“This sixth edition of Facing the Forces of Change employs a completely fresh methodology in showing wholesale-distribution executives alternative paths to the future,” said Ron Schreibman, executive director of NAW’s Distribution Research and Education Foundation. “We feel this is the most comprehensive report issued to date.”

The study was written and researched by Pembroke Consulting president Adam J. Fein, Ph.D., and provides manufacturers, wholesale-distributors, suppliers, and their customers with insight into shifts in the industry environment through 2006. Among the findings, it is expected that the customer’s power in the supply chain will grow exponentially, large manufacturers will reduce local sourcing, and new competitors will challenge the role of distributors in the supply chain.

For more information, visit www.nawpubs.org (website).