Modern multi-channel distribution across multiple locations presents various technological and social hurdles. 

Infrastructure, integration, data synchronization, security, and privacy issues are vital from a technological standpoint. 

Ensuring a Robust Infrastructure

Ensuring a robust and reliable technology infrastructure is in place to support multi-channel distribution can be a significant challenge. Reliable network connectivity, efficient data storage and retrieval systems, and scalable hardware and software solutions are important.

Q & A with Connor Arney, Austin Hardware and Supply National Sales Manager for VMI 

CA: Vendor-managed inventory is an arrangement between the customer and supplier in which the vendor takes responsibility for managing and replenishing stock levels of agreed-upon parts and products at the customer's customer's location.

Registration is now open for the 8th annual Austin Hardware Charity Football Pool.

It’s not about you or your products.

It’s not about you. It’s not about your products. To add value, salespeople must stop selling and start listening. Selling today is a process where the salesperson facilitates an open exchange of information to solve your customer’s problem. When we do this, we add value.

When two different types of metals are joined together, a process called ELECTROLYSIS can occur. Also known as galvanic corrosion, electrolysis happens when two dissimilar metals are directly connected, causing the lesser of the two metals to corrode. For the process to occur, the two metals must also come into contact with a conductive electrolyte. Ultimately, this can result in damage to the joint, causing the metals to fail.

 Several factors contribute to electrolysis when joining dissimilar metals, including differences in electrical potential, composition, and exposure to moisture or other corrosive substances. Let's take a closer look at each of these factors and how they can impact the durability of the joint.

An Explanation of Common Gas Springs:  How Do They Work?

Gas springs, also known as gas struts or gas lift supports, use compressed gas to provide smooth and controlled motion of lids, hatches, flaps, and more in many applications. Common examples include automotive hoods, furniture, medical equipment, and industrial machinery. 

They work on the principle of the ideal gas law, which states that the pressure of a gas is directly proportional to its temperature and the number of molecules present in the container. 

A typical gas spring consists of a piston rod and a cylinder filled with pressurized gas, usually nitrogen. When the gas spring is extended, the gas pressure inside the cylinder pushes the piston rod out. Conversely, when the gas spring is compressed, the gas pressure inside the cylinder decreases, allowing the piston rod to retract.

The Differences Between VMI and CMI

Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) and Customer Managed Inventory (CMI) are inventory management programs that differ in responsibility for managing inventory. 

In a VMI program, the vendor (supplier) manages the customer's inventory levels. The vendor collects customer usage data from sales forecasts, inventory levels, or other key metrics to determine when and how much product to deliver. In a VMI program, the vendor takes on the responsibility, and subsequent risk, of maintaining appropriate stock levels to balance inventory with costs for optimal cash flow. The customer benefits from a more streamlined supply chain and reduced inventory holding costs while having to invest less time and personnel resources into inventory management.  

Big Solutions for Tiny Houses

In the last decade, thanks to social media, we have been able to follow the rise of the tiny house movement. This tiny living lifestyle, which includes tiny homes, van conversions, and other mobile housing alternatives, has grown in popularity.  

If you want to go tiny, you are entering a vast world of possibility. Tiny living is a great choice for young people, retirees, digital nomads, and families looking to simplify their day-to-day life or hit the road for big adventures and a roaming lifestyle. 

The possibilities are endless. Live wherever you want to save money and space, simplify your lifestyle, and see the world from your front door.

Whether you're going off-road, off the grid, or off to work, you want to be sure your vehicle has the right gear for the day's adventure. We know how important it is to have a reliable, safe ride and one well-equipped for the day's journey- whatever that may be. You work hard, and your truck should work equally as hard for you.

With the costs of fuel and products rising – you want to be sure your truck is in it for the long haul. Protecting your vehicle with the right products not only preserves the life of your truck but it gives you peace of mind. There are several easy ways to ensure your truck is in top shape. Most manufacturers have a recommended list of maintenance items at mileage intervals to help make sure your vehicle is working correctly and has a long life span.

One of the best ways to take care of your vehicle is to stay up to date on routine maintenance – Staying up to date on recommended factory maintenance is crucial to the longevity of your vehicle. A preventative maintenance schedule keeps you from dealing with costly repairs down the line.

A simple maintenance checklist will help you stay on track for repairs and maintenance for commercial vehicles, trucks, and vans, or your adventure vehicle or pickup truck. Below is a list of five easy things you can do to take care of your vehicle.

Austin Hardware® is a proud partner with H.B. Fuller and GorillaPro® Professional Grade products. Since 1960, Austin Hardware® has worked hard to secure hard-working solutions for the many different industries we serve. 

We are excited about this new product offering from one of our most trusted partnerships. Read More below to see what GorillaPro® has to say about their products and how Austin Hardware can help provide the right solution for your industry!