According to an email we just received from NAED, confirmed by press releases on Trade Service’s website and IDEA’s website, the two companies are moving on from their 10 year agreements. Click the links above to see the press releases […]
Last week we interviewed a number of distributors in preparation for an operationally-oriented article we are writing based upon feedback we received in our Channel Challenges survey. The article will focus on at least three operational issues – data synchronization, […]
Earlier this year we conducted a survey entitled “Channel Challenges” where we solicited input on the challenges that persist between manufacturers, distributors and reps. We’ve recently written a couple of articles on some of the challenges. An upcoming article will […]
As many know, the challenges to streamlining data and operational efficiencies throughout the channel were brought to the forefront late this summer. Discussions regarding possible joint endeavors between IDEA and Trade Service Corp came to a halt. (A copy of […]
And Bernie Westapher, Panduit, and Phil Barrios, Hubbell, are two classy individuals (no they didn’t pay me to say that, I’ll explain at the end).First, a few things about the conference, then some session observations: This was the largest meeting […]
The E-Biz Forum started yesterday with a packed crowd. Due to last minute registrations, attendance is over 200 people … more than IDEA expected.Yesterday’s sessions were well attended, and informative: Adam Fein launched the conference with an overview of the […]
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 thousands […]
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 […]
