Long term vs. short term thinking in trucking

It’s something of a conundrum being faced by trucking fleets today, according to one industry analysts at least. In the near term, trucking capacity is readily available due to sluggish economic activity – gross domestic product in the first quarter inched up a measly 0.5% after all – so many shippers are attempting to take advantage of the situation and obtain lower freight rates.

Spotlight

New Penn Motor Express

New Penn is a regional less-than-truckload motor carrier providing reliable, next-day service through a network of 24 service centers in the Northeastern United States, Quebec, Canada and Puerto Rico. The company also provides service to parts of the West, Midwest and Southeast regions of the United States and all of Canada in conjunction with partner carriers. New Penn employs more than 2,000 people, operates a fleet of more than 850 tractors and 1,700 trailers, and is widely regarded as one of the most efficiently operated transportation providers in the industry. New Penn is a Quest for Quality award winner for 19 years.

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Warehousing and Distribution

How does demurrage, detention, and port charges work.?

Article | July 11, 2023

Even though there are distinct differences between demurrage, detention and port charges, many are still oblivious to these differences and there have been several questions on this blog relating to these charges. This article is about how demurrage, detention, and port charges work. International Trade and CostsWhen it comes to international trade, majority of the buyers and sellers use Incoterms to decide what each other’s responsibilities and liabilities are in terms of the business, especially related to costs. Generally, there is very little room to manoeuvre in terms of additional and unbudgeted costs incurred on the shipment and therefore in their own interest it is important that the buyers and sellers take necessary precautions to ensure that all known costs relating to the business are discussed and finalised before the shipment commences. There are many entities involved in the process of shipping a container from Point A to Point B, each with their own cost component, all of which have to be covered either by the seller or the buyer. Demurrage, detention and port charges are just some of these costs that may be applicable in a shipment. While some of the port charges are valid and unavoidable, demurrage, detention and some of the port charges (like port storage, early arrival, late arrival, amendment, shifting etc) are entirely avoidable if everyone in the chain follows the process that they need to follow. What are port charges? Port charges, as the name suggests are a set of charges levied by the port or terminal which the container passes through.In terms of container shipments, port charges may include but not limited to below : Terminal Handling Charge (THC) Is quite simply the charge levied by the port for the loading and discharging of a container from the ship.. THC differs from port to port, terminal to terminal around the world and is charged both by the load port and discharge port.If the cargo is transhipped anywhere along the route, then the transhipment port also charges this THC but that is paid by the shipping line directly to the port and this quantum is usually included in the ocean freight charged by the line. Early Arrival Charge A charge levied by some of the ports/terminals for a container that arrives in the terminal BEFORE the stacks into which it is to be taken has been opened.. Early arrival can happen due to various reasons like a container missed the stacks for the previous vessel narrowly, but since the container is packed, it needs to be taken to the port, The acceptance of containers prior to the stacks/gate open is at the discretion of the Port/Terminal Operator and on the circumstances surrounding the operation of the vessels. Late Arrival Charge A late arrival charge is a charge levied by the port for a container that arrives in the terminal AFTER the stacks into which it is to be taken has been closed.. This could be due to delays in documentation, packing delays, inspection, trucking delays and many other situations.The acceptance of containers after the closing of stacks/gate is at the discretion of the Port/Terminal Operator and on the circumstances surrounding the operation of the vessels and if the containers can be accepted without disrupting the schedule of the vessel and ports. Stuffing/Destuffing of Containers Some ports/terminals allow the stuffing (packing)/de-stuffing (unpacking) of the containers within the port area and charge customers based on the port tariff.This activity may happen at ports that provide CFS services and allow containers to be packed or unpacked in the port or due to some mistakes when the cargo was originally packed – say incompatible hazardous cargoes packed together.Depending on the port/terminal/country, the port charges may be charged directly to the customer (importer or exporter) or to the shipping line, who in turn will charge this to the customer. Of course, this is not the full list of port charges but these charges have been mentioned as it relates to the subject under discussion,Demurrage and DetentionWhile some of these port charges may be unavoidable, demurrage and detention charges on the other hand are avoidable charges, but in a lot of cases due to mishandling, miscommunication, misunderstandings and not following the proper protocols, these charges occur..When they do occur, these charges may create quite a financial impact on the whole business and sometimes these costs could be so prohibitive that some customers abandon their cargoes at the destination due to these costs. Although the most common market practice is to combine demurrage and detention, there are several cases where these are charged separately, and therefore it is important to know the difference between demurrage and detention.

