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 (22:56). Adding their observations to the dialogue, Tough Mudder team mates Jake “Valdez” Davis, John “Cool Hand” Butler, and Jill Lewis react to the changing business environment (1:34:40). On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty welcomes AIS president Nick Ruetz to discuss the resilience of the newest FDI reading (53:23). Also, Industrial Distribution editor Mike Hockett presents a summary of the shake ups in this year’s Big 50 list (1:11:57). Carmen Vertullo discusses a critical but touchy aspect related to nuts, on the Fastener Training Minute (1:25:08). BONUS: IFE manager Morgan Wilson addresses the carpet controversy after the Vegas show (2:32:00). Brian and Eric are willing to consider almost any proposal, but decide against putting grasshoppers on the menu. Run time: 02:38:08