Logistics Viewpoints

FEBRUARY 5, 2024

Walmart is reducing its requirements that suppliers’ shipments to them arrive on-time in-full. Since September of 2020, 98% has been Walmart’s OTIF requirement. Beginning on February 1 st , the new OTIF targets became 90% for on-time and 95% for in-full. This was announced on the Retail Link portal for suppliers on January 30 th. Walmart’s On-Time In-Full initiative is a compliance measure designed to ensure that freight arrives at a Walmart store or distribution center when it was supposed to,

Shipping 243

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Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 26, 2024

I have often written about legal issues and battles in California, as the state has been in the news for its warehouse and trucking emission rules, independent contractor rules for gig workers, and union disagreements at ports. Well, this week, I saw a new story about a bill in California that is turning heads. If a bill introduced by San Francisco-based state Senator Scott Wiener becomes law, California could become the first state to require certain new cars to be equipped with a device capabl

Logistics Network Optimization Software 232

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Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 25, 2024

Getting started with AI in supply chain might not start where you think. Some try delving into deep learning or a crash course in generative AI (GenAI), but I don’t recommend starting there. Instead start with the foundation of your AI strategy, which should be an understanding of your company’s supply chain and your data. Second, avoid islands of isolation and limited impact by integrated AI into your supply chain so the results are aligned end to end.

Supply Chain Planning Software 231

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Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 15, 2024

The much-delayed Tesla Semi has finally hit the road. The Semi started its first consumer deliveries in 2022. The vehicles have only been delivered to one customer – PepsiCo. Since then, the PepsiCo’s Tesla Semi fleet has grown to almost 100 vehicles. The Tesla Semi is a battery electric Class 8 semi-truck built by Tesla. Unlike Tesla’s electric cars the Semi does not support an upgrade to Enhanced Autopilot.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 272

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Logistics Viewpoints

DECEMBER 12, 2023

In today’s fast-paced, hyper-competitive, omni-channel world, warehouses play a critical role in maximizing service and fulfilling the ambitious customer promises that are required today. Warehouses also represent an enormous cost center. Companies annually spend about $325 billion on warehousing — and 85% of that cost goes to operating expenses that include labor, space and equipment.

Supply Chain Planning Software 280

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Logistics Viewpoints

DECEMBER 11, 2023

I’ve completed research on supply chain planning (SCP) boutiques. My colleague Clint Reiser has completed a study on warehouse management system (WMS) boutiques. We are teaming up to bring you the coolest supply chain boutiques, listed alphabetically, that we identified through those studies. What is a boutique? A boutique is a small, regionally focused system integration and consulting firm.

Supply Chain Design Software 244

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Logistics Viewpoints

DECEMBER 1, 2023

To say that Black Friday weekend shopping was a success would be an understatement. In fact, to kick off the holiday shopping season, a record 200.4 million shoppers hit the stores and the internet to capitalize on Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation. The turnout topped last year’s figure of 196.7 million shoppers and the NRF’s forecast for about 182 million people during the five-day weekend.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 231

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Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Note: Today’s post is part of our “ Editor’s Choice ” series where we highlight recent posts published by our sponsors that provide supply chain insights and advice. This article is from James Canham-Ash at Manhattan Associates and looks at the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. The latest research from Manhattan shows that 89% of consumers have altered their spending habits in response to cost-of-living challenges.

Retail 223

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Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 1, 2023

Ten years ago, an ARC Advisory Group colleague described the China residential telecommunications landscape to me as one that advanced from traditional in-person communication (think Rocky Balboa saying “ I’ll just call you…I’ll go ‘Hey yo! ’ ”) directly to cellular networks – virtually skipping the entire 20th century paradigm of landline telephone communications.

China 241

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Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 13, 2023

Have you ever heard of paraskevidekatriaphobia? It’s likely that only the ultra-superstitious have herd of the term, which is a fear of Friday the 13th. Like many superstitions that have evolved over time and across cultures, it is difficult to pinpoint the precise origins of Friday the 13th. But one source mentioned the unlucky nature of the number “13” is a Norse myth about 12 gods having a dinner party in Valhalla.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 248

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Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 11, 2023

A couple of weeks ago I wrote an article outlining how cargo theft is on the rise. In the United States alone, cargo theft is a $15 to $35 billion industry. The most common type of theft in recent years has been what is called strategic cargo theft, which uses deceptive means to commit theft, including the use of fraud and deceptive information to trick brokers into giving up a load.

Packaging 221

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Logistics Viewpoints

SEPTEMBER 22, 2023

Over the last few months, I’ve heard the term greenwashing over and over again. Greenwashing is a form of advertising or marketing spin in which green PR and green marketing are deceptively used to persuade the public that an organization’s products, aims and policies are environmentally friendly. A notable example of greenwashing is when McDonald’s introduced paper straws to reduce plastic pollution.

