Supply Chain Now

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we dive the pressing issues facing the global supply chain, with a particular emphasis on the potential trajectory of the US economy. Welcome to The Buzz!Hosts Scott Luton and Enrique Alvarez discuss all the top news and recent developments in supply chain and logistics, including: The significant impact of trade deals on the global supply chain landscape, highlighting recent agreements between the United States and Japan, as well as the European UnionThe complexities of the steel industry, emphasizing the challenges posed by overproduction and the implications for national security and environmental sustainability moving forwardObservations on the current state of the U.S. economy, focusing on indicators from the transportation sector, particularly the decisions made by companies like UPS and FedExThe importance of trust in supply chain management, particularly in light of ongoing tariff negotiations and the need for transparency among global partnersInsights on innovative procurement strategies being implemented by leading firms, showcasing how technology is reshaping this vital business function in today's economic climateJoin us as we navigate these pivotal topics, engaging with expert perspectives and fostering dialogue within the supply chain community.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/3ILaxOF Enable Tariff Price Planner: https://bit.ly/3J4dFoOThe World Has Too Much Steel, but No One Wants to Stop Making It: https://bit.ly/4lLHmcNFreight First: Why America’s Supply Chain Storm Signals a Hard Turn Ahead: https://bit.ly/3IPVCTyU.S. Bank Freight Payment Index for Q2 2025: https://streamyard.com/watch/Cv3HE8wY44Ed How 3 Companies Digitized Their Procurement Processes: https://bit.ly/44OQEimLeading Women of Supply Chain Livestream: https://streamyard.com/watch/34KHAvi3NjK8Vector Social Impact Report: https://bit.ly/3IQYFupVector Global Logistics: https://vectorgl.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/3XH6OVkThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton Enrique Alvarez, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-storm-clouds-economic-horizon-1462

Join Brittany Caskey, Chief Commercial Officer at DP World Americas, and Carla Montenegro, Vice President of Commercial Freight Forwarding, as they dive into the evolving landscape of integrated logistics. They discuss the shift towards agility and visibility in supply chains, highlighting flexible freight planning strategies and the reimagination of warehousing as a dynamic service. With insights on nearshoring and the impact of free trade zones, they reveal how DP World’s innovative investments are helping companies stay ahead in a rapidly changing market.

Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, shares insights on the 2025 Gartner Top 25 rankings. He discusses the rigorous methodology that blends business metrics with expert reviews. Key topics include the growing importance of water stewardship, the rise of agentic AI for operational efficiency, and the need for digital transformation in supply chains. Griswold also highlights feedback nuances on the rankings and upcoming Gartner Planning Summits, aiming to equip industry professionals with valuable strategies for future success.

Today we dive into the multifaceted realm of supply chain dynamics, with a primary focus on the critical discussions surrounding sustainability and technological advancements. Welcome to The Buzz!Hosts Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson welcome special guest Heidi Benko, VP of Product Management and Strategy for Infor Nexus, to the show today. Together they discuss:Insights from the Gartner Supply Chain Top 25The impact of tariffs on US-EU trade relationsThe evolving role of technology in multi-enterprise business networksThe rapid advancements in AI and digital product passports, emphasizing the importance of connecting supply chain tiers to meet regulatory requirementsInsights to propel organizations toward more resilient and sustainable supply chain practicesJoin us as we underscore the imperative for supply chain leaders to adopt a proactive approach in an increasingly volatile environment and illuminate strategies that can empower organizations to thrive amidst the chaos of the modern supply chain landscape.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/3IH5yyp Inside the Gartner Top 25: How supply chains are embracing the future: https://bit.ly/3TQBF1aUS companies quietly maintaining, boosting sustainability investments in 2025: report: https://bit.ly/3GSJOz8The Bridge Webinar This Friday: https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4996409/A06BB7334AB2D8676D7B5809082ACC4A?partnerref= What’s the Status on Digital Product Passport Implementation? https://bit.ly/4lFpSisU.S. plays hardball on tariffs deadline as EU battles for a deal: https://bit.ly/44Iya33Globalisation is here to stay, but not as we’ve known it: https://bit.ly/46mg1sWConnect with Heidi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidibenko/Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richarddonaldson/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- Real Stories: How an Australian Powerhouse Unlocked Millions in Capex Using Advanced Supply Chain Planning: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUFWEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEiWEBINAR- Strengthening Fraud Defenses Through Tracking and Digital Visibility: https://bit.ly/4eiZ6t3WEBINAR- From Framework to Action: Decision Automation in the Agentic Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4nKlkJ6WEBINAR- From Legacy to Leading Edge, Morgan Foods’ Supply Chain Journey: https://bit.ly/3IcDDGkWEBINAR- Tomorrow’s Factory is Already Here: https://bit.ly/45QMGqoThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Richard Donaldson, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-evolution-ai-supply-chain-management-1459

