US worker productivity increased 0.2% in the first quarter, a downward revision from the initial 0.3% increase reported a month ago, according to Labor Department data. Unit labor costs surged 4%, lower than an earlier 4.7% estimate but enough to signal persistent inflationary pressure. Economists expect productivity to bounce back in the year's second half, while employers are expected to keep a tight rein on costs.

US LBM, a distributor of specialty building materials, has purchased RAKS Building Supply, a New Mexico-based distributor of home-building supplies to contractors and professional builders. RAKS has five locations in the Albuquerque area, including several building materials yards, a home center and a truss manufacturing plant. "The Albuquerque region continues to see high demand for housing, and with continued low inventory levels, the addition of RAKS expands our network into a strong market that will continue to grow," said US LBM President and CEO L.T. Gibson.

Distributor Wesco finalized its acquisition of data center and building intelligence software provider entroCIM. The $30 million purchase price could be increased based on future performance earnouts. Wesco CEO John Engel said the deal is "indicative of the expanded services, data-informed intelligence, and expertise that Wesco intends to provide."

Multiple changes are occurring simultaneously in the supply chain industry, making it critical to be flexible, prioritize supplier diversity and prepare for unpredictable surges in demand, says Lisa Anderson, founder of LMA Consulting Group. Anderson discusses how small businesses can prepare for their first enormous order while also sharing ideas for large suppliers who are having to cope with global supply chain issues such as last August's extended disruptions on the Panama Canal.

Blockchain can offer a compelling value proposition for global supply chains, writes Clare Adelgren from EY, but it is most suitable for decentralized operations. "The maturity of public blockchain technology is ready for enterprises to embrace and generate both new efficiencies and to address key challenges in the supply chain," Adelgren writes.

Effective sales teams include hunters who chase new opportunities and farmers who cultivate relationships, writes sales expert Trey Morris. "By understanding their strengths, providing tailored training, fostering collaboration, setting clear goals, and recognizing their achievements, you create an environment where both types of salespeople can thrive," Morris writes.

Investors monitoring US credit card spending patterns observe a selective buying trend among consumers favoring hot items like wide-legged jeans and athleisure wear while eschewing electronics and home improvement goods. This preference boosts specialty retailers like Abercrombie and Vuori, despite a broader slowdown in big-ticket purchases.

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