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Transportation

Predicting the Future of the Logistics Industry

Article | April 26, 2023

Introduction From warehouse robots to delivery drones, the supply chain is experiencing a tremendous upheaval. AI promises a totally autonomous and self-organized future supply chain. A fleet of vehicles utilizing a swarm algorithm can enhance cargo yard throughput; a trusted peer-to-peer ledger on blockchain architecture could change compliance in the sector; and wearables, mobile robotics, and machine learning technologies could speed up order fulfilment. IOT e-brokerage solutions can link shops to couriers and transporters with a click. Tomorrow's supply chain will be leaner, quicker, and self-organized. A few innovative technologies will fuel this unparalleled rate of change over the next 15 years. Here are the major technologies that are shaping the future of the logistics industry. Logistics Technologies for the Future Shipment Tracking Systems Previously, customers ordered shipments, had an anticipated arrival date, and then were kept in the dark until they chose to call. Customers can now access shipping and tracking systems around-the-clock due to developments in the internet and software. This not only enhances the customer experience (cx), but it also saves the business time and money. Internet of Things (IoT) The IoT reduces costs and delays by minimizing hazards in the supply chain. Cabs, cargo ships, trains, etc., have sensors that link to an alarm system or dispatcher. These sensors analyze and communicate information to the crew, who learns about hidden threats. IoT isn't a new technology, but it continues to influence logistics by improving in-transit visibility and delivery. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) RFID technology has been used for a few years to monitor inventories labor-efficiently. A product tag or sensor produces radio waves. The company processes the data. RFID tags are similar to barcodes, but their faster information transport and data processing appeal to companies and the direction of technology. Many organizations use RFID tags to track containers in warehouses. Enhanced GPS Accuracy Almost everyone utilizes GPS on their vehicles or smartphones. These devices' accuracy has improved over time, assisting lost drivers and enhancing the supply chain. By monitoring truck locations and boosting hauls with current traffic data, GPS increases efficiency and customer satisfaction. Closing Lines Unprecedented times have produced unprecedented transformations that will last for generations. Changing demographics, technology improvements, and COVID-19 impacts are altering global supply networks. We must understand the driving factors and act on what we learn to adapt and rise to the situation. For the sake of our current workforce and future generations.

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Warehousing and Distribution

