Technology and digital transformation sessions, particularly those focusing on AI, were standing room only at The PPAI Expo Conference on Monday.

AI Tools for Distributors

For small distributors, time is the most valuable resource. But with the explosion of AI tools, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of options. What’s helpful? What’s hype? This session cut through the noise and provided a clear roadmap for small distributors to navigate the world of AI.

The session started with the basics – understanding what AI is and what it isn’t – before diving into the potential risks of using these tools without a clear strategy. Attendees left with actionable insights on how to incorporate AI into their workflow, and more importantly, what to avoid. The session highlighted free or low-cost AI tools that can help streamline your operations, making you more efficient and focused on what matters most.

“As a smaller distributor, if you don’t start using AI for the efficiencies that these larger organizations are gaining, that gap between large distributors and small distributors is only going to continue to widen,” says Angela Taylor, vice president of Customer Engagement & Digital Solutions for AIM Smarter, PPAI 100’s No. 15 distributor.

Streamlining Success: Automation Solutions for Distributors

​Every business handles tasks like sending welcome emails, managing leads and following up with clients. While essential, these tasks can drain your time and attention. In this session, attendees discovered how accessible automation tools can handle the busywork for them, simplifying complex processes and minimizing mistakes. They learned practical ways to take back their time, focus on what matters most and drive meaningful growth – no tech expertise needed.

Although AI can simplify many aspects of your business, Eric Granata, CAS, founder of business services provider PromoPilot, told attendees that these four things shouldn’t be automated:

  • Tasks requiring human judgment
  • Low-volume tasks
  • Unpredictable tasks
  • Problems that don’t exist


Connecting Your Workflow: Unleashing the Power of Your Business

This session was packed with valuable insights to empower attendees to leverage commonsku to its fullest potential. Those who weren’t a commonsku customer got a comprehensive overview of the firm’s powerful features.

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In this sessions, Aaron Kucherawy, vice president of customer success at commonsku, explored how the firm’s powerful features create a fully connected workflow. Attendees discovered how the platform enhances collaboration and streamlines processes, ensuring that every team member works seamlessly together. Charlie Moscoe, vice president of product management, also shared exciting highlights from commonsku’s latest developments. Attendees got an exclusive look at the innovative updates that have recently launched and gained insights into commonsku’s immediate and future roadmap for 2025.

Industry Integration: A PromoStandards & PDX Conversation

The backbone of exceptional customer experiences and stable markets? Streamlined order management. When orders flow smoothly, customers stay happy, businesses thrive, and the ripple effect builds a stronger industry. But it’s not magic – it’s systems, standards and collaboration. This session included us an insightful panel discussion, where experts from SAGE – PPAI’s technology partner – and PromoStandards shared the stage.

Moderated by Chris Anderson, this conversation featured Dana Porter, MAS; Amy Rabideau, MAS, and Joe Hoffmann as they delved into the tools and strategies shaping the future of order management. It was a rare chance to explore how seamless processes aren’t just operational perks – they’re the foundation of trust, loyalty and long-term success.