Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) for Wholesalers and Distributors

As distribution business models continue to evolve, many wholesalers are discovering that enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions are a vital part of their strategy to keep pace with changing industry demands. Outdated ERP systems often deliver limited functionality and prevent organizations from improving collaboration and efficiency through a lack of integration with other critical systems. However, there are newer solutions that are good alternatives to on-premise ERP—developed specifically to facilitate differentiation, promote growth, and prepare a distribution business for the future.

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Inventory Management Practices That Are Hurting Your Bottom Line

Why Do We Keep Executing Bad Inventory Management Practices?

Wholesale distribution is an industry that has been around for a long time. That means a lot of the “best practices” reflect a less technology-filled era. Wholesale distributors face more innovation than ever, and the future favors those who embrace new tools, techniques, and technologies. Those who don’t will likely become obsolete, like some of the out-of-season inventory sitting in their warehouses.

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4 Trends Driving Growth in the Wholesale Distribution Industry

In the changing landscape of wholesale distribution, businesses are faced with further complications to already complex supply chain management systems. Because distribution spans many large market segments, ranging anywhere from grocery and food-service to industrial cleaning equipment and home furnishings, these changes impact the growth of nearly every industry. To make sure your business is taking advantage of this growth opportunity, take a look at these four key trends that wholesale businesses are keeping tabs on: 

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The Importance of Facebook Marketing for Small Business

Facebook may have generated unfavorable press in 2018 because of its data collection policies, but it’s still a firm favorite among small businesses in search of new customers. The evidence is compelling. There are more than 50 million Business pages on Facebook, with 80% of small businesses having already established a presence.

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Technology Trends Impacting the Commercial Cleaning Industry

Digital technology and automation might have been slow to make their presence felt in the commercial cleaning industry, but adoption is now rapid given the cost and efficiency benefits delivered. In some cases, technology innovations are not simply being adapted to suit buildings—they are being designed into them from inception. As commercial cleaning enters the realm of Industry 4.0—incorporating the Internet of Things and cloud computing—it is not just those at the sharp end of the sector who must keep up to speed. Those who supply it can benefit if they too are ready to adapt.

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The Economic Challenges Facing Commercial Cleaning

On the surface, the commercial cleaning services market appears to be in relatively robust health. In fact, the sector is expected to be worth $74.3 million globally by 2022. Why is it, then, that few managers of the 54,000+ independent building service contractors (BSCs) in the U.S. will be celebrating? Why are so few of the key customers of janitorial and housekeeping products banking on growth in the years ahead?

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