Let's face it: when it comes to the tech adoption curve, wholesale distributors and manufacturers can be a little behind (Are you? Hint: if you don't know what "adoption curve" means, you are).

On this episode, we dive into the critical role that digital resources play in driving both growth and customer engagement. From providing valuable digital content, to the challenges of balancing self-service experiences with the need for personalized interactions, we'll help you assess your own digital landscape...and show you how it directly impacts your ROI.

In addition, we take a deep dive into the news that affects wholesalers the most: the impact of inflation on the economy, the potential of the industrial metaverse for businesses of all sizes, and a new look at the building blocks for AI in your business.

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AI may be the most recent technology game-changer for wholesale distribution and manufacturing, but it's by no means the only one. In this week's episode, we're joined by guest Lin Chase, Ph.D., a 35-year veteran of enterprise technology and artificial intelligence and University Administrator. Together, we discuss the evolving landscape of technology in the manufacturing and distribution industry. We also dive into the reasons behind the surge in investment in Mexico's manufacturing infrastructure, as well as the importance of semantic planning in data management and how it can reshape B2B commerce (and just what the heck is "semantic planning" anyway?).

We also explore the potential applications of virtual reality and augmented reality in training and safety measures within manufacturing settings, as well as the need for strategic data planning and the integration of AI for future growth and efficiency. We cover a lot, so grab a cup of coffee and get ready for some incredible insights!

And don't forget - you can join the conversation each Friday on LinkedIn. Follow us and we'll shoot you out an invite!

A monster acquisition is reshaping wholesale distribution and manufacturing: Home Depot's acquisition of SRS distribution, a move that expands their reach to tradesmen and building materials across 47 states. What's the real magic behind this move? It emphasizes the importance of meeting buyers where they are and adapting to their preferences. In this episode, we dive into this development and talk about how you can adapt in the same way. (Spoiler: it's about combining B2C simplicity with B2B depth in e-commerce and marketing strategies).

The other major story this week was a tragic one: the major bridge collapse on the East Coast. The human toll was awful, and the disaster compounds with disruptions for inbound and outbound traffic for ships. How will this disaster—combined with the rebound of durable goods orders in February—impact the economy?

We also highlight the importance of understanding the changing buyer journey and how AI can enhance the customer experience. Additionally, we discussed the role of AI in manufacturing and cybersecurity, particularly Microsoft's Copilot in aiding cybersecurity officers.

We cover a lot this week, so don't miss out! Remember to follow us on all the social platforms: YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.