Author - fluentdesigns

Tuesday, September 12, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NAW and Applico Announce EquipmentShare’s Jabbok Schlacks and BRINGG’s Guy Bloch as Keynote Speakers at 2023 Innovators Summit

Austin, Texas – The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW), the voice of the $8.2 trillion wholesale distribution industry that employs over 6 million U.S. workers, along with Applico, an advisor to billion-dollar distributors and manager of the wholesale distribution industry’s first dedicated venture capital fund, announced today that Jabbok Schlacks, CEO/CoFounder of EquipmentShare will be the Marketplace keynote speaker for the 2023 NAW Innovators Summit, powered by Applico; and Guy Bloch, CEO at BRINGG, will be the keynote Supply Chain Technology speaker at #IS2023.

Taking place Tuesday, November 14, 2023, from 3 p.m. CT – Thursday, November 16, 2023, at 1 p.m. Austin, Texas, at the Omni Austin Hotel Downtown, the NAW Innovators Summit powered by Applico, has been hailed as the industry’s top matchmaking event between distributors, leading B2B tech companies and investors.

“We cannot wait to welcome Jabbok Schlacks and Guy Bloch as keynote speakers to the Innovators Summit stage,” said NAW CEO Eric Hoplin. “In 2023, the Innovators Summit seeks to showcase everything unique about the inaugural technology conference from 2022 while also expanding the types of technology companies present and inviting the investor community to further participate and share their unique perspective and insights. Schlacks and Bloch are an invaluable addition to the program, and we look forward to hearing their insights relating to marketplaces and supply chain technology,” Hoplin concluded.

“The Innovators Summit is truly a one-of-a-kind experience to hear the real story behind innovation in B2B,” said Applico Founder and CEO Alex Moazed, “Jabbok and Guy will provide attendees with powerful insights and innovative solutions to problems facing distributors in the areas of marketplaces and supply chain technology,” Moazed concluded. The NAW Innovators Summit powered by Applico welcomes leading industry executives across North America to meet the founders of the most exciting B2B distribution-focused technology startups in closed-door presentations. Attendees get the ‘inside scoop’ – and if distributors like what they hear, they can book private, one-on-one time with founders to discuss opportunities in more detail.

The technology tracks will include marketplace technology, sales and operations technology, supply chain technology and “AI in action” – pragmatic examples of AI for wholesale distributors.

Jabbok Schlacks is the CEO/Co-Founder at EquipmentShare, whose digital solutions gather data in a central location to give contractors a single place to analyze and understand their business operations data. By providing contractors and fleet managers with digital and electronic ways to record, gather and monitor fleet utilization data, EquipmentShare saves them hours typically spent manually collecting the same information, digesting it, and applying it to business decisions.

Guy Bloch is CEO at BRINGG, whose open SaaS platform simplifies the last mile experience, enabling organizations to turn delivery into a competitive advantage by leveraging innovative technology to manage their own fleets, or tapping into a global network of 200+ integrated carriers including parcel, same day, and LTL. By providing a scalable, data-driven solution to dynamically manage fleets, increase delivery options and automate processes, Bringg is able to create a seamless experience for drivers, dispatchers, and customers while reducing last mile

costs.

Applico is the trusted advisor to billion-dollar distributors on strategic partnerships with tech startups. Applico Capital is the wholesale distribution industry’s first dedicated venture capital firm. With backing from more than 5 billion-dollar distributors, Applico Capital’s B2B Distribution Fund I invests in technology that will help distributors modernize and digitize their core business.

The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) is one of America’s leading trade associations, representing the $8.2 trillion wholesale distribution industry. Founded in 1946, NAW comprises national, regional, and state employers of all sizes, industry trade associations, partners, and stakeholders spanning all distribution sectors. Our industry employs more than 6 million workers throughout the United States, accounting for 1/3 of the U.S. GDP. 35,000 wholesale distribution companies operate nearly 150,000 places of business across North America, including all 50 states.

