The Thomas Blog

2016 Industrial Marketing Year in Review

In the world of marketing, things are constantly changing.

From amorphous Google algorithms and updated UX designs to effective emailing and retargeting methods, there is no shortage of strategies to try — especially as the industrial space continues to catch up with the rest of the B2B marketing space.

As we begin preparing for what’s to come in 2017, we wanted to take a look back at some of the biggest trends we’ve seen over the past 12 months and their impact on your business.

Without further ado, here’s our 2016 year in review.

The Look South Export Initiative Could Be The Key To Unlocking New Markets

We’ve already discussed why U.S. small businesses should consider exporting. But while most organizations focus on exporting to Europe or Asia, there is a golden opportunity to expand into new markets and grow your revenues in Central and South America by taking advantage of the “Look South” export initiative.

Marketing & Sales Insight from a Former Honda Engineer

Many industrial companies don't trust outside marketing services because they don't believe they understand their business or audience. Honestly, that's a true assumption when it comes to most traditional marketing agencies.

But we do things differently at Thomas. Our founder, a mechanical engineer with more than 15 years of marketing experience, leads the team of marketing experts and engineers to deliver record-breaking increases in lead generation and sales. (See how we drove a 113% increase in lead generation and 60% increase in sales for CJWinter here.)

We've recently hired a new application engineer, Ryan Singler, from Honda, and while we (and our clients) have been taking in all of his insight, we thought it might be helpful for you to get to know him as well.

Video: Top 10 New Fabricating Technologies - Part 1

If you are interested in the latest trends in metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing, you've probably heard of Fabtech, the annual conference that celebrates the strength of manufacturing

Is This Digital Marketing Approach The Secret To Connecting With More Buyers?

For many manufacturers and industrial companies, there’s no such thing as an “impulse” sale. That’s because the industrial buying cycle is a lengthy one, driven by a supplier evaluation and selection process that can take months or longer.

Who’s Downloading CAD Files?

Over the last few years, you’ve probably noticed that the phone doesn’t ring as often in the Sales Engineer bullpen.

There are still prospects out there, though — they’re just now seeking the information they need online rather than calling manufacturers directly.

Video: Exoskeleton Technology Becomes A Reality For Industrial Workers

Mixing man with machine is now a reality thanks to the suitX, a California-based robotics company.

After five years of development, the company unveiled a Modular Agile Exoskeleton, or MAX, that can improve worker productivity and limit exposure to long-term health risks. MAX consists of three modules, backX, shoulderX, and legX, which are now available for purchase.

Easing The Supplier Transition Process Through Dual Sourcing

Bringing in a new supplier can be a challenge for any organization. However, adopting a dual sourcing strategy could make the process a lot more efficient and effective.  

Earthquake-Resistant Building Materials for Seismically Sound Structures

When designing new architecture in seismically active regions, engineers must carefully consider the types of earthquake-resistant building materials necessary to create a safe and sturdy structure. The entire length of the West Coast, for example, experiences frequent tectonic shifts, so architects and engineers from Washington state to Baja California are commonly faced with this task.