ISA’s Brendan Breen on the Biggest Trends in Wholesale Distribution

Tariffs? What tariffs? Oh, those tariffs? Wait...what happened to the tariffs?

In this insightful episode of Around The Horn in Wholesale Distribution, hosts Kevin Brown and Tom Burton sit down with Brendan Breen, CEO of the Industrial Supply Association (ISA), to discuss the state of the industrial supply industry, upcoming ISA events, and major economic trends impacting wholesale distribution. From the random comings and goings of tariffs and inflation concerns to the evolving role of AI, automation, and digital transformation, this episode dives deep into the future of wholesale distribution and manufacturing.

Brendan shares his expert analysis on how industry leaders can navigate uncertainty, strengthen supplier relationships, and leverage new technologies to remain competitive in a volatile market. The conversation also previews the upcoming ISA25 event, highlighting key industry speakers, educational sessions, and networking opportunities.

Key Topics With Timestamps:

[00:00] Welcome & Introductions

• Meet hosts Kevin Brown and Tom Burton, along with guest Brendan Breen, CEO of ISA.
• Overview of ISA’s role in the industrial supply and manufacturing sector.

[07:45] The Impact of Tariffs & Economic Uncertainty on Wholesale Distribution

• How recent tariff policies are affecting manufacturers and distributors.
• Why uncertainty is more challenging than the tariffs themselves.
• Predictions on how U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade relations could shift in the coming months.

[20:30] The Evolving Role of AI & Automation in Distribution

• How AI and machine learning are transforming inventory management, pricing strategies, and customer insights.
• The future of digital assistants in supply chain operations.
• Why distributors must embrace AI-driven tools to stay competitive.

[35:15] ISA25: What to Expect from This Year’s Biggest Industrial Supply Event

• Preview of the ISA25 Convention and its must-attend educational sessions.
• Keynote speakers, including Herm Edwards, and discussions on the state of the industry, AI, and supply chain resilience.
• How the event will help distributors strengthen partnerships and navigate market challenges.

[50:00] The Changing Landscape of E-Commerce in Industrial Distribution

• Why traditional distribution must embrace a multi-channel sales approach.
• How B2B buyers are shifting their purchasing behaviors.
• The need for distributors to optimize online engagement, content marketing, and digital sales strategies.

[1:05:20] Key Takeaways & Final Thoughts

• Why collaboration and communication between suppliers, distributors, and manufacturers are more critical than ever.
• The role of ISA in shaping industry-wide best practices.
• Final thoughts from Brendan Breen on the future of wholesale distribution.

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