Los Angeles 222

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Logistics Viewpoints

SEPTEMBER 20, 2023

My colleague Fox Chen and I just kicked-off the update to ARC Advisory Group’s research on the global mobile warehouse robotics market. Fox is located in Singapore, and I am in Boston. With a solid 12-hour time zone difference between him and me, together we should be able to speak with any robotics provider at virtually any time – we are the around-the-clock research team.

Research 248

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Logistics Viewpoints

SEPTEMBER 19, 2023

Supply chain resiliency and sustainability are top priorities for CEOs today. To achieve these goals, corporate leadership must focus on two key areas: shift from internally focused supply chains to collaborative supply networks and actively design their supply chains. Resiliency, which is the ability to withstand supply chain shocks and bounce back quickly, has become the most important requirement for supply chains.

Supply Chain Design Software 231

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Logistics Viewpoints

AUGUST 31, 2023

Note: Today’s post is part of our “ Editor’s Choice ” series where we highlight recent posts published by our sponsors that provide supply chain insights and advice. Today’s article comes from Kyle Franklin, Senior Solutions Consultant, Lucas Systems, and looks at warehouse distribution errors. Being a veteran of the warehouse industry throughout my career has given me a unique insight into many aspects of distribution interaction.

Warehousing 224

Warehousing Distribution Vendor Strategies How To 224

Logistics Viewpoints

AUGUST 30, 2023

A transportation management system ( TMS ) helps companies move freight from origin to destination efficiently, reliably, and cost-effectively. The primary reason companies buy a TMS is for freight savings. These freight savings can be attributed to simulation and network design, load consolidation and lower cost mode selections, and multi-stop route optimization.

Optimal Sourcing 194

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Logistics Viewpoints

AUGUST 11, 2023

Long live rock! At the beginning of this week, I took a “boy’s trip” with my son and my dad to Ohio to check out the Football Hall of Fame and the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame. Both venues were incredible, and it was an amazing bonding experience for the three of us. The Football Hall of Fame was especially fun as we were able to see old and new equipment up close, and my son got to try on a Joe Burrow game worn jersey.

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Logistics Viewpoints

AUGUST 9, 2023

This year’s research on the global WMS market has revealed many of the perennial factors influencing demand for WMS solutions – such as e-commerce fulfillment needs. However, there is one dynamic that became ubiquitous across market segments this year. I refer to this dynamic as demand for “WMS-plus.” — I have now completed ARC Advisory Group’s research on the global warehouse management systems (WMS) market , and it is currently in editing.

Demand Planning Software 195

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Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 24, 2023

Amazon is currently seeking 2,500 small businesses across the US to become part of their new local delivery service called “Amazon Hub delivery.” Amazon partners will receive packages each morning and have the flexibility to make that day’s deliveries at their convenience. Deliveries will occur seven days a week, except for major holidays. Businesses such as coffee shops, dry cleaners, and florists could bring in new income to their businesses by delivering packages for Amazon using existing sta

Customer Service 201

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Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 21, 2023

Seven years ago, I wrote that Cyberdyne Systems’ Skynet division was working on teleportation capabilities that will eliminate the need to wait for products to ship entirely. While still in the early stages of development, the emerging technology will instantly transport an item once it is picked at a warehouse or store to your living room. According to Dr.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 193

Logistics Network Optimization Software Purchasing Skills Pricing Training Procurement Analytics 193

Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 6, 2023

The marijuana supply chain is an interesting market to follow. Like any agricultural product, there are ebbs and flows to its supply and demand. However, there is one caveat in the marijuana supply chain that makes things a bit trickier: in most states, cannabis products can only be sold and consumed within the state that the original plant was grown.

Supply Chain Design 180

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Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 5, 2023

I engaged in numerous discussions with robotics executives last year as I was developing ARC Advisory Group’s mobile warehouse robotics (AMR) research. I noticed that many of them obtained valuable experience at Kiva Systems (Amazon Robotics) prior to their current roles. One such executive credited Mark Messina with Amazon’s ability to scale its rollout of Kiva Systems subsequent to its acquisition of the company.

Supply Chain Design Software 226

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Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 19, 2023

Experts have recently warned about the possibility that artificial intelligence (AI) could lead to the destruction of 400 million jobs by 2030. These same pundits also predict that AI could lead to increases in global GDP by trillions of dollars in the same time frame. However, AI’s inability to solve the very limited problem of ensuring that inventory is located in the right place in a warehouse suggests that planners don’t have to worry too much about job security.

Supply Chain Design Software 237

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Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 5, 2023

Manhattan Associates, a supplier of supply chain management software solutions and the market share leader for warehouse management systems (WMS), had their Momentum user conference a couple of weeks ago. Sanjeev Siotia, the chief technology officer at Manhattan, spoke about the role of ChatGPT for supply chain management in one of the keynotes on day one of the conference.

