According to Steve Epner, Brown Smith Wallace Consulting Group, “Data synchronization is one of the most significant opportunities for cost-savings in the electrical channel.” As many know, IDEA has helped many manufacturers and distributors to pursue this path, saving them […]
Recently we spoke to a few purchasing people from large builders (production types like Ryan, Pulte, Centex, Toll). While they are suffering, all are doing some building. The goal of our discussion was to better understand their purchasing decision drivers […]
Private labeling and unbranded products could have unintended consequences. An emerging trend amongst “contract manufacturers” is the development of strategies to move up the value chain. Consider: A July 18th Wall Street Journal article entitled “Contract Manufacturers Shift to Brand […]
With the economy tightening, contractor DSO’s increasing, and margins continuing to be squeezed, the need to streamline processes and turn each department into a profit center (or less of a profit drain) becomes more critical. When this can be combined […]
Received a couple of interesting emails/press releases over the weekend, on the same topic, but with different messages. Both announced that Mike Rioux, president of IDEA, was leaving the company to “pursue other career opportunities”. The IDEA issued press release […]
In a couple of words, “not much”. HD Supply has still been sold to private equity (at a significantly reduced price). Our thoughts is that, from an electrical perspective, HD Supply is over-weighted in the residential market; has a strong […]
For several weeks bank economist have hinted while they are not projecting outright recession or inflation, the sub-prime mortgages have touched off slow down in the US economy. With tightening credit rules and huge increase in foreclosures, there continues to […]
We’ve had conversations with several analysts recently who have inquired about the electrical distribution industry. The conversations frequently turn to “what would happen to distributors if the economy slowed down?” While there are obvious revenue and profit implications, we discussed […]
Although the “pro” is defined as the residential market. According to ProSales, Ron Jarvis, SVP of pro business, tool rental and environmental innovation, said “The Home Depot’s target pro audience consists of three subgroups: the very small repair/remodeler who might […]
Rexel recently announced its second quarter/first half results. While company-wide organic growth was 4.5% and the company is actively seeking acquisitions (30 are in various stages worldwide), of interest is Rexel’s North American performance. Key North American highlights include: Sales […]
