December 13, 2023

In This Month's Newsletter:

• Group & Industry News
• Merchandising
• Marketing
• Facilities Supplies

Welcome New ISG Members!

Independent Suppliers Group recently announced that we’ve welcomed three new members! CS Distribution in Shreveport, Louisiana, Rhaegan J Dye LLC in Miami, Florida, and Skool Krafts Inc in Brooklyn, New York. Welcome to Independent Suppliers Group! That brings our total of new ISG members to 38 on the year. Welcome to Independent Suppliers Group!

Interview with New ISG President and CEO James Rodgers

During a visit to the ISG offices in Rosemont, Illinois, last month, OPI News Editor Andy Braithwaite sat down with ISG’s new President and CEO, James Rodgers, for an exclusive interview. Listen to their informative conversation for valuable insights into James' leadership and the exciting direction in which ISG is headed.

Member Changes

Please send address changes and contact updates to membersupport@isg.coop.



Tax Certs Reminder

Please send updated tax certs to Jelena Milicevic's attention at jmilicevic@isg.coop. *Please note, Florida tax exempt certs expire 12/21/23; please forward new certs to ISG when available.

Workplace Solutions Association (WSA)

2024 Annual Dues Adjustment

In response to continued inflation, beginning in January, WSA will be adjusting 2024 annual dues with a modest increase from $32 to $39 per month, which will be reflected in ISG member invoices. For more information, click here.

EDI PO Template – Attn: Purchasing Departments

Please contact Jelena Milicevic at, jmilicevic@isg.coop, if you need assistance using our EDI PO template located on the website under “Member Info.” Please be sure to contact suppliers directly when cancelling orders, following up on status, and for inquiries.

Q3 2023 REBATES

We are happy to announce that Q3 2023 rebates are projected to be paid out on 12/14/23. Rebate Statements will be emailed from vision@isg.coop and are also accessible on www.isg.coop in Member Info > Rebates. Q4 2023 rebate distribution, which includes Annual Rebates, is scheduled for mid-April 2024.

PRICING

Several more price files have come through for January 1, 2024 and one for April 2024. Click here for the most up-to-date pricing spreadsheet we have on increases and notifications for November through January of 2024.

SUPPLIER UPDATES

Crayola Operation Update - Crayola’s distribution center will be converting to a new Warehouse Management System and shutting down operations for a week to ten-day period beginning December 28, 2023.

To ensure orders are not affected, we are asking customers to move January ship dates into mid to late December. Although minimal disruptions are anticipated, Crayola recommends ordering one to two weeks of replenishment PO's. You can find an excerpt from their official communication and a link to the entire letter below.

"Dear Valued Customer,

This letter is to inform you that Crayola’s distribution center will be converting to a new Warehouse Management System, shutting down operations for a week-to-ten day period beginning December 28, 2023." Click here to continue reading.

Victor Technology and Officemate will be closed from 12/25/2023 – 1/2/2024 for their annual inventory. Shipments will resume on 1/3/2024.

Duracell – Even though Duracell is not a Direct Buy Program vendor, they have sent us their Map Policy. Please click here for the policy and see below for the Map pricing. If you are in violation, they will be contacting you directly on this matter. Keep in mind that ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION has access to Duracell product and if you want to check on their pricing, please click here to go to ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION’s ISG webpage.

NEW SUPPLIER

CONCEPT SEATING is a new supplier that has been added to the ISG Direct Buy Program.

Concept Seating is the industry leader and originator of purpose-built, 24/7, multishift chairs. They feature the unique EAS² Ergo Air Suspension System that keeps blood and oxygen flowing through your body, especially through the lower extremities, throughout long shifts. In short, you'll just feel better when sitting in these chairs.

Volunteer to Participate on the ISG Marketing Committee!

ISG is actively looking for members to volunteer for the Marketing Committee.

Obtaining member marketing input on a variety of related topics is vital to our group’s success. To learn more about the ISG Marketing Committee and how you can volunteer, click here.

The Importance of Using Social Media

Social media marketing has become an indispensable strategy for companies seeking to thrive and connect with their target audience. Read ISG's December Marketing Tip for more insight into the vital importance of your company utilizing the power of social media.

Don't Miss Out on M-Power Q4 Marketing Materials! & Promotions

The M-Power Program offers a wide array of valuable marketing resources, including promotional offers, informative flyers, web banners, and engaging videos to suit your needs. Be sure to checkout everything available to give your marketing a powerful boost.

How to Use Printable Avery Templates for DIY Christmas Projects

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and for many, it’s also the best time to get crafty. Whether you’re an experienced “maker” or just want to add a personal touch this season, Avery has a free Christmas Printable for you (and everyone in between). Click here to learn more!

Ordering Made Simple Just Got Better!

Bush Furniture has updated their “In Stock & Ready to Ship” brochure, where you will find only their top selling finishes in a bundle format with the addition of Seating and accessories! Browse the RTS brochure where you will find Commercial-grade solutions for home or office. Outfitting spaces for the modern professional with commercial quality furniture and impressive designs.

C-Line’s Paper Category is Growing Fast!

C-Line has expanded its paper category to bring you an even wider selection of items in time for the Back-to-School season! Click here to read more.

Meet the SideTrak, Your Laptop's Perfect Companion

SideTrak portable monitors are built to work seamlessly with most computers ranging from 13” to 17.5”. Setup is fast and easy; simply attach the screen, plug in the included cord, and get to work! Learn more about SideTrak Monitors by clicking here.

Introducing PS Furniture's New Signature Series Office Chairs

The NEW Signature Series™ Office Chairs offer customers simplicity and choice. Choice of arms or no arms, synchro control, back position tilt, seat, arm and lumbar adjustability, and choice of a wide selection of fabrics at multiple price points. To learn more about the Signature Series Office Chairs, click here.

Frank-ly Speaking: December 2023

In this month’s edition of Frank-ly Speaking, Frank talks about the weather and the opportunities that are available to you as the Winter Season sets in. Click here to read more.

Selling a New Product in a Different Channel

Are you looking for something new to sell? Check out this helpful article in which Frank Hoard explains exactly how to sell something new in a completely different category!

End of Year Spending

Are you ready for the holiday season? Read this article to see if you think about it the same way as Frank Hoard does.