| February 8, 2008 | News for the wholesale distribution industry |
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| News and Trends |  |  |
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- Corporate Express quashes buyout rumors
Corporate Express has denied reports that it is in discussions with U.S. firm Staples about a possible buyout of the Dutch office-supplies wholesaler. Corporate Express has come under some pressure to sell itself, but opted following a strategic review in 2007 to continue as a stand-alone company. Forbes/Reuters
(2/5)
- Westcon unveils new program for videoconferencing, VoIP
Westcon Group Inc. has debuted CollaborationPoint, a new program for resellers of videoconferencing and VOIP solutions. The program initially is being offered only to resellers in the U.S. and Canada, with a later roll-out expected in places including Europe, Australia and South America. eChannelLine Canada
(2/5)
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| Best Practices |  |  |
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- Packaging design plays big role in shipping costs
Companies may be able to find big savings by taking a second look at their packaging design for shipping product. Substandard packaging design can have a negative effect on the supply chain, and aspects such as the perfect surface to the perfect height can make a difference. Logistics Management (free registration)
(2/5)
- Office flirting carries benefits, risks
Nonsexual workplace flirtation can lead to stronger relationships, more energy and a better outlook on the job, according to some experts. But although almost 25% of employees in a recent Vault.com survey reported having a "work spouse," such relationships can lead to trouble if not carefully monitored. CNN/LifeWire
(2/5)
| Sales |  |  |
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- Set down rules to earn clients' respect
Some key rules can help salespeople establish themselves as no-nonsense professionals deserving of clients' respect. They include not calling to confirm appointments (which is how many appointments wind up being canceled); not allowing clients to rush you through a presentation; and never letting anyone keep you waiting for more than 20 minutes. SalesForceXP
(2/2008)
| Small Business Manager |  |  |
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| Executive Life |  |  |
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- Three strategies to avoid job-change 401(k) hits
The average American changes jobs 10 times before the age of 40, and the health of a 401(k) plan is often a casualty of these employment shifts. Options to avoid tax hits include leaving the money with a current employer, roll it into your new employer's plan or into a rollover IRA. The Street.com
(2/6)
- D.C. transforms into hip spot for restaurants, bars
Washington, D.C., long known for its austere Federal buildings, is emerging as a breeding ground for avant-garde restaurants, underground bars and hip cafes thanks to the changing demographics of the area. Brasserie Beck, Central Michel Richard and Ben's Chili Bowl are just a few of the new hot spots catering to the area's young professionals, empty nesters and travelers. CNN/Budget Travel
(2/6)
| NAW Insider |  |  |
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Automation creates need for e-commerce insurance
Where would you be if a virus caused your computer network to crash, or if an artificially generated electric current damaged your material handling equipment? Would the expense be out of pocket if one of your salespeople had a laptop stolen? The Hartford offers low-cost solutions for some exposures that could be high-tech nightmares. Learn more here.
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Save on overnight shipping with DHL ShipReady
NAW and DHL have partnered to offer a unique delivery service from DHL Express. Members can ship anywhere in the continental U.S. for one flat rate with no weight limits, extra fees or fuel surcharges. Receive two free envelopes with your first order by visiting the ShipReady site and entering the promo code NAWSR07.
| Weekly Poll |  |  |
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Is your business taking precautions in case of a recession?
After voting once, check out the real-time poll results on NAW's All Access page as often as you'd like.
 | It is best to be prepared. |
 | We have not given it that much consideration yet. |
 | We do not anticipate being very much affected by a downturn. |
| SmartQuote |  | |
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 | Defeat is not defeat unless accepted as a reality -- in your own mind."
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| | Recent NAW SmartBrief Issues:
- Thursday, February 07, 2008
- Wednesday, February 06, 2008
- Monday, February 04, 2008
- Friday, February 01, 2008
- Thursday, January 31, 2008
| | | Lead Editor: Ashley McMaster
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