Supply Chain Now

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we present an incisive exploration of the current landscape within the global supply chain sector, focusing particularly on the essential role of leadership in navigating prevailing challenges. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost!Today, hosts Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy welcome special guest Marina Mayer, Editor-in-Chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive, to discuss the Women in Supply Chain Awards and the upcoming Women in Supply Chain Forum. Listen as they cover:The rising demand for foreign trade zone accessThe state of the industry report by ColliersInsights from chief people officers on talent strategiesThe 2025 Women in Supply Chain Awards and the upcoming Women in Supply Chain Forum The importance of communication, strategic thinking, and inclusivity in navigating the complexities of the supply chain industryJoin us as we collectively seek to understand the implications of these developments on future supply chain operations.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-7SEP2025 Colliers State of Industry Report: https://bit.ly/ColliersStateoftheIndustryReportChief People Officers Outlook 2025: Talent strategy amid global disruption: https://bit.ly/CPOviewsU.S. Foreign Trade Zones Draw New Demand as De Minimis Ends: https://on.wsj.com/4nrwm53Why AI Is the Conversation at Parcel Forum: http://bit.ly/4m7Q8kTConnect with Marina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinamayer/Learn more about EasyPost: https://supplychainnow.com/easypostCheck out the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: bit.ly/scn-us-bankLearn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EWWEBINAR- Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUmWEBINAR- From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKoWEBINAR- The Power of Partnership: Building Long-Term Success with Automation Integrators: https://bit.ly/3Ie1WUOWEBINAR- Reengineering supply chain planning: How to get more bang for your buck in 2026- https://bit.ly/3VahMCQThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-women-in-supply-chain-awards-1479

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton talks with Brett Johnson, IT Director at A&A Global, and Shannon Vaillancourt, President and Founder of RateLinx, about A&A Global’s journey to transform their shipping operations. Brett details how they addressed inefficiencies in their old TMS, implementing RateLinx’s flexible toolkit to streamline processes, reduce costs, and scale operations without adding staff.The conversation explores how A&A Global overcame challenges like manual data entry, slow carrier onboarding, and inaccurate rate quoting through powerful integrations like ScanForce, Cubiscan, and mobile printing. Brett and Shannon also highlight the role of Lean Six Sigma practices in driving continuous improvement and achieving significant cost savings, faster shipping, and enhanced efficiency.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(01:39) Meet the industry leaders(02:46) Challenges faced by A&A Global(05:56) Issues with previous TMS(08:30) The need for speed and efficiency(13:42) Selection process for a new TMS(18:03) Integration and implementation(27:55) The new car vs. new software analogy(29:42) Challenges with previous TMS(30:44) Choosing RateLinx and ShipLinx TMS(32:29) Implementation philosophy(37:29) Automation and labor cost savings(45:42) Advice for IT and operations leadersResources:Learn more about A&A Global: http://www.aaglobal.com Connect with Shannon Vaillancourt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-vaillancourt/ INSIGHT 2025 Conference: https://www.ratelinx.com/ratelinx-insight-conference/Learn more about RateLinx: https://www.ratelinx.com/ Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now  Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join  Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EWWEBINAR- Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUmWEBINAR- From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKoWEBINAR- Reengineering supply chain planning: How to get more bang for your buck in 2026- https://bit.ly/3VahMCQThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/toys-tech-tms-1478

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Deborah Dull welcome Will Mansard and Ahmed Arif of Bastian Solutions for a practical, field-tested conversation on retrofitting brownfield warehouses and the real cost of doing nothing. They frame retrofits as logistical projects first, unpack why so much existing space goes underutilized, and share how to minimize disruption while upgrading live operations. They discuss the playbook that works in the real world: start with discovery and reverse engineering when documentation is thin, build a phased mechanical plan, sequence electrical with quick-connect, preassembled components, and treat controls and software as the heart of the system using emulation and thorough testing. With rules one and two both being “get orders out the door,” they stress contingency planning, speaking the customer’s language, and orchestrating equipment, controls, and software to avoid faults and bottlenecks. Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(09:27) What defines a brownfield warehouse site(12:19) Addressing customer concerns about cost(15:53) Viewing retrofits as logistical projects(20:14) Why orchestration matters in automation(22:44) Critical considerations for warehouse retrofits(24:26) Setting realistic project expectations upfront(25:53) Deborah’s favorite retrofit planning framework(26:36) Minimizing disruption with new technologies(29:37) Speaking the customer’s language effectively(32:40) Examples of successful retrofit projects(40:35) Enterprise-level considerations for customersResources:Learn more about Bastian Solutions Strategy Guide: Consulting Strategies for Warehouse Distribution Operations: https://info.bastiansolutions.com/warehouse-operations-strategy-guideLearn more about the Hercules Sealing Products Case Study: https://www.bastiansolutions.com/resources/case-studies/industrial-distribution/hercules/?srsltid=AfmBOoqy12r2gfk64cuMt6Heyoz8Ts5lAJwZ-4qAejswM0oZVEuW5pPKConnect with Will Mansard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-mansard-b90a2b25/Connect with Ahmed Arif: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmedarif001/Connect with Deborah Dull: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahdull/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now  Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join  Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EWWEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUmWEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKoThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Deborah Dull and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/brownfield-breakthrough-evolving-operations-retrofits-1477

