Digital transformation, digital twins, and secure semiconductor supply chains remain pivotal topics in global supply chain discussions, as highlighted in this engaging episode of The Buzz on Supply Chain Now. Hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson explore these ongoing challenges and opportunities in global supply chain, and also welcome special guests Dr. Sarah Sengupta and Chris White to the show.Listen in as the panel discusses:Digital transformation in supply chain managementThe need for organizations to embrace change and innovation with digital twins How education is evolving to prepare the next generation of supply chain leadersThe significance of the semiconductor supply chain and the geopolitical implications surrounding it, underscoring the necessity for the U.S. to increase its market share in this critical sectorJoin us for this episode as the importance of service, leadership, and continuous learning in driving successful digital transformation is reinforced, making it clear that proactive engagement is essential for future success in supply chain management. Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/42iiB0XManifest: https://partner.manife.st/SupplyChainNow Digital Transformation: Beyond the Buzzword in Supply Chain Management: https://bit.ly/3E28nb7Will digital twins ever become standard in supply chains?: https://bit.ly/4g4PdieThe United States Needs a Secure, Reliable Semiconductor Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/3WqyJdaConnect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-chris-white/Connect with Sarah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-sengupta-ph-d-97365724/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- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson, and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-innovations-supply-chain-education-1382

Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, dives into pressing challenges and opportunities in supply chains. He reflects on lessons from the 2024 holiday shopping season and the rising issue of returns impacting logistics. The conversation highlights how AI is revolutionizing risk management and emphasizes the importance of respect for workforce engagement. With insightful predictions for 2025, they discuss the need for talent retention and diversification to build resilient supply chains in an ever-evolving landscape.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes back Ray Attiyah, a tireless entrepreneur and leadership expert, to discuss three proven tips for optimizing leadership performance in 2025. The conversation highlights the importance of creativity in strategic planning, the necessity of defining risk tolerance, and the critical role of visioning and storytelling in leadership. Ray emphasizes the unique challenges and opportunities of 2025, including market deceleration, the rise of AI, talent management, and sustainability. He also shares insights from his professional journey and offers predictions for increased M&A activity in the coming years. This episode is a must-listen for leaders looking to navigate the evolving business landscape effectively.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Ray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayattiyah/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/3XH6OVkThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/3-tips-optimizing-leadership-effectiveness-2025-1380

David Heacock, the founder and CEO of FilterBuy, transitions from a Goldman Sachs banker to the leader of a billion-dollar air filtration company. He discusses the importance of supply chain resilience, especially amid global challenges, and highlights innovations in indoor air quality, including UV light integration. The conversation dives into consumer awareness regarding air quality and the evolving dynamics of trade and technology, emphasizing adaptability and creativity in both traditional and emerging industries.

Prepare for an engaging deep dive into the future of global supply chain in today's episode of Supply Chain Now! Listen in as hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr welcome back returning guest Hans Moerman, CFO of Digital Technology at DP World. In this episode, Hans shares his incredible journey—from scaling a delivery startup in Southeast Asia to driving digital transformation at one of the world’s largest logistics providers.Discover how DP World is revolutionizing trade, the critical role of people and technology in supply chain innovation, and how events like the Global Freight Summit are shaping the industry. Plus, Hans unpacks the biggest challenges in logistics today—from managing workforce transformations to leveraging AI for smarter, faster decisions.With actionable insights, a glimpse into groundbreaking advancements, and even a few travel stories and breakfast favorites from around the world, this conversation is packed with value. Don’t miss your chance to gain insider knowledge and inspiration to take your supply chain strategies to the next level!Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Hans: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-moerman-7489861/Learn more about DP World: www.dpworld.comLearn 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- Breaking Through the Chaos: Supply Chain Maturity in an Age of Economic Volatility: https://bit.ly/49N8IKyWEBINAR- AI Insights for Smarter Shipping Strategies: https://bit.ly/40wwSWDThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/breaking-barriers-future-supply-chain-dp-world-1378

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa are joined by Gustav Khambatta, Senior Vice President of Freight Payment Sales at U.S. Bank, to unpack key takeaways from 2024 and explore what lies ahead for global supply chains in 2025. The conversation delves into the evolution of ERP technology, the critical role of cybersecurity, and the growing importance of quality data in driving decision-making. Gustav highlights the value of the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index as a benchmarking tool, while the panel shares insights on leveraging AI, industry collaboration, and preparing for the unexpected. Tune in for actionable insights and bold predictions that will help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of global supply chain management.Additional Links & Resources:Check out the Latest U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: https://bit.ly/scn-us-bankConnect with Gustav: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gustav-khambatta-384852/Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/aboutLearn 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- Breaking Through the Chaos: Supply Chain Maturity in an Age of Economic Volatility: https://bit.ly/49N8IKyThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa, and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/adapting-change-2024-lessons-supply-chain-insights-2025-predictions-us-bank-1377

Join us for this week's episode of The Buzz, as we take a deep dive into the critical topic of returns management during the peak returns season, aptly dubbed "Returnuary."As retailers brace for an anticipated 17% return rate of all sales in 2024, equating to a staggering $890 billion in returns, the conversation highlights the operational, logistical, and financial challenges that come with managing these returns. In this episode, hosts Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas explore:The implications of stricter return policies, the rising trend of fraudulent returns, and the environmental impact of returns-related wasteThe current state of the manufacturing industry, which shows signs of growth despite concerns over tariffs and trade policies.Tech trends that could shape 2025Upcoming supply chain events in the new yearAnd much more!Join the conversation as we welcome the new year with a clean slate, even in the world of global supply chain. Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/3PpmucWThe State of Freight 2025: https://bit.ly/4a2C4ER‘Returnuary’ — after the peak shopping season comes the busiest return month of the year: https://bit.ly/4j0Fax7Narvar Interview: https://bit.ly/4gZt4TdReverse Logistics Association: https://bit.ly/3BSTJSRDemand ticks up as manufacturers pin hopes on Trump administration: PMI: https://bit.ly/40mgIz7Tech Trends That Could Shape 2025: https://bit.ly/4iXrwepManifest: https://bit.ly/4iDIYULGartner Supply Chain Symposium: https://bit.ly/403K83tSAPICS: https://bit.ly/40oGfYxSupply Chain Now en Espanol: https://bit.ly/3g9LtQcLearn 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- Breaking Through the Chaos: Supply Chain Maturity in an Age of Economic Volatility: https://bit.ly/49N8IKyThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-tackling-returns-sustainability-1376

