AI agents are transforming distribution by automating tasks such as order entry, quoting and customer service, writes Coral Ptashne, director of strategic partnerships at Endeavor. AI agents autonomously or semi-autonomously perform tasks within distribution, such as order entry, quoting, intelligence and product research. Unlike traditional automation tools that follow strict rules, these agents utilize machine learning to process information, learn from data and make decisions. AI agents are adaptable and capable of handling complex scenarios, making them a valuable asset for optimizing distribution operations.

Amazon is facing a class-action lawsuit that alleges the company and its sellers engaged in price gouging during the COVID-19 pandemic, with consumers claiming prices on food and essential goods soared by as much as 1,800% on some items. US District Judge Robert Lasnik rejected Amazon's motion to dismiss the class-action lawsuit, saying the company's arguments that Washington's consumer protection laws were vague or inapplicable to the alleged price gouging were "unpersuasive." The suit covers purchases made between January 31, 2020, and October 20, 2022.

The Institute for Supply Management's December PMI dropped to 47.9%, marking the lowest reading since October 2024. The reading marks a 10-month streak of contraction for US manufacturing, driven by notable decreases in production and inventories, while new orders and employment posted modest gains. The data suggests persistent challenges in the manufacturing sector as 2025 closed, with the majority of industries showing contraction.

Account managers are not universally beneficial for businesses, even in the B2B sector, according to Justin Roff-Marsh, founder of consultant firm Ballistix. While account managers can add significant value in complex scenarios involving large clients, their involvement in simple transactions often degrades service quality and increases costs. Roff-Marsh suggests that companies should assign account managers only to clients with complex needs, while focusing other resources on new business and specialized support.

Boston Dynamics is advancing its AI-powered humanoid robot, Atlas, with support from Hyundai. Atlas recently demonstrated its capabilities at Hyundai's Georgia factory, performing tasks such as sorting roof racks. Boston Dynamics uses virtual reality, motion capture and other machine learning techniques to train Atlas.

M+C Saatchi North America CEO Nadja Bellan-White discusses the evolving role of chief marketing officers in 2026 amid economic, political and market uncertainties. She emphasizes the importance of ethical AI use, cultural fluency and purpose-driven marketing, drawing examples from Coca-Cola, Birkenstock, Airbnb and Ralph Lauren to illustrate successful strategies. "Purpose isn't a slogan: It's a system of accountability. You can't just fake it. You need to live it," Bellan-White writes.

If you're feeling busy as a leader, reacting to situations or feeling scattered, Janet Shlaes, the former director of the Center for Innovative and Lifelong Learning at Rush University Medical Center, suggests adopting "slow time" leadership principles such as pausing to create "strategic space," aligning decisions with your priorities and nurturing trust by creating psychological safety for your team. "Slow time cultivates sharper decisions, individual and collective wisdom and generates stability and clarity in chaotic and overwhelmed systems," Shlaes writes.

A deal finalized by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development will exempt US-based multinational corporations from paying more taxes overseas. The US-based companies will not be subject to a 15% global minimum tax. OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann said the agreement "enhances tax certainty, reduces complexity, and protects tax bases."

The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors has launched the Distributors Deliver Podcast, exploring the technologies and trends that are moving the industry forward. The first episode focuses on politics and policy, with NAW President and CEO Eric Hoplin discussing the issues impacting distributors with NAW Chief of Government Relations Brian Wild.

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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