As has been the trend with MDM readers, the most-read blogs from September continued to focus on e-commerce and digital transformation. Digital was a key driver in several shifts among the Market Leaders top distributors list that went live in September. The three pieces of advice on e-commerce for distributors also made an impact. As always, MDM’s monthly roundup of M&A deals also got a lot of attention. Follow the links below to read more trending topics.

 

When it comes to sales effectiveness — or getting the most out of one of your more expensive resources — data matters, says Enavate’s Sean Kracklauer. There are four types of analytics that can help distributors overcome common challenges to growth and profitability. Read More.

 

Digital transformation is a key driver in several shifts among the Market Leaders top distributors list, says MDM’s Tom Gale. Distributors with strong e-commerce capabilities have an opportunity to build strategically and capitalize on market opportunities. Read More.

 

The dog days of August were anything but sleepy for announcements by private equity firms buying into industrial products distributors in the U.S. Read More.

 

“Improve your search on your website. Improve the search on your website. Improve your search on your website,” It’s a simple premise, but anyone who’s ever visited a website as a consumer themselves knows the frustration that can quickly build when you can’t find the product you’re looking for with a simple search. What are you likely to do? I know what I would do — look elsewhere. And fast. Read More.

 

NAW fellow Mark Dancer argued at MDM’s Digital Distributor Summit that distributors have an imperative to take the lead on the future of the industry. This starts by embracing innovation, examining the needs of customers and asking the big questions about unmet needs distributors can fill. Read More.