Physical Distribution
Better Service (July 2013)
Proposes a new and better way for distributors and manufacturers to work together on improved service
UNFI, Naturally (July 2012)
A look at United Natural Foods and their potential impact on Foodservice
Getting Better...Together (May 2012)
Information about the Foodservice Supply Chain Alliance, and an invitation to learn more
A Fresh Approach to Foodservice (January 2012)
How one company has built a successful business by playing "outside the boundaries" of traditional foodservice thinking
GS1 Me! (December 2009)
What do you think about the latest effort to standardize our industry?
5 P's in FS (January 2010)
Applying some "old school" marketing to the foodservice channel
Pickup Lines (October 2009)
An examination of the uncertainties around Customer Pickups, with a prescription for change
Role Players (August 2009)
Frank discussion about the role of foodservice distributors, as viewed from different perspectives
Help Wanted (April 2009)
Seeking advice from FSMI readers regarding my new service offering
Fedex for Foodservice? (November 2008)
Suggests a new model for manufacturer/distributor transactions which could eliminate much of the acrimony we currently endure
Distribution Channel Roll-ups: Cons and Cures (June 2008)
A "big ideas" commentary by Bruce Merrifield describing the state of a consolidated distribution industry, and cures for what ails it
Working at Cross Purposes (November 2006)
Recommends the book of the same name, which does an excellent job of demystifying the natural friction between manufacturers and distributors. Provides a link to order from the National Association of Wholesalers.
Change the Channel (May 2005)
Announces upcoming work in exploring new models for manufacturer/distributor relationships, and invites readers to participate
CAW 101 (September 2005)
Explains the benefits of using Cube Adjusted Weight to establish price brackets, when product lines have a wide range of weights and cubes