Top Certifications for Distribution & Warehousing Logistics Professionals

Article | June 16, 2023

Maintain a competitive advantage by effectively managing supply chain. Discover the potential opportunities and enhance the career in logistics with warehousing and distribution certificates. The rapidly changing and fiercely competitive business landscape necessitates that professionals must go an extra mile to maintain a leading edge and propel their careers forward. Taking the initiative to pursue warehousing and logistics certifications can significantly boost your career. By obtaining a recognized designation, you demonstrate a steadfast dedication to your profession, enhancing your appeal to potential employers. Furthermore, earning a respected certification can open doors to advancement opportunities and increase making potential within your current organization. Moreover, pursuing ongoing education offers rewards, keeping you engaged and ensuring you remain at the forefront of industry developments. 1. Supply Chain Warehousing Certificate Supply Chain Warehousing Certificate is a comprehensive program for individuals seeking expertise in warehousing and logistics. Developed by ASCM and Prologis, it covers essential topics such as inventory management, packaging, shipping, and sustainability in logistics. This self-paced course offers flexibility and can be accessed on mobile devices. Earning one of the exclusive warehousing and distribution certifications demonstrates your knowledge and expertise in managing inventory and helps you stand out in the competitive job market. Employers will recognize your ability to handle shipping processes, improve order fulfilment, and make informed transportation decisions. 2. SAP Extended Warehouse Management Training Enhance your expertise in warehousing management with this top-tier online certification course. Gain in-depth knowledge of extended warehouse management, including warehousing structures, expert data, and warehouse organization. This warehousing and distribution course includes techniques for processing received and shipping goods, slotting, replenishment methods, and physical inventory. Delivered through video and text-based modules, it provides comprehensive warehousing and distribution center operations training. In addition, this course will expand your career opportunities and help you excel in the dynamic field of warehousing management. 3. Storage and Distribution Certification Storage and Distribution Certification is a complete course that addresses the critical need for supply chain safety and integrity in today's complex logistics landscape. This supply chain warehousing certificate is focused on distribution and is designed for warehousing, logistics, and supply chain management professionals. The program covers supply chain visibility, risk management, and optimizing physical-flow networks. There are no specific eligibility criteria for this course, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge. By obtaining this one amongst many warehousing certifications in this course , you'll be equipped with the expertise to mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities, improve operational resilience, and meet the evolving demands of the modern marketplace. 4. Certified International Warehouse and Inventory Manager The Certified International Warehouse & Inventory Manager certification offered by Blue Ocean Academy in Dubai and Abu Dhabi provides professionals with comprehensive training in warehouse management. Blue Ocean Academy, recognized as an industry leader in this field, offers the best warehouse and inventory management training courses. The Warehouse Management Certification Program focuses on the strategic role of warehousing within the broader context of supply chain management and logistics. Participants will gain knowledge and skills in the latest methods for storing and safeguarding high-value inventories and best practices for modern warehousing. The program also covers techniques to achieve accurate record-keeping and successful cycle counting, methods for conducting warehouse audits, and the operational and financial performance aspects of warehousing. 5. Warehouse Excellence Certification (WAREX) Developed by the Institute of Supply Chain Management (IoSCM), Warehouse Excellence Certification (WAREX) helps to elevate your warehousing career. This logistics warehousing and distribution program offers a range of qualifications catering to professionals at various stages of their logistics, warehousing, and distribution journeys. WAREX covers a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge, from entry-level to strategic management positions. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned professional, this certification equips you with the expertise to optimize warehouse operations, enhance inventory management, and drive overall supply chain efficiency. 