We were thrilled to kick off our brand new "Return-2-Basics" podcast with a bang, featuring industry veteran Kevin McGirl, Co-Founder of salesi. Kevin's wealth of experience and insights made for an incredibly enlightening conversation. Here are six key takeaways from our 60-minute discussion that you won't want to miss:
Kevin emphasized the importance of deeper specialization in software for distributors and manufacturers. He advocates for solutions that dive into the “sub vertical” – building software tailored specifically by industry. This targeted approach ensures that the unique needs and challenges of each sector are effectively addressed, leading to more efficient and effective operations.
Distributors' demands and expectations of technology are becoming more sophisticated, and that's a positive trend. As technology evolves, distributors are looking for more advanced and integrated solutions. This increasing sophistication drives innovation and pushes software providers to deliver higher-quality, more robust tools.
Even in the tech world, proximity to customers remains crucial, especially in the supply chain sector. Kevin highlighted how being close to your customers can lead to better service, faster response times, and a deeper understanding of their needs. This proximity helps build stronger relationships and trust, which are vital in any industry.
Technology should not only meet the current needs of distributors but also educate them on their potential needs and provide solutions they hadn’t even considered. By anticipating future requirements and offering proactive solutions, technology can help distributors stay ahead of the curve and continually improve their operations.
One of the biggest challenges facing distributors and manufacturers today is labor. Kevin pointed out that technology is key to addressing these labor issues. Automated processes, advanced analytics, and efficient management systems can help mitigate labor shortages and improve overall productivity.
Private equity-backed distributors are currently moving quicker and thinking more long-term compared to family-owned distributors. This agility and forward-thinking approach enable them to adopt new technologies and strategies faster, positioning them as leaders in the industry.
Our conversation with Kevin McGirl was a fantastic start to the Return-2-Basics podcast series. His insights on specialization, the rising expectations of technology, the importance of proximity, educating distributors, solving labor problems, and the dynamic between PE-backed and family-owned distributors offer invaluable guidance for anyone in the distribution and supply chain industry.
Stay tuned for more episodes as we continue to explore the fundamentals and future of distribution technology with industry experts!