Over the past month we’ve talked to a number of companies regarding their “sales projections” for 2008. Surprisingly, a number of manufacturers talked about sales increases in the high single digits / low double digits. Given that this didn’t compute […]
In today’s economic climate, prioritizing initiatives is more important than ever. Last month, in our 2008 ElectroIndustry survey, we asked distributors about their 2008 priorities. 23 revenue generating and cost-reduction activities were provided. Distributors scored each activity on a scale […]
We attended the NAED Western in Phoenix last week, where unfortuantely the weather barely reached 60 either day and evenings were in the mid to upper 30’s. Approximately 75 distributor companies (66 had booths) and 125 manufacturer companies attended.The economic […]
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 […]
In recent market research we heard that many feel that the overall size of their current market has, and is, shrinking, thus leading to price wars and hence margin deterioration. While much of this can be attributed to the economy, […]
Last month we surveyed the industry about its outlook, and challenges, for 2008. Over 400 people responded! Over the next month or so we’ll be sharing some of the results, but to get the year started we wanted to share […]
Usually the weeks surrounding the holidays are quiet as everyone tries to catch up on paperwork while at the same time complete (or start) preparations for 2008. This year was different as 6 items of significance occurred. In no particular […]
Twas a few days before Christmas and all appeared to be quiet as the industry headed into the New Year. Not much business was to be had as contractors tried to keep warm. Industry warehouses are full, preparing for sales, […]
The biggest challenge for many companies is quality personnel…how to recruit them, train them and retain them. Talent is a company’s greatest asset. As the effort expended in HR grows, combined with continued regulatory and administrative issues, HR departments will […]
Had an interesting conversation with a distributor today. We were talking about arc flash and the ability of his sales organization to initiate arc flash discussions, and solutions, with his customers. While he felt that some of them could, his […]
