The recent ISSA North America Show held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, was a hub of innovation, networking, and industry insights. The event provided opportunities to connect with industry leaders, explore groundbreaking trends, and discuss the evolving needs of the commercial cleaning and hygiene industries.
Highlands team members Jennifer McMahan, Vice President of Strategic Accounts, Alex Gordon, Senior Director of Wholesale, and Vinnie Pappano reflected on their experiences, sharing key takeaways that will shape the future strategies of the Highlands team.
1. Domestic and Redundant Manufacturing Capabilities
A dominant theme of the show was the increasing importance of domestic and redundant manufacturing capabilities. With the potential for tariff changes under the new administration, businesses are prioritizing manufacturers who can ensure seamless operations, even in the face of disruptions.
“Attending the ISSA Show this year provided valuable insights into the evolving priorities of the commercial cleaning and hygiene industries,” shared Alex. “It was clear that operational agility, domestic manufacturing, and redundancy are not just industry buzzwords – they’re becoming essential strategies for staying ahead. The conversations we had highlighted the critical importance of adaptability in responding to challenges and will undoubtedly shape how we support our partners in navigating this dynamic landscape.”
2. Preparedness for Tariff Adjustments
The potential for tariff changes was a focal point of many discussions at ISSA. Accounts are increasingly looking for manufacturers who are proactive and well-prepared to navigate these uncertainties. Flexibility in supply chain strategies has emerged as a crucial factor for maintaining stability and building trust in these unpredictable times.
3. Agility as a Key Differentiator
Operational agility and resilience were identified as critical differentiators in the competitive landscape. Manufacturers capable of quickly adapting to market shifts are well-positioned to strengthen relationships with key accounts and gain a significant competitive edge.
“Throughout the ISSA Show, one message was clear: manufacturers with domestic and redundant capabilities will be the winners in an increasingly unpredictable market,” said Jennifer. “As potential changes to tariffs loom, accounts are prioritizing partners who can pivot effectively. This level of preparedness isn’t just about risk mitigation – it’s about creating a sustainable competitive advantage in today’s environment.”
Looking Ahead
The ISSA North America Show 2024 highlighted the increasing importance of adaptability and strategic foresight in the commercial cleaning and hygiene industries. Topics like domestic manufacturing and tariff preparedness not only sparked meaningful discussions but also reinforced the need for proactive planning.
“Attending ISSA consistently reaffirms the value of staying connected with industry advancements and cultivating strong client relationships,” said Vinnie. “Highlands is committed to applying these insights to help partners thrive in an ever-changing market landscape.”
For more information about how Highlands can help your business thrive, contact [email protected].
