Artificial intelligence will take a front-row seat in the distribution industry next week as leaders gather for the Applied AI for Distributors conference, hosted by Distribution Strategy Group from June 24–26 at the Marriott Chicago O’Hare. Among the most anticipated sessions are two back-to-back panel discussions exploring both the strategic and operational sides of AI adoption in the sector.
The first panel, “Combining Human and Artificial Intelligence to Build the Next Competitive Edge,” on June 25 from 9:15 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., will examine how distributors can blend AI capabilities with human insight to build smarter, more resilient organizations. The panelists, who include Janet Zelenka—former CFO and CIO of Stericycle and Essendant—also brings together Paul Kennedy, president and CEO of DSG Supply; Deana Stanton, vice president of Global Compensation at Kyndryl; and Tracy Deuell, CIO, and vice president of IT at Bostwick Braun. Panelists will discuss how AI can support leadership decision-making, talent development, and organizational agility without replacing human judgment.
The next day, on Thursday, June 26, from 8:15 a.m. to 8:45 a.m., the session entitled “AI in Action: Real-World Applications Driving Distribution Success” will spotlight concrete examples of AI in the field. Panelists include Kristen Thom, SVP of Customer Experience at White Cup; Sahitya Senapathy, CEO of Endeavor AI; and Jason Sullivan, founder and CEO of Distro. These leaders will detail how their companies are using AI to enhance sales prioritization, optimize inventory forecasting, improve pricing strategies, and clean up data workflows.
Running for two and a half days, the Applied AI for Distributors conference includes five keynote sessions, and a full lineup of breakout discussions aimed at cutting through the buzz and delivering operational value. Topics range from AI in logistics and pricing to transforming HR practices and scaling innovation.
Unlike general tech events, this conference is designed specifically for distributors seeking immediate, practical insights. Its core focus: how AI can solve today’s business problems—without disrupting the foundational principles of distribution.
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