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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