Supply Chain Software 205

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Logistics Viewpoints

MAY 24, 2023

Raymour & Flanigan, the Northeast’s largest mattress and furniture retailer, is a family-run company with a strong corporate culture. A core tenet of its culture is a focus on providing a positive customer experience and ensuring everyone’s furniture and home décor needs are met. Part of this positive experience is supported by high product availability and rapid white-glove delivery.

Supply Chain Planning Software 185

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Logistics Viewpoints

MAY 22, 2023

A Supply Chain Design Solution from Coupa Imagine you’ve just received the job offer of your dreams. The company is willing to relocate you thousands of miles away from home and your family is in full support. The interview process is over, but more challenges are ahead. Which school are your children going to attend? Are you going to rent a house or an apartment?

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Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 28, 2023

I’m back after a quick family vacation to New Orleans. The trip was amazing, as we experienced a zipline swamp tour, a second line parade on our street, the opportunity to see the greatest clarinet player in the world (Doreen Ketchens), as well as a full culinary tour of the city. While it was a bit tough to jump right back into the swing of work, I saw an interesting article about workplace conditions when I got back.

Material Savings 202

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Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 27, 2023

Note: Today’s post is part of our “ Editor’s Choice ” series where we highlight recent posts published by our sponsors that provide supply chain insights and advice. Today’s article comes from Eric Mcpherson at Open Sky Group and looks at a WMS budget and preparing for implementation. When you begin researching Warehouse Management System ( WMS ) software, you’re probably running into some difficulties in the budgeting process because pricing is not always readily available.

Supply Chain Planning Software 203

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Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 13, 2023

Note: Today’s post is part of our “ Editor’s Choice ” series where we highlight recent posts published by our sponsors that provide supply chain insights and advice. Today’s article comes from the team at KNAPP and explores the use of warehouse robotics. Does this sound familiar to you? Customers want their goods ASAP as competition and cost pressures soar.

Warehousing 215

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Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 12, 2023

I recently attended Körber Supply Chain’s user conference, Elevate 2023. I was in the midst of updating ARC Advisory Group’s research on the independent WMS consultancy market at that time. I therefore took the opportunity to meet with a few of the independent consultants in attendance. I also met with some the consultants’ customers that adopted Körber solutions.

Maryland 244

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Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 11, 2023

Companies and supply chains continue to face unprecedented challenges and, in some cases, unprecedented opportunities. The post-COVID-19 (if we can claim to be post COVID) “new normal” will continue to be defined by new challenges and more importantly by the ability of the supply chain executives to manage disruption and their ability to power organization strategy and growth.

Supply Chain Planning Software 204

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Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 24, 2023

A few weeks ago I wrote that Little Brown Bakers, the manufacturer behind Girl Scout Cookies , is warning of unforeseen supply issues that will be impacting both manufacturing and distribution of its treats. The company said that digital orders could take longer than normal to fulfill due to unforeseen supply chain shortages, but in-person distribution of cookies will not be impacted by the supply chain issues.

Los Angeles 162

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Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 9, 2023

Commerce is global and regional at the same time, the world is getting smaller and more interconnected, and Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) manufacturers operate in this build-anywhere and sell-anywhere market. Consumers are ever more conscious of value, sensitive to health and environmental issues – especially after the COVID pandemic, each demanding more options for their money.

Supply Chain Planning Software 200

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Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 6, 2023

GEON Performance Solutions purchases plastic pellets and add plastic compounders to make products of different strength, resilience, and flexibility. When a company undergoes a digital transformation, the transformation should be based on an understanding of what they want to achieve. A transformation that is based on the idea that by putting in new applications the company will automate a process, or processes, and provide more and better data to make decisions, is a poor foundation for a true

Supply Chain Planning Software 235

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Logistics Viewpoints

FEBRUARY 15, 2023

There are numerous indications that supply chain is more critical than ever. Results from The Conference Board’s C-SUITE OUTLOOK survey showed supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and rising inflation to be 3 of the 5 high impact external factors on the minds of CEOs. In addition, the Board asked executives what steps they were taking in response to the war in Ukraine.

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Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 26, 2023

The international aviation industry accounts for 2-3 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions annually and can no longer operate in a sustainable manner without major transformation. In October 2022, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) met for their 41st assembly. 2,500 delegates from 184 States and 57 organizations adopted a collective long-term global aspirational goal (LTAG) of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Sustainability 202

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Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 25, 2023

Last week I returned to the National Retail Federation (NRF) Big Show for the first time in 3 years. A crowd of nearly 37,000 people flocked to the Javits Center in New York City to see what new solutions and innovations software suppliers had in store for 2023 and beyond. The usual themes were still very present as solution providers and retailers alike were more than happy to talk about omni-channel, mobility, and machine learning, to name a few.

Supply Chain Planning Software 206

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