As businesses across America accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence, the wholesale distribution industry is taking a leadership role in advancing AI that is responsible, practical, and centered on people. Today, the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW), together with the AI Applied Consortium, announced the release of its AI Governance Architecture, a comprehensive framework designed to help companies implement artificial intelligence responsibly while strengthening—not replacing—the workforce that keeps America’s economy moving.

Representing an $8.7 trillion industry that serves as the backbone of America’s supply chain, the framework provides wholesale distributors with practical guidance on governance, risk management, transparency, workforce development, and responsible AI implementation. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for people, the framework emphasizes human-centered deployment that empowers employees with new skills, improves decision-making, strengthens customer trust, and enhances supply chain resilience.

A short executive brief summarizing the AI Governance Architecture is available here.