September 2025

Exploring AI in Our Industry – A Follow-Up

Earlier this year, I shared some thoughts on AI after taking a few classes to better understand its role in sales and marketing. Since then, I’ve continued to pay close attention to how businesses are adopting these tools. At Off the Shelf Reps, we’re already experimenting with AI to write smarter outreach emails to buyers, refresh our website, and support our vendors on social media. While sales reps are often the last to jump on new technology, I believe this is a moment to lead rather than lag.

As we close out Q3, I’d love to hear your perspective. Are you using AI to strengthen social media campaigns, gain customer insights, or improve other areas of your business? What excites—or even concerns—you about AI in the grocery and gift channels? Looking ahead, I’m considering reaching out to the Expo West organizers about hosting a panel in 2026 focused on how sales agencies, distributors, and brands can use AI to grow together. This is a conversation I see continuing to evolve, and your input now will help shape how we approach it as an industry.

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Join the Conversation on AI

I’d love to hear how you’re thinking about AI in your business. Your feedback will help shape how we explore this together—possibly even at a future Expo West panel.

Quick prompts to make it easy to reply:

• Have you started using AI for social media or marketing?
• Are there areas where you see AI being helpful for sales agencies or distributors?
• What’s one opportunity—or challenge—you think AI presents for our industry?

Hit reply and share your thoughts—I’d love to feature ideas and examples in future updates!

Mindy