The University of South Carolina's Operations and Supply Chain program is renowned for its practical, hands-on approach to education, which has propelled it to the top ranks in the nation. In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we continue our NOW Generation series, as host Scott Luton welcomes Giuliano Marodin, the Continental Chair Professor in Operations & Supply Chain at the Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, along with three of his students, Yana Patel, Aiden Anderson, and Julie Crouse. Listen in as our guests discuss the program's success, with its strong emphasis on real-world application through the Capstone Consulting projects. The students share some of their project experiences and their willingness to tackle actual business challenges, gaining invaluable experience and professional communication skills. Learn about the faculty's dedication to student success, coupled with a supportive and interconnected student community, fostering a culture of mentorship and continuous improvement. Join us and learn how the holistic and experiential learning environment at the University of South Carolina is not only nationally recognized, but also prepares students for successful careers and shapes them into better individuals, ready to make a significant impact in the global supply chain industry.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Yana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-patelConnect with Aiden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-aidenanderson/Connect with Julie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliecrouse/Connect with Giuliano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliano-marodin/Learn more about the Operations and Supply Chain Center at the University of South Carolina: https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/moore/research_and_centers/centers/operations_and_supply_chain_center/index.phpLearn 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- Breaking Through the Chaos: Supply Chain Maturity in an Age of Economic Volatility: https://bit.ly/49N8IKyThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/now-generation-classroom-global-supply-chain-innovators-1375

In this first episode of 2025 here at Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton sits down with Alan Amling, Distinguished Fellow at The University of Tennessee Supply Chain Institute, and Don Maier, Associate Professor of Practice at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, for an insightful conversation on navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in the evolving supply chain landscape.Alan and Don share insights on the competitive dynamics between industry giants like FedEx and UPS, the growing influence of retail logisticians, and the critical role of automation and technology in addressing workforce and operational hurdles. The discussion also explores the geopolitical factors reshaping global supply chains and how businesses can build resilience through strategic planning and innovation.Tune in for practical takeaways, including how organizations can adapt to shifting customer expectations, leverage collaborative planning, and maintain agility in the face of ongoing disruption.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(08:12) Reflecting on personal highlights from 2024(14:07) Exploring career journeys: From UPS to academia(18:53) Insights on UPS and FedEx competition dynamics(25:42) The role of drivers in building strong supply chains(28:33) Discussing cultural shifts and the challenges of trust-building(32:48) Maritime logistics trends: Sustainability and automation(38:17) Challenges with automation in U.S. ports(42:11) Addressing geopolitical risks and supply chain resilience(47:30) The rise of retail logisticians and their impact(51:23) Lessons from Netflix on organizational agility and courage(57:08) Key takeaways from 2024(01:02:33) Bold predictions for 2025(01:09:21) Anticipating the impact of automation and tariffsAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Alan Amling: http://linkedin.com/in/alanamlingConnect with Don Maier: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-maier-2795431/Learn more about Haslam College of Business, UTK: https://haslam.utk.edu/supply-chain-management/Connect with Scott: 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- E2E Demand Planning – Tactics for Driving Value at Scale: https://bit.ly/4g5VdaDWEBINAR- Breaking Through the Chaos: Supply Chain Maturity in an Age of Economic Volatility: https://bit.ly/49N8IKyThis episodes was hosted by Scott W. Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/maritime-logistics-organizations-nimbleness-predictions-2025-1374

Sustainability plays an essential role in shaping the future of supply chains - take your first steps to going green here.In this classic episode, hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter engage with seasoned experts Paul Delbar and Bart Verbruggen from OMP to illuminate the complexities and opportunities of sustainable supply chain planning.Throughout their discussion, they emphasize the proactive steps required for meaningful sustainability initiatives, the challenges of integrating sustainability into traditional models, and the importance of educating and empowering teams to drive change. Whether you're responsible for supply chain operations, interested in sustainability, or looking for ways to meet increasing consumer and investor demands for greener practices, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you navigate your sustainability journey. Jump into the conversation: 00:00 Introduction to Paul and Bart05:45 Increasing effectiveness and sustainability through supply chain planning 08:22 How to incorporate sustainability metrics12:20 Balancing sustainability and profitability 15:44 Adapting to sustainability legislation23:59 Reducing transport and carbon emissions for future readiness28:48 Aligning supply chain planning with sustainability strategy32:31 Anticipating and evaluating scenarios to meet sustainability metrics40:16 Why you should reject current frameworks for collaborationAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Paul: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-delbar/ Connect with Bart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verbruggenbart/ E-book: The CSCO guide to Green Planning- https://omp.com/resource-center/e-books/green-planningLearn more about OMP: https://omp.com/ Connect with Kim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-reuter-csg/ Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/ Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comSubscribe to Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com/joinCheck out Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- E2E Demand Planning – Tactics for Driving Value at Scale: https://bit.ly/4g5VdaDThis original episodes is hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/green-planning-csco-organization-reach-sustainability-goals-1300