As Brian returns from down under, and with the Detroit show just around the corner, the FDI cools and the fastener world reconsiders its supply chain. Industry veteran Preston Boyd of the Industrial Fasteners Institute describes how his organization is reaching out to distributors to reintroduce domestic suppliers (1:39:47). Scanwell Logistics senior expeditor Chris Donnell […]
Category: Radio
Episode #175 – Once You’re In…
The old adage about people not leaving the fastener industry proves true again as reluctant highway pilot Tim “Action” Jackson returns. Back from an extended RV misadventure to report on the recent Pac-West conference, he sees the industry with the eye of an outsider coming back in (1:33:50). Likewise, the screw biz was never far […]
Episode #174 – Hyper Threaded
There’s no hyperbole suggesting the fastener industry is moving at a hyperbolic rate, as world events impact supply and pricing at a dizzying pace. Star Stainless president, Tim Roberto Jr. describes “Rusty Monday”, shocking developments in the nickle and stainless markets (51:38). Counseling a pragmatic approach amid ongoing disruptions, Brighton Best International president Jun Xu […]
Episode #173 – Unchained
Strong sales and demand keep optimism alive, even as distributors come to terms with the new normal of outrageous delivery schedules. Meanwhile, major shipping concerns are deploying blockchain technology to manage global supply chains, despite the fastener industry’s apparent disinterest. AFC Industries CEO Kevin Godin weighs in on the situation and discusses his company’s recent […]
Episode #172 – Milestones
The new year brings continued business momentum, along with a full decade of data on which to measure it, as the Fastener Distributor Index marks its first full decade. Fastenal CFO, Holden Lewis returns to reflect on his role in the creation of the popular industry benchmark (20:36). 2022 also brings continued challenges, and Würth […]
Episode #171 – Fit Festivities
The fastener industry knows how to enjoy its festivities, but also how to open its heart when it counts. Jake “Valdez” Davis of BTM Manufacturing and Matt Boyd of Parker Fasteners explain their plan to make a difference (1:35:03). Desert Distribution managing partner Jo Morris looks back on a memorable year, and looks ahead with […]
Episode #170 – In All Fairness
The fastener industry converged on Cleveland amid ongoing supply and pricing pressures, a tight labor market and new acquisitions. Despite the challenges, Fastener Fair USA saw good attendance and an abundance of fun. Stelfast president O.J. Simpson announces a new product category and explains the origin of the legendary Monkey (22:54). On the Fastener News […]
Episode #169 – Printers & Sprinters
The fastener world is running at a different pace as supply issues and ongoing consolidation impact the industry. Meanwhile, questionable policy trends add further uncertainty and pressure to the mix. Fortunately, emerging technologies such as additive manufacturing offer hope of new opportunities to forward thinking companies, as Achim Grenner of the Würth Additive Group explains […]
Special Report: IFE 2021
The 2021 International Fastener Expo surprised many with its stronger than expected attendance and upbeat feel. Direct from the scaled down show floor, the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey speaks with attendees on a wide variety of topics. Plus, results of the hotly contested golf tourney. Run time: 50:00 […]
Episode #168 – Another Slice
Fastener Professional of the Year, family business operator and philanthropist Jim Derry of Field Fastener reflects on what it takes to be successful in business and in life (1:29:32). NCFA Screw Open full coverage, including this year’s winner of the coveted FTR Award, Laura Vath, Dan Duffield, Kim Arnold, Charlie Kerr, Kurt Triptow and many […]