Are distributors and manufacturers ready to meet the challenges of economic uncertainty, AI-driven transformations, and evolving buyer expectations?

In episode 120, we're joined by guest Mark Brohan to explore the key trends shaping wholesale distribution and manufacturing as 2024 comes to a close. Will macroeconomic confusion be sparked by interest rate changes? What about the resurgence of onshoring and nearshoring, and the rise of B2B e-commerce marketplaces?

Mark Brohan provides valuable insights into how digital transformation and AI are reshaping the industry, with a particular focus on data-driven decision-making, warehouse automation, and personalized buyer experiences. Mark shares his expertise on the intersection of digital commerce and supply chain strategy, highlighting the importance of modernizing systems to meet the needs of digitally savvy buyers.

From the impact of geopolitical tensions on sourcing strategies to the ever-growing competition in the distribution sector, this episode asks that all-important question in a rapidly changing landscape: what's next?

Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.

Want even more insight to the stories we discuss each week? Subscribe to the Around The Horn Newsletter.

You can also hear the podcast and other excellent content on our YouTube Channel.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok.

In this trans-Pacific episode, Kevin checks in from his Hawaiian vacation to join Tom in a rich discussion on the intersection of macroeconomic trends, wholesale distribution strategies, and emerging technologies. What are the implications of rising small business confidence, evolving tariff policies, and the AI-driven solutions that are shaping the future of distribution and manufacturing?

Key segments include insights into how distributors are strengthening contractor relationships, the rising importance of e-commerce in B2B sales, and the transformative role of AI in optimizing operations. Kevin and Tom shed light on the economic drivers and technological innovations influencing the industry.

As always, listeners are treated to practical takeaways as Kevin and Tom analyze the news - from leveraging AI for structured data analysis to fostering customer-centric strategies that align with evolving buyer expectations. The episode underscores the importance of adapting to new trends while maintaining a firm grasp on traditional values like service and reliability.

Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.

Want even more insight to the stories we discuss each week? Subscribe to the Around The Horn Newsletter.

You can also hear the podcast and other excellent content on our YouTube Channel.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok.

The blockchain ain't just for crypto anymore...

As the new U.S. administration embraces emerging technologies to create cost-effective efficiencies, so goes the world of wholesale distribution and manufacturing. and we're here to guide you along this exciting new path!

In this episode of Around The Horn in Wholesale Distribution, we explore how blockchain and AI are reshaping the future of wholesale distribution and manufacturing. We first break down the role of blockchain in procurement transparency and traceability, explaining how smart contracts could drastically reduce administrative costs and processing cycle times.

Then, we discuss the increasing adoption of AI in B2B e-commerce, emphasizing its potential to enhance customer experiences and streamline digital sales.

And then it's a deep dive into the news: updates on U.S. manufacturing activity, insights on the impact of tariffs on global trade, and highlights of the growing demand for watchable podcasts as an engagement tool for modern audiences.

Packed with actionable takeaways and expert perspectives, this episode is a must-listen for distributors navigating today’s dynamic business environment.

Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.

Want even more insight to the stories we discuss each week? Subscribe to the Around The Horn Newsletter.

You can also hear the podcast and other excellent content on our YouTube Channel.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok.