Tuscaloosa, AL – Everything has changed in the world of distribution, and this applies to distributors in the jansan, packaging, food service, healthcare, and other sectors.
Distributors must prepare themselves for unforeseen roadblocks, staff shortages, supply chain interruptions, as well as new and unexpected opportunities.
At the same time, they are trying to keep their workforce healthy, dealing with health concerns not even imagined just a few short weeks ago.
So, what should they be doing to remain viable, serve their customers, and provide reliable service?
According to Michael Wilson, vice president of marketing and packaging for AFFLINK, a nationwide distributor-membership organization, the following tactics can prove helpful:
Avoid cognitive overload.
Information is coming in fast and furious from many fronts. This can cause paralysis. Distributors must keep focused on what must be taken care of now, this week, and in the weeks ahead.
Define priorities.
This could range from employee safety, to financial liquidity, or customer care. Determine the top priorities for your company now.
Toss out yesterday’s playbook.
Plans for 2020 are no longer relevant. Your top priorities, just referenced, is now your playbook.
Create “war rooms.”
A distributor should not make all decisions. Relegate issues to different department heads. Just make sure all departments are aligned as to the top priorities of the company.
Embrace action.
Mistakes are going to be made in such an uncertain environment. But studies indicate inaction is often worse.
Know what is happening on the ground.
Right now, many large contract cleaners are laying off people, some for the first time in years. Distributors need to know what is happening in all the sectors they serve.
Set up key performance indicators.
Determine which key indicators best substantiate how well the company is doing. This may need to be performed on a weekly basis for now.
Finally, stay in fighting shape. Eat well. Take walks with a mask on. Exercise as much as possible. Meditation can also help right now.
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Editors please note: The word “AFFLINK” is always capitalized.
About AFFLINK
Connecting more than 200 manufacturers of Facility Maintenance, Packaging, Safety, Office and Industrial Supply solutions with over 300 independent distribution experts, AFFLINK is, just as its name suggests – that critical link offering clients innovative products, market expertise, and improved profitability, all of which is fueled by our leading-edge information technology. For more info, visit: http://www.afflink.com/
Contact Information:
Michael Wilson, vice president of marketing and packaging
AFFLINK, LLC
1400 AFFLINK Place
Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
P: 800.222.5521
Media Contact: Robert Kravitz
Email: robert@alturasolutions.com
Phone: 312-880-8176
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