Friday, December 19, 2008

YRC Logistics Recognized as the Fastest Growing Logistics Company in the Peruvian Market

YRC Worldwide Subsidiary YRC Logistics Recognized as the Fastest Growing Logistics Company in the Peruvian Market for the 2nd Consecutive Year

OVERLAND PARK, Kan., December 19, 2008 – YRC Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ: YRCW) subsidiary YRC Logistics announced today that it has been recognized as the fastest growing logistics company in the Peruvian market for 2008. The Peruvian Company of the Year award was presented on November 28th to YRC Logistics by several institutes including Latin-American institute of Managerial Development and University Ricardo Palma in Peru.

The institutes recognized YRC Logistics for their efforts as a supply chain and logistics provider. YRC Logistics also received the Latin America Success Award, which recognized them as the best and highest growth logistics company in South America.

“It is an honor to receive the Peruvian Company of the Year award again this year for our commitment to servicing important emerging markets,” said John Carr, YRC Logistics President & COO. “This award is a confirmation of our continued efforts to strategically align our businesses globally and in Latin America to better serve our customers.”

The institutes determined their selection for these awards by polling several large companies in Latin America, as well as gathering trade information from, YRC Logistics, with customs brokers and local Chambers of Commerce.

The Steering Committee of the Institutes that grant the award, use the following criteria in their selection: management skills gross billings, operating income, growth, market share, positioning, leadership and development, service quality, and social responsibility.

About YRC Worldwide

YRC Worldwide Inc., a FORTUNE 500 company and one of the largest transportation service providers in the world, is the holding company for a portfolio of successful brands including Yellow Transportation, Roadway, Reimer Express, YRC Logistics, New Penn, Holland, Reddaway and Glen Moore. The enterprise provides global transportation services, transportation management solutions and logistics management. The portfolio of brands represents a comprehensive array of services for the shipment of industrial, commercial and retail goods domestically and internationally. Headquartered in Overland Park, Kan., YRC Worldwide employs approximately 58,000 people.

PORT OF TACOMA EXPORTS AUTOS TO ASIA

TACOMA (December 18, 2008) – A major auto manufacturer that has been importing vehicles through the Port of Tacoma since 1982 has recently changed directions – and started exporting vehicles to Asia.

Although initial volumes are small, Mitsubishi Motors is exporting Eclipse sports cars through the Port to China and South Korea. The vehicles are built at Mitsubishi's manufacturing plant in Normal, Ill., transported by rail to the Port of Tacoma's Marshall Avenue Auto Facility and then loaded to Wallenius Wilhelmsen Line auto ships.

Randy Casebolt, Manager of National Port Operations for Mitsubishi Motors North America, said his company expects to export about 400