Media Contact: Dianna Steinbach

###

Source: NAW

Attend NAW’s second annual Innovators Summit, powered by Applico. An exclusive event for wholesale distribution executives, innovators, and tech founders. 

November 14- 16, 2023 | Austin, Texas | Omni Austin Hotel

Learn more and Register: https://www.naw.org/events/2023-innovators-summit/

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Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey: Third Quarter 2023

The National Association of Manufacturers Q3 2023 Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey shows manufacturers’ with the lowest level of optimism among NAM members (65.1%) since Q2 2020. The sector continues to confront a tight labor market, unbalanced federal regulations and critical policy debates in Congress. The NAM conducted the survey from August 17 to August 31, 2023.

Key Findings:

• Only 65.1% of respondents felt positive in their company’s outlook, edging down from 67.0% in the second quarter. It was the fourth straight reading below the historical average (74.9%).
• Concern about an unfavorable business climate was the highest in six years (Q2 2017).
• The survey found that 69.1% of small manufacturers, and 63.2% of all respondents, would hire more workers or increase compensation if the regulatory burden decreased.
• More than 70% of manufacturers would purchase more capital equipment if the regulatory burden on manufacturers decreased, with 48.6% increasing compensation, 48.6% hiring more workers, 42.5% expanding their U.S. facilities and 38.4% investing in research.
• The top challenges facing manufacturers include attracting and retaining a quality workforce (72.1%), weaker domestic economy (60.7%), rising health care/insurance costs (60.1%), unfavorable business climate (56.7%), increased raw material costs (45.5%) and supply chain challenges (37.8%).

NAM Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey: Third Quarter 2023

Read full report:

Manufacturers_Outlook_Survey_Write_Up_Q3_Sept2023_Final

Source: NAM 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 Students share experiences from Fastener Training Week in Chicago 2023

 GLENDALE, CA (September 12, 2023) – It’s a wrap on Fastener Training Week in Chicago 2023. The sold-out class was possible thanks to instructors Laurence Claus, Carmen Vertullo, and John Medcalf; plant tour sponsors SWD, Inc. and Semblex; industry and networking host Mid-West Fastener Association; sustaining sponsor Würth Industries North America; ongoing partner Industrial Fasteners Institute; and group lessons assistant Harry Dickerson.

Fastener Training Week is an intensive five days of advanced fastener training for seasoned fastener professionals. “It is an investment in people. Providing accelerated growth in fastener knowledge and confidence and is a win-win for companies and employees,” said Jo Morris, Marketing Director, Fastener Training Institute.

Students who took part in the recent session in Chicago, IL, shared thoughts about the week:

“Thank you very much for everything! I really appreciated and enjoyed last week – from learning in class to seeing processes at the manufacturing plants.”

“Fastener Training Week was an absolutely eye-opening experience! The sheer amount of engineering consideration that goes into an overlooked everyday item is absolutely astounding. Laurence, John, Carmen and Jo were amazing hosts and instructors that bring life into an otherwise dry subject area. Their responsiveness and attention to detail was second to none. I have since recommended this course to other coworkers and will continue to do so. Overall, it was an awesome experience!”

“I would recommend Fastener Training Week for anyone in the industry to jump on board on a journey through the best learning opportunity in fasteners on all fronts for a better understanding of the ins and outs of fasteners.”

“I was able to put the knowledge to use my very first day back in El Paso. A customer came in with broken bolts, and I felt more ready than ever to help him!”

“Fastener Training Week challenges you to step up and really take your career in this industry seriously. The course topics make you realize how important we are to the manufacturing segment here in the U.S. and abroad.”

“Very detailed and informative course. It’s a lot to absorb in one week, but you will definitely finish knowing a lot more than when you started.”