6. Six Sigma Certification in Warehousing: Overview & Career Options Six Sigma Certification in warehousing is a specialized program that equips professionals with the tools and methodologies to optimize warehouse operations, eliminate defects, and achieve near-perfect efficiency levels of 99.997%. By applying Six Sigma processes, businesses can identify and solve warehouse problems, resulting in improved customer satisfaction, increased revenue, reduced errors, efficient inventory management, and enhanced overall profitability. With this warehouse certification program, you'll stand out in the job market with higher employability, salary potential, and opportunities with renowned companies like Amazon, Samsung, Boeing, FedEx, DHL, and UPS. 7. Certified International Warehouse & Inventory Manager This certificate in warehousing management is specifically designed to equip professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the dynamic world of warehouse operations. This program covers a wide range of essential topics, from strategic warehouse management to inventory optimization and sustainable practices. Participants will learn about warehouse design, storage techniques, materials handling, inventory control, performance measurement, warehouse management systems, risk management, and sustainability. This warehousing and logistics certification is ideal for warehouse managers, logistics professionals, supply chain executives, and individuals seeking to enhance their expertise in warehouse operations. 8. WHSEOPSCERT - Warehouse Operations Certificate The Warehouse Operations Certificate program offers essential training to develop fundamental warehousing skills and gain certifications in material handling equipment. This program is crafted to enhance participants' employability within the warehousing and distribution industries. It covers various topics, including warehouse operations, supply chain fundamentals, order fulfillment, shipping concepts, and lift truck certification training. The courses provide a comprehensive understanding of warehouse functions, inventory management, storage procedures, supply chain principles, and problem-solving strategies. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped for entry-level positions such as Order Puller, Warehouse Technician, Logistics Analyst, and more. 9. JHSC Certification Part Two - Warehousing & Distribution The JHSC Certification Part Two - Warehousing & Distribution is an essential training program designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to recognize and control hazards within their warehousing and distribution workplaces. After completing both Part One and Part Two training, this certification is the final step in becoming a certified member of a Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC). Aligned with the Ministry of Labour's JHSC Certification Training Program Standard, this interactive 2-day course strengthens participants' understanding of the RACE process (Recognition, Assessment, Control, and Evaluation) for all workplace hazards. Delivered by experienced health and safety experts familiar with the industry, this training covers sector-specific risks such as MSDs, slips and falls, motor vehicle incidents, unguarded machinery, unsafe material handling, and hazardous chemicals. Completing this certification ensures compliance with legal requirements, empowers individuals to make informed decisions regarding workplace safety, and enhances overall hazard management in the warehousing and distribution sector. 10. Warehouse Distribution, Continuing Education Workforce Certificate Warehouse Distribution Continuing Education Workforce Certificate is a comprehensive training program to equip individuals with the necessary skills for higher-skilled, frontline material handling roles within the supply chain industry. Ideal for individuals seeking employment in various supply chain facilities, such as warehouses, distribution centers, and transporters, this program prepares students for different job positions, including forklift operators, logistics specialists, freight handlers, and customer support representatives. By completing this certificate, learners will not only gain essential knowledge in waste reduction, logistics security, and forklift safety, but they will also have the opportunity to obtain the Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) credential from the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) and other relevant certificates. This certification provides a concrete foundation for entry-level careers in the logistics field and offers individuals a competitive edge in the job market. Conclusion Logistics and supply chain management professionals thrive on the exhilarating pace of constant change. Each day brings fresh challenges, opportunities, and innovative tools that enhance tracking, analysis, forecasting, and more. By actively pursuing a logistics or supply chain certification and diligently fulfilling the required continuing education hours, ensure that you remain at the forefront of these exciting industry advancements. This commitment positions you to leverage the latest insights and technologies, allowing you to optimize and streamline your supply chains for maximum efficiency. As a result, you stay ahead of the curve and empower your organization to achieve peak performance and drive continued success. Embrace the transformative power of certifications and embark on a journey of growth and excellence in logistics and supply chain management.

