Logistics Viewpoints

DECEMBER 2, 2024

Jack Fiedler, the vice president for digital transformation of the global supply chain at Lenovo Lenovo is ranked tenth by one leading analyst firm among a list of global companies with exceptional supply chains. Based on an interview with Jack Fiedler, the vice president for digital transformation of the global supply chain at Lenovo, the word “exceptional” certainly applies.

Supply Chain Planning Software 206

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Supply Chain Software Supply Chain Network Software 206

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 27, 2024

In the rapidly evolving world of global supply chains, interoperability—the ability of systems, devices, and organizations to work together seamlessly—has become a critical factor for operational efficiency. By applying the ISO OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) seven layer model, traditionally used in networking, to logistics, businesses can achieve a structured framework that enhances communication, reduces friction, and improves collaboration throughout the supply chain.

Modeling Software 257

Modeling Software Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Supply Chain Design Software 257

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 26, 2024

Our daily lives are inundated with data. Alerts and notifications from email, social channels, home devices, shopping apps and other platforms compete for our attention, creating an overwhelming stream of information. This deluge makes it challenging to discern what truly matters, where and when we should apply our focus. Supply chain teams face a similar dilemma – companies are overloaded with vast amounts of data, and the ability to sift through the noise and focus on relevant insights has bec

Resource Reduction 223

Resource Reduction Inventory Reduction Sourcing Strategies Supply Chain Planning Software 223

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 25, 2024

In 2017, a strategy consultant was hired to do a top-to-bottom assessment of the Boston University procurement program. They recommended a change in leadership. Randall Moore was hired as the new chief procurement officer in May. He took the job after receiving assurance from BU’s chief financial officer that there would be sufficient headcount where needed.

Boston 249

Boston Purchasing Skills Sourcing Strategies Sourcing 249

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 20, 2024

In today’s interconnected global economy, sustainability within supply chains and logistics has become a necessity rather than an option. Regulatory demands, rising consumer expectations, and global challenges such as climate change and social inequality have made sustainable practices a strategic priority. For senior leaders, understanding and integrating the three pillars of sustainability—environmental, social, and economic—into supply chain strategies is essential.

Waste Reduction 228

Waste Reduction Sustainability Supply Chain Design Software Resource Reduction 228

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 20, 2024

Just in time for the holidays, the Ship It Zero campaign is bringing visibility to the impacts of dirty ocean shipping caused by mega retailers all year round but especially as they ship their goods during the holiday season. The campaign has announced the release of its 2024 Retailer Shipping Decarbonization Progress Reports , which calls upon IKEA, LG, Samsung, and Home Depot to improve their performance by 2025 when the next round of Ship It Zero Report Cards are expected.

Shipping 220

Shipping Resource Reduction Buyer Training Cargo 220

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 19, 2024

With the chaos of the 2024 holiday season descending, the National Retail Federation predicts U.S. ecommerce spending in November and December will increase 8%-9% over 2023, translating to $295.1-$297.9 billion in sales. In addition, the holiday shopping period between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year is 26 days—five days shorter than in 2023—potentially creating additional headaches for online vendors and their delivery partners attempting to fulfill a greater volume of orders in less time.

Resource Reduction 166

Resource Reduction Price Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies Vendor Strategies 166

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 18, 2024

YMX Logistics, a premium provider of integrated yard logistics operations, and Orange EV, a leading manufacturer of electric yard tractors, both dedicated to advancing sustainable yard operations, today announced a collaborative effort, beginning with the deployment of twenty (20) electric terminal trucks at distribution and manufacturing sites across North America.

North America 213

North America America Cost Reduction Strategies Logistics Network Optimization Software 213

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 18, 2024

Schneider Electric has been working to simplify its supply chain over the last few years. This French public multinational was selected as having the best global supply chain by a leading analyst firm. Corporate Knights also ranked the company the most sustainable company in its peer group and the 7 th most sustainable company overall. Schneider Electric’s supply chain operation is of great interest to other practitioners.

