Africa is open for business! In this new episode in the Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa Series on Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton & special guest host MJ Schoemaker dive into the dynamic landscape of Africa's supply chain industry alongside Thato Moloi, a head of contract logistics in Southern Africa and the islands, and Vanya Jansen, Managing Director of Optigrow. Listen in to learn how collaboration, innovation, and resilience are driving transformational change within the continent's supply chain sectors. The team also discusses the crucial role of empathetic leadership, the importance of sharing ideas for sustainable solutions, and how embracing technology and collaboration can position Africa as a global supply chain leader. Jump into the conversation:00:00 Introducing MJ, Thato, and Vanya13:59 Leadership development and coaching17:41 Why successful collaboration is key in supply chain23:00 South Africa avoids load shedding through coalition24:45 Standardization and adaptability in supply chain challenges29:03 AI challenges require caution, backup plans33:32 Adapting leadership style to fit specific situations37:39 The power of giving back and adapting during Covid44:45 African supply chain insights51:05 Africa’s great potential for economic growth.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with MJ Schoemaker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mj-schoemaker-cscp-cpf-a1bb781/ Connect with Thato Moloi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thato-moloi-mba-5132b7122/ Connect with Vanya Jansen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanya-jansen-cscp-00159936/ 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/3XH6OVk WEBINAR- Beyond Resilience: Capitalizing on Supply Chain Uncertainty: https://bit.ly/46kdltYWEBINAR- 5 Key Considerations for Supply Chain Marketing Pros in 2025: https://bit.ly/3MtnoDXWEBINAR- Optimizing Procurement Operations with Group Purchasing Organizations: https://bit.ly/3yKnaVBWEBINAR- Mastering Shipping: Insider Tips for Reliable and Cost-Effective Deliveries: https://bit.ly/3XdC3t5This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and MJ Schoemaker and produced by Amanda Luton and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/supply-chain-leadership-across-africa-breaking-down-silos-building-bridges-1315

Discover the critical insights shaping the future of the freight market from Q2 2024, as industry experts unveil data-driven trends and forecasts.In this episode, Scott W. Luton is joined by Bobby Holland, Lee Klaskow, and co-host Tandreia Bellamy. They discuss the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index, based on $42 billion in transactions processed by U.S. Bank in 2023. Together, we hear about the domestic freight market's approaching bottom, decreased shipper spending, and regional economic variations.Listeners will walk away with a nuanced understanding of national and regional shipment trends, the impact of inflation on consumer habits, and forecasts for future market recovery.Jump into the conversation:00:00 Introduction of Bobby Holland and Lee Klaskow08:59 Dissecting the US Bank Freight Payment Index10:41 Analyst's approach to industry and economic research13:58 Improvement predictions in retail demand22:57 Supply chains disrupted by unforeseen events26:39 ISM manufacturing index31:54 Low-income impact of inflation and changing consumer behavior40:16 Truckers and capacity shifts43:41 Transportation outlookAdditional Links and Resources:Download the U.S. Bank Q2 2024 Freight Payment Index: https://bit.ly/scn-us-bankConnect with Bobby Holland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-holland-4a9355/ Connect with Lee Klaskow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leeklaskow/ Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/aboutLearn 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- Beyond Resilience: Capitalizing on Supply Chain Uncertainty: https://bit.ly/46kdltYWEBINAR- 5 Key Considerations for Supply Chain Marketing Pros in 2025: https://bit.ly/3MtnoDXWEBINAR- Optimizing Procurement Operations with Group Purchasing Organizations: https://bit.ly/3yKnaVBThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy. For more information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https;//supplychainnow.com/analysis-us-bank-2024-q2-freight-payment-index-1314