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For our deep Sustainability commitment and world leading contributions

Article | June 27, 2020

We track our commitments and goals quarterly through the Schneider Sustainability Impact 2018 – 2020 (formerly called the Planet & Society barometer). The 2018 – 2020 Schneider Sustainability Impact ?shows our commitments by 2020, as well as our contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to be achieved by governments, companies, and civil society by 2030. For nearly 15 years we have been following a clear action plan with a dashboard called Schneider Sustainability Impact. It is based on our 2050 vision with tangible deliverables updated every three years. Our CEO and CFO announce our results on a quarterly basis, together with the company’s financial results.

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Spotlight

New Penn Motor Express

New Penn is a regional less-than-truckload motor carrier providing reliable, next-day service through a network of 24 service centers in the Northeastern United States, Quebec, Canada and Puerto Rico. The company also provides service to parts of the West, Midwest and Southeast regions of the United States and all of Canada in conjunction with partner carriers. New Penn employs more than 2,000 people, operates a fleet of more than 850 tractors and 1,700 trailers, and is widely regarded as one of the most efficiently operated transportation providers in the industry. New Penn is a Quest for Quality award winner for 19 years.

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Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

AIT Worldwide Logistics Acquires Global Transport Solutions Group

Business Wire | February 05, 2024

AIT Worldwide Logistics, one of the world’s leaders in global supply chain solutions, has acquired Global Transport Solutions Group (GTS), a prominent international freight forwarder specializing in time-critical marine spare parts logistics. Headquartered in the Netherlands, GTS and its more than 600 teammates across 16 locations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America, serve over 2,000 ports around the world. The GTS network also includes nine consolidation hubs totaling more than 45,000 square meters of warehouse space. AIT Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Vaughn Moore, said, “I’d like to welcome our new GTS teammates to the global AIT network. This is the largest acquisition in our company’s history and GTS’ marine spare parts business is an excellent complement to AIT’s time-critical supply chain solutions.” The company’s business is divided into two sub-brands: Marinetrans (founded in 1991), excelling in “door-to-deck” spare parts logistics for ship owners and managers, and Best Global Logistics (founded in 2007), providing time-critical solutions and general forwarding for other industries, including life sciences shippers. According to AIT’s Chief Business Officer, Greg Weigel, the acquisition provides the company with new geographic presence in Greece, Japan and the Nordic region while adding significant capacity and subject matter expertise to existing AIT networks in China, the Netherlands and Singapore. The deal also provides a strong foundation to expand GTS’ world-class marine spare parts solutions via AIT’s expansive global freight network. “The acquisition of GTS creates an incredible portfolio of solutions serving the maritime industry with delivery of time-critical spare parts across all geographies. This is a perfect complement to AIT’s vertical strategies focused on expedited mission-critical services like our Critical Solutions Group, government and AOG team, and Life Sciences Division,” Weigel said. “We plan to rapidly invest and expand GTS’ North American operations by capitalizing on AIT’s robust salesforce in the United States and offering maritime customers a world-class spare parts logistics solution in every port.” AIT President and Chief Operating Officer, Keith Tholan, noted that the GTS core values – customer first, operational excellence, and partnership and collaboration – closely mirror AIT’s core values. “We are delighted to welcome GTS teammates to AIT,” Tholan said. “Their deep marine logistics expertise and three decades of proven on-time performance in a very demanding segment will complement the diverse solutions we offer across our vertical sector strategy. We also expect our best-in-class global air freight procurement will instantly benefit their time-critical operations.” According to GTS co-CEO John Burgstra, the acquisition is an opportunity for GTS to further expand their worldwide operations. “We aim to provide our clients an unrivaled experience when it comes to global visibility, transparency and on-time performance, fully unburdening them of the required logistical handling of their vessels’ spare parts,” he said. “We are excited about becoming part of a larger group and the global development opportunities this acquisition will provide for our teammates.” “Because of the highly fragmented and international nature of our clients’ requirements, they need a trusted partner with a vetted and effective global network,” added GTS co-CEO Vegard Prytz. “GTS will gain enormous benefits from leveraging the global AIT infrastructure, creating an even more integrated and seamless solution for clients around the world.”

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Operations, Supply Chain, Transportation

