leadership prowess with you so you can thrive in the fast-paced distribution landscape. Register today.

NAW is serving up a November treat with 20% off on all online bookstore publications, featuring a wide selection of business books for the wholesale-distribution industry. Check out "Innovate to Dominate" - a game-changer that's a must-read for anyone looking to thrive in this dynamic field. Use promo code 'Fall20" for your discount. Browse the full selection online at here.

Experience three days of excellent networking opportunities, cutting-edge content, and educational programming for leaders in the wholesale-distribution industry at NAW's Exective Summit Jan. 30 - Feb. 1. Hear from world-class speakers and explore issues critical to the industry. Be prepared for what's next and learn new strategies to get there first. View agenda and registration information here.