AWMA Chairman Outlines 2006 Accomplishments

2006 was a great year for AWMA

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"2006 was a great year for AWMA," Chairman Jode Bunce said.

Publish Date: 
February 22, 2007

During 2006, AWMA made its highest priority the challenge of delivering programs and services that benefit distributor members and provide opportunities to improve the entire supply chain, AWMA Chairman Jode Bunce told EXPO attendees Thursday.

He offered these examples:

  • A new Buyers program was launched last year at EXPO, focusing on leveraging category management in purchasing. This year’s Buyers program focused on activity based purchasing concepts and leveraging speed-to-market opportunities.
  • Each member received a free copy of the NACS State of the Industry Report, a $500 value.
  • The landmark Distributor Value Study was conducted and more than 40,000 copies were distributed to retailers, manufacturers and distributors and highly publicized within the trade.
  • A quarterly research report focusing on foodservice was launched and is being provided free of charge to AWMA distributor members.
  • The 2006 Summit and Business Exchange had a record 32 manufacturers and 48 distributors participating, and for 2007, the goal is for attendees to "excited and ready to utilize what you may have learned."
  • AWMA’s HIPA report, sponsored by the Hershey Company, has pointed out the steady decline in distributor profitability. The Distributor Value Study was the "foundation of a concerted effort to improve profitability in our industry."
  • The Convenience Distribution Conference was held in October, focusing solely on distributor operations and productivity. It will be held again this year.
  • A new insurance program for distributors was launched to help members obtain affordable business insurance.
  • The Warehouse Delivered Snack program continued to grow, with 70 distributor members participating and more than 20,000 multi-vendor end caps placed. Other categories are being considered for inclusion in the program.
  • The 2006 Day on the Hill last May allowed members to meet with elected representatives. More than 60 meetings were held as lawmakers and key staff were brief on critical issues affecting distributors. This year’s Day on the Hill, May 16-17, will include a special briefing at the White House.

"2006 was a great year for AWMA," Bunce said.

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