Supply Chain Design Software 223

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Design Supply Chain Software Supply Chain Planning Software 223

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 13, 2024

As automation continues to evolve in logistics, two technologies are becoming central to modern delivery methods: autonomous drones and autonomous vehicles. Both are advancing through operational trials led by companies like Amazon, UPS, Alphabet’s Wing, Tesla, and TuSimple. However, each technology serves different purposes within logistics, and the question remains: Which will ultimately shape the industry’s operational structure?

Logistics Network Optimization Software 262

Logistics Network Optimization Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Network Software 262

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 12, 2024

Dexory, the robotics and data intelligence company announced it has closed an $80 million Series B funding round. The round was led by DTCP, with participation from Latitude Ventures, Wave-X and Bootstrap Europe, along with existing investors Atomico, Lakestar, Capnamic and several angels from the logistics industry. As part of this investment, DTCP’s Michael Rager joins Dexory’s board of directors.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 158

Logistics Network Optimization Software Security Optimization Software Supply Chain Software 158

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 11, 2024

Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota; NYSE: TM) and Joby Aviation, Inc. (Joby; NYSE:JOBY), a company developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger service, announced that Toyota will invest an additional $500 million to support the certification and commercial production of Joby’s electric air taxi, with the aim of realizing the two companies’ shared vision of air mobility.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 239

Logistics Network Optimization Software California Manufacturing Sustainability 239

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 11, 2024

Many global multinationals accelerated their investments in digitizing data during the pandemic. According to Colin Masson, a director of research at ARC Advisory Group, the opportunity to mine these vast quantities of data to achieve business value is “NOW.” Mr. Masson recently wrote the report “ Industrial-grade AI: Transforming Data into Insights and Outcomes.

Supply Chain Planning Software 238

Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Software Analytics Software Forecasting Software 238

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 7, 2024

Siemens AG has agreed to sell its Siemens Logistics business to Vanderlande, a company owned by Toyota Industries Corporation. Vanderlande is a leading global partner for future-proof logistic process automation in the warehousing, airports, and parcel sectors, and with that will be a strategic long-term owner for Siemens Logistics. The purchase price (enterprise value) is €300 million.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 171

Logistics Network Optimization Software Logistics Procurement Solutions Modeling Software 171

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 6, 2024

NIS 2 Has Deep Impacts on the Supply Chain, Not Just Plant Operations The manufacturing industry is undergoing a significant transformation as it grapples with the implications of the Network and Information Systems Directive 2 (NIS 2). This EU-wide regulation, designed to bolster cybersecurity and ensure the resilience of essential services and digital infrastructures, presents both challenges and opportunities for manufacturing supply chains.

Supply Chain Design Software 220

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Design Supply Chain Software Manufacturing 220

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 6, 2024

The Evolution of Connected Fleet Ecosystems Fleet Management 2.0 is redefining transportation by integrating IoT sensors into vehicles, fundamentally shifting fleet operations. These sensors capture precise data on factors like location, speed, fuel usage, and driver behavior, transforming fleet management from reactive to data-driven decision-making.

Supply Chain Planning Software 226

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Predictive Analytics Software Optimization Software 226

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 5, 2024

Blyncsy, a subsidiary of Bentley Systems Inc., announced the launch of a comprehensive public map showcasing all interstate highways in the continental U.S. This map highlights critical roadway assets such as guardrails, speed limit signs, and work zones, aimed at enhancing roadway safety and maintenance. The data is accessible to state U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) agencies, facilitating improved safety, maintenance, and repair of roads, particularly during natural disasters.

America 225

America Analysis Logistics Network Optimization Software Transportation 225

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 4, 2024

The partnership between Shipium and ClearJet enhances supply chain efficiency by enabling businesses to achieve nationwide 2-day delivery at ground rates without changing carriers. By integrating ClearJet’s Super Carrier infrastructure, Shipium users gain access to advanced capabilities such as air zone skipping and final-mile carrier injections. This allows shippers to leverage their existing carrier accounts, like FedEx, UPS, or USPS while benefiting from expanded coverage to every U.S.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 242

Logistics Network Optimization Software Predictive Analytics Software Optimization Software Logistics 242

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 4, 2024

Third Wave Automation, a provider of autonomous high-reach forklifts, has closed a $27 million Series C funding round led by Woven Capital, Toyota’s growth investment arm. The round also included returning investors Innovation Endeavors, Norwest Venture Partners, and Qualcomm Ventures, bringing Third Wave’s total funding to $97 million. This capital will help scale the company’s Shared Autonomy Platform and expand manufacturing for its TWA Reach forklifts, which integrate AI-driven autonomy with

