Dick Friedman

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not magic. From my perspective, in the context of distributors, AI is a combination of software and data to solve, and prevent, problems. The “software” is usually a distributor’s ERP system, modified to include AI logic / formulas, and potentially interacting with CRM and e-commerce systems, and using “data.”

Depending on the specifics of a warehouse, some “smart” technologies can help a supply house increase productivity and reduce mistakes.

Unfortunately, during this lockdown the vast majority of PHCP, PVF and HVAC distributors are suffering from reduced sales, and consequently are operating with fewer, part-time and remotely working personnel.

Distributors trying to prevent warehouse mistakes resulting in lost sales and customers need to go beyond evaluating procedures, controls and forms. 

Successful supply-chain management requires problem-free warehouse operations.

Here are a few recommendations that have helped barcode users increase warehouse accuracy to a very high level.

If the economy slows as a result of a downturn in manufacturing, PHCP, HVAC and PVF distributors should expect sales to decline.

Additional competition is coming from Amazon Business, the replacement for Amazon Supply (but no PVF), Alibaba (where some products are sold in small quantities) and Grainger.

Amazon Supply still is not selling china or fiberglass, but it does offer more than 54,000 fittings, valves, tubing, pumps and meters.