Here feedback from FTI students on social media: 

The next Fastener Training Week will be held in Los Angeles, CA on December 4 – 8 at the Holiday Inn La Mirada. Learn more and register at www.fastenertraining.org. Early-bird fees are available until November 20, 2023. A $500 discount is available for Pac-West, NFDA, IFI, MWFA, NCFA, and SFA and members.

 About Fastener Training Institute

The Fastener Training Institute is a nonprofit organization that provides beginning and advanced training on fastener products, standards and specifications. Its core purpose is to enhance fastener use, reliability and safety with a mission to make industry professionals more knowledgeable about the fastening products they buy, sell, specify or use. 

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Here’s what’s happening in fastener industry news, acquisitions, and upcoming events in the news the week of September 18th, 2023.

VIDEO: (11:38)

MW Components, a leading provider of precision components, announced the acquisition of Elgin Fastener Group, a specialty fastener manufacturer. The acquisition of Elgin Fastener Group closed on September 8, 2023, and expands MW Components’ existing US-based manufacturing locations to provide fasteners and metal components for global distribution. The combined companies will offer the most comprehensive set of specialty fasteners in the market, including custom fasteners such as nuts, bolts, rivets, screws, and more, along with an extensive catalog of in-stock components.

Read more:

MW Components Expands Fastener Products Through Acquisition of Elgin Fastener Group

Hans Fuller of Fuller Metric was elected to serve a second term as president of the Pacific-West Fastener Association at a recent meeting of the Pac-West Board of Directors.

Other appointments include George Martinez of Brighton Best International was elected as the association’s vice president, and Ryan McCaffrey of Pacific Coast Bolt was elected as secretary/treasurer. Clay Weaver of Industrial Threaded Products will continue as immediate past president. Read more: 

Hans Fuller Elected Pac-West President

The All State Fastener Board of Directors announced the appointment of Darryl Dvorak as CEO. Darryl brings extensive experience from his tenure at the Fastenal Company for the prior 31 years in a variety of executive leadership positions including Vice President of Sales and Product Development, Director of OEM Sales, and Managing Director of European Operations. Darryl has a strong foundation in developing ambitious growth strategies, building new locations from the ground up, program and project management, upgrading existing facilities with cutting edge technologies and leading teams of people with a culture of empowerment and clear vision.

All State Fastener is a family-owned global supplier of fasteners & related assembly hardware, technical support services, VMI systems, and comprehensive supply chain solutions. Read more:

All State Fastener Appoints, Darryl Dvorak, CEO

The St. Louis Federal Reserve Producer Price Index:

Commodity: Bolts, Nuts, Screws, Rivets, and Washers August reading was 308.687 down from the July reading of 309.924.

FRED is created and maintained by the Research Department at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.

The Fastenal Company has begun an operational trial with e-mobility solutions provider ZEVX™ to convert select pickup trucks in its final-mile delivery fleet to electric vehicles. Having completed a proof-of-concept trial with a single converted vehicle, Fastenal and ZEVX are now conducting a six-state trial using the ZEVX battery electric powertrain and power system products to electrify up to 16 trucks in 2023.

ZEVX is an innovator of battery electric power systems and data intelligence for e-mobility applications. The company has a series of battery electric powertrain and power system products that quickly migrate gas-powered Class 2 to 5 fleet assets to zero carbon.

Fastenal Launches Operational Trial to Electrify Select Fleet Trucks

With less than 30 days until the International Fastener Expo in Vegas October 9-11^th fastener industry excitement is growing!

To enhance your experience, IFE 2023 offers an AI-powered, award-winning platform, IFE Match that offers attendees and exhibitors a NEW, “smart” way of connecting, building business opportunities, exploring educational sessions, building your itinerary and more – all from your computer or mobile device before you even step foot on the expo floor!

Experience the future of expo networking and scheduling with the IFE Match. It’s time to elevate your expo experience, maximize your connections, and unlock new business opportunities.