Logistics Network Optimization Software 247

Logistics Network Optimization Software Optimization Software Warehousing Innovation 247

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 4, 2024

When it came out, ChatGPT seemed like magic. It has led supply chain vendors to discuss how they currently use artificial intelligence. Further, virtually every supplier of supply chain solutions is eager to explain the ongoing investments they are making in artificial intelligence. Any device that can perceive its environment and can take actions that maximize its chance of success at some goal is engaged in some form of artificial intelligence.

Supply Chain Planning Software 273

Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Design Software 273

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 1, 2024

Supply Chain & Logistics News (October 28th – 31st) A day late but, Happy Halloween! According to the S&P Global Market Intelligence Americans are spending upwards of 4.1 billion dollars on Halloween candy this year. This is nearly double the amount from a decade ago and it seems to be in line with the trend of Halloween gaining popularity in the last few years with the help of social media.

Supply Chain Design Software 259

Supply Chain Design Software Logistics Network Optimization Software Supply Chain Design Supply Chain Software 259

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 30, 2024

Space freight is becoming more accessible, offering a new dimension for logistics operations. Companies such as Elon Musk’s SpaceX, Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin, Rocket Lab and others are lowering launch costs, with SpaceX achieving approximately $2,600 per kilogram to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), compared to $18,500 per kilogram during the Space Shuttle era.

Cost Reduction Strategies 226

Cost Reduction Strategies Expense Reduction Resource Reduction Material Savings 226

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 29, 2024

Nauto and Beans.ai have announced a strategic partnership to enhance the safety and efficiency of last-mile delivery operations for commercial fleets. By integrating Nauto’s AI-powered Video Event Data Recorder (VEDR) solution with Beans.ai’s precision location data and micro-routing technology, the collaboration offers a comprehensive solution tailored to meet the needs of last-mile deliveries, including VEDR compliance.

Optimization Software 209

Optimization Software Price Mitigation Strategies Video Logistics Network Optimization Software 209

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 28, 2024

According to research by Ernst & Young LLP, the global consulting firm, as the Covid crisis recedes, supply chain executives are losing the strategic gains they made with their C-suite counterparts. During and immediately after the pandemic, supply chain leaders were in an unfamiliar position: they had the attention of top management and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make their supply chains more agile and resilient.

Supply Chain Execution 213

Supply Chain Execution Agile and Lean Supply Chain Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Strategy 213

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 25, 2024

October 21st – 24th Supply Chain & Logistics News Round Up This past week, I returned to the Tampa Bay Area to visit family and see the lasting effects of back-to-back hurricanes. Words cannot fully capture the extent of the devastation left behind, and it will take months for the surrounding counties to recover from the aftermath in Milton and Helene.

Supply Chain Planning Software 218

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Software Logistics Network Optimization Software Waste Reduction 218

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 24, 2024

5000 developers are working on product enhancements and extensions to the SAP spend management suite. This is the largest area of investment for the company outside of ERP. With that level of investment, one would expect an aggressive product buildout. At SAP Spend Connect Live, held October 14-16 in Las Vegas, SAP did make several significant product announcements.

SAP 230

SAP Procurement Solutions Manufacturing Procurement Procurement Analytics 230

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 23, 2024

Implementing Digital Product Passports (DPPs) within an organization involves a detailed and strategic process. This requires a thorough readiness assessment, selection of appropriate technology, and careful integration with existing business processes. Each step must be approached methodically to ensure a successful and secure implementation that meets regulatory requirements and enhances operational transparency.

