The largest study ever done of the industrial-distribution marketplace shows that the Internet
and technology are rapidly changing the role of the traditional wholesaler.
For 54 years, Industrial Distribution magazine has conducted its Annual Survey of Distributor Operations to identify major trends affecting distributors. This year's survey is the largest ever, with more than 900 owners and executives of distributorships across the country responding.
The study clearly details the myriad changes taking place. Consolidation has slowed down considerably. The Internet is changing the way distributors bring products to market.