US consumer confidence declined in June, falling to 93 from 98.4 in May, as concerns about tariffs and inflation persist, according to The Conference Board. The expectations index also declined, reflecting pessimism about business conditions and job availability.

Hajoca, a plumbing and HVAC distributor, has acquired Onsemble, a software company specializing in AI-enabled tools for contractors. The deal enhances Hajoca's digital offerings, particularly for small and midsize plumbing businesses. Onsemble will operate as a digital innovation unit within Hajoca, with its team remaining intact to develop tech solutions tailored for contractors' needs.

The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Diamond Alternative Energy's challenge to an EPA waiver that allowed California to establish stricter greenhouse gas emission standards. The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors filed an amicus brief in the case supporting businesses' right to challenge harmful regulations in court. "Any business that can prove it is negatively impacted by an illegal regulatory action should have the opportunity to challenge it in court," said NAW's Chief Government Relations Officer Brian Wild.

Building Material Distributors has started engineered wood product distribution in Southern California from a yard in Riverside, offering products such as PWT I-joists and Tolko LSL. The yard will supply lumberyards with products from brands such as Pacific Woodtech and QB Corp. that support the region's single-family and multifamily construction projects. BMD is also growing its company-owned delivery fleet with more trucks and drivers for timely distribution.

Supply chain firms are investing in new cross-border facilities to enhance US-Mexico trade. Evans Transportation has opened an office in Laredo, Texas, while DP World has opened a freight forwarding office in Mexico City and Geodis Logistics has opened an office in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Tariffs have disrupted industries worldwide this year, raising logistics costs by up to 15% and increasing consumer prices. As firms adapt to changing conditions, one in four is facing fines over customs errors. As businesses respond by shifting toward regional supply chains, many are encountering challenges such as supplier bottlenecks and cross-border delays.

ChatGPT has boosted effectiveness or efficiency for 83% of marketers, Search Engine Journal recently found, and several believe the technology will aid small businesses. While AI provides value via content creation for 64.5% and 44% get benefits from idea generation and content optimization, quality concerns 54.2% and 62.6% worry about misinformation.

The supply chain industry faces a persistent talent gap because of a shortage of skilled workers and an aging workforce, says Daniel Stanton, an author and educator at the University of Arkansas. Stanton says universities and trade schools must update curricula to include advanced technologies such as AI because, despite an adequate number of applicants, many still lack the competencies required for modern operations. Stanton emphasizes the importance of strategic workforce planning, likening it to sales and operations planning for talent.

Automation and AI are transforming supply chain finance into a key financial strategy amid geopolitical uncertainty and rising capital costs, Seamus Smith of FIS notes. "Working capital and cash flow optimization is the driving force behind the surging demand for supply chain finance," Smith says. "In 2024, the accounts receivable financing market was estimated to be around $1.2 trillion. And more critically, this is forecast to double by 2033."

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.

Interested in membership with NAW? Reach out and let us know how we can help you.