The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors recently held its fourth annual Innovators Summit in Austin, Texas, attracting a record number of distribution executives and technology startup leaders over three days of networking, education and strategic meetings on the future of distribution innovation. Keynote speaker Carol Tomé, CEO of UPS, discussed the company's strategy for building a "network of the future" to adapt to constant disruption in distribution and logistics. Attendees benefited from peer-driven discussions, hands-on demonstrations and the opportunity to form impactful partnerships aimed at addressing real-world industry challenges and accelerating digital transformation.

First Supply has opened the Joe Poehling Distribution Innovation Center, a 308,000-square-foot distribution hub in West Salem, Wis., that will serve the Upper Midwest and enhance the company's regional logistics and distribution capabilities. The facility, named after First Supply's chairman emeritus, features advanced warehouse technologies such as automation systems, robotics and a smart layout to enhance order accuracy and speed.

Food distributor Core-Mark and convenience store chain Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores have expanded their supply agreement, transitioning from serving approximately 100 locations since 2022 to now covering all 664 Love's sites in 40 states. The expansion aims to provide a consistent supply chain experience and better support Love's growing network of travel centers.

China's exports have surged to record highs despite five months of steep US tariffs, driving the nation toward a $1.2 trillion trade surplus in 2025. With US market access restricted, Chinese manufacturers have rapidly expanded into new markets. Shipments to India, Africa, and Southeast Asia have hit unprecedented levels, while exports to Europe and Australia are also rising. Lower product prices, a weaker yuan, and aggressive market penetration in sectors like electric vehicles have kept China globally competitive, fueling this export boom.

Retailers, including Walmart and Lowe's, are increasingly using digital twins to enhance store operations, predict issues and improve customer experiences. These 3D models enable companies to predict equipment failures, optimize inventory management and plan new store layouts. Digital twins are also being leveraged for marketing, ecommerce and crowd management, providing a real-time, data-rich view that benefits both internal teams and customers.

B2B marketers can balance brand-building and performance strategies by integrating efforts to create a unified customer experience, writes RAPP's Ali Hafiz, who notes that short-term metrics such as click-through rates and conversions are important but don't capture the long-term value of a brand. Hafiz recommends using data-driven personalization, aligning internal teams and evolving metrics to include brand affinity and retention to achieve both short-term results and long-term brand equity.

Employees often leave companies because they are unaware of internal career opportunities, says Jesus Latoree-Socas, Phenom's director of product-talent management. To address this, Latoree-Socas recommends three steps: advertise open positions internally, foster connections with colleagues and mentors and work with employees to help them identify and develop relevant skills. By bringing internal opportunities to the forefront, employees feel empowered to take ownership of their professional journeys, thus reducing turnover.

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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