The International Monetary Fund revised its 2025 US growth forecast upward, projecting a 2.7% increase in gross domestic product, up from the previous 2.2% estimate. The increase coincides with a 3.3% estimate for global growth and expectations of lower inflation. However, the IMF warns against protectionist measures such as tariffs and subsidies, which could harm global trade and economic stability.

Following the US government's labeling of Amazon as a distributor, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a final order requiring the ecommerce giant to implement remediation plans for hazardous products sold on its platform. Starting next week, Amazon must notify customers and the public about recalls, offer refunds for destroyed products and maintain recall information on its website for five years.

The new US administration will likely affect supply chains through expanded tariffs and sanctions, potentially impacting trade with China, Mexico, Canada and European trading partners. Although domestic manufacturing might increase, uncertainties remain regarding the global outlook for trade and merger activity.

On his first day back in office, President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring a national energy emergency to expand fossil fuel production, reverse electric vehicle mandates and end a pause of liquefied natural gas permitting. Trump also signed orders to stimulate oil and gas production in Alaska and withdraw from the Paris climate agreement.

Distributors often hesitate to adopt AI due to overwhelming information and concerns about implementation, writes David Wiernik, an Enavate sales executive. Wiernik says distributors should focus on employee needs and processes, identify processes that can benefit from AI, such as order entry and inventory management, and partner with trusted vendors.

Procurement is evolving from a cost-cutting function to a strategic driver of innovation, resilience and sustainability, according to Amazon Business' "2025 State of Procurement Data" report. The report highlights challenges such as supply chain disruptions, inflation and cybersecurity, while noting that procurement is leading in digital transformation and socially responsible purchasing.

Ruth Stevens highlighted the importance of customer retention in B2B at a recent conference, noting that existing customers account for 73% of B2B revenue yet just 15% of marketers prioritize them. Stevens offers seven strategies for retention, including swift problem resolution, penetration marketing, defection prevention, automatic replenishment, account-level loyalty recognition and win-back strategies.

A recent University of Tennessee Global Supply Chain Institute white paper outlines six best practices for engaging younger generations in supply chain organizations and adapting traditional high-performance organization models. These practices include offering rapid career advancement opportunities, providing extraordinary flexibility in work schedules and focusing on personal development plans. Companies are also encouraged to embrace digital environments, offer time-based rewards and ensure alignment with employees' values.

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.