Join Scott Luton of Supply Chain Now as he interviews Jett McCandless, Founder & CEO of project44, live from the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium! 🚛✨ In this insightful conversation, Jett dives into how project44 is revolutionizing global supply chains—moving beyond passive visibility to active execution powered by AI and advanced data integration.Key topics include:The evolution of project44 into a true operating system for supply chainsHow AI is transforming decision-making and real-time logisticsThe massive investment and innovation required to stay ahead in supply chain techThe complexities of integrating acquisitionsCandid advice for entrepreneurs: why a strong technical co-founder and smart VC alignment are crucialWhether you're a supply chain leader, tech innovator, or entrepreneur, this is a must-watch for understanding where the future of logistics is headed.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Jett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jett-mccandless-b16235119/Learn more about project44: https://www.project44.com/Watch our other interviews from Gartner Supply Chain Symposium 2025: https://supplychainnow.com/gartner-2025 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- Real Stories: How an Australian Powerhouse Unlocked Millions in Capex Using Advanced Supply Chain Planning: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUFWEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEiWEBINAR- Strengthening Fraud Defenses Through Tracking and Digital Visibility: https://bit.ly/4eiZ6t3WEBINAR- From Framework to Action: Decision Automation in the Agentic Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4nKlkJ6WEBINAR- From Legacy to Leading Edge, Morgan Foods’ Supply Chain Journey: https://bit.ly/3IcDDGkWEBINAR- Tomorrow’s Factory is Already Here: https://bit.ly/45QMGqoThis 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/passive-visibility-active-execution-transformation-global-supply-chains-1458

In this engaging conversation, Tom Enright, Vice President of Retail Supply Chain at Gartner and a retail logistics expert, delves into the crucial topic of returns management. He emphasizes the shift from processing returns to prevention, leveraging analytics and technology. The discussion highlights the rise of returns fraud, the necessity of dedicated leadership in this area, and how effective returns strategies can enhance secondhand sales. Tom also touches on evolving consumer expectations and the growing influence of marketplaces on retail dynamics.

Get ready for an exciting exploration of global supply chain news, touching on the critical role of copper and rising trade tensions. Dive into a lively debate on superheroes that cleverly connects to leadership strategies. The conversation shifts to the complex dynamics of tariffs affecting international trade, especially between the EU and China. Plus, insights into empowering women in the field and the importance of continuous learning for leaders keep the dialogue engaging. It's a thought-provoking blend of creativity and strategy!

In this insightful conversation from the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium, Scott Luton of Supply Chain Now sits down with Jon Rodammer, Senior VP and Head of North America Operations at Kenvue. Jon shares his inspiring leadership journey and the values that guide him—resilience, mentorship, and a people-first mindset.They explore:The power of agility and responsiveness in today’s supply chainsWhy digitization and system investments matter for newly independent companiesHow Jon’s experience with top consumer goods brands shaped his "consumer-first" approachThe role of mentorship and community service in building strong leadershipKenvue’s cultural commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellenceWhether you’re navigating supply chain disruption or growing a team, Jon’s insights are packed with real-world value.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Jon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonrodammer/Learn more about Kenvue: https://www.kenvue.com/Watch our other interviews from Gartner Supply Chain Symposium 2025: https://supplychainnow.com/gartner-2025 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- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYqWEBINAR- Real Stories: How an Australian Powerhouse Unlocked Millions in Capex Using Advanced Supply Chain Planning: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUFWEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEiWEBINAR- Strengthening Fraud Defenses Through Tracking and Digital Visibility: https://bit.ly/4eiZ6t3WEBINAR- From Framework to Action: Decision Automation in the Agentic Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4nKlkJ6WEBINAR- From Legacy to Leading Edge, Morgan Foods’ Supply Chain Journey: https://bit.ly/3IcDDGkWEBINAR- Tomorrow’s Factory is Already Here: https://bit.ly/45QMGqoThis 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/resilience-mentorship-people-first-mindset-conversation-kenvue-1455

