Logistics Matters with DC VELOCITY cover image

Logistics Matters with DC VELOCITY

Guest: Zac Rogers of Colorado State University on supply chains in 2025; What ports want from the new administration; Cutting corners on the job

Jan 17, 2025
In this episode, Zac Rogers, Associate Professor of Supply Chain Management at Colorado State University, offers a deep dive into the logistics landscape as we head into 2025. He discusses the vital role of the Logistics Managers' Index in understanding supply chain health. Zac highlights the eight-point wish list from the American Association of Port Authorities, addressing urgent policy needs. He also reveals alarming trends in workplace safety, where workers are pressured to cut corners, jeopardizing compliance and safety. The talk balances challenges with optimism for future improvements through technology.
23:49

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The logistics sector is shifting from just-in-time to just-in-case inventory practices to adapt to emerging global uncertainties and demand pressures.
  • Workforce quality and safety are at risk as employees face increased pressures, prompting a concerning trend of cutting corners in operations.

Deep dives

Health of the Logistics Economy in 2025

The logistics economy is showing signs of recovery as 2025 begins, with inventory levels stabilizing and consumer demand appearing strong. The Logistics Managers Index (LMI) indicates that inventory levels are neutral, suggesting retailers have sold through much of their stock, which bodes well for transportation and warehousing utilization. Recent metrics show transportation prices are increasing, reaching levels not seen since early 2022, while transportation capacity remains steady, indicating a gradual and sustainable growth. This improvement signifies the best outlook the logistics industry has experienced in several years, moving away from the volatility seen during the pandemic.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode