Logistics Viewpoints

MAY 27, 2024

In 2020, Microsoft committed to become carbon negative by 2030, and by 2050, the company aims to remove historical emissions since its founding in 1975. The company is operationalizing this target by reducing emissions as much as possible, increasing use of carbon-free electricity, and removing the emissions that remain. Meanwhile, Microsoft opened roughly 100 new datacenters in 2023, and now has over 300 of them.

Supply Chain Design Software 221

Supply Chain Design Software Cost Reduction Strategies Inventory Reduction Supply Chain Design 221

Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 29, 2024

Michael Jacobs, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain at Ferguson PLC In 2022, I wrote an article called The Best Supply Chain Company You Have Never Heard Of. The article was about Ferguson PLC, a value-added distributor of plumbing and heating products. Ferguson has an extensive and complex supply chain. When I had an opportunity to catch up with Michael Jacobs, the senior vice president of supply chain at Ferguson, I leapt at the chance.

Supply Chain Design Software 230

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Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 22, 2024

Mike Carroll, a vice president at Georgia-Pacific, and Ron Norris, director of innovation at GP While Generative AI has sparked great excitement, a form of artificial intelligence called Causal AI might offer much greater potential. Causal AI offers the tantalizing promise of being able to unravel the intricate web of cause-and-effect relationships that govern business operations.

Georgia 229

Georgia Optimal Sourcing Modeling Modeling Software 229

Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 19, 2024

After months of anticipation, the day is finally here. On February 4 at the 2024 Grammy Awards, Taylor Swift announced that she would be releasing a new album, which had secretly been in the works for two years. The album, The Tortured Poets Department , was released overnight. But in a shocking twist, just two hours later, Swift surprise-released a 15-track expansion of the album, dubbed The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 218

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Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 20, 2024

Aside from creating products that have sustainable benefits, Siemens has increased the value of their offerings by focusing on the traceability and data verification of their products. Companies across the globe are being placed under pressure to keep an accurate record of emissions data across their entire supply chain, due to regulations requiring annual reporting.

Sustainability 257

Sustainability Industrial Industry Resource Reduction 257

Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 19, 2024

As an industry, linking supply chain planning and execution has been discussed for decades. Why, in 2024 are we still talking about it and what can be done to move in the right direction? The ability to unify key processes is closely tied to making timely, informed decisions – and the speed and quality of decision-making are crucial factors that significantly impact overall company performance.

Supply Chain Planning Software 252

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Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 15, 2024

St. Patrick’s Day is this Sunday, and consumers are doing more than just wearing green – they are spending lots of green as well. According to its annual survey, the National Retail Federation (NRF) indicates that consumers plan to spend a record $7.2 billion — or an average of $44.40 per person — on the holiday this year and, perhaps unsurprisingly, their top spending categories are food and beverages.

Expense Reduction 233

Expense Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies Price Reduction Negotiating Skills 233

Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 13, 2024

At the ARC Industry Leadership Forum in February, I had the opportunity to sit down with Rick Rys, Director of Consulting at ARC Advisory Group, to discuss the electric power supply chain. I asked Rick to give some deeper insights on a few key points. First, what are the overall supply chain issues make power greener? Second, what are the driving forces for this transition to renewable and how quickly is it happening?

Supply Chain Design Software 226

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Logistics Viewpoints

FEBRUARY 14, 2024

It’s human nature to want to start a new year with new goals—the ever-present new year’s resolutions. Typically, we make it at least one month into the new year before we have to revise our plans. However, it’s only early February 2024, and we already have several major disruptions impacting supply chains. As Alan Amling at the University of Tennessee put it, “2024 is riddled with uncertainty.

Supply Chain Planning Software 251

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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 247

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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 236

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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 235

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Software Supply Chain Planning Supply Chain Strategy 235

Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 17, 2024

At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024, companies including Hyundai, Nikola , and Bosch presented their most recent fuel cells and hydrogen technology innovations, indicating a potential comeback for this environmentally friendly energy choice. This resurgence might be influenced by the announcement of a $7 billion U.S. government initiative last year aimed at developing hydrogen infrastructure in the country.

Asia 237

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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 276

Logistics Network Optimization Software United States Study Just-in-Time 276

Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 8, 2024

Detainees listening to speeches in a camp in Lop County, Xinjiang, April 2017 All countries claim that they have outlawed slavery. But slavery still exists. Today we refer to slavery as “forced labor.” Forced labor can be imposed by State authorities, by private enterprises, or by individuals. It is observed in all types of economic activity and exists in every country.

China 204

China Apparel Malaysia Vietnam 204

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 284

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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 235

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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 227

Retail Supply Chain Software Omnichannel Logistics Network Optimization Software 227

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 244

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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 252

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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 225

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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 234

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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 29, 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 214

Optimal Sourcing Optimization Software Supply Chain Network Software Modeling Software 214

Logistics Viewpoints

AUGUST 14, 2023

The global trade compliance market is one crazy market. The market grew by double digits year over year, yet there is no standard user and consequently there is no common understanding of what the end-to-end global trade compliance process should be. Linda McKee, the director for global trade services management at SAP, expressed the idea this way, “I don’t think we currently have any real standard global trade scenarios.

Global 175

Global Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Sourcing Strategies 175

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.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 180

Logistics Network Optimization Software Negotiating Skills Purchasing Skills Logistics 180

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

Demand Planning Software Warehousing Supply and Demand System 195

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 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 230

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Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 21, 2023

In February 2023 I wrote the article What Does 2023 Have In-Store for Global Supply Chains? It introduced the survey we had just launched to determine the perceptions, priorities, and strategic initiatives of today’s supply chain and logistics executives. This post was subsequently followed by two articles that discussed some of the findings from the survey.

Supply Chain Planning Software 239

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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?

Supply Chain Design Software 181

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Logistics Viewpoints

MAY 10, 2023

I spent the better part of last week in Las Vegas, NV attending the Blue Yonder ICON customer conference. This was the first time I have attended a Blue Yonder conference in person since 2019, which feels like a lifetime ago. The conference certainly did not disappoint, as there were hundreds of sessions, interesting keynotes, and a private concert with Mr.

Supply Chain Planning Software 191

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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 205

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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 205

Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Supply Chain Design Software Prescriptive Analytics Software 205

Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 27, 2023

Solvoyo’s Solution Bugaboo: something that causes fear or distress out of proportion to its importance. When it comes to running a company, when things break down executives have traditionally said “we need to improve our forecasting!” Would better forecasting accuracy be a good thing? Absolutely! Unfortunately, most companies cannot, and will never be able to, consistently rely on highly accurate forecasts.

Forecasting 191

Forecasting Forecasting Software Modeling Optimal Sourcing 191

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 202

Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Forecasting Software Optimization Software 202