In this episode of The Manufacturer’s Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan sits down with David Blue, founder and CEO of Saltbox Mgmt. With over a decade of experience in digital strategy, Salesforce implementation, and enterprise sales, David shares candid insights into how manufacturers can modernize operations, enhance customer engagement, and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.

What’s Inside:

- David’s Journey: How the pandemic was the catalyst for starting Saltbox Mgmt and why manufacturers still have a long road ahead in digital transformation.

- Changing Buyer Demographics: The shift in customer expectations—how younger, “born-online” buyers want more self-service and digital options.

- Blending Old & New: Why it’s not about choosing between personal relationships or automation—but creating frictionless, blended experiences across multiple channels.

- Practical Automation Wins: Real-world examples (like Shorr Packaging) of starting small—digital commerce, order intake, and ERP integration—to drive efficiency without disrupting value-added jobs.

- The Human Element: How digital tools free up sales and service teams to focus on high-value activities, rather than replacing jobs outright.

- Combatting Tariffs with Tech: Unpacking David’s Salesforce blog—how digital commerce and order management can help manufacturers defend their margins and adapt to global trade uncertainty.

- Subscription Economy for Manufacturers: What it takes to successfully offer digital subscriptions and services alongside physical products—including why good data and systems integration are essential.

- Data-Driven Decisions: The importance of clean, real-time data to enable self-service and support next-gen business models.

- Where to Start: David’s #1 tip for manufacturing leaders—talk to your customers, prioritize high-value/low-effort wins, and remember: transformation is a journey, not a sprint.

Connect with David Blue: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-blue/

- Saltbox Mgmt: https://saltboxmgmt.com

Key Quote:

“Listen to your customers. Build a roadmap around what they want and start with small, high-value wins to fuel your digital journey.”