Join us for this week's episode of The Buzz, as we delve into the evolving landscape of supply chain management, emphasizing the critical role of automation and technology. In this episode, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome special guest Nathan Chaney, Founder of Supply Chaney, to discuss:Amazon's latest automated distribution center in Shreveport, LouisianaThe latest ongoing negotiations between the USMX and ILA, where automation has become a significant sticking point, raising concerns about job security among dock workersHow blockchain is quietly transforming various industries, including food safety and international tradethe integration of technology in supply chain education and the need for a balanced curriculum that focuses on core concepts alongside emerging innovations.And much more!Join the conversation as we explore the fundamentals and the future of the supply chain industry. Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Nathan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanchaney/Learn more about Supply Chaney: www.supplychaney.comWith That Said: https://bit.ly/4f4JCaV The Elevate Our Kids fundraiser: https://bit.ly/3OpU025 Gartner Announces Rankings of the Top 25 North American Supply Chain Undergraduate and Graduate University Programs for 2024: https://bit.ly/49ATecA Kevin's Favorite Digital Transformers Episode: Beyond The Hype: How Blockchain Is Quietly Transforming Business: https://bit.ly/3Bb7oV4 Solana supply chain attack contained, but users face six-figure losses: https://bit.ly/49sSoONAmazon’s New Robotic Warehouse Will Rely Heavily on Human Workers: https://bit.ly/3VuO4ZKNJ port workers' contract talks stuck over adding automation as January deadline nears: https://bit.ly/4gn538gLearn 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- E2E Demand Planning – Tactics for Driving Value at Scale: https://bit.ly/4g5VdaDThis 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-embracing-automation-supply-chain-1364

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Kim Reuter explore the world of retail supply chain innovation with an outstanding panel featuring Venky Avunoori, Vice President of eCom and Customer Technologies at Spencer's & Spirit, Jim Ray, Divisional Vice President of Supply Chain Technology at Spencer's & Spirit, and Justin Cramer, Co-founder at ProShip. Together, they uncover the behind-the-scenes strategies powering the iconic retail brands Spencer’s and Spirit Halloween.Their insightful discussion reveals how these retail giants master the art of omnichannel fulfillment, navigate seasonal supply chain complexities, and ensure seamless customer experiences. From the challenges of opening 1,500 pop-up stores in weeks to leveraging AI-driven insights and custom-built technologies, this episode is packed with actionable insights and innovative approaches.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(04:00) Half marathons, hockey, and ballroom dancing(07:35) Overview of Spencer's & Spirit's unique retail model(12:32) The year-round planning behind Spirit Halloween(16:11) Inventory optimization and the role of pop-up stores(20:15) Omnichannel strategies: BOPIS and ship-from-store(25:00) Overcoming challenges with inventory visibility in stores(29:07) Leveraging custom technology for temporary distribution centers(33:19) AI and gen AI innovations for seasonal operations(37:42) Future of retail fulfillment: Mini fulfillment centers and q-commerce(42:10) Managing customer expectations in a volatile carrier environment(46:00) Launching Spirit Christmas: A new seasonal challenge(48:50) The importance of customer and employee experience(51:35) Key takeaways from Spencer's & Spirit's supply chain strategies(54:00) Evolving with customer needs and technologyResources:Download the ProShip Report- https://bit.ly/408liBeSchedule a Discovery Call- https://bit.ly/3XTM0weConnect with Justin Cramer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincramer/Connect with Jim Ray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-ray-ohio/Connect with Venky Avunoori : https://www.linkedin.com/in/venkyavunoori/Learn more about ProShip: https://proshipinc.com/Learn more about Spencer's & Spirit: https://www.spencersonline.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.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- Introduction to Microsoft Supply Chain: Enabling Scale and Complexity: https://bit.ly/40K1rszWEBINAR- How Ferguson's Metrics-Driven Strategy Drove an 18% Improvement in Operational Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3YBbsFzWEBINAR- E2E Demand Planning – Tactics for Driving Value at Scale: https://bit.ly/4g5VdaDThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter, and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated episode page at: https://supplychainnow.com/unmasking-omnichannel-secrets-retail-giant-conversation-spencers-gifts-1363

