US wholesale sales declined 0.2% in September, primarily due to a 0.4% drop in durable goods sales, while nondurable goods sales rose slightly. However, wholesale inventories rebounded, increasing by 0.5% to $911.5 billion. The inventories-to-sales ratio for wholesalers was largely unchanged from the previous month at 1.29, down from 1.33 a year ago.  

L&W Supply has made changes to its North Atlantic Region leadership, promoting Bill Withers and Ryan Donegan to district manager roles effective Jan. 1. Withers will manage the Northern Mid-Atlantic District, while Donegan will oversee the New York Metro District. The company has also expanded its district boundaries to include three new locations that cover New Hampshire, Connecticut, Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

US manufacturers are reducing orders for parts and raw materials amid uncertainty surrounding the future of the Trump administration's tariffs, according to the GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index. Supply chain activity reached its lowest level since May. Companies are in a holding pattern as they await a Supreme Court decision on the legality of many tariffs, with some anticipating a possible rollback.

Roofing distributors are increasingly adopting AI to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences. SRS Distribution uses AI-driven platforms like RoofHub to optimize order processes and inventory management, while QXO has identified significant inefficiencies from outdated systems and is leveraging AI to boost productivity and inventory visibility. ABC Supply has been integrating AI for eight years, seeing improvements in fleet and inventory management. Independent distributors are partnering with technology providers to stay competitive, highlighting the industry's shift toward digital transformation.

Supplier diversity programs remain robust and are increasingly focusing on small and local suppliers, according to Supplier.io's 2025 State of Supplier Diversity report. Despite political and economic pressures, 87% of organizations report steady or growing executive support for these programs, which are being repositioned to enhance supply chain competitiveness.

AI, emotional engagement and outcomes-based strategies are reshaping B2B marketing, says Rachel Cullitan, vice president of marketing at Walker Sands. "AI is helping B2B teams move faster and make smarter decisions," Cullitan says. She emphasizes the importance of integrating brand awareness and demand generation, leveraging LinkedIn for its unique reach and adapting to generative engine optimization as a central marketing strategy.

Leadership turnover has significantly disrupted supply chain operations, with 54% of executives reporting moderate to complete disruption in the past three years, according to a Gartner survey. The survey highlights the need for a shift from superstar-centric leadership to collectively motivated leaders who drive collaboration and organizational success. Companies are also struggling to fill roles due to the broad skill sets required, and only 49% of respondents find their leadership development programs effective.

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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