PHCP and PVF Technology & Operations

RSS

In a recent discussion with Epicor, Supply House Times highlighted trends such as cybersecurity, onshoring, and automation in supply chain technology. By 2025, automation will be crucial for addressing the talent shortage and closing the knowledge gap as experienced workers retire. AI can help by organizing data, supporting new employees in maintaining productivity, and alleviating concerns about job displacement.

In the PHCP/PVF industry, the traditional sales approach is built on relationships, technical expertise and in-person networking. While these fundamentals remain crucial, today’s digital-first buyers expect more. They research products, compare solutions online, and often form opinions long before speaking with a sales rep.

For distributors, inventory is the largest balance sheet item and can be a liability if not managed strictly. Achieving over 99% bin-level accuracy is attainable with departmental alignment, solid processes, and strong leadership. Here’s why it matters, the consequences of failure, and how to succeed.

Cyber criminals often target distributors because they manage large B2B transactions, house valuable financial information, and sometimes use ERPs that are not up to date with modern security protection. Additionally, as infuriating as this is – cyber criminals know that distributors are essential to the supply chain, and are more likely to pay ransom in order to resume business operations quickly.

In a global economy marked by supply chain disruptions, warehouses are increasingly turning to AI and automation to boost efficiency. A BOSTONtec report reveals that labor costs dominate warehouse budgets, making it vital to adopt technologies that enhance productivity.

President Trump’s new 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico may raise prices on plumbing supplies. Stay alert for potential cost increases as trade practices shift.

Trust is essential for a successful supply house, and Google reviews can be a powerful yet underutilized tool to build that credibility.

In the past five years with Supply House Times, I've gained insights into the supply chain and the challenges faced by PHCP-PVF wholesalers and contractors. Following Nicole Krawcke’s departure from Plumbing & Mechanical, I am now the Editorial Director for both publications, which allows me to connect with everyone in the supply chain to enhance our collaboration.

Users engage with Epicor Prism in the context of their native Epicor ERP platform, while a network of vertical AI agents collaborate behind-the-scenes to address a user’s request. 

As 2024 ends, I’ll review last year’s predictions and share twelve trends for 2025. I’ll focus on important trends for supply houses rather than predicting the stock market. Let’s dive into my 2024 predictions.