President Trump has confirmed that tariffs on Canada and Mexico are scheduled to proceed next month, despite initial delays. These tariffs are part of Trump's strategy to address border security concerns, specifically targeting undocumented migration and illegal drug flows. However, a US official indicated that the timing could reportedly still change.

The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors is urging Congress to support the House Budget Resolution to prevent significant tax increases on small businesses and workers. The expiration of provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, such as the 199A small business deduction, could lead to a substantial tax hike affecting 30 million small businesses and 2.6 million workers. NAW argues that permanently extending these provisions is crucial for maintaining job growth and economic investment.

President Donald Trump's tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico are causing concern among US consumers. The Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Index dropped seven points in February to 98.3 from 105.3 in January, the most significant monthly decline since 2021. Respondents expressed concerns about inflation and the potential for a trade war, with gauges measuring business, income and job market expectations declining significantly.

Transportation and warehousing are the most injury-prone industries, with 4.5 injuries per 100 full-time workers, according to a report from Kuru that used 2023 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The report cites heavy machinery, long hours and unpredictable conditions as contributing factors. It also offers safety tips from OSHA.

Digital procurement transformation is becoming essential for organizations facing growth challenges, regulatory pressures and the need for operational efficiency. According to Spend Matters, drivers such as organizational changes, new leadership, macroeconomic stability and supply chain disruptions are pushing companies toward automation and procuretech solutions. Practitioners emphasize the need for value creation and compliance, while consultants note that change often follows significant disruptions or cost concerns.

Buying-group marketing is more effective than account-based marketing in B2B settings because it targets decision-making groups rather than individuals or entire accounts, writes Mike Maynard. This approach acknowledges that companies often act inconsistently across divisions and locations, and it better addresses varied stakeholder roles and motivations, Maynard writes.

Jonathan Franchell of Ironpaper discusses the pitfalls of focusing on short-term metrics in B2B marketing, highlighting how this approach can undermine long-term growth. Franchell suggests aligning marketing and sales through shared success metrics and CRM systems, redefining metrics to focus on engagement quality, and investing in content that addresses customer needs.

CEOs are increasingly focused on supply chain issues as they become central to corporate strategy, with AI and automation being adopted rapidly for efficiency rather than cost-cutting, according to research from Zero100 that outlines eight major supply chain pressures influencing global trade and logistics. Ongoing tensions between the US and China, Brexit disruptions and new EU digital regulations are among the key factors businesses must adapt to in order to maintain resilience and efficiency.

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.

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