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes special guest Abe Eshkenazi, CEO of the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), to discuss the reinvention of ASCM's annual supply chain event, now rebranded as CHAINge North America 2025. Scheduled for September 9th and 10th in Columbus, Ohio, CHAINge North America 2025 aims to provide supply chain leaders with opportunities to gather critical market intelligence and learn strategies to tackle both existing and emerging challenges. Listen in as Scott and Abe discuss the importance of collaboration, technology, and talent development in navigating the current dynamic supply chain landscape, key insights from the 2025 ASCM Supply Chain Salary and Career Report, and highlight significant gains in supply chain compensation and the increasing recognition of supply chain professionals' roles. Tune in for an episode that underscores the value of human interaction and relationship-building in addressing the complex challenges faced by supply chain professionals today.Additional Links & Resources:Register now for CHAINge North America 2025: https://na.chainge.events/website/81303/?&utm_source=supplychainnow&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=conf_chainge-north-america_20250801Connect with Abe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aeshkenazi/Learn more about ASCM: https://www.ascm.org/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1kWEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EWWEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUmWEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKoThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/breaking-news-now-ready-chainge-2025-ascm-1476

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Jorge Morales, Global COO of the International Supply Chain Education Alliance (ISCEA), and Sandeep Chatterjee, Growth Leader, Digital Business Solutions, Supply Chain and Sustainability Pillar at INFOLOB, to explore how organizations can build resilience and clarity in today’s dynamic supply chain landscape. Jorge shares how ISCEA is equipping professionals through global certification programs and education, while Sandeep highlights his outcome-based approach to digital transformation and his insights from his book, The Consulting Way.They cover key strategies for driving profitability and resilience, including smarter inventory management, bold choices in multimodal transportation, and the adoption of advanced technologies such as 3D printing and supply chain simulation. Jorge and Sandeep also discuss the importance of continuous skill-building, trust among supply chain partners, and the role of upcoming industry events like the Supply Chain Technology Conference & Expo (SCTECH) in helping leaders prepare for the future of supply chain.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(02:35) Climbing Mount Everest and managing family logistics(06:47) Sandeep's role at INFOLOB(08:59) Jorge's role at ISCEA(14:49) Sandeep’s book “The Consulting Way”(18:08) Optimizing supply chain profitability(24:38) Eliminating decision-making in supply chains(25:07) Leveraging data and technology for faster decisions(26:08) Innovations in transportation(27:48) Challenging assumptions in leadership(28:59) The role of technology in decision making(32:14) Trust in supply chain partnerships(33:30) The upcoming Supply Chain Technology Conference & Expo (SCTECH)(37:37) Examples of supply chain innovations(40:48) Sandeep’s keynote on quick commerceResources:Learn more about the Supply Chain Technology Conference & Expo (SCTECH): https://www.sctechshow.com/ Connect with Jorge Morales: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorgeamorales/ Learn more about the International Supply Chain Education Alliance (ISCEA): https://www.iscea.org/ Connect with Sandeep Chatterjee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-chatterjee-4302271/ Check out Sandeep’s book, The Consulting Way: https://in.zebralearn.com/the-consulting-way.html Learn more about INFOLOB: https://www.infolob.com Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now  Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join  Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1kWEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EWWEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUmWEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKoThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/how-supply-chain-leaders-finding-calm-clarity-amidst-chaos-1475

Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: http://bit.ly/4lGixylEasyPost Guide: https://bit.ly/45PpFCC EasyPost Website: https://www.easypost.com/ Inside the automated warehouse where robots are packing your groceries: http://bit.ly/3Juj213Beauty brands blend AI into operations: http://bit.ly/4oRsVWJSnickers maker Mars pursues stable chocolate supply with gene-editing: http://bit.ly/4mIWHeAKait on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitvinson/Learn more about Locus Robotics: https://locusrobotics.com/Allison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisongiddens/Dave Krache Foundation: https://davekrache.com/ Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1kWEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EWWEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUmWEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKoThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Allison GIddens and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-innovations-warehouse-automation-1474

