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In today’s rapidly evolving marketplace, collaboration isn’t just a strategy — it’s a necessity. At NIBCO, we’ve found that our partnership with the American Supply Association (ASA) is one of the most impactful ways we can strengthen not just our own business, but the entire supply chain we’re all part of.

A shared vision for a smarter supply chain

“Stronger together,” truly embodies the spirit of what NIBCO and ASA are building side by side: a smarter, more agile, and more resilient supply chain. We’re living in a time where the pressures on distributors, manufacturers, and wholesalers have never been greater. We're up against retail e-commerce giants — businesses with vast resources, deep pockets, and large, dedicated technology teams.

By contrast, many of us in the wholesale distribution community are working to do more with less. We don’t have massive tech teams or unlimited budgets. That’s why partnerships like ours with ASA are essential. Together, we can pool our expertise, time, and resources to level the playing field and drive meaningful change.

Collaboration on data, technology and trust

One of the biggest areas where we’ve seen progress is in product data standardization. This is more than just a technical exercise — it’s the foundation for streamlining e-commerce, improving accuracy, and enhancing the customer experience. When we collaborate with ASA and other member companies to standardize product data, we’re laying the groundwork for a smarter, more connected industry.

Technology is also a major focus. As new tools like artificial intelligence emerge, our shared goal is to adopt them responsibly and strategically. Through ASA’s committees, where NIBCO team members are actively involved, we’re working together to explore how digital modernization can help our businesses stay competitive — not just for today, but for the long haul.

But technology alone isn’t enough. Trust is the glue that holds this collaboration together. It’s about more than simply trusting each other as partners — it’s about building a supply chain that’s secure and resilient. Cybersecurity is top of mind for all of us. By working through ASA, we’re sharing best practices, strengthening our defenses, and helping each other navigate the risks that come with today’s digital landscape.

Giving back to move forward

At NIBCO, we’re proud to invest our time, talent, and expertise to help our industry, ASA and its members. Whether it’s through committee participation, leadership, or sponsoring key initiatives, we’re committed to bringing value to the entire membership.

ASA is more than just an association — it’s an advocate. It lobbies on behalf of the entire supply chain, ensuring our collective voice is heard on important legislative and regulatory issues. It champions the advancement of technology and digital solutions that will help our industry remain competitive in the face of growing retail disruption.

Building a resilient future together

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Ultimately, our partnership with ASA is about more than immediate gains — it’s about building a resilient future. Through collaboration, we’re tackling some of the industry’s biggest challenges: streamlining product data, improving e-commerce readiness, adopting new technologies like AI, and ensuring we do all of this securely and responsibly.

When we come together as manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors, we’re stronger. We can learn from each other, share resources, and collectively move the entire industry forward.

Because when it comes to building a smarter supply chain — we truly are stronger together.