Industrial automation systems depend on a wide range of specialized components, many of which need to be sourced promptly and consistently to prevent production delays or unplanned downtime. For procurement professionals, selecting a reliable distributor plays a critical role in ensuring part availability, verifying technical fit, and maintaining efficient supply chains across multiple projects or facilities. In this blog, we will explore the defining traits of trustworthy distributors and offer practical guidance for evaluating sourcing options in industrial automation.