CPKC Joins RailPulse Coalition Driving Innovation in Railcar Telematics

PR Newswire | February 02, 2024

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) today announced its membership in the RailPulse Coalition. RailPulse, founded by a dynamic consortium of forward-thinking railcar owners, is working to develop, broaden and accelerate the use of GPS and other telematics technologies on railcars that increase safety, efficiency, and visibility across North America's freight rail industry. CPKC becomes the third Class I railroad and 10th member of the coalition, joining Bunge North America, GATX, Genesee & Wyoming Inc., Norfolk Southern Corporation, Railroad Development Corporation, The Greenbrier Companies, TrinityRail, Union Pacific Railroad, and Watco Companies LLC. "We are pleased to be a part of RailPulse and to contribute to accelerating adoption of railcar telemetry in North America," said John Brooks, CPKC Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. "This collaboration aligns with our commitment to innovation and will play an important role in modernizing our customer experience and provide benefits to the entire supply chain by advancing safety and improving operations." The key objectives of RailPulse include: Industry Wide Telematics Infrastructure: The initiative facilitates collaboration among industry players by creating a secure, trusted, standardized, and vendor neutral railcar telematics infrastructure that spans the entire North American freight rail industry. Data-Driven Transformation: By building an information infrastructure that harnesses data from GPS and railcar-mounted sensors and prioritizing data standardization and storage in the cloud, RailPulse focuses on delivering actionable insights enabling enhance service levels, visibility, safety, sustainability, and productivity. Enhanced Service through Visibility: Through RailPulse, the integration of telematic sensors on railcars enables the generation of valuable data, empowering shippers with real-time visibility of railcar and goods movements to make informed decisions and optimize their operations. "We welcome CPKC to the RailPulse Coalition. Together, we will drive transformative change in the rail sector by combining our strengths and fostering a culture of innovation," said David Shannon, General Manager of RailPulse. "This partnership underscores our commitment to shaping the future of rail transportation." Response from RailPulse Members: "The Board of RailPulse is very excited to welcome CPKC," said Mike McClellan, RailPulse Board Chair and Sr. VP &Chief Strategy Officer at Norfolk Southern. "CPKC brings a breadth of railroading knowledge to the table, and the insights that CPKC will be able to contribute from operating in 3 countries will be invaluable as we drive RailPulse to serve all of North America." Forward looking information This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws in both the U.S. and Canada. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements concerning expectations, beliefs, plans, goals, objectives, assumptions and statements about possible future events, conditions, and results of operations or performance. Forward-looking information may contain statements with words or headings such as "financial expectations", "key assumptions", "will", "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "plan", "should", "commit", "outlook", "guidance" or similar words suggesting future outcomes. This news release contains forward-looking information relating, but not limited, to statements about future technology and the potential for telematics technologies to increase safety, efficiency, and visibility across North America's freight rail industry and CPKC's expected benefits from such future technology. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on current expectations, estimates, projections, and assumptions, having regard to CPKC's experience and its perception of historical trends. Forward-looking information involves many inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information, including but not limited to the factors that are detailed from time to time in reports filed by CPKC with securities regulators in Canada and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the United States. Reference should be made to "Item 1A - Risk Factors" and "Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Forward-Looking Statements" in CPKC's annual and interim reports on Form 10-K and 10-Q. Any forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof. Except as required by law, CPKC undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking information, or the foregoing assumptions and risks affecting such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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Operations, Warehousing and Distribution

LA Kings Partner with Lexani Performance Tires

PR Newswire | January 26, 2024

Turbo Wholesale Tires, and two-time Stanley Cup Champions, the LA Kings have announced a powerful brand partnership. As part of the multi-year agreement, brokered by AEG Global Partnerships, Lexani Performance Tires will become an official partner of the LA Kings, reaching millions of passionate sports fans. As an official partner of the LA Kings, Lexani Performance Tires will have the unique opportunity to engage fans each week during the season as a presenting sponsor of the LA Kings "Game Preview," which will appear on the team's official social channels. Lexani Performance Tire will also benefit from in-arena signage via dasher boards and scoreboard branding during all LA Kings home games at Crypto.com Arena. "We are proud to partner with the LA Kings and their global fanbase," said Phillip Kane, CEO of Turbo Wholesale Tires. "The Kings have a strong international brand and passionate following, we look forward to introducing their supporters to Lexani Performance Tire products." Turbo Wholesale Tires has been a trusted tire supplier, leading the industry with a strong emphasis and understanding of the independent tire dealer. Turbo Wholesale Tires has evolved into a national and international supplier of its proprietary brands, Lexani Performance Tire, RBP Tires and Lionhart Tires. With nearly a million square feet of warehouse space nationwide, Turbo Wholesale Tires continues to exceed the needs of its tire customers. "We are honored to be teaming up with Lexani Performance Tires," said Josh Veilleux, senior vice president, AEG Global Partnerships. "This collaboration not only brings a renowned tire supplier into our Kings family, but also introduces new ways for our fans to interact with its brand. We look forward to the positive impact this new partnership will bring to the team, Lexani Performance Tires and our incredible community of fans."

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Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

AIT Worldwide Logistics Acquires Global Transport Solutions Group

Business Wire | February 05, 2024

AIT Worldwide Logistics, one of the world’s leaders in global supply chain solutions, has acquired Global Transport Solutions Group (GTS), a prominent international freight forwarder specializing in time-critical marine spare parts logistics. Headquartered in the Netherlands, GTS and its more than 600 teammates across 16 locations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America, serve over 2,000 ports around the world. The GTS network also includes nine consolidation hubs totaling more than 45,000 square meters of warehouse space. AIT Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Vaughn Moore, said, “I’d like to welcome our new GTS teammates to the global AIT network. This is the largest acquisition in our company’s history and GTS’ marine spare parts business is an excellent complement to AIT’s time-critical supply chain solutions.” The company’s business is divided into two sub-brands: Marinetrans (founded in 1991), excelling in “door-to-deck” spare parts logistics for ship owners and managers, and Best Global Logistics (founded in 2007), providing time-critical solutions and general forwarding for other industries, including life sciences shippers. According to AIT’s Chief Business Officer, Greg Weigel, the acquisition provides the company with new geographic presence in Greece, Japan and the Nordic region while adding significant capacity and subject matter expertise to existing AIT networks in China, the Netherlands and Singapore. The deal also provides a strong foundation to expand GTS’ world-class marine spare parts solutions via AIT’s expansive global freight network. “The acquisition of GTS creates an incredible portfolio of solutions serving the maritime industry with delivery of time-critical spare parts across all geographies. This is a perfect complement to AIT’s vertical strategies focused on expedited mission-critical services like our Critical Solutions Group, government and AOG team, and Life Sciences Division,” Weigel said. “We plan to rapidly invest and expand GTS’ North American operations by capitalizing on AIT’s robust salesforce in the United States and offering maritime customers a world-class spare parts logistics solution in every port.” AIT President and Chief Operating Officer, Keith Tholan, noted that the GTS core values – customer first, operational excellence, and partnership and collaboration – closely mirror AIT’s core values. “We are delighted to welcome GTS teammates to AIT,” Tholan said. “Their deep marine logistics expertise and three decades of proven on-time performance in a very demanding segment will complement the diverse solutions we offer across our vertical sector strategy. We also expect our best-in-class global air freight procurement will instantly benefit their time-critical operations.” According to GTS co-CEO John Burgstra, the acquisition is an opportunity for GTS to further expand their worldwide operations. “We aim to provide our clients an unrivaled experience when it comes to global visibility, transparency and on-time performance, fully unburdening them of the required logistical handling of their vessels’ spare parts,” he said. “We are excited about becoming part of a larger group and the global development opportunities this acquisition will provide for our teammates.” “Because of the highly fragmented and international nature of our clients’ requirements, they need a trusted partner with a vetted and effective global network,” added GTS co-CEO Vegard Prytz. “GTS will gain enormous benefits from leveraging the global AIT infrastructure, creating an even more integrated and seamless solution for clients around the world.”

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Operations, Supply Chain, Transportation