The IFE Match mobile app is available for download in the Apple or Google Play store now. For more info visit FastenerShows.com

Happening today, September 18th at 10:00am. ET. is the New England Fastener Distributors Association for Understanding Blueprints, a virtual class. The class is for anyone in the fastener industry, whether you’re just starting your fastener career or are a seasoned veteran. Instructor Jim Speck will be demonstrating how to effectively read a blueprint.

More info: https://www.nefda.com/event/print-reading-basics-with-jim-speck/

Have you ever wondered if industrial 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, could make your process more efficient, cost-effective, or secure? Join the Würth Additive Group for 3D Printers in the WILD Tour across the United States!  Connect with their team and learn about the power of additive manufacturing by watching it live! Würth Additive Group wants to bring together industry, higher education, and other interested individuals to discuss the latest developments in Additive Manufacturing, both technical and commercial, at their 3D Printers in the WILD Tour

Phoenix, AZ Wed, Sep 20, 2023 

Tempe, AZ September 22, 2023

Event link https://lp.wurthindustry.com/3d-printers-in-the-wild-tour-phoenix

Chicago, Illinois Mon, Oct 2, 2023

Event link: https://lp.wurthindustry.com/demo-days-2023-chicago-il-3d-printers-in-the-wild

For more info about tour dates go to WurthAdditive.com

Grow from novice to knowledgeable with Fastener Training Institutes Fastener Basics training coming to a city near you! Learn the basics of fastener parts and increase your fastener knowledge advantage! The all-day training session is geared for individuals new to the fastener industry and those who need to know more about the products they sell. Fastener Basics Training is scheduled for:

DENVER, CO: Sept. 22 https://fastenertrainingevents.com/fastener-basics-denver.htm

LOS ANGELES, CA: Sept. 27 https://fastenertrainingevents.com/fastener-basics-la.htm

UNION CITY, CA: Nov. 16 https://fastenertrainingevents.com/fastener-basics.htm

The Industrial Fasteners Institute Fall Meeting will be held at the Omni PGA Frisco Resort in Frisco, TX Saturday, September 23, 2023 – Tuesday, September 26, 2023. IFI has an exciting agenda, including keynote speakers and leisure activities. For membership and event details go to https://indfast.org/meetings/

It’s time for the Pacific West Fastener Associations Annual What’s New? What’s Next? Fall dinner program! Tuesday, September 26^th includes Vendor Showcase, Cocktail Hour, Dinner, and Program. For more information go to pac-west.org

We have 4 million manufacturing jobs to fill by 2030! Save the Date: Friday, October 6^th for Manufacturing Day 2023. Celebrated nationally on the first Friday in October and throughout the month. MFG Day is manufacturing’s biggest annual opportunity to inspire the next generation, positively shift perceptions about our industry, and build the foundation for the manufacturing workforce of the future. Let’s work together and inspire the next generation of manufacturers by hosting a #MFGDay23 event! Resources and toolkits available: https://mfgday.com/resources/

Feel the energy building as the 2023 International Fastener Expo (IFE) prepares to set the stage for the largest convergence of the fastener industry in North America.

With IFE’s commitment to excellence and innovation, the event promises to be a catalyst for industry growth and collaboration.

Mark your calendar for October 9-11th at Mandalay Bay, as Las Vegas becomes the epicenter of fastener innovation and expertise. IFE 2023 will offer attendees an array of sessions designed to captivate, educate, and inspire. From a world-class exhibition of fasteners, and industrial products, to a magnetic keynote speaker, enriching conference sessions, and panel discussions led by esteemed industry experts—this is your ticket to NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES.

Register now Use promo code FND50. Go to FastenerShows.com

Join the Fastener Training Institute for an all-day training program on Monday, October 9^th, at the International Fastener Expo! Fastener Fundamentals, The Nuts and Bolts for Fastener Professionals, will offer the best of the Fastener Basics Training and Certified Fastener Specialist™ Training programs. The one-day class will bring the basics of fasteners and beyond to industry professionals. Take advantage of early bird pricing through October 7, 2023. Register now: https://fastenershows.com/fti-class/

The stories featured in this week’s episode of IN THE NEWS can be found in our (X) feed @FastenerNews and on LinkedIn in the Fastener News Group!

