Ingram Micro has launched its Xvantage digital experience platform, which uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to give customers valuable data insights and simplified sales processes. The company is also supporting customers as they offer cloud-based services by taking an "everything as a service" approach, according to John Dusett, executive director of US cloud services.

Grainger is pursuing growth in its profitable High-Touch Solutions division by ramping up marketing, customer solutions, merchandising and seller coverage and effectiveness, writes Ian Heller of Distribution Strategy Group. The distributor has also developed customized software to better manage data and "serve our customers more consistently and reliably -- no matter their industry or product or service needs," Chief Product Officer Brian Walker said.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning can improve logistics across the food supply chain through applications such as smart appointment scheduling, predictive inventory management, intelligent task allocation and effective demand planning, writes Sunil Kardam, head of analytics for supply chain and logistics at Gramener. "This data is continuously being collated, cleaned and mined for prescriptive and predictive insights, and the next-gen warehouse will continue to be run on remodeled iterations of machine learning algorithms that are gaining super cognitive powers," Kardam writes.

Specially designed lift and pallet trucks, multipurpose elevated platforms and pedestrian-detection systems are ideal for optimizing tight spaces and ensuring safety inside microfulfillment centers, industry experts say. However, automation and robotics typically aren't suited for these centers' smaller size and operations.

Distributors should ask "who sells what to whom and how" to understand their current sales operations and those of their partners and suppliers, writes Mike Kunkle, vice president of sales effectiveness services at SPARXiQ. "[F]rom these multiple angles, you can foster alignment, communicate more effectively, identify and address constraints, strengthen relationships, reduce friction, improve the sales and customer experience, and pave the way to grow your business," Kunkle writes.

High-growth business-to-business companies invest in brand-building during uncertain economic times to foster trust with prospects seeking safe investments, writes Karen Tran, principal analyst at Forrester. "If your goal is to be a trusted brand in good times and bad, then a consistent investment in brand purpose should be a priority of your 2023 planning," Tran writes.

When unexpected blips cause disruption in your leadership career, it's time to brainstorm about your options, consult with trusted advisers and pursue opportunities that align with your values, writes Terri Klass. "Don't forget to include an abundance of exciting goals that bring you joy as well as stretch your leadership," Klass writes.

It's the responsibility of everyone -- employees, managers and CEOs -- to begin the difficult conversation around "quiet quitting" and find a direction forward together, writes Marlene Chism. Chism offers 10 questions those at every level should consider, including queries about how performance is defined and measured and whether employees feel like they have a voice within the company.

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