Supply Chain Now

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Tandreia Bellamy are joined by Barbara Dirnberger, Principal Consultant at Sedex, and Irene Gari Chia, Consulting Solutions Manager at Sedex. Together, they discuss the pressing needs for businesses to move on and beyond compliance and emphasize the importance of nurturing the impact of supply chains on ESG, Environmental and Social Governance. Barbara and Irene get elbow-deep in how Sedex’s expertise guides companies to assess and mitigate social risks, with a goal to foster responsible practices and leadership across global supply chains. For supply chain leaders, these challenges turned opportunities around integrating ethical sourcing, sustainable procurement, and human rights considerations into everyday operations. And the light at the end of the tunnel is that effective collaboration, real-time data sharing, and proactive risk management can empower organizations of all kinds to fulfill meaningful change.Additional Links & Resources:Learn more about Sedex: www.sedex.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- The ABCs of Cargo Security and Loss Prevention: https://bit.ly/3zAirpTWEBINAR- Supply Chain in 2025: Top 5 Labeling and Packaging Artwork Trends to Watch: https://bit.ly/3Y9FWiZWEBINAR- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9WEBINAR- How Ferguson's Metrics-Driven Strategy Drove an 18% Improvement in Operational Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3YBbsFzThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton Tandreia Bellamy and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/sharing-resources-beyond-social-compliance-1349

Join us for this week's episode of The Buzz, as we dive into the evolving landscape of supply chain management, and the critical role of AI in supply chain planning and execution, showcasing innovative use cases that promise to revolutionize the industry.Additionally, hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr welcome special guests Dr. Stephanie Thomas, Associate Professor of Practice of Supply Chain Management and Executive Director of WISE, University of Arkansas, and Katherine Thomas, Student and President of the University of Arkansas WISE Chapter, who share insights from the recent WISE Future Leaders Symposium aimed at empowering the next generation of women in supply chain. Listen in to gain valuable perspectives on mentorship, personal branding, and the importance of building diverse teams, and discover actionable takeaways that can help you excel in your supply chain career while contributing to a more inclusive industry.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Stephanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniethomasuark/Connect with Katherine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinepthomas03/Learn more about WISE: https://walton.uark.edu/departments/supplychain/wise.phpWith That Said: https://bit.ly/3YrfC2Q This Supply Chain Dive article: 3M Pushing for Better Delivery Performance: https://bit.ly/3YC25p6 How Leading Manufacturers are Leveraging Technology to Fuel Factory Success featuring Stefan Schulz with 3M: https://bit.ly/4edooHxThis Forbes piece from Steve Banker: 25 Supply Chain AI Use Cases: https://bit.ly/3AskQ6nEmpowering the NOW Generation: The Future of Supply Chain Leadership featuring the University of Arkansas: https://bit.ly/48wrYLPLearn 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- The ABCs of Cargo Security and Loss Prevention: https://bit.ly/3zAirpTWEBINAR- Supply Chain in 2025: Top 5 Labeling and Packaging Artwork Trends to Watch: https://bit.ly/3Y9FWiZWEBINAR- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9WEBINAR- How Ferguson's Metrics-Driven Strategy Drove an 18% Improvement in Operational Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3YBbsFzThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr, and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-empowering-women-supply-chain-leadership-1348

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Karin Bursa are joined by Richie Daigle, Enterprise Account Executive at Tive, and David Shillingford, Co-founder of Everstream Analytics. Together, they discuss the critical challenges of freight security and how the ever-evolving threat landscape impacts global supply chains.Richie and David share their expertise on the latest trends in cargo theft, the importance of building strategic technology stacks, and how digitization and IoT devices are revolutionizing freight visibility. The discussion also covers the vital role of partnerships and trust across the supply chain ecosystem and how a culture of awareness and collaboration is vital to staying ahead of opportunistic and organized cargo thieves.Tune in to learn actionable insights on improving supply chain resilience, protecting high-value freight, and responding effectively to rising security threats with advanced technology and strategic planning.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(02:06) Addressing freight risks in supply chain(06:38) Rising cargo theft and security trends(10:41) Case study: cargo theft in Illinois(14:18) Technology’s role in preventing cargo theft(19:22) Digitization and its impact on freight security(24:26) Building a strategic tech stack for security(29:01) Enhancing visibility and quick response(34:42) The cultural element of security awareness(38:17) Data analytics and predictive capabilities in freight security(40:12) Implementing standard operating procedures for security(44:29) The importance of partnering with external experts(48:49) Success stories and overcoming security challengesAdditional Links & Resources:The ABCs of Cargo Security and Loss Prevention webinar: https://bit.ly/3zAirpTConnect with Richie Daigle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richiedaigle/Connect with David Shillingford: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shillingford/Learn more about Tive: https://www.tive.com/Learn more about Everstream Analytics: https://www.everstream.ai/Connect with Karin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinbursa/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- Supply Chain in 2025: Top 5 Labeling and Packaging Artwork Trends to Watch: https://bit.ly/3Y9FWiZWEBINAR- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9This episode was 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/confronting-ever-changing-dynamics-freight-security-1347

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton and Billy Ray Taylor are joined by Landon Mumbower and Johnathan McRary, both Managers of Consulting at Bastian Solutions, for an insightful conversation on optimizing distribution center performance through strategic consulting and automation.The panel explores five critical strategies for navigating the complexities of distribution center design and management, including single-point responsibility, data-driven insights, and the importance of aligning processes before introducing automation. Landon and Johnathan also share their expertise on selecting the right consulting resources and technologies to overcome challenges like labor shortages and the growing demand for omnichannel solutions.Tune in to learn how businesses can unlock operational efficiency, reduce risk, and maximize performance in today’s ever-changing supply chain environment.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(02:07) Welcoming Landon Mumbower and Johnathan McRary from Bastian Solutions(05:01) The current VUCA environment in supply chain and distribution(07:35) Discussing workforce challenges and labor retention(10:22) The omnichannel challenge: Meeting customers where they are(12:45) Optimizing distribution operations for better performance(15:12) Five critical strategies for distribution center optimization(17:30) Single point responsibility: Ensuring seamless project execution(20:09) The importance of data analytics and conceptual design(23:18) Process before automation: Avoiding automation mistakes(26:25) Objectivity in automation selection: Staying vendor-neutral(29:15) The value of partnerships and transparency with consulting resources(32:41) Change management and the need for effective communication(36:05) Examples of successful distribution optimization projects(38:42) Jonathan’s most recent favorite project(44:12) Final takeaways with Landon and JohnathanAdditional Links & Resources:Material Handling & Warehouse Automation Consulting: https://bit.ly/3XOdGkAConnect with Landon Mumbower: https://www.linkedin.com/in/landon-mumbower-mba-21852267/Connect with Johnathan McRary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnathan-mcrary-4350719/Learn more about Bastian Solutions: https://www.bastiansolutions.com/Connect with Billy Ray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billyrtaylor/ 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- The ABCs of Cargo Security and Loss Prevention: https://bit.ly/3zAirpTWEBINAR- Supply Chain in 2025: Top 5 Labeling and Packaging Artwork Trends to Watch: https://bit.ly/3Y9FWiZWEBINAR- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Billy Ray Taylor, and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/pitfalls-profit-consulting-insights-optimize-operations-1346

Join us for this week's episode of The Buzz, as we dive deep into the current landscape of supply chain planning, shedding light on critical shifts in manufacturing and the impacts of mergers and acquisitions.Hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa welcome special guest Dr. Madhav Durbha from RELAX Solutions to the show, and they discuss the key insights from the recent Gartner Supply Chain Planning Summit, emphasizing the importance of aligning AI advancements with practical business problems.Listen in as their conversation also includes:The evolving Halloween supply chainChallenges of data quality and user adoption in supply chain technologiesA focus on culture in successful acquisitionsAnd much more!Join the discussion as they uncover the dynamics shaping global supply chains today, from candy sales to corporate strategies.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Madhav: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madhav-durbha-460a3/Learn more about RELEX: relexsolutions.com“With That Said” from weekend: https://bit.ly/48vSHrJU.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: https://bit.ly/scn-us-bankThe Not-So-Mysterious Halloween Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/3Utd1ULMore US-based companies to shift supply chain operations into Americas: https://bit.ly/3A6rhfrSupply Chain Investments are a Major Portion of Total VC Investments: https://bit.ly/3Ylo6IFRELEX NEXT Online Event, November 14th: https://bit.ly/3NFl65bLearn 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- Pedaling to Profit: Trek’s Direct-to-Consumer Shipping Success Story: https://bit.ly/4gWMIzUWEBINAR- The ABCs of Cargo Security and Loss Prevention: https://bit.ly/3zAirpTWEBINAR- Supply Chain in 2025: Top 5 Labeling and Packaging Artwork Trends to Watch: https://bit.ly/3Y9FWiZWEBINAR- The CFO-Supply Chain Alliance: Driving Competitive Advantage through Agility and Financial Leadership: https://bit.ly/3NNapxaWEBINAR- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-intersection-seasonal-trends-supply-chain-dynamics-1345

Welcome, ghouls and goblins, to a hauntingly good episode of Supply Chain Now! Join us as Scott Luton and Mike Griswold reveal this year’s Halloween craze, with imports of spooky goods up by a spine-tingling 18.6%. Consumers are splurging on yard skeletons and inflatables, while costume sales see a surprising dip. Then, brace yourself for the “Global Chocolate Crisis”—a bitter reality as cocoa prices skyrocket due to aging trees and tricky weather. Finally, Walmart and Unilever team up to use real-time data magic, boosting shelf availability and customer satisfaction.So grab your cauldron of candy and join us for this eerie and insightful journey through the Halloween supply chain—if you dare! Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/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- Pedaling to Profit: Trek’s Direct-to-Consumer Shipping Success Story: https://bit.ly/4gWMIzUWEBINAR- The ABCs of Cargo Security and Loss Prevention: https://bit.ly/3zAirpTWEBINAR- Supply Chain in 2025: Top 5 Labeling and Packaging Artwork Trends to Watch: https://bit.ly/3Y9FWiZWEBINAR- The CFO-Supply Chain Alliance: Driving Competitive Advantage through Agility and Financial Leadership: https://bit.ly/3NNapxaWEBINAR- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EWEBINAR- The Cold Chain Dilemma: Why Visibility Falls Short and What Really Works: https://bit.ly/4hpu8k9This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/trick-treat-business-halloween-supply-chain-1344

Evan Junker, Chief Growth Officer at Sparq360, and Tjeerd de Jong, Partner at Sparq360 with experience from Nike and Converse, dive into the critical importance of sustainability in supply chains. They discuss actionable strategies for integrating sustainability, emphasizing its role as a cost-saving measure and competitive advantage. Topics include the significance of cross-functional leadership, aligning measurable targets, and enhancing EcoVadis scores. Their insights reveal how companies can tackle challenges and turn sustainability from a compliance necessity into a transformative opportunity.

Join us for this week's episode of The Buzz, as we dive into the significant impact of the upcoming U.S. elections on global supply chains. Hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter welcome special guest Dave Food, Strategy Director for Prophetic Technology to the show, and they explore how potential changes in U.S. policies could lead organizations worldwide to reassess their supply sources, particularly in the automotive and pharmaceutical sectors, amidst rising protectionism concerns. Listen in as our panel discusses:The importance of executive leadership in understanding supply chain risks and the ongoing challenges of talent shortages in the industryThe evolving landscape of logisticsThe need for enhanced carrier diversificationThe implications of technological advancements on the supply chainTune into this new episode for valuable insights on navigating supply chain complexities in a rapidly changing global environment.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/davefoodMost recent edition of With That Said: https://bit.ly/3Y6Ig9iLogistics takes center stage amid global supply chain uncertainties: https://bit.ly/3NuUzr8McKinsey Global Supply Chain Leader Survey: https://bit.ly/3zWIacrLearn 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- Pedaling to Profit: Trek’s Direct-to-Consumer Shipping Success Story: https://bit.ly/4gWMIzUWEBINAR- The ABCs of Cargo Security and Loss Prevention: https://bit.ly/3zAirpTWEBINAR- Supply Chain in 2025: Top 5 Labeling and Packaging Artwork Trends to Watch: https://bit.ly/3Y9FWiZWEBINAR- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter and produced by Amanda Luton and Trisha Cordes. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-politics-shape-global-supply-chains-1342

The future of supply chain starts with educating young and bright minds with the best programs that, fortunately, The University of Arkansas has covered.In this episode, Scott W. Luton sits down with Dr. Stephanie Thomas, Associate Professor at the University of Arkansas, and three outstanding students from the JB Hunt Department of Supply Chain Management: Ethan Helm, Madison Simpson, and Kelly Henderson. Together, they explore their passions as the next generation of supply chain thought starters and leaders. The conversation dives into how the university and the ecosystem surrounding it creates unparalleled opportunities for students through internships, real-world experience, and industry engagement. Altogether, today’s panel shares insights on the evolving supply chain landscape, ever-evolving technology, the importance of fostering diversity and mentorship through initiatives like the Wise Future Leaders Symposium.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(02:54) Meet the student panel: Ethan, Madison, and Kelly(06:58) The unique benefits of supply chain internships(10:15) The importance of understanding consumer needs in supply chain(14:34) Omnichannel retail and last-mile delivery(19:00) The impact of AI in supply chain management(23:37) Insights into managing supply chain operations at Target(28:49) The critical role of mentorship and networking in shaping future supply chain leaders(32:12) How real-world experience prepares students for success in the industry(36:01) Why the University of Arkansas requires supply chain internships(42:55) Empowering women in supply chain(48:15) How students are applying what they learn to improve supply chain processesAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Stephanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniethomasuark/Learn more about Stephanie: https://walton.uark.edu/departments/supplychain/directory/uid/spt003/name/Stephanie+Powell+Thomas/ Connect with Kelly: http://linkedin.com/in/kelly-henderson-766904250Connect with Madison: http://linkedin.com/in/madison-simpson-085b2424bConnect with Ethan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethan-helm-9ba933239Learn more about U of A Wise: https://www.linkedin.com/in/uarkwise/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/3XH6OVk WEBINAR- AI for SMBs: Unlocking Growth with Netstock's Benchmark Report: https://bit.ly/3AWtoCDWEBINAR- Pedaling to Profit: Trek’s Direct-to-Consumer Shipping Success Story: https://bit.ly/4gWMIzUWEBINAR- The ABCs of Cargo Security and Loss Prevention: https://bit.ly/3zAirpTWEBINAR- Supply Chain in 2025: Top 5 Labeling and Packaging Artwork Trends to Watch: https://bit.ly/3Y9FWiZWEBINAR- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5E This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/empowering-now-generation-future-supply-chain-leadership-featuring-university-arkansas-1341

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton and Kim Reuter are joined by Glen Clark, CEO of DP World in the US and Mexico, and Terry Donohoe, Senior Vice President of Freight Forwarding for DP World Americas, for an insightful discussion on logistics innovation and how it can unlock massive opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses.The panel discusses key trends transforming the logistics landscape, from automation and AI to sustainability practices that reduce costs without sacrificing environmental goals. Glen and Terry also share their expertise on overcoming common logistical challenges, providing insights on scaling operations, managing cash flow, and maximizing value for SMBs through global logistics networks.Tune in to hear real-world examples of how DP World is helping businesses succeed in complex, emerging markets by offering end-to-end supply chain solutions that ensure transparency, flexibility, and growth opportunities. Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(02:16) Welcoming Glen Clark and Terry Donohoe from DP World(12:47) Emerging trends in logistics: Technology and AI(13:51) Focus on SMBs and supply chain challenges(16:24) Transparency in pricing and digital platforms(18:43) AI’s role in scaling logistics for SMBs(20:12) Sustainability and cost-effective strategies in logistics(23:39) Common challenges for SMBs: Inventory and visibility(25:48) Flexibility and scalability in logistics(28:11) Addressing tech challenges for less tech-savvy SMBs(30:11) Using partners and simple tech solutions(36:07) The growing importance of sustainability in logistics(40:40) Real examples of logistics success for SMBsAdditional Links & Resources:Seamless Logistics Solutions- DP World: https://bit.ly/4eaYPYDConnect with Glen Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-clark-0670899/Connect with Terry Donohoe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-donohoe-818a1b9/Learn more about DP World: https://www.dpworld.com/Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/ Connect with Kim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-reuter-csg/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- AI for SMBs: Unlocking Growth with Netstock's Benchmark Report: https://bit.ly/3AWtoCDWEBINAR- Pedaling to Profit: Trek’s Direct-to-Consumer Shipping Success Story: https://bit.ly/4gWMIzUWEBINAR- The ABCs of Cargo Security and Loss Prevention: https://bit.ly/3zAirpTWEBINAR- Supply Chain in 2025: Top 5 Labeling and Packaging Artwork Trends to Watch: https://bit.ly/3Y9FWiZWEBINAR- Future-Proof Your Logistics: AI-Powered Solutions for Competitive Edge: https://bit.ly/3BouB5EThis episode was hosted by SCott Luton and Kim Reuter, and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our deditcated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/harnessing-global-logistics-innovation-SMB-growth-opportunities-strategies-1340