Despite fears of an economic downturn due to rising unemployment over the summer, recent data shows a resilient US economy driven by robust consumer spending. Retail sales increased by 1.7% over the past year, with September showing a notable 0.4% rise. "It's hard to argue with the numbers that are pointing to consumers continuing to spend in the aggregate," said Gisela Hoxha, an economist at Citi.

The supply chain landscape in 2025 will be shaped by the integration of AI, automation and real-time data, enhancing decision-making and efficiency, writes Sienna Johns. Sustainability, cybersecurity and reshoring strategies will become more critical as businesses adapt to evolving global dynamics and consumer expectations. Companies investing in digital skills, workforce development and advanced technologies will be better equipped to handle disruptions and remain competitive in the shifting supply chain environment.

Housing starts in the Northeast rose 57.9% last month from August and 109.3% from a year ago, contrasting with the overall national decline of 0.5% on a monthly basis and 0.7% from a year ago, according to the US Census Bureau and the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. The National Association of Home Builders notes that while single-family home construction is up, rising mortgage rates could hinder future expansion, and increasing housing supply could address affordability issues.

A recent Gartner survey revealed that 42% of procurement leaders view supply disruptions, such as natural disasters and transportation issues, as the top threat to their future success. Additionally, macroeconomic factors and geopolitical challenges were identified as major risks, while leaders at many organizations are increasingly concerned about energy availability and cost.

The supply chain index reached its highest score in two years this September, indicating a continued recovery in the logistics industry, according to a report by researchers from multiple universities and CSCMP. Increased inventory levels at the retail level, rising freight and warehouse activity and higher transportation prices suggest a traditional peak season is expected, with consumer spending poised to boost both the supply chain and the overall economy through 2024.

TikTok's Symphony suite enhances B2B marketing by streamlining content creation and personalization to aid in targeting marketing efforts. These features not only improve engagement but also boost SEO performance, making TikTok a valuable tool for B2B marketers aiming to connect with their audience effectively.

As businesses contend with reduced revenue and high operational costs, many are cutting hiring and assigning extra duties to existing employees, a strategy employed by firms like Express Employment Professionals. Some employees enjoy the new tasks and enhanced skills, but other workers are frustrated that the assignments do not include immediate wage increases, and unions and staffing officials voice concerns over unrealistic job expectations.

The NAW Company Roundtables are an exclusive community of thought leaders from Billion Dollar and Large Company distribution enterprises who congregate to network with non-competing peers in multiple lines of trade on key issues. Learn more about the many Roundtable event opportunities we offer, and how your leaders can get involved. Learn more.

Join us in Washington, D.C., January 27 -29, for NAW's Executive Summit, bringing together the best and brightest leaders from the wholesale distribution industry. Learn more here.