| July 17, 2008 | News for the wholesale distribution industry |
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- Expert: Getting perspective on cash flow
For much of the past 10 years, distributors have emphasized a strong cash flow, says industry expert Albert D. Bates. "The rallying cry has been 'Profit is fine, but cash is king.' There is now strong evidence that the king is in exile." In this article, Bates examines the possible ramifications of businesses decreasing their investments in inventory and accounts receivable as a way of boosting cash flow. Building-Products.com
(7/15)
    
| Best Practices | | |
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- Use technology to meet customer expectations
Manufacturers and distributors are particularly pressed to meet customer requirements, with compliance labeling, custom packaging and advance ship notifications all expected. According to this article, the best companies meet such expectations with technology such as distributed order management and integrated execution systems. Modern Materials Handling (free registration)
(7/14)
- Achieve goals with help of inner focus
A motivational expert urges business executives to spend 10 minutes putting their goals and dreams on paper and then meditating on accomplishing those aims. "Fuel the fantasy with as much positive energy as you can," she writes. "What would you be feeling if you woke up this morning and that dream had come true? That's the feeling you want to focus on." Entrepreneur.com
(7/7)
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- What not to do during a downturn
When the economy is tough, responsible business leaders need to strategize to stay afloat. What to avoid? Panicking, cutting back too steeply on marketing and chasing business you wouldn't normally pursue, among other things. BusinessWeek
(7/11)
| Small Business Manager | | |
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- Building a network through referrals
Customer service is important, this article says, but people won't refer their friends to you just because you meet their minimum expectations. Having a referral partner can be a great proposition for both parties: If you provide exceptional service to the person your partner refers, you will form a stronger relationship with your referral partner and send business his or her way when the need arises. MSNBC/Entrepreneur.com
(7/11)
| Executive Life | | |
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- SunBriteTV unveils new weatherproof LCDs
SunBriteTV has introduced a weatherproof LCD, which features an anti-reflective, impact- and scratch-resistant exterior that shields the screen from rain, dirt and debris. The TV, which ranges in price from $1,995 to $5,495, also includes water-resistant, detachable speakers. CEPro.com
(7/14)
- Palm pursues BlackBerry with new high-end Treo
Palm has introduced a new Treo 800w smartphone aimed at competing with BlackBerry for business users. The smartphone, available through Sprint Nextel, is priced at $249.99, but its debut was overshadowed by the market entry of Apple's iPhone 3G. Reuters
(7/14)
| NAW Insider | | |
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2008 Employee Compensation Report: Available for immediate download
As the U.S. economy continues to present challenges, distributors are reconsidering their staffing needs and how to attract and keep top performers. See how your compensation program compares to others. This report focuses on data from 1,704 distributors from across all lines of trade. It gives you the benchmarks and backup needed to budget employee pay and benefits with confidence.
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Enrollment in NAW Health Insurance Program is simple
Through a convenient and paperless telephone application process, member companies and their employees can easily apply for group coverage in the NAW Health Insurance Program. What are the advantages of enrolling in the Trust? Learn more about this unique group health insurance enrollment process.
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