Things are changing fast. Virtual online channels are raising the bar for efficiency in distribution. Customer expectations are becoming more demanding, requiring fast fulfillment, real-time inventory visibility, and highly personalized service. Legacy distributor systems cannot meet these demands. If the independent distributor is not collecting real-time data with up-to-date technology, the gap between his business and alternative channels may soon become insurmountable.
Three tools
Here are three tools that can help you meet customer expectations in 2025
1. State of the art ERP
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is the foundation upon which you build your digital business. ERP software streamlines and automates functions such as finance, human resources, manufacturing, supply chain, and procurement. This tool is designed to help you keep up with growing customer demand for fast, reliable service. It is important to note that the number of features these systems offer is growing at a fast clip. Stay current!
2. Real time price
In the past, business economics taught us the best way to improve profit was to grow your sales. Technology, however, has opened up other avenues to improve your margins. With today’s software you can increase profits with real-time pricing. You can ensure opportunistic buying decisions, systematically raise prices, control sales force pricing, and capitalize on supplier price increases. Moreover, the challenge in 2025 is to provide tailored, competitive pricing with better profit margins while keeping customer loyalty.
3. Predictive forecasting analytics
Today’s AI forecasting software is capable of mining data through predictive modeling and machine learning. AI can analyze historical facts to make predictions about future events. Using various tools and techniques, business predictive forecasting models are available for sales, cost, and profits. Generative AI predictive business software such as Microsoft Copilot, IBM Project Ripasso, and Oracle Analytics, are just a few of the products available for distributors.
Meet Expectations
In conclusion, don’t let the gap between you and your online channel competitors widen. Use the latest ERP and AI solutions to meet customer expectations in 2025.
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