BlueLinx Holdings has acquired Disdero Lumber from Tumac Lumber for $96 million, enhancing its specialty wood product offerings and expanding its presence in the Western US. Clackamas, Ore.-based Disdero's products are primarily used in high-end residential and commercial construction. BlueLinx intends to utilize its national network to expand Disdero's business and diversify its distribution channels.

The Supreme Court is set to hear arguments on the White House's use of tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. President Trump has uniquely leveraged tariffs as a central instrument of his foreign policy, employing them for trade disputes and as a means to pressure or punish nations on a wide array of issues. Lower courts have ruled that Trump has overstepped his authority, but the Justice Department argues that the tariffs are within the president's foreign affairs powers.

US grocers and food companies are preparing for a potential sales decline in November as benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are slated to lapse because of the government shutdown. The White House announced on Monday that it would utilize $4.65 billion in contingency funds to provide partial benefits this month, covering approximately half of each eligible household's benefits. Future disbursements remain in question if the shutdown continues.

Supply chain disruptions surged nearly 40% in 2024 amid a port workers' strike and Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, highlighting the fragility of global supply chains. DP World CEO Glen Clark emphasizes the importance of resilience over efficiency in supply chain strategies, pointing out the need for ongoing transformation, technological integration and a customer-centric approach.

AI is quietly transforming global logistics from a manual, intuition-based process to one driven by data and predictive analytics. Companies such as DHL, Maersk, Delhivery and Flipkart are leveraging AI to forecast demand, optimize routes and manage inventory with unprecedented accuracy. Inside warehouses, AI-powered robotics and computer vision are streamlining operations, reducing errors and cutting costs.

B2B leaders should take a disciplined, evidence-driven approach to generative AI, prioritizing trust and offering real value to buyers, according to Forrester. Forrester's 2026 predictions highlight the need for AI governance, blending human expertise with AI and empowering teams. The firm also predicts that 75% of enterprise B2B firms will boost spending on influencer marketing, and 20% of B2B sellers will engage in agent-led fee negotiations.

LendingTree estimates that tariffs will add $40.6 billion to overall holiday costs in 2025, potentially prompting consumers to reduce their gift purchases or take on more debt this holiday season. Tariffs are only now showing up in consumer prices as goods stockpiled in warehouses reach store shelves. Electronics will see the steepest increase, with an average of $186 extra per shopper, followed by $82 for clothing and accessories. Shoppers will also pay more for personal care items and food.

Large US companies have announced significant layoffs in recent months, signaling a shift from a yearslong postpandemic era in which firms were reluctant to let employees go. With a softer job market and subdued hiring, companies are now more willing to cut staff to optimize costs and profit margins amid tariff uncertainty and the rise of AI.

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.