Resource Reduction 231

Resource Reduction Vendor Strategies Inventory Reduction Price Mitigation Strategies 231

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 18, 2024

The Körber Innovation Center showcases a full-scale, end-to-end setup of Körber’s advanced parcel and postal sortation handling equipment, trusted by the nation’s largest multinational supply chain companies to efficiently sort and deliver commercial mail and packages to end customers. Its strategic location on Körber’s Dallas site, which houses the company’s engineering, manufacturing, and warehousing teams and facilities, enables the space to feature the latest machine hardware and software up

Dallas 174

Dallas Texas Innovation North America 174

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 20, 2024

Amazon is making significant investments in nuclear energy, focusing on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as part of its goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. Following recent clean energy initiatives by Google and Microsoft, Amazon has partnered with X-energy to bring over 5 GW of new nuclear power online by 2039. The company plans to deploy SMRs at multiple locations, including four 80-MW reactors at Columbia Generating Station and a potential 300-MW plant near Dominion Energy’s North

Washington 193

Washington United States Supply Chain Planning Software Logistics Network Optimization Software 193

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 21, 2024

President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law in 2010. The new law meant that the way medical systems operated had to change. Expanded health insurance coverage led to increases in the demand for care. The ACA led to a move away from fee-based services and toward compulsory value-based payment initiatives. This lowered hospitals’ margins and created an impetus for hospital chains to begin to tackle costs, but to do so in a manner that did not compromise patient outcomes.

Negotiating Skills 212

Negotiating Skills Supply Chain Design Software Manufacturing Procurement Agile and Lean Supply Chain 212

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 18, 2024

October 14th – 18th 2024 Supply Chain & Logistics News Yesterday, I landed back in the States from my autumn getaway. While I was away, I visited Barcelona and enjoyed the beautiful architecture, temperate weather, delicious cuisine, and affordable wine. For today’s round-up introduction, I decided to investigate the reasons behind the cheap and tasty wine.

Price Reduction 223

Price Reduction Inventory Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies Supply Chain Planning Software 223

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 17, 2024

Harvard Business Review recently published an article, “ To Build Resilience, CEOs Need to Become Supply-Chain Experts ”. They noted the fact that companies whose leaders had supply chain experience took a more proactive approach to addressing potential supply-chain challenges, and in leveraging the supply-chain function to generate new business opportunities.

Manufacturing Procurement 231

Manufacturing Procurement Supply Chain Planning Software Material Savings Supply Chain Design Software 231

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 16, 2024

Autonomous delivery vehicles (ADVs) are bringing significant changes to last-mile logistics, an essential component of the supply chain. With the rising demand for faster and more cost-effective deliveries, ADVs are becoming a viable solution to a variety of logistical challenges. For professionals in logistics and supply chain management, understanding the implications of this technology is crucial, as it has the potential to fundamentally change the way goods are transported and delivered.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 239

Logistics Network Optimization Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Optimization Software 239

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 15, 2024

India’s growth story can continue if it streamlines and effectively manages its supply chain like the iconic dairy brand Amul that recently entered the US market. Amul formed a strategic partnership with the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) to facilitate its US product launch. MMPA is responsible for the collection and processing of milk, while the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which operates Amul, oversees marketing and branding initiatives.

Optimal Sourcing 251

Optimal Sourcing Modeling Supply Chain Optimization Supply Chain Planning Software 251

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 14, 2024

During my current supply chain planning market research, I have received briefings from several SCP companies. All are investing in artificial intelligence. Many say that they are using generative AI, a type of AI that can create new content and ideas, as part of their journey toward autonomous planning. Autonomous planning is a type of planning that takes humans out of the planning loop.

Supply Chain Planning Software 226

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Scenario Planning Procurement Analytics 226

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 11, 2024

Supply Chain & Logistics News Round-Up (October 7th – 11th) This past week, I’ve been playing tourist in London, one of my favorite cities in Europe. I visited the British Museum and paid extra to see their “Silk Road” exhibit. The exhibit featured dozens of items, articles of clothing, and mementos dating back to the era of the Silk Road.

Price Reduction 256

Price Reduction Vendor Strategies Waste Reduction Resource Reduction 256

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 9, 2024

As businesses face tighter regulations on product safety, sustainability, and ethical sourcing, Digital Product Passports (DPPs) are becoming crucial for navigating these challenges. Today’s regulatory environment requires companies to comply with local laws and international standards that often differ across regions. DPPs provide a streamlined, digital way to document a product’s lifecycle, making it easier to ensure compliance and improve transparency.

Waste Reduction 207

Waste Reduction Sourcing Strategies Supply Chain Design Software Demand Planning Software 207