If you would like to share your company’s news or events contact me, lisa@fastenernewsdesk.com.  Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of ‘IN THE NEWS’ with Fastener News Desk.

Sign up for the free FND newsletter designed to keep busy fastener professionals like you up-to-speed on

“All things FASTENATING”!

• Subscribe to receive our weekly newsletter: 

• Join the LinkedIn Fastener News Group: 

• Join the LinkedIn Fastener News Desk page: 

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The All State Fastener Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Darryl Dvorak has been hired effective August 14, 2023 as CEO. Darryl brings extensive experience from his tenure at the Fastenal Company for the prior 31 years in a variety of executive leadership positions including Vice President of Sales and Product Development, Director of OEM Sales, and Managing Director of European Operations. Darryl has a strong foundation in developing ambitious growth strategies, building new locations from the ground up, program and project management, upgrading existing facilities with cutting edge technologies and leading teams of people with a culture of empowerment and clear vision. 

 

“I am incredibly honored to be joining All State Fastener team and carrying forward its remarkable legacy that began 60 years ago. It is the entrepreneurial character of the employees and the can-do culture of the organization that ultimately drew me to accept this position. As I absorb these new responsibilities, I look forward to leading our talented team into the future by continuing to strengthen our culture and taking care of our customers” – Darryl Dvorak

 

All State Fastener is a family-owned global supplier of fasteners & related assembly hardware, technical support services, VMI systems, and comprehensive supply chain solutions. www.allstatefastener.com

SOURCE: All State Fastener 

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For Immediate Release

September 15, 2023

Hans Fuller elected to serve second year as president Pacific-West Fastener Association

Hans Fuller of Fuller Metric (Surrey, British Columbia) was elected to serve a second year as president of the Pacific-West Fastener Association at a recent meeting of the Pac-West Board of Directors. 

George Martinez of Brighton Best International (Long Beach, California) was elected as the association’s vice president, and Ryan McCaffrey of Pacific Coast Bolt (Santa Fe Springs, California) was elected as secretary/treasurer. Clay Weaver of Industrial Threaded Products (Rancho Cucamonga, California) will continue as immediate past president.

Mallory Nichols of Advance Components (Carrollton, Texas), TJ McFarland of Goebel Fasteners (Houston, Texas), Carl Spackman of Copper State Bolt & Nut Co. (Phoenix, Arizona), and Patty Trautmann of Beawest Fasteners (Kent, Washington) were elected by the Pac-West membership to serve three-year terms on the Board of Directors.

Other members of the Pac-West Board are Joe Cenk of H.W. Eckhardt (Huntington Beach, California), Aaron Jones of Star Stainless Screw (Seattle, WA), Alfonso Ramirez of Southwest Fastener (Phoenix, Arizona), and Michael Yandoli of M & M Fasteners Supply (Valencia, CA).

Thank you to retiring Board members Mark Thomas Cordova of Centennial Bolt (Denver, Colorado), Marisa Mudge of Mudge Fasteners (Corona, California), and Ken Rosenblatt of Hi-Q Fasteners (Santa Fe Springs, California).

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Introducing the IFE Match Mobile App: Your Ultimate Expo Companion.

Time and resources are precious, that’s why we urge you to take full advantage of the IFE Match App! It’s the game-changer that will make your expo experience efficient, organized, and the source of the connections and ROI you expect and deserve. Get ready to unlock a world of possibilities, discover cutting-edge AI powered matchmaking technology, and connect with industry leaders like never before.

The IFE Match mobile app is your technology connection to a brighter, smarter, and more exciting IFE 2023 experience! IFE Match mobile app is where innovation meets connection, and technology takes your participation to the next level! We recommend you get started creating your profile and company info right away to start strategically planning your schedule at the International Fastener Expo. 

