Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/143040
10 Years Ago continued marketplace. I still believe that distribution plays a vital role, and that the customer still wants a relationship. The opportunity to have the initial "touch points" is vastly different than in the past. It was not too long ago that they (the end user) had to reach out to whomever they perceived to be the expert in the marketplace. More than likely, that might have been anyone in the channel, be it manufacturer, distributor, rep, consultant or service. That is no longer the case. For many, the first touch point might be whomever the search engine picks. No wonder it is a race to the pricepoint bottom. So who will be left to space plan, procure, install, finance, stock and service it all? Perhaps we can work together on more global solutions, rather than some of the more petty issues that plagued the supply chain 10 years ago. As we transition our business to the next generation, I am excited to watch what those that know how to navigate all the data can do to ensure our success as a sustainable business. K Consolidation Going Forward Bill Boelter, The Boelter Companies, Inc. 1977-1979 As predicted, much has happened in terms of industry consolidation. Going forward, merger activity will slow during the next three to five years, having peaked several years back. At this point, there are still a handful of strong independents that have provided for leadership succession. Most business is still local and relationships will always be important. The typical bell-shaped curve still depicts the classic company business cycle. In the end, however, the factors driving this activity—the absence of a leadership succession plan and/or shortage of capital for growth—will always be there, so look for some activity going forward. Component Hardware Your First Source for Component Hardware - Your First Source for Quality Casters r Casters Choice of wheels els 3" & 5" See us at NAFEM Booth 619 at NA AFEM 38 FEDA News & Views26 News & Views