Suz Pathmanathan
The shift toward digital commerce is pushing custom and promotional businesses to think differently about how they operate. With global B2B e-commerce projected to reach $20.9 trillion by 2027, there’s never been a better time to reach new customers and expand your market presence. However, being a supplier in this space comes with challenges, especially when managing distribution channels efficiently.
Rest assured, if you're struggling with distribution management, you’re not alone! In this blog, we’ll explore ways to improve the management of your distribution channels so you can stay ahead of the curve.
1. Better Inventory Management
One of the biggest headaches in distribution is inventory management. Unless you possess the foresight of a bonafide psychic, it’s impossible to predict inventory needs perfectly. Traditional inventory systems often involve manual processes, like physically counting stock, which are time-consuming and prone to error.
The problem
Not knowing how much inventory is available can lead to stockouts or overstocking, both of which negatively impact your customers and sales. Stockouts frustrate buyers, while excess stock leads to storage costs and wasted capital.
The solution
Brikl’s cutting-edge platform supports an on-demand fulfillment model that revolutionizes the way you manage inventory. With on-demand, you eliminate the need for excessive stockpiling and the risk of overproduction. Products are only created and shipped when an order is placed, drastically reducing storage costs and waste.
With on-demand fulfillment, restocking becomes a non-issue, as production is dynamically tied to real-time orders. This means fewer backorders, improved cash flow, and a smoother, more efficient supply chain—ultimately leading to higher profitability and customer satisfaction. By leveraging the on-demand model, you gain more agility in responding to market trends and customer demands.
2. Gaining a Competitive Advantage
The race to establish a solid digital presence is on. In fact, 93% of B2B buyers prefer to purchase online, making digital transformation an imperative. If you’re not already invested in robust technology, you risk falling behind your competitors.
The problem
Establishing a foothold in the digital marketplace is easier said than done. Companies that rely on outdated processes struggle to scale quickly and meet growing customer demands.
The solution
Brikl’s end-to-end platform enables suppliers to streamline operations by automating many of the manual processes that slow down traditional distribution. With multi-language, multi-currency, and multi-channel capabilities, Brikl helps you expand globally, localizing your offerings for each market while keeping your central operations efficient. We provide the tools to scale your business while future-proofing it with the latest in e-commerce technology.
3. Adopting a Customer-Centric business Model
It’s not just B2C companies that need to put their customers first—B2B distributors are also expected to provide exceptional service. According to HubSpot, 90% of customers consider customer support a key factor in determining brand loyalty. Building a customer-centric business model is no longer optional; it’s essential.
The problem
Without the right tools, keeping customers informed and providing personalized services is challenging. Manual processes often result in delayed responses and errors, which can damage your reputation.
The solution
Brikl’s platform gives your customers enhanced stock visibility and simplifies the ordering process with API integrations that eliminate manual data entry. Your customers can reserve stock, create template stores, and access real-time sales and order data via a live link. Brikl’s automation of product embellishment and fulfillment means fewer errors and faster turnaround times, ultimately enhancing the customer experience.
By prioritizing your customers’ needs, you create a more responsive, reliable supply chain, which translates into stronger business relationships and higher customer retention.
4. Acknowledging That Your Customers Are Changing
The average workforce is getting younger, and with that shift comes new expectations for how business is conducted. Millennials now make up the largest share of the global workforce, and their approach to technology is vastly different from previous generations. They have little patience for legacy systems and expect seamless, automated processes.
The problem
Companies that don’t adapt to these changes risk losing customers who expect the convenience of modern, digital tools.
The solution
Brikl allows you to set up an e-commerce solution for your customers in under 15 minutes, a process that traditionally takes hours or days. Your customers can use drag-and-drop design tools and batch brand products for fast customization. Plus, Brikl’s integrations into systems like ERP, CRM, accounting, shipping, and tax platforms ensure your customers have everything they need to focus on what matters: growing their business.
By embracing this shift, you give your customers the digital tools they need to thrive, which, in turn, will fuel your own growth.
Optimizing your distribution channels is key to staying competitive in the rapidly growing digital commerce landscape. Better inventory management, a customer-centric approach, and cutting-edge technology will enable you to streamline operations, scale your business, and build stronger relationships with customers.
With Brikl, you gain access to the most advanced tools for distribution management in the custom and promotional products industry. Whether it’s on-demand selling, real-time stock insights or 15-minute store creation, Brikl offers everything you need to future-proof your business and gain a competitive edge.
Ready to transform the way you manage distribution? Contact us today for a personalized walkthrough of our platform.
