Highlights From The DCKAP Round-Up 2024

August was incredible, featuring two big events — P21WWUG Connect and DCKAP Round-Up 2024.

For those who are not familiar, DCKAP Round-Up is a celebration of distributors and manufacturers unlike any other. With its unique format set at just under five hours long, the event offers an opportunity for people from these communities to let their hair down, have fun, and network in different settings. Essentially — reconnect with old industry friends, learn a lot, and, of course, have a blast.

Round-Up 2024: Event Highlights

1. Stellar Venue - The Adler Planetarium

We just can’t talk enough about it! The “Space” was stunning. And to top it all off, we had windy thunderstorms as a cherry on the cake.

The fun part was, just as the event kicked off, it was hit by thunderstorms and wind—classic Chicago weather. But from inside the planetarium, the view was mesmerizing. The Chicago skyline looked like something out of a dream, almost heavenly. It became the highlight of the entire event. Everyone loved the venue—not just because it was unique, but because it was truly extraordinary, beyond words.

2. Great Speakers

It was such a privilege to have this selection of speakers for Round-Up 2024. Tom Gale, CEO of Modern Distribution Management, shared great insights on how generative AI is affecting the distribution industry. He also highlighted the growing focus on business model innovation and how it will help businesses succeed in the near future.

Daniel Josephs, CEO of Spruce Industries, spoke about driving innovation while staying true to the core principles that define his company—dedication to customers, world-class service, creative collaboration, and good old-fashioned family values.

Mark Brohan, Senior Vice President and B2B Market Research Development at Digital Commerce 360, shed light on B2B eCommerce trends and how buyer behavior is shifting, based on his insights and years of experience.

3. Networking and Relationship-Building

One of the best parts of the Round-Up is the networking. We really wanted our guests to make meaningful connections. The different atmosphere — coupled with some delicious bites and drinks — made it easy for people to talk, share ideas, and start building meaningful relationships. The conversations our team participated in were full of insights, and we walked away with new perspectives and a bunch of fresh ideas for collaboration.

4. Bringing Our Distributed Team Together

The Round-Up was really special for our team too. We are a distributed workforce, and the event gives us this rare chance to come together, share our experiences, and really get on the same page about where we're headed. The sense of unity and collaboration that came out of it was just amazing. It's definitely something we’re going to carry forward as we keep pushing ahead and growing together.

Thank you to everyone who attended Round-Up 2024 and made it such a success! If you missed it, don’t worry – we’ve updated our event gallery with photos for you to check out.

Keep an eye out for future updates. Until then, that’s a wrap for now!