This article provides a summary of key points made by speakers on the State of the Industry at the November Specialty Tools and Fasteners Distributors Association annual trade show and convention. Robert Devers, executive vice president and COO at A-Jax Co. Inc., and Andy Johnson, president of Mar-Mac Wire, spoke about the uncertainty facing the industry and how STAFDA members should respond and evolve to the challenges uncertainty brings.

While the recession may be over, uncertainty will continue to be a part of the recovery for the foreseeable future. With that in mind, the presenters for the annual State of the Industry reports at the November meeting of the Specialty Tools and Fasteners Distributor Association offered advice for managing through the uncertainty and evolving.

In her opening remarks to the more than 4,200 attendees, Executive Director Georgia Foley reminded the audience of last year’s speeches on the impact of the economy …