While consolidation, channel proliferation and personal protective equipment (PPE) vending trends continue to shape the industrial distribution landscape in 2013, safety distributors should also look to form partnerships with various networks and utilize social media for increased synergies. Customers want one-stop-shopping and quality products from trusted brands at competitive prices, and they want access to this information at their fingertips. As such, strategy alignment and engagement are critical to providing the opportunities and resources that help distributors meet these requirements. Moreover, distributors will benefit from a variety of additional value-added services that enhance capabilities and increase bottom line results.
Distributor members of professional safety organizations continually gain insight from and access to other professionals, suppliers and technologies, as well as up-to-the-minute product information and top-notch training (often at discounted pricing). This wealth of information, combined with insider knowledge on safety news and regulations, collectively enable best-in-class service and safety solutions to customers. Such contact can also provide a valuable source of marketing information necessary to help identify new opportunities and grow business, while recognized brand-name manufacturer partners establish credibility, increase trust and resonate with end users.