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Jake Barr welcome Craig Allan, President of BWS Logistics, and Sam Foley, Chief Growth Officer at Turvo, to uncover how next-generation tech is advancing logistics and setting new standards for customer satisfaction. Craig and Sam share their experiences in modernizing logistics operations, from drastically cutting billing times to simplifying the complexity of multi-leg shipments through enhanced visibility and real-time tracking.Together, they discuss the benefits of Turvo’s collaborative platform, which empowers BWS to offer clients a customized, seamless experience that puts the customer in control. With open APIs, data-driven decision-making, and a laser focus on efficiency, this conversation provides supply chain leaders valuable insights on harnessing digital transformation to improve workflows and increase competitive edge. Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(03:18) Growth and innovation journey at BWS Logistics(05:51) Shifting from legacy systems to Turvo for visibility(12:45) Boosting productivity by streamlining multi-leg shipments(19:00) Real-time container tracking and Drayage cycle management(22:35) Reducing billing time from three days to minutes(26:15) Using analytics to optimize carrier performance(33:21) Elevating customer experience through flexible visibility(36:43) Simplifying workflows to eliminate manual tasks(39:28) Expanding into cross-border trade(43:05) Key takeaways for supply chain leadersAdditional Links & Resources:Check out the Turvo Playbook: https://info.turvo.com/proprietary_tms_vs_modern_tms-playbook Connect with Samantha Foley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthafoley/Connect with Craig Allan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigallan31/ Learn more about Turvo: https://turvo.com/ Learn more about BWS Logistics: https://bws-logistics.com/ Connect with Jake: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-barr-3883501/ 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- 2025 Supply Chain Outlook: Preparing for Economic and Commercial Shifts: https://bit.ly/4fKWvYxWEBINAR- Introduction to Microsoft Supply Chain: Enabling Scale and Complexity: https://bit.ly/40K1rszWEBINAR- How Ferguson's Metrics-Driven Strategy Drove an 18% Improvement in Operational Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3YBbsFzWEBINAR- E2E Demand Planning – Tactics for Driving Value at Scale: https://bit.ly/4g5VdaDThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/seeing-full-picture-visibility-your-way-bws-logistics-turvo-1362

In this engaging discussion, guest host Koray Kose, an expert in the automotive industry and supply chain operations, dives into the implications of Rivian's $6 billion federal loan and its impact on the EV market. He explores the intersection of politics and trade tariffs affecting the automotive sector, while highlighting the rise of agentic AI in supply chains. Koray also emphasizes the critical need for cybersecurity amidst increasing threats and touches on the importance of consumer awareness regarding modern slavery in supply chains.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Jake Barr are joined by two of Manhattan’s best - Kristin Kay, Senior Design Lead, and Laura Beth Andres, Solutions Consulting Advisor. Together, they discuss the importance of transportation planning in enhancing supply chain efficiency and performance.The conversation explores the best practices in inbound and outbound logistics, offering insights into optimizing shipment consolidation, resource allocation, and carrier selection. Kristin and Laura Beth share insights on how real-time data and cloud-native solutions are reshaping the transportation landscape, enabling businesses to meet evolving customer demands and manage disruptions more effectively.Tune in to hear how Manhattan's innovative solutions are helping supply chain leaders streamline logistics, boost resilience, and drive ROI in today’s dynamic global market.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(03:12) Exploring key challenges in transportation planning(07:45) Addressing inbound and outbound logistics complexities(11:28) The role of technology in driving supply chain efficiency(14:50) Optimizing shipment consolidation for cost savings(17:35) Balancing resource allocation in logistics(20:41) Effective carrier selection strategies for better outcomes(24:05) The impact of data on improving transportation decisions(27:14) Managing dynamic carrier relationships(30:19) Strategies for sustainable transportation in supply chain(33:43) Integrating transportation and warehouse management(35:25) Modeling tools for better decision-making(36:56) Using predictive analytics to anticipate disruptions(39:15) Importance of continuous improvement in logistics(41:20) Building a resilient and efficient supply chainAdditional Links & Resources:Making the Case for TMS: Driving Supply Chain ROI- https://bit.ly/4f2YkjtConnect with Kristin Kay: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-kay/Connect with Laura Andres: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-beth-andres-b224b0b/Learn more about Manhattan: http://www.manh.com/Connect with Jake: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-barr-3883501/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- Unlocking the Power of Digital Transformation: Building AstraZeneca's Resilient, Decision-Centric Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4fHYooJWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9WEBINAR- 2025 Supply Chain Outlook: Preparing for Economic and Commercial Shifts: https://bit.ly/4fKWvYxWEBINAR- Introduction to Microsoft Supply Chain: Enabling Scale and Complexity: https://bit.ly/40K1rszWEBINAR- How Ferguson's Metrics-Driven Strategy Drove an 18% Improvement in Operational Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3YBbsFzWEBINAR- E2E Demand Planning – Tactics for Driving Value at Scale: https://bit.ly/4g5VdaDThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/optimizing-inbound-outbound-logistics-supply-chain-efficiency-1360

