156: Not Just Nuts and Bolts - Bring Us Your Problems

This is the second show in our "Not Just Nuts and Bolts" series, in partnership with Fastenal. Last week in Episode 1, 'Innovation at Work,' I spoke to Dan, President and CEO at Fastenal to find out exactly who Fastenal are, what they do and how they've evolved to become a global company, with a local focus, who are much more than just nuts and bolts. Today in Episode 2, 'Bring Us Your Problems,' we're chatting with Kris Van Dalen and taking a closer look at Fastenal's onsite solutions, their response to the COVID-19 crisis and how we can prepare our businesses and supply chains for the future. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.05] Kris's career at Fastenal, and how the scope of their offering might just surprise you. [02.47] Fastenal's comprehensive COVID-19 response – which became far more than simply delivering PPE. "The problem became much more than just the availability of an item." [07.37] How the COVID crisis has taught us why it's so important to have trusted supply chain partners in place before a crisis happens. "Our evolution is hinged on relationship-building, and the management of those relationships." [12.00] What Fastenal's on-site model looks like and how it changes to meet customer needs. [17.44] How Fastenal's local presence and decentralized decision making helped to keep customers afloat during the COVID crisis. "Their success is what drives ours." [23.19] A closer look at Fastenal's 'last mile' system and why they do it differently. [28.55] How we can future-proof our supply chains. "Supplier integration, tighter partnerships – those are the key to future-proofing supply chain." [31.10] The future of supply chain and how Fastenal is well positioned to help facilitate it.   RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED: Head over to Fastenal's website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. Check out our other podcasts HERE.