The Buzz is Supply Chain Now’s regular Monday livestream, held at 12 noon ET each week. This show focuses on some of the leading stories from global supply chain and global business, always with special guests – the most important of which is the live audience!In this week's episode of The Buzz, hosts Scott Luton and Billy Ray Taylor welcome Kathy Fulton and Lexi Nobles with American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) to the show. Listen in as they share more about ALAN, an organization that provides supply chain assistance to humanitarian organizations when disasters hit, the importance of community building, and their role in disaster response and recovery. They also discuss the top industry news of the week including:Boeing’s chaotic factory cultureWhat Works in Taiwan Doesn’t Always in ArizonaBilly Ray's recent time with Marcus LemonisAnd much more!Additional Links & Resources:Most recent With That Said: https://bit.ly/3WZXKwAU.S. Bank Freight Payment Index for 2nd Quarter 2024: https://bit.ly/scn-us-bankBilly Ray's recent time with Marcus Lemonis: https://bit.ly/3yoEijGLearn more about American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN): https://www.alanaid.org/Boeing’s chaotic factory culture on display at NTSB hearings: https://bit.ly/4dwsgUkWhat Works in Taiwan Doesn’t Always in Arizona, a Chipmaking Giant Learns: https://bit.ly/3AeHJd12024 Baldrige Fall Conference: https://www.baldrigeconference.org/Connect with the Supply Chain Now community and programming: https://linktr.ee/SupplychainnowLearn 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- Beyond Resilience: Capitalizing on Supply Chain Uncertainty: https://bit.ly/46kdltYWEBINAR- 5 Key Considerations for Supply Chain Marketing Pros in 2025: https://bit.ly/3MtnoDXWEBINAR- Optimizing Procurement Operations with Group Purchasing Organizations: https://bit.ly/3yKnaVBThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Billy Ray Taylor and produced by Amanda Luton and Katherine HIntz. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-featuring-alan-1313

Ever wondered how supply chains adapt in the face of global challenges and technological advancements?In this episode, host Scott W. Luton sits down with Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, to explore the dynamic world of supply chain management through the lens of current events and industry transformations. They dive deeply into Hasbro's strategic moves to tackle inventory challenges, navigate the shifting tides of global manufacturing, and leverage AI innovations in the grocery sector. Discover how Hasbro is balancing the rise in digital toy demand and the decline of physical toys, and how they are utilizing data analytics for effective supply and demand planning.Listeners will uncover a comprehensive understanding of the competitive landscape as nations like China, South Korea, and the US ramp up their investments in domestic manufacturing to secure market share. Learn about the surging importance of e-commerce, the controversial role of self-checkouts, and the potential retail repercussions of the Kroger-Albertsons merger. Don't miss out on key takeaways that can help you navigate and excel in this ever-evolving field.Jump into the conversation:00:00 Introduction with Mike Griswold07:30 How Hasbro has overcome recent challenges09:56 Forecasting digital versus physical products, sales planning nuances16:13 China’s investment of national income in manufacturing19:48 Why Western countries need to focus on competitiveness24:46 Should government run businesses?30:25 Preparing for potential outcomes while maintaining balance35:07 Diverse customer needs require balanced self-service options40:49 Seven burning questions for the grocery industryAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/ 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- Tackling Manufacturing’s Billion-Dollar Parts Problem with AI: https://bit.ly/3YuxM5fWEBINAR- Beyond Resilience: Capitalizing on Supply Chain Uncertainty: https://bit.ly/46kdltYThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/toy-shelves-grocery-aisles-naviagting-modern-supply-chain-challenges-1312

The world around us will always be an ever-changing landscape beyond our control. What we can control, however, is our supply chain strategy and how we maneuver ourselves through a sea of adversity and challenges.What helps with that are a few things such as a unified supply chain that provides end-to-end visibility, tracking products both in motion and at rest. With this visibility comes proactivity to foresee disruptions, make quick adjustments, and maintain smooth operations.In this episode, hosts Scott W. Luton and Marcia Williams sit down with Rob Schaefer and Bryant Smith from Manhattan to dive deep into the future of supply chain technology. Discover how a unified supply chain can provide agility, speed, and increased revenues, allowing your company to react swiftly to market changes.Jump into the conversation:00:00 Introduction to Rob and Bryant09:40 Geopolitical and COVID disruptions impacting global shipments16:32 Managing complex global supply chains requiring resilience19:30 End-to-end visibility with one platform solution21:45 TMS and WMS streamline unified shipment process27:18 Timely, accurate data crucial for supply chain33:41 Improving labor efficiency through better transportation insights39:29 Streamlining systems, proactive supply chain management efficiency42:24 Benefits of unified approach for software updates48:35 Companies expanding partnership with Manhattan and moreAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Robert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-schaefer/Connect with Bryant: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryantsmith1/ Unified Supply Chain EBook: https://bit.ly/4foRtl7Manhattan Unified Supply Chain Powers Schneider Electric’s Global Distribution and Transportation Transformation: https://bit.ly/4c5ObR2Learn more about Manhattan Associates: https://www.manh.com/ Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/aboutLearn 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- Benefits & Challenges of Bringing More Data to the Demand Planning Process: https://bit.ly/3SiqxcMWEBINAR- Tackling Manufacturing’s Billion-Dollar Parts Problem with AI: https://bit.ly/3YuxM5fWEBINAR- Beyond Resilience: Capitalizing on Supply Chain Uncertainty: https://bit.ly/46kdltYThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Marcia Williams, and produced by Amanda Luton and Katherine Hintz. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/unlocking-cost-savings-supply-chain-unification-driving-efficiency-profitability-1311