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton talks with Jake Barr, CEO at BlueWorld Supply Chain Consulting, and Karin Bursa, CEO of NIRAKIO, to break down key takeaways from Gartner’s 2025 Supply Chain Symposiums in Orlando and Barcelona. They explore the “never normal” concept and why supply chain leaders must embrace constant disruption. Jake shares his insights on why visibility alone is no longer enough and why leaders need to focus on the consequences of real-time data. The trio also discusses the growing importance of AI in transforming supply chain operations, from advanced scenario planning to the rise of agentic AI. As we head into the second half of 2025, Jake and Karin provide actionable advice for leaders to better navigate ongoing disruptions and improve their supply chain strategies with a laser focus on continuous learning and AI-driven solutions.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(01:36) Show overview and key topics(03:23) Warm-up questions and fun facts(06:03) Gartner supply chain symposium insights(11:38) Key takeaways and discussions(22:38) The role of AI in supply chain(28:34) AI in supply chain: real use cases(29:26) Supply chain as a strategic weapon(31:24) Visibility is not enough(35:05) The risks of relying on Excel(38:37) Change management in supply chain(47:00) The future of AI in supply chainResources:Connect with Karin Bursa:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinbursa/ Learn more about NIRAKIO: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nirakio/ Connect with Jake Barr: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-barr-3883501/ Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/na/symposium-us   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- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYqWEBINAR- Real Stories: How Digital Planning Helped Australia’s Leading Packaging Manufacturer Unlock Millions in Capex: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUFWEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEiWEBINAR- Strengthening Fraud Defenses Through Tracking and Digital Visibility: https://bit.ly/4eiZ6t3WEBINAR- From Framework to Action: Decision Automation in the Agentic Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4nKlkJ6WEBINAR- From Legacy to Leading Edge, Morgan Foods’ Supply Chain Journey: https://bit.ly/3IcDDGkWEBINAR- Tomorrow’s Factory is Already Here: https://bit.ly/45QMGqoThis 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/key-takeaways-gartner-2025-1454

Today's episode of The Buzz on Supply Chain Now embarks on a profound exploration of contemporary supply chain dynamics and the transformative impact of innovative supply chain strategies that prioritize consumer experience and operational efficiency. Welcome to The Buzz!Hosts Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas dive into the critical issues of the day including:Ulta Beauty's significant market presence and innovative approach towards enhancing consumer experience through strategic partnerships and supply chain resilienceThe Gartner Supply Chain Top 25 and the trends identified by Gartner in the supply chain space, highlighting the importance of water stewardship and AI integrationThe importance of managing burnout within supply chain professionals, emphasizing the need for sustainable workplace practices and support systemsThe successful collaboration of Ruby Laboratories with Walmart in creating carbon-negative textiles from captured CO2, showcasing innovative solutions to environmental challengesHow companies like Someone Somewhere are fostering fair labor practices by connecting artisans with major brands, thereby promoting sustainability and social impactFood trends emerging from the Summer Fancy Food Show, emphasizing the evolving tastes and preferences in consumer food productsWhat's to come on the upcoming season of Supply Chain Now en EspanolJoin us as we provide actionable insights and strategies to navigate the complexities of modern supply chains, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and innovation in achieving sustained success.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/4eygL04 Sofia’s LI perspective on Ulta Beauty: https://bit.ly/4lpVzvV Gartner Announces 2025 Rankings of the Global Supply Chain Top 25: https://bit.ly/4eCjRQR Walmart to Test Carbon-Capture Apparel With California Startup: https://bit.ly/3TMpd2t From mustard makeovers to beef tallow, six food and beverage trends that could take over: https://bit.ly/3Iemv34Sofia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofia-rivas-herrera/ Supply Chain Now En Español on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/supply-chain-now-en-espanol https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now-en-espanol/EasyPost: Why Peak 2025 Is Not Business as Usual: https://bit.ly/4lKGmpcLearn 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- When to Walk Away from Warehouse AI - and When to Go All In: https://bit.ly/4dFgCYqWEBINAR- Real Stories: How Digital Planning Helped Australia’s Leading Packaging Manufacturer Unlock Millions in Capex: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUFWEBINAR- Unleash Your Inner Pioneer: How to Transform How You Lead: https://bit.ly/45X3ax3WEBINAR- Still in the Dark? 4 Shipping Visibility Fails You Can’t Afford This Peak: https://bit.ly/44g0NEiWEBINAR- Strengthening Fraud Defenses Through Tracking and Digital Visibility: https://bit.ly/4eiZ6t3WEBINAR- From Framework to Action: Decision Automation in the Agentic Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4nKlkJ6WEBINAR- From Legacy to Leading Edge, Morgan Foods’ Supply Chain Journey: https://bit.ly/3IcDDGkWEBINAR- Tomorrow’s Factory is Already Here: https://bit.ly/45QMGqoThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-navigating-burnout-water-stewardship-redefining-supply-chain-efficiency