Top distribution executives outline how they’ve been able to find success in this turbulent year and provide a sneak peek of what 2021 may have in store in the most-read blogs of October. Take a look at these top stories for a refresher on Ferguson, Grainger, Alibaba, Fastenal and Amazon’s latest industry-advancing actions.

Is Ferguson Finally Back in Acquisition Mode?

By Eric Smith

After pausing M&A activity back in March due to COVID-19, Ferguson says it has some deals in the pipeline, so it’s only a matter of time before the distributor again starts growing through acquisition. Read more.

Behind Grainger’s Customer Acquisition Strategy

By Eric Smith

After Grainger posted a moderate improvement in the third quarter, company executives dished on the distributor’s approach to acquiring new customers and how it is bolstering the company. Here’s what they shared. Read more.

Are Virtual Trade Shows & Conferences Here to Stay?

By Eric Smith

John Caplan, the president of North America and Europe for Alibaba.com., says that digital trade shows are one virtual event that could be here to stay even when we’ve moved past the COVID-19 crisis. Read more.

Why Fastenal is ‘Optimally Positioned’ to Take Share

By Eric Smith

Despite just 2.5% sales growth in the third quarter, Fastenal is poised to take market share in industrial distribution, according to one analyst. See what the distributor has working in its favor. Read more.

Amazon’s Secret to AI-Powered Product Recommendations

By Benj Cohen

Amazon’s success is not an accident. It is the result of imaginative planning, technological enablement and top-notch execution — that distributors can emulate. Read more.