US consumer sentiment has plummeted to one of its lowest levels on record, dropping to 52.2 in April from 57 in March, per final consumer sentiment data from the University of Michigan. Year-ahead inflation expectations surged to 6.5%, the highest level since 1991. Consumers also anticipate a weakening labor market and a decline in inflation-adjusted earnings.
US trade policy shifts are causing widespread uncertainty among businesses, leading to higher prices and disrupted supply chains. Major companies have adjusted their financial forecasts due to increased costs and market volatility, with some firms withdrawing forecasts as tariff disputes challenge corporate strategies globally.
Prologis anticipates a surge in inventory levels as customers stockpile goods to mitigate tariff risks, CFO Tim Arndt said during an earnings call. Companies are seeking overflow space and short-term flexibility, particularly through third-party logistics. Prologis reports that while some industries remain confident in their supply chain strategies, others are experiencing slowed decision-making regarding production and sourcing locations.
Amazon and Walmart are intensifying efforts to accelerate delivery times, leveraging in-house logistics and technology. Walmart aims to reach 95% of US households with same-day delivery by year-end through geospatial technology, testing ultra-fast delivery in 30 minutes or less. Amazon has expanded same-day delivery facilities by 60%, serving over 140 metro areas and using drones for quicker service.
Cargo theft in the US is expected to reach record levels, with losses exceeding $35 billion annually, driven by organized crime and technological advancements. IDScan finds that nearly 5% of driver IDs in logistics are fake, highlighting a major vulnerability. Robust ID verification, especially using AI, can mitigate these threats by ensuring only authorized individuals access the supply chain, Jimmy Roussel writes.
B2B marketers must adapt to shifts in decision-making as buyers increasingly rely on online research and self-guided journeys, writes Chris Leger of Launch Marketing. Marketers should enhance SEO, diversify content and leverage trust signals to reach younger decision-makers and build brand trust, Leger writes.
The distribution industry offers significant career opportunities for women, highlighted by MDM's 2025 Women in Distribution honorees. Robin McGuire, information chief at Reinders, emphasized the breadth of opportunities in distribution, noting the industry offers career paths in leadership, technology, operations, sales and more. Women leaders stressed the importance of confidence and initiative, urging women to pursue leadership roles and embrace the industry's vast potential for innovation and strategic impact.
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.
The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) is one of America’s leading trade associations, representing the $8 trillion wholesale distribution industry. Our industry employs more than 6 million workers throughout the United States, accounting for approximately 1/3 of the U.S. GDP. 250,000 wholesale distribution companies operate across North America, including all 50 states. Learn more.
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