Check out the many ways you’ll benefit by using IFE Match at the 2023 International Fastener Expo:

Stay On-The-Go: The IFE Match mobile app keeps your expo itinerary accessible wherever you are. No more flipping through paper schedules or getting lost in the crowd. 

Unlock Business Opportunities: Forge meaningful connections that lead to lucrative business prospects. IFE Match’s AI-powered matchmaking and recommendations are similar to a dating app for professionals, connecting you with those who want to meet you just as much as you want to meet them. It’s not just about quantity; it’s about quality connections.

Connect Ideas and Opportunities: IFE Match AI goes beyond people and suggests sessions, companies, and products that align with your interests, fostering a breeding ground for new ideas and opportunities.

Effortless Search: Explore participant, company, and product directories with ease. Find the right person or product when you need it most.

Inbound Leads Insight: See who’s interacting with your company profile, representatives, products, and services. Proactively respond with the intent to maximize your event ROI.

Seamless Meeting Scheduling: Pre-schedule meetings in designated locations with capacity and timing limits. Ensure your expo experience is optimized by meeting the right people at the right time.

Stay on Track: Meeting reminders and push notifications guarantee you won’t miss crucial meetings, ensuring your expo itinerary runs as smoothly as possible.

Break the Ice: Use instant chat messaging to engage with potential connections before your scheduled meeting, making those interactions even more productive.

Interactive Floor Plans: Navigate the event effortlessly with interactive floor plans that guide you inside and outside, even across multiple floors. No more getting lost in the labyrinth of booths!

Effortless Lead Management: Add lead notes directly in the mobile app for quick and easy access during the expo, ensuring you remember important details about your connections.

Badge Scanning for Efficiency: Say goodbye to the hassle of collecting leads manually. IFE Match’s badge scanning feature allows for easy lead collection, speeding up your follow-up process.

Experience the future of expo networking and scheduling with the IFE Match Mobile App. It’s time to elevate your expo experience, maximize your connections, and unlock new business horizons.

Download the IFE Match app today!

Show your participation with the following event hashtags:

#IFE2023 #IFEMatch #ExpoRevolution #ElevateYourExperience #FastenYourFuture

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Here’s what’s happening in fastener industry news, Industry Scholarship Award announcements, training opportunities, and upcoming association events in the news the week of September 11th, 2023…

Watch now on FastenerTV at YouTube: (14:31)

September 11^th, 22 years ago today… I’ll always remember the beautiful blue skies that morning. It was a picture-perfect day in New York…as I reflect on my memories of that day that changed our world forever, I remember the fear, and the tragic loss of so many lives. I want to share something incredible I experienced in the morning hours of September 12^th, in the town of Long Beach, NY where many people gathered on the boardwalk still in utter shock and sadness, there appeared thousands of monarch butterflies. It was breathtaking and so surreal to experience…Long Beach and the surrounding towns were where many of the firefighters resided. I will Never Forget the sound of bagpipes and the saddening toll of the firemen’s bell “Striking the Four Fives” that continued for days, weeks and months. I will always remember the incredible sense of community that brought hope to New York and our nation. Today take pause to remember, by remembering we ensure future generations never forget the legacy of September 11^th. I promise to Never Forget my Hero, Michael Vernon Kiefer, Son, Brother, Friend, Long Beach Lifeguard and FDNY Firefighter L132, Brooklyn, NY and all those that lost their lives on September 11^th.

The Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) survey for August 2023 reversed its downward momentum last month, climbing to 50.0 after a dismal 40.7 reading in July. The Forward-Looking Indicator (FLI) also shifted course, rising to 45.9 versus the 38.8 reading in July, but remains sub-50. Overall, results suggest some stabilization in fastener market conditions in August, which is encouraging after five consecutive months of declining momentum. Listen to further commentary on episode #192 of the Fully Threaded Radio podcast.

Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) | August 2023

Illinois Tool Works Inc., a global multi-industry manufacturing leader, announced a succession plan that capitalizes on the strength and depth of the ITW leadership team. Christopher O’Herlihy, currently Vice Chairman of ITW, will become President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and a member of the ITW Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2024. E. Scott Santi, ITW’s CEO since 2012, will step down as CEO and will remain Chairman of the ITW Board until March 1, 2024, at which time he will become Non-Executive Chairman of the ITW Board. Read more:

ITW Announces CEO Succession Plan

The Industrial Supply Association (ISA) announced the promotion of Brendan Breen, formerly the association’s President, to the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective September 1, 2023. This key promotion reflects ISA’s commitment to fostering continuity, stability, and ongoing growth within the organization. For more info go to ISApartners.org Read more:

Industrial Supply Association Announces Promotion of Brendan Breen to Chief Executive Officer

ARaymond will be inducted in to the 2023 Indiana Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame on Oct. 18, 2023, during a ceremony celebrating manufacturing and all it brings to the State of Indiana. Founded in 1865, this family business based in France, and the inventor of the press stud, has always put human values at the heart of its success. ARaymond, is based on the conviction that the well-being and empowerment of its collaborators are essential to its continued success. Guided by innovation and sustainable value creation, the ARaymond Network is, today, one of the global leaders in fastening and assembly solutions for the mobility, energy, healthcare, and agriculture markets.

 NetPlus Alliance members remain mostly optimistic going into 2024, according to the latest NetPlus Alliance Industry Outlook, a quarterly report based on a survey of NetPlus distributors. Just over 47% of members in the survey reported significant gains in the second quarter of 2023, with an additional 26% reporting moderate gains. Almost all members are expecting sales to be up significantly in 2023.

The NetPlus Alliance Industry Outlook tracks business results and trends in the industrial and contractor supply markets. The latest quarterly survey was completed in August 2023, and the outlook was based on the second-quarter results for 2023.

NetPlus Alliance Industry Outlook Report: 87% of Distributor Members Anticipate Sales Growth in 2023

Women in the Fastener Industry Announced the Recipient of the Edith Cameron Scholarship for the 2023 International Fastener Expo. Edith was a pioneer in the fastener industry for 55 years. She was a trailblazer in the industry and was the first woman inducted into the Fastener Hall of Fame in 1993.

Congratulations to the scholarship winner, Kala Millburg of Marine Fasteners!

To learn more about scholarship opportunities and Join WIFI go to: FastenerWomen.com

Next generation advanced planning and scheduling is here! Optessa’s AI-driven optimization ushers in a new way for manufacturers to generate optimal plans and schedules in a fraction of the time. Respond to disruptions, meet delivery dates, reduce excessive parts inventory, eliminate costly idle time, and stabilize your supply chain. Request a live demo of Optessa’s NextGen APS platform today!  Visit https://www.optessa.com/ for more information! 

HAPPENING THIS WEEK!

Connect – Learn – Grow at the 2023 Pac-West Fall Conference happening Thursday, September 14, 2023 – Saturday, September 16, 2023. Three days of networking, education, and fun. To learn more and register go to: https://www.pac-west.org/index.php?option=com_jevents&task=icalevent.detail&evid=541

Join the New England Fastener Distributors Association for Understanding Blueprints, a virtual class September 18th at 10:00am. ET. The class is for anyone in the fastener industry, whether you’re just starting your fastener career or are a seasoned veteran. Instructor Jim Speck will be demonstrating how to effectively read a blueprint.

He will cover the basics such as:

• How to read a print
• The different types of prints
• Understanding what needs to be on a print
• Understanding tolerances and specifications

Visit https://www.nefda.com/event/print-reading-basics-with-jim-speck/ to register now!

