A wide range of topics caught the eye of MDM readers last month, including our behind-the-scenes look at two industry-leading distributors (Ferguson and Grainger), analysis of the chaotic consolidation happening in building materials, the unveiling of the 2021 class of Future Leaders and what Amazon does better than anyone else. Click the headlines below for more on these subjects, which composed our most-read blogs of November.

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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.

Building Material Consolidation Kicks Into High Gear

By Eric Smith

The recent flurry of high-profile, high-dollar M&A deals involving building material distributors like HD Supply, US LBM and Foundation Building Supply has sparked plenty of shakeup but also shined a light on this sector. Read more.

The Future of Distribution Looks Bright

By Elizabeth Galentine

The latest group of MDM Future Leader Award winners are setting the stage for the next generation of distribution with their focus on technology-based initiatives. Read more.

2 Things Amazon Does Better Than Anyone Else

By Benj Cohen

How owning customers’ attention and their data pays off big for the massive e-commerce site. Read more.