CPKC Joins RailPulse Coalition Driving Innovation in Railcar Telematics

PR Newswire | February 02, 2024

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) today announced its membership in the RailPulse Coalition. RailPulse, founded by a dynamic consortium of forward-thinking railcar owners, is working to develop, broaden and accelerate the use of GPS and other telematics technologies on railcars that increase safety, efficiency, and visibility across North America's freight rail industry. CPKC becomes the third Class I railroad and 10th member of the coalition, joining Bunge North America, GATX, Genesee & Wyoming Inc., Norfolk Southern Corporation, Railroad Development Corporation, The Greenbrier Companies, TrinityRail, Union Pacific Railroad, and Watco Companies LLC. "We are pleased to be a part of RailPulse and to contribute to accelerating adoption of railcar telemetry in North America," said John Brooks, CPKC Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. "This collaboration aligns with our commitment to innovation and will play an important role in modernizing our customer experience and provide benefits to the entire supply chain by advancing safety and improving operations." The key objectives of RailPulse include: Industry Wide Telematics Infrastructure: The initiative facilitates collaboration among industry players by creating a secure, trusted, standardized, and vendor neutral railcar telematics infrastructure that spans the entire North American freight rail industry. Data-Driven Transformation: By building an information infrastructure that harnesses data from GPS and railcar-mounted sensors and prioritizing data standardization and storage in the cloud, RailPulse focuses on delivering actionable insights enabling enhance service levels, visibility, safety, sustainability, and productivity. Enhanced Service through Visibility: Through RailPulse, the integration of telematic sensors on railcars enables the generation of valuable data, empowering shippers with real-time visibility of railcar and goods movements to make informed decisions and optimize their operations. "We welcome CPKC to the RailPulse Coalition. Together, we will drive transformative change in the rail sector by combining our strengths and fostering a culture of innovation," said David Shannon, General Manager of RailPulse. "This partnership underscores our commitment to shaping the future of rail transportation." Response from RailPulse Members: "The Board of RailPulse is very excited to welcome CPKC," said Mike McClellan, RailPulse Board Chair and Sr. VP &Chief Strategy Officer at Norfolk Southern. "CPKC brings a breadth of railroading knowledge to the table, and the insights that CPKC will be able to contribute from operating in 3 countries will be invaluable as we drive RailPulse to serve all of North America." Forward looking information This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws in both the U.S. and Canada. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements concerning expectations, beliefs, plans, goals, objectives, assumptions and statements about possible future events, conditions, and results of operations or performance. Forward-looking information may contain statements with words or headings such as "financial expectations", "key assumptions", "will", "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "plan", "should", "commit", "outlook", "guidance" or similar words suggesting future outcomes. This news release contains forward-looking information relating, but not limited, to statements about future technology and the potential for telematics technologies to increase safety, efficiency, and visibility across North America's freight rail industry and CPKC's expected benefits from such future technology. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on current expectations, estimates, projections, and assumptions, having regard to CPKC's experience and its perception of historical trends. Forward-looking information involves many inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information, including but not limited to the factors that are detailed from time to time in reports filed by CPKC with securities regulators in Canada and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the United States. Reference should be made to "Item 1A - Risk Factors" and "Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Forward-Looking Statements" in CPKC's annual and interim reports on Form 10-K and 10-Q. Any forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof. Except as required by law, CPKC undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking information, or the foregoing assumptions and risks affecting such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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Operations, Warehousing and Distribution

LA Kings Partner with Lexani Performance Tires

PR Newswire | January 26, 2024

Turbo Wholesale Tires, and two-time Stanley Cup Champions, the LA Kings have announced a powerful brand partnership. As part of the multi-year agreement, brokered by AEG Global Partnerships, Lexani Performance Tires will become an official partner of the LA Kings, reaching millions of passionate sports fans. As an official partner of the LA Kings, Lexani Performance Tires will have the unique opportunity to engage fans each week during the season as a presenting sponsor of the LA Kings "Game Preview," which will appear on the team's official social channels. Lexani Performance Tire will also benefit from in-arena signage via dasher boards and scoreboard branding during all LA Kings home games at Crypto.com Arena. "We are proud to partner with the LA Kings and their global fanbase," said Phillip Kane, CEO of Turbo Wholesale Tires. "The Kings have a strong international brand and passionate following, we look forward to introducing their supporters to Lexani Performance Tire products." Turbo Wholesale Tires has been a trusted tire supplier, leading the industry with a strong emphasis and understanding of the independent tire dealer. Turbo Wholesale Tires has evolved into a national and international supplier of its proprietary brands, Lexani Performance Tire, RBP Tires and Lionhart Tires. With nearly a million square feet of warehouse space nationwide, Turbo Wholesale Tires continues to exceed the needs of its tire customers. "We are honored to be teaming up with Lexani Performance Tires," said Josh Veilleux, senior vice president, AEG Global Partnerships. "This collaboration not only brings a renowned tire supplier into our Kings family, but also introduces new ways for our fans to interact with its brand. We look forward to the positive impact this new partnership will bring to the team, Lexani Performance Tires and our incredible community of fans."

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