Archives

A survey by Earnest & Associates (E&A) has affirmed that price haggling remains a problem in the wholesale/distribution industry. Over one hundred decision makers at small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the wholesale/distribution trade participated in the survey. 61% of respondents agreed with the statement, ‘Too many customers haggle with us over price’. In fact, […]

The best business leaders are decisive. These are people who are not content with business as usual. When opportunities arise to improve their company’s competitive positions, leaders choose action. It’s well-known that the bookselling, video rental and tourism industries have learned hard lessons about carrying on with business-as-usual. The rapid rise of eCommerce, social media […]

Over the years, I’ve worked with many of the well-known enterprise resource planning (ERP) software solutions that have been designed specifically for the wholesale/distribution industry.  Invariably, these ERPs have been designed to group items in some unique or specific way – with varying degrees of success.  The best ERPs help managers review item movement histories to make smart replenishment decisions and/or analyze past sales data […]

I’ve never been a Star Wars fanatic but like most people, I’ve been a casual watcher of these hugely popular films. To me, the most interesting character has always been Yoda. Inspired by George Lucas’ fascination with Eastern philosophy, Yoda personifies the power that comes from a life dedicated to learning, discovery and self-discipline. “The […]

Famed NFL Head Coach Herm Edwards said, “Stay focused. Your start does not determine how you’re going to finish.” The play starts when the center snaps the ball. Pass receivers run down the field using different patterns: a wide receiver might run towards the middle of the field while another might run straight towards the […]

NFL football coach Marv Levy said, “Plan your work and work your plan.” It’s a simple but meaningful phrase that can empower us as athletes, individuals and business people. Coach Levy may not be as familiar to younger football fans as other legendary NFL coaches but rest assured, his resume is impressive. Levy is the only […]