Businesses are increasingly using the "first sale rule" to mitigate tariff costs, a practice that has gained attention under President Donald Trump's latest tariff regime. The rule allows US importers to calculate customs duties based on a manufacturer's initial sale price, bypassing markup from intermediaries. Companies have highlighted the cost-saving benefits of this approach.

Orders for durable goods significantly decreased in April, primarily influenced by a sharp drop in aircraft purchases, according to Commerce Department data. The 6.3% decline followed a revised 7.6% jump in March. Transportation orders fell 17.1% after a 23.5% increase in the previous month. With transportation equipment excluded, durable goods orders increased 0.2% in April.

Cameron Ashley Building Products has opened a distribution center in Fort Pierce, Fla., to meet rising construction demand driven by economic and population growth with various insulation products and related accessories. The facility will work alongside the existing Lakeland center to ensure quick and efficient delivery. The expansion "reflects our belief in Florida as a high-growth market and our continued commitment to expanding our presence across the state," says Regional Vice President John Gambone.

Elite distributors excel in six key areas: ideal customer profiling, pricing, unit variable costs, quantity, fixed costs and invested capital. By focusing on the ideal customer profile, which guides their focus on serving the most valuable customer segments, they can create and capture more value, negotiate better terms and maintain efficient operations, writes SPARXiQ and Trade Hounds CEO David Bauders.

The expiration of the Trump administration's 90-day tariff pause is approaching, with deadlines on July 9 and Aug. 14. Importers are facing a busy season as they prepare for the back-to-school and winter holidays, but unclear policy complicates matters, according to Freightos. The situation has led to rising maritime import costs and potential port congestion, with a Freightos survey indicating only 6% of businesses have shifted to domestic production.

B2B companies are finding that user-generated content often outperforms polished corporate messaging, writes Dan Harris. Harris outlines how user content can boost visibility, enhance employee morale and improve recruitment by showcasing a more relatable and authentic brand presence.

US companies showed strong Q1 performance, with S&P 500 profits rising 13% before the April tariff escalations. However, trade policy shifts, bond market concerns and inflation fears have created investor caution. Tariffs were mentioned in 2,136 earnings calls, and companies like Ford and Walmart have adjusted financial outlooks or raised prices in response.

Supply chain leaders must adapt to constant disruptions caused by resource scarcity, geopolitical tensions and climate events, writes Ainsley Lawrence. Companies are using scenario planning, automation and AI to build resilience, transforming operations to be more agile and innovative.

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