In this moving episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton sits down with Kristi Porter, Adrian Purtill, and Enrique Alvarez of Vector Global Logistics to explore a powerful story of purpose and community. Adrian shares a deeply personal initiative in honor of his late ex-wife, Kathy Purtill, who bravely battled leukemia. To carry her legacy forward, their son Kieran is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.This conversation goes beyond logistics, shining a light on the value of giving forward, building community, and leading with purpose. The Vector Global Logistics team reflects on how purpose-driven action can change lives—both in the global supply chain and beyond.Learn how you can support Kieran’s mission, and be inspired to embrace the power of relationships, resilience, and purpose.Additional Links & Resources:Kathy Purtill's fundraising page for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society: https://diy.lls.org/fundraiser/6467059Connect with Enrique: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enrique-alvarez-64332a2/Connect with Kristi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kporter9876/Connect with Adrian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-purtill-947a2b5/Learn more about Vector Global Logistics: https://vectorgl.com/Learn more about Logistics with Purpose: https://logisticswithpurpose.co/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1kWEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EWWEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUmWEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKoThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/honoring-legacy-moving-climbing-mountains-1473

Retired Air Force Lieutenant General Andy Busch shares transformative insights on the Theory of Constraints (TOC) and its impact on supply chain efficiency. Drawing from a distinguished military career, he reveals how TOC slashed aircraft maintenance times and significantly reduced procurement delays. Joined by Kim Humphrey, CEO of AME, they discuss TOC's universal applicability across industries, emphasizing leadership's role in driving change, enhancing team alignment, and navigating complex operational environments for sustainable improvement.

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we present a profound exploration of contemporary developments within the realm of supply chain management, with a particular emphasis on the resurgence of reshoring initiatives. Welcome to The Buzz!Host Scott Luton and special guest host Christine Barnhart, aka The Supply Chain Whisperer, discuss the top news in global supply chain including: The significant investment by GE Appliances to transition production facilities from overseas back to the United StatesThe implications of artificial intelligence in enhancing operational efficiencies, as exemplified by Toro's innovative applications to predict consumer behavior and streamline inventory managementThe significant role of sustainability in modern supply chains, underscoring how companies are increasingly investing in environmentally friendly practices to meet consumer demandsThe transformative impact that artificial intelligence is having on supply chain management, particularly in predicting consumer behavior and optimizing inventory levels amidst fluctuating market conditionsThe importance of effective change management, advocating for transparency and collaboration amongst stakeholders to facilitate smoother transitions during periods of organizational changeJoin us as we dissect these pivotal topics and provide actionable insights for supply chain leaders navigating this dynamic landscape.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: hhttps://bit.ly/4mDUf8M GE Appliances shifts more production to US as part of a $3 billion investment: https://bit.ly/3JiKEGlJust in time? Manufacturers turn to AI to weather tariff storm: https://bit.ly/4lBeHq2Why Some Companies Are Doubling Down on Climate Action: https://bit.ly/3JkelGWSupply Chain Leadership in the Never Normal: A Power Panel of Women Rewriting the Rules: https://streamyard.com/watch/34KHAvi3NjK8Connect with Christine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbarnhart/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1kWEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EWWEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUmWEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKoThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Christine Barnhart, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-reshoring-revolution-1471

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Karin Bursa welcome Bobby Holland of U.S. Bank and Bob Costello of the American Trucking Associations (ATA) for a timely and data-rich discussion on the Q2 2025 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index—and what the latest shifts in the freight economy mean for shippers, carriers, and supply chain leaders.They discuss the first quarter in over two years where all five U.S. regions saw increases in shipment volume, signaling a potential turning point after a prolonged slowdown. Bobby shares fresh Index data on spend and shipment velocity, while Bob brings broader economic context, including consumer spending patterns, inflationary pressure, and the uneven pace of recovery. From driver shortages and regional capacity gaps to policy impacts and shifting inventory strategies, the panel examines how these macroeconomic forces are playing out in freight and what they could mean for the rest of 2025, offering insights for supply chain professionals preparing for continued volatility, opportunities in cross-border trade, and early signs of renewed activity.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(00:51) Overview of the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index(06:15) National freight trends and insights(22:26) Midwest region analysis(25:59) Rebalancing supply chains(26:57) Consumer spending trends(27:33) Goods vs. services spending(29:30) Northeast region insights(36:31) Southeast region insights(44:56) Future of freight marketsResources:Download the full Q2 2025 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: bit.ly/scn-us-bankRegister for the ATA Management Conference on October 2025 in San Diego: https://www.trucking.org/news-insights/registration-now-open-ata-management-conference-exhibition-0 Learn more about U.S. Bank: https://www.usbank.com Learn more about the American Trucking Associations (ATA): https://www.trucking.org Connect with Bobby Holland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-holland-4a9355/ Connect with Bob Costello: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-costello-444bb670/ Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now  Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join  Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1kWEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EWWEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUmWEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKoThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/analysis-q2-2025-us-bank-freight-payment-index-1470