Grow from novice to knowledgeable with Fastener Training Institutes Fastener Basics training coming to a city near you! Learn the basics of fastener parts and increase your fastener knowledge advantage! The all-day training session is geared for individuals new to the fastener industry and those who need to know more about the products they sell. Fastener Basics Training is scheduled for:

DENVER, CO: Sept. 22 https://fastenertrainingevents.com/fastener-basics-denver.htm

LOS ANGELES, CA: Sept. 27 https://fastenertrainingevents.com/fastener-basics-la.htm

UNION CITY, CA: Nov. 16 https://fastenertrainingevents.com/fastener-basics.htm

The Industrial Fasteners Institute Fall Meeting will be held at the Omni PGA Frisco Resort in Frisco, TX Saturday, September 23, 2023 – Tuesday, September 26, 2023. IFI has an exciting agenda, including keynote speakers and leisure activities. For membership and event details go to indfast.org 

It’s time for the Pacific West Fastener Associations Annual What’s New? What’s Next? Fall dinner program! Tuesday, September 26^th includes Vendor Showcase, Cocktail Hour, Dinner, and Program. For more information go to pac-west.org

Feel the energy building as the 2023 International Fastener Expo (IFE) prepares to set the stage for the largest convergence of the fastener industry in North America in years.

With IFE’s commitment to excellence and innovation, the event promises to be a catalyst for industry growth and collaboration.

Mark your calendar for October 9-11th at Mandalay Bay, as Las Vegas becomes the epicenter of fastener innovation and expertise. IFE 2023 will offer attendees an array of sessions designed to captivate, educate, and inspire. From a world-class exhibition of fasteners, and industrial products, to a magnetic keynote speaker, enriching conference sessions, and panel discussions led by esteemed industry experts—this is your ticket to igniting success.

Register now Use promo code FND50 to save $50.00 on registration. Go to FastenerShows.com

Have you ever wondered if industrial 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, could make your process more efficient, cost-effective, or secure? Join the Würth Additive Group for 3D Printers in the WILD Tour across the United States!  Connect with their team and learn about the power of additive manufacturing by watching it live! Würth Additive Group wants to bring together industry, higher education, and other interested individuals to discuss the latest developments in Additive Manufacturing, both technical and commercial, at their 3D Printers in the WILD Tour

Phoenix, AZ Wed, Sep 20, 2023 

Tempe, AZ September 22, 2023

Event link https://lp.wurthindustry.com/3d-printers-in-the-wild-tour-phoenix

Chicago, Illinois Mon, Oct 2, 2023

Event link: https://lp.wurthindustry.com/demo-days-2023-chicago-il-3d-printers-in-the-wild

For more info about tour dates go to WurthAdditive.com

 Join the Fastener Training Institute for an all-day training program on Monday, October 9^th, at the International Fastener Expo! Fastener Fundamentals, The Nuts and Bolts for Fastener Professionals, will offer the best of the Fastener Basics Training and Certified Fastener Specialist™ Training programs. The one-day class will bring the basics of fasteners and beyond to industry professionals. Take advantage of early bird pricing through October 7, 2023. Register now: https://fastenershows.com/fti-class/

Hey there DYK! We have 4 million manufacturing jobs to fill by 2030! Let’s work together and inspire the next generation of manufacturers by hosting a #MFGDay23 event!

Save the Date: Friday, October 6^th for Manufacturing Day 2023. Celebrated nationally on the first Friday in October and throughout the month. MFG Day is manufacturing’s biggest annual opportunity to inspire the next generation, positively shift perceptions about our industry, and build the foundation for the manufacturing workforce of the future. Resources and toolkits available: https://mfgday.com/resources/

The stories featured in this week’s episode of IN THE NEWS can be found in our (X) feed @FastenerNews and on LinkedIn in the Fastener News Group!

If you would like to share your company’s news or events contact me, lisa@fastenernewsdesk.com.  Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of ‘IN THE NEWS’ with Fastener News Desk.

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IN THE NEWS with Fastener News Desk the Week of September 4, 2023

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