In this new episode of our Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa Series, hosts Scott W. Luton and Jenny Froome are joined by Edwin Mulwa, Director and Team Lead, Digital Solutions Global Technical Team at VillageReach, and Derick Lung’aho, Acting Chief Programs Officer at Medic. Together, they explore the transformative power of digital tools in strengthening community healthcare supply chains across Africa.Edwin and Derick share insights into how their organizations are leveraging innovative technology to enhance data visibility, optimize healthcare delivery, and empower community health workers with the tools they need to drive meaningful outcomes. For supply chain and healthcare leaders, this conversation discusses challenges like infrastructure limitations, digital literacy, and the importance of user-centered design. The big takeaway? Strategic partnerships, scalable solutions, and a focus on local needs can ensure better health access and equity for communities everywhere.Additional Links & Resources:Learn more about digital tools for community health workers: https://bit.ly/3OBGrwUConnect with Edwin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddiemulwaConnect with Derick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derick-lung-aho-524b9ba/Learn more about Medic: https://medic.org/Learn more about Village Reach: www.villagereach.orgLearn 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- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EWEBINAR- Unlocking the Power of Digital Transformation: Building AstraZeneca's Resilient, Decision-Centric Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4fHYooJWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9WEBINAR- 2025 Supply Chain Outlook: Preparing for Economic and Commercial Shifts: https://bit.ly/4fKWvYxWEBINAR- Introduction to Microsoft Supply Chain: Enabling Scale and Complexity: https://bit.ly/40K1rszWEBINAR- How Ferguson's Metrics-Driven Strategy Drove an 18% Improvement in Operational Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3YBbsFzWEBINAR- E2E Demand Planning – Tactics for Driving Value at Scale: https://bit.ly/4g5VdaDThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Jenny Froome, and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/supply-chain-leadership-across-africa-transforming-community-healthcare-delivery-through-digital-innovation-1359

Mike Landry, CEO of ketteQ, shares insights on how adaptive planning is transforming supply chain management. He discusses challenges with traditional methods and the importance of integrating real-time data for better demand forecasting and inventory management. The panel also examines the impact of the Canadian Postal Workers Strike and a shorter holiday shopping season, highlighting innovative strategies retailers are using to navigate these changes. Dive into the future of supply chain planning as they explore actionable solutions for evolving market dynamics.

In this episode, hosts Scott W. Luton and returning guest Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, get into an insightful conversation about the trends and technologies shaping the future of supply chain management. From the importance of risk management and resilience post-pandemic to navigating the complexities of scope three emissions, they explore the key strategies and tools that are driving change across industries.Mike shares his thoughts on how companies are adapting their supply chain strategies, emphasizing the need for ongoing scenario planning, supplier segmentation, and sustainability initiatives. The discussion also touches on the transformative potential of AI, not as a replacement for human expertise but as a tool to augment decision-making and optimize business outcomes. For supply chain leaders, this conversation offers practical takeaways on building resilient, sustainable, and innovative operations in an ever-evolving global landscape.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(05:21) Exploring supply chain risk management and resilience(08:47) Lessons learned from post-pandemic risk playbooks(13:08) Sustainability and the importance of Scope 3 emissions(17:35) Balancing regulations with incentives in sustainability practices(21:06) The evolving role of AI in supply chain optimization(26:31) The democratization of technology for SMBs(29:39) The importance of work-life balance in modern supply chainsAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/enConnect 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- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EWEBINAR- Unlocking the Power of Digital Transformation: Building AstraZeneca's Resilient, Decision-Centric Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4fHYooJWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9WEBINAR- 2025 Supply Chain Outlook: Preparing for Economic and Commercial Shifts: https://bit.ly/4fKWvYxWEBINAR- Introduction to Microsoft Supply Chain: Enabling Scale and Complexity: https://bit.ly/40K1rszWEBINAR- How Ferguson's Metrics-Driven Strategy Drove an 18% Improvement in Operational Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3YBbsFzWEBINAR- E2E Demand Planning – Tactics for Driving Value at Scale: https://bit.ly/4g5VdaDThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit the dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/6-things-supply-chain-thankful-1357

In this episode, Scott W. Luton and Tandreia Bellamy explore the latest insights from the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index for Q3 2024 with Bobby Holland, Director of Freight Business Analytics at U.S. Bank, and Cathy Morrow Roberson, Founder & President of Logistics Trends and Insights. Together, they discuss national and regional freight trends, discussing how data-driven decisions are shaping the future of domestic truck freight.The panel highlights emerging trends in transportation, from strong import volumes on the West Coast to unique challenges in the Southeast due to recent weather impacts. Bobby and Cathy also share their expertise in interpreting key metrics, helping businesses navigate freight volatility, managing supply chain costs, and adapting to shifts in the housing and manufacturing sectors.Tune in to hear expert takes on how regional dynamics and national economic shifts are impacting the freight market and learn how businesses can use these insights to make smarter, more resilient decisions in uncertain times.Additional Links & Resources:Download the Q3 2024 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: https://bit.ly/scn-us-bankConnect with Bobby Holland:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-holland-4a9355/, Connect with Cathy Morrow Roberson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-morrow-roberson-lti/Learn more about Logistics Trends & Insights: https://logisticsti.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- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EWEBINAR- Unlocking the Power of Digital Transformation: Building AstraZeneca's Resilient, Decision-Centric Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4fHYooJWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9WEBINAR- 2025 Supply Chain Outlook: Preparing for Economic and Commercial Shifts: https://bit.ly/4fKWvYxWEBINAR- Introduction to Microsoft Supply Chain: Enabling Scale and Complexity: https://bit.ly/40K1rszWEBINAR- How Ferguson's Metrics-Driven Strategy Drove an 18% Improvement in Operational Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3YBbsFzThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/analysis-us-bank-2024-q3-freight-payment-index-1356

Join us for this week's episode of The Buzz, as we dive into workforce challenges, growth strategies, and supply chain transformation and collaboration. In this episode, hosts Scott Luton and Marty Parker welcome special guest Maria Villablanca, CEO of the Future Insights Network, who shares valuable takeaways from the recent TFest24 conference, and her extensive experience in leveraging technology to streamline processes and improve efficiencies in global supply chains. Listen in as the panel also discusses:The launch of the Canadian Postal Workers strikeHow Unilever is driving growth in personal careKrispy Kreme's pursuit of a delivery partnerAnd so much more!Listen in to gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between workforce dynamics and supply chain effectiveness, along with actionable strategies for navigating these challenges.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariavillablanca/Learn more about Future Insights Network: https://www.linkedin.com/company/future-insights-network/Canadian Postal Workers Launch a Strike: https://bit.ly/40NTVNhHow Unilever is Driving Volume Growth in Personal Care: https://bit.ly/4fT5184Krispy Kreme Pursues Third Party Delivery Help: https://bit.ly/4hX0SSqMost Recent With That Said: https://bit.ly/3OfqDj6Strategic Procurement 101 from OMNIA Partners: https://bit.ly/40R7qvvU.S. Bank 2024 Q3 Freight Payment Index: https://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- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EWEBINAR- Unlocking the Power of Digital Transformation: Building AstraZeneca's Resilient, Decision-Centric Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4fHYooJWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9WEBINAR- 2025 Supply Chain Outlook: Preparing for Economic and Commercial Shifts: https://bit.ly/4fKWvYxWEBINAR- Introduction to Microsoft Supply Chain: Enabling Scale and Complexity: https://bit.ly/40K1rszWEBINAR- How Ferguson's Metrics-Driven Strategy Drove an 18% Improvement in Operational Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3YBbsFzThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Marty Parker, and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-supply-chain-transformation-collaboration-1355