The Buzz is Supply Chain Now’s regular Monday livestream, held at 12 noon ET each week. This show focuses on some of the leading stories from global supply chain and global business, always with special guests – the most important of which is the live audience!In this week's episode of The Buzz, hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr welcome guest Luis Roman, the Vice President of Johnson & Johnson MedTech Supply Chain, to the show. Together they discuss:How supplier collaboration is key to Johnson & Johnson's climate pushManufacturing entering a ‘deeper slowdown period’ ahead of election5 Supply Chain Concerns to Watch in Late 2024How Johnson & Johnson MedTech is empowering business units and prioritizing sustainability Advice for professionals in anticipating and preparing for disruptions in the supply chain Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Luis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luis-roman-3bba955/ Recent edition of With That Said: https://bit.ly/3Ab1yChOMNIA Partners- Spend Visibility: From Analysis to Action: Recent edition of With That Said: https://bit.ly/3LdMgySSupplier Collaboration Key to Johnson & Johnson Climate Push: https://bit.ly/3A9BwiCManufacturing enters ‘deeper slowdown period’ ahead of election: July PMI: https://bit.ly/3WyxOGL5 Supply Chain Concerns to Watch in Late 2024: https://bit.ly/46GGVtOConnect with the Supply Chain Now Community: https://linktr.ee/SupplychainnowLearn 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- Benefits & Challenges of Bringing More Data to the Demand Planning Process: https://bit.ly/3SiqxcMWEBINAR- Tackling Manufacturing’s Billion-Dollar Parts Problem with AI: https://bit.ly/3YuxM5fWEBINAR- Beyond Resilience: Capitalizing on Supply Chain Uncertainty: https://bit.ly/46kdltYThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-august-9-johnson-johnson-medtech-supply-chain-1310

High-volume shipping success hinges on leveraging technology to optimize costs and service levels, maintaining strong carrier relationships, and ensuring real-time operational continuity.In this episode, hosts Scott W. Luton and Tandreia Bellamy delve into complex shipping strategies and how to optimize operations for millions of packages daily with the help of Justin Cramer, Co-Founder of ProShip.  Tune in to understand how embracing automation, holistically engaging your organization, and effectively managing business rules can drive success. With actionable tips on aligning user experience and improving operational continuity, this episode is a goldmine for anyone looking to streamline their shipping processes and dominate the market. Jump into the conversation:00:00 Introduction to Tandreia and Justin08:26 Adapting to rapid change in shipping technology13:39 Leverage industry groups, communicate, and beware of scams21:42 Is your provider's interface fast and efficient?26:01 Separation of concerns crucial for enterprise shipping29:33 Carrier relationships crucial for efficient shipping software33:03 Praising expressions and championing technology41:02 Healthcare and regulated industries requiring data protection45:00 Simplifying shipping complexities and leveraging expert consultationsAdditional Links & Resources:Schedule a personal delivery call with ProShip: https://bit.ly/3XTM0weTop 3 Reasons Modern Shippers Choose ProShip enterprise multi-carrier shipping software: https://bit.ly/3WeGqUcConnect with Justin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincramer Learn more about ProShip: https://proshipinc.com/ Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/ Connect with Tandreia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tandreia-bellamy-56b49959/ 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- Benefits & Challenges of Bringing More Data to the Demand Planning Process: https://bit.ly/3SiqxcMWEBINAR- Tackling Manufacturing’s Billion-Dollar Parts Problem with AI: https://bit.ly/3YuxM5fWEBINAR- Beyond Resilience: Capitalizing on Supply Chain Uncertainty: https://bit.ly/46kdltYThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy, and produced by Amanda Luton and Katherine Hintz. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/5-game-changing-strategies-dominate-high-volume-shipping-1309

Passionate young minds are what will determine the future of the supply chain industry. Join host Scott W. Luton in this episode of the "NOW Generation" series on Supply Chain Now, as he engages with Professor Jake Dean and students Hailey Mehta and Peter Freye from the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Grainger Center for Supply Chain Management. Hailey Mehta and Peter Freye share their inspiring journeys into the field, emphasizing the creative, people-focused aspects of supply chain management that captivated their interest. From the adventures and opportunities of student life to the challenges and possibilities of modern supply chains, listen as they look to the future and explore a shared love for simple yet impactful solutions in global supply chain. Learn from their fresh perspectives and new ideas through this discussion of early passions for supply chain management and grit beyond graduation.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Jake: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakejdean/ Connect with Hailey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-mehta/ Connect with Peter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-freye Learn more about The Grainger Center for Supply Chain Management: https://business.wisc.edu/centers/grainger/ 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- Protecting Value in the Supply Chain with Rebates: https://bit.ly/3WsJSKZWEBINAR- Benefits & Challenges of Bringing More Data to the Demand Planning Process: https://bit.ly/3SiqxcMWEBINAR- Tackling Manufacturing’s Billion-Dollar Parts Problem with AI: https://bit.ly/3YuxM5fWEBINAR- Beyond Resilience: Capitalizing on Supply Chain Uncertainty: https://bit.ly/46kdltYThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/voice-now-generation-spotlight-university-wisconsin-madison-1308

The Buzz is Supply Chain Now’s regular Monday livestream, held at 12 noon ET each week. This show focuses on some of the leading stories from global supply chain and global business, always with special guests – the most important of which is the live audience!In this week's episode of The Buzz, hosts Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love welcomed Dan White with Venture 53, Venture 53's first Field Day winners, Reade Kidd with EDRAY, and Beth Flippo with Drone Express. Together they discuss the recent Venture 53 Field Day event in Atlanta, along with:Gen AI's demanding energy needsInvestors pulling back on funding for logistics start-upsThe (near!) future of drone delivery New tech solutions for international shippersAnd so much more!Additional Links & Resources:Most recent edition of With That Said: https://bit.ly/3YtHaq51st Annual Transportation Management Technology Survey with RateLinx: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/OVD4kQLogistics start-up funding: The investor pullback continues- https://bit.ly/3YoLA1hGenerative AI requires massive amounts of power and water, and the aging U.S. grid can’t handle the load: https://bit.ly/46u3XUrScott's article about Venture 53 Field Day: https://bit.ly/4cZ8jVXConnect with the Supply Chain Now community & programming: https://linktr.ee/SupplychainnowLearn more about EDRAY: https://www.edray.com/Learn more about Drone Express: https://droneexpress.com/Learn more about Venture 53: https://www.venture53.com/OMNIA Partners Spend Visibility: From Analysis to Action: https://bit.ly/3LdMgySLearn 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- Protecting Value in the Supply Chain with Rebates: https://bit.ly/3WsJSKZWEBINAR- Benefits & Challenges of Bringing More Data to the Demand Planning Process: https://bit.ly/3SiqxcMWEBINAR- Tackling Manufacturing’s Billion-Dollar Parts Problem with AI: https://bit.ly/3YuxM5fWEBINAR- Beyond Resilience: Capitalizing on Supply Chain Uncertainty: https://bit.ly/46kdltYThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-venture-53-field-day-winners-1307

The key to streamlined shipping and predictable profits is an advanced Transportation Management System.Join host Scott W. Luton in this episode as he delves into the intricate world of freight logistics with industry experts Shannon Vaillancourt, CEO of RateLinx, and Shawn Gagg, CIO of Jaeckle Distributors. Together, the three discuss critical strategies and technological advancements that are revolutionizing how businesses manage and optimize their shipping costs. Shannon and Shawn share the transformative impacts of their partnership, spotlighting the importance of accurate contract rates, the integration of order details with shipping costs, and leveraging TMS data for better decision-making.Additional Links & Resources:INSIGHT 2024 Conference- https://www.ratelinx.com/ratelinx-insight-conference/1st Annual Transportation Management Technology Survey with RateLinx: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/OVD4kQConnect with Shawn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-gagg-9337676/ Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-vaillancourt/ Learn more about Jaeckle Distributors: https://www.jaeckledistributors.com/ Learn more about RateLinx: https://bit.ly/4aDtvz6Connect 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- Protecting Value in the Supply Chain with Rebates: https://bit.ly/3WsJSKZWEBINAR- Benefits & Challenges of Bringing More Data to the Demand Planning Process: https://bit.ly/3SiqxcMWEBINAR- Beyond Resilience: Capitalizing on Supply Chain Uncertainty: https://bit.ly/46kdltYThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton and Katherine Hintz. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/3-ways-tms-provides-predictable-financials-1306