US business inventories rose 0.1% in October to $2.59 trillion, according to Census Bureau data, marking a 2.4% increase from a year earlier. Sales were virtually unchanged at $1.88 trillion, while the inventory-to-sales ratio stood at 1.37, slightly up from 1.36 in October 2023.

PrimeSource, a distributor of residential building products based in Irving, Texas, has acquired CityPost, a Spokane Valley, Wash.-based supplier of cable railing systems. The acquisition aligns with PrimeSource's strategy to expand its offerings in the outdoor living category, complementing its existing RailFX and Ultra-Tec solutions. Since partnering with Clearlake Capital Group in December 2020, PrimeSource has now made seven acquisition.

Amazon workers have authorized a strike at four warehouses in Southern California, following similar authorizations in New York and Illinois. The authorizations, announced by the Teamsters union, permit strikes but do not guarantee work stoppages will occur. The strike threats come amid the busy Christmas season as workers seek to negotiate contracts with Amazon.

Warehouse orchestration is poised to revolutionize supply chain management by integrating various technologies and processes such as automation, robotics and AI. This holistic approach aims to optimize workflows, reduce inefficiencies and enhance real-time decision-making, ultimately leading to significant cost savings and improved operational performance.

The value of warehouse and distribution projects being built in the US at this time is $9 billion, with almost 25% of that amount attributable to Amazon, according to data from Industrial Info Resources. Extremely positive ecommerce volumes are one of the main factors motivating investors.

Anthony Iannarino argues that human-centered B2B sales strategies outperform AI-driven solutions by emphasizing the importance of meaningful conversations with clients. He critiques the over-reliance on technology in sales, noting that tools like CRM platforms and AI solutions often distract from actual selling.

House lawmakers have unveiled the text of a comprehensive funding bill aiming to extend government operations until March 2025. The proposal includes $100 billion for disaster relief, a farm bill extension, expanded ethanol sales, and restrictions on US investments in China. NAW Chief Government Relations Officer Brian Wild praised key policies in the continuing resolution and urged Congress to pass the bill. "Although the CR is not perfect, shutting down the government is never the right option," Wild said. "Businesses and workers depend on a functioning government, and by passing this continuing resolution, Congress can preserve critical services while still incorporating key policies that NAW supports."

As the year comes to a close, it's a perfect time to reflect on your achievements and challenges, writes executive coach Joel Garfinkle, who suggests celebrating your accomplishments by documenting key wins and their impacts, which can be helpful for future performance reviews. Reflecting on your growth helps set meaningful goals for the upcoming year, ensuring you start with a clear vision and renewed motivation, Garfinkle writes.

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.

Prioritize your organization's greatest asset — your people. NAW’s premier education programs, such as the online Management Academy and the in-depth Distribution Leadership Program at THE Ohio State University, are designed to equip your high-potential employees with the skills and insights they need to lead and succeed. Ensure your rising stars are prepared to drive your business forward by investing in their growth today. Learn more about how NAW can help you develop the leaders of tomorrow.