Amazon has been frequently in the news over the past week or so with its introduction of a music streaming service, a planned entry to sell “services” a la Angie’s List and Home Advisor, is introducing a smartphone offering and probably […]
Over the past couple of weeks I’ve had a number of conversations with manufacturers and distributors about “e” and inevitably the conversation comes around to Amazon Supply (AS) and Google’s Shopping for Suppliers (GSS) program. But first, a couple of […]
We’ve all heard the stories about customers, and distributors, who pushed back on price increases, considering them a mere request by manufacturers that, if not substantiated, are ignored. In fact, when manufacturers plan price increases they first determine what they […]
Last week IMARK announced that Crescent Electric had joined IMARK, which blurs the definition of “independent”. While Crescent is technically an independent distributor (it’s not publicly owned), within the industry they’ve been considered a quasi-national chain as they have operations in […]
Order fulfillment agreements between distributors have been around for years. Have you faced these issues? Servicing your customer’s total needs – Distributors are faced with order fulfillment issues when they don’t stock lines that their customer specifically request by brand, […]
A recent article in Home Channel News gave us thought to “Do distributors, and for that matter manufacturers, have ethics policies for their purchasing departments and for their salespeople?” The reason for the question can be found in this HCN […]
Many have heard that Cerro recently changed its sales approach. The company exercised its 30 day right to cancel its rep agreements and is adding a number of people (rumor is five) to handle distributor accounts directly. According to a […]
Historically many manufacturers, after reviewing their current year performance, will send out 2008 price increase notices in November/December, and then send their sales people out to “cut” year end “deals” with the intent to “help” the distributor meet their purchase […]
Interesting how the mass media can heighten visibility of trade issues. This summer’s product recalls by Mattel increased interest in private labeling. Occurring shortly after issues with pet food, toothpaste and tires, many questioned if private labeling is a wise […]
