MDM has unveiled its 2025 Top Distributors list, highlighting key players across various sectors. Downloadable PDF with rankings, revenue data, company insights and more information is available here. Members of the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors feature heavily in the listings, including topping the industrial, building materials and electrical lists.

The producer price index gained 0.1% from the prior month in May, and it rose 2.6% over the last 12 months. Meanwhile, a measure that excludes food and energy prices also gained 0.1% for the month. Wholesaler and retailer margins, which have been up and down so far this year, expanded in May after falling the previous month, according to the report. Economists continue to anticipate higher inflation later this year as a result of tariff-related price increases.

US President Donald Trump announced a framework for a trade deal with China that includes Beijing supplying rare earths and magnets, while the US will allow Chinese students to study at American universities. The agreement allows the US to impose a 55% tariff on Chinese goods, while China will impose a 10% tariff on US imports. The agreement is subject to approval by Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

With the US and China agreeing to a trade deal that locks in tariffs on Chinese goods, many companies continue to expect lasting damage from the trade war. Some see the tariff rate as too high, potentially jeopardizing the stability of consumer goods businesses. Tariffs are expected to cause significant instability as some companies cannot absorb or pass the costs on to consumers.

Scenario intelligence enables businesses to address supply chain complexity by simulating multiple operational scenarios before making decisions. By using simulation modeling tailored to a company's unique environment, organizations can forecast outcomes under uncertain conditions, such as fluctuating demand or changing lead times. This approach helps optimize inventory policies, reduce costs and maintain service levels.

Costco is making strategic shifts to better compete with Walmart, including the creation of Costco Logistics, a dedicated in-house delivery system focused on handling large orders, such as furniture and electronics, to improve supply chain management. CEO Ron Vachris says the in-house delivery system manages up to 85% of large orders and emphasizes that this move helps ensure the quality of special item deliveries.

Economic uncertainty is the biggest challenge for B2B marketers in generating pipeline growth this year, according to a Pipeline360 survey of 500 global B2B revenue marketers. Respondents said the top characteristics of high-performing B2B marketing teams include effective data handling, streamlined tech stacks, consistent buyer engagement and superior content quality.

The US is facing a critical skilled labor shortage in essential trades like construction and manufacturing, threatening business continuity and economic infrastructure, writes Rhett Power, the CEO and cofounder of Accountability Inc. Power urges CEOs to revamp workforce strategies, modernize talent pipelines and advocate for trade careers to fill the gap left by the shrinking blue-collar workforce.

Ransomware incidents are rising at an alarming rate, with a 46% increase in extortion cases between October and March, according to a Honeywell report. Companies are enhancing cybersecurity measures, but the financial impact is significant, with more than $1 billion paid in ransom as of October 2024. Honeywell spells out 15 opportunities and recommendations to protect your firm.

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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