Tara Gray
Speaker at EAST: Tara Gray, Event Marketing Manager, SugarCRM
Speaker at EAST: Tara Gray, Event Marketing Manager, SugarCRM
EAST Session: Manufacturing sales have hit a wall. Deals are taking longer to close and costing more to win. Since 2022, sales cycles have increased by 22%, while win rates have slipped by 17%. In this engaging fireside chat, industry experts will discuss why investing in ecommerce is essential—but notoriously difficult—for manufacturing companies with complex sales environments. From managing global sales teams and navigating intricate buyer journeys to configuring millions of product options, the challenges are vast. Join us to learn: - How to create product discovery experiences that reduce complexity for buyers. - Best practices for optimizing product data to ensure your entire catalog is discoverable and configurable online. - How to leverage insights from digital interactions to drive better business decisions. Don’t miss this candid conversation on how manufacturers are transforming their digital sales approach to boost efficiency, drive revenue, and enhance the buying experience. Significance/Importance: This topic is critical because manufacturing sales are increasingly complex, with deals taking longer to close and win rates declining—sales cycles have increased by 22% and win rates have dropped by 17% since 2022. As manufacturers face mounting pressure to streamline operations and drive revenue, adopting ecommerce solutions is essential. However, the complexity of managing global sales teams, serving thousands of buyers, and configuring millions of product options poses significant challenges. Understanding how to reduce this complexity through effective product discovery, optimized data, and actionable insights is vital for manufacturers striving to remain competitive and enhance their digital transformation journey.
EAST Session: Abstract : Manufacturers have more customer data than ever before, yet many still struggle to turn that data into real insights. Too often, sales teams rely on gut instinct, outdated reports, or incomplete CRM entries, leading to missed opportunities and inefficient processes. AI changes the game by analyzing patterns humans can’t see, uncovering hidden sales opportunities, and predicting customer needs before they arise. In this session, we’ll explore how AI can transform the way manufacturers understand and engage with customers—without requiring a complete digital overhaul. We’ll discuss real-world applications of AI in sales and customer relationships, including proactive recommendations, automated data capture, and predictive insights. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of how AI can help you move beyond guesswork, make data-driven decisions, and build stronger, more profitable customer relationships. Significance/Importance : Manufacturers have long relied on relationships and gut instinct to drive sales, but today’s competitive landscape demands more. Traditional CRMs were meant to help but became data-entry burdens, leading to poor adoption and missed opportunities. AI is changing the game by turning raw data into actionable insights—automating manual processes, predicting customer needs, and uncovering hidden sales opportunities. Companies that embrace AI gain a competitive edge, while those that don’t risk falling behind. This session will show how AI helps manufacturers move beyond guesswork, make smarter decisions, and build stronger customer relationships with less effort.
Speaker at EAST: John Biagioni, President, Lampin Corporation
EAST Session: Moderated by: Mark Michalski Adopting smart technologies like IoT, AI, and automation isn’t just about innovation—it’s about alignment, impact, and readiness. In this practical, strategy-focused panel, hear directly from manufacturers and technology experts who’ve successfully navigated the journey from pilot projects to scalable solutions. Join us to explore how small and mid-sized manufacturers can: - Align tech investments with business goals - Learn from real-world success stories in aerospace, medtech, and machining - Upskill their workforce to support digital transformation - Access regional resources for implementation support - Whether you're just exploring smart tech or already scaling, you’ll leave with actionable insights and connections to help future-proof your operations.
Speaker at EAST: Ellen Ellsworth, Director of Growth and Innovative Services, Mass MEP
Speaker at EAST: Eric Swezey, Senior Enterprise Account Executive, Zoovu
Speaker at EAST: Tom Sieger, Partner, NETFORMIC USA
EAST Exhibitor: TE-CO is a leading US manufacturer of Workholding Components and Systems. TE-CO began in 1929 as the Tietzmann Tool Company. Through the years our product line has continued to grow from basic clamping components to precision vises and hydraulic workholding. The TE-CO name is known for quality products and outstanding customer service. Our current product lines include: Tooling Components, Jig & Fixture Components, Clamping Kits, Spring & Ball Plungers, Gaging and Inspection Items, CMM Fixturing, Vises & Vise Accessories, Tooling Columns & Plates, Toggle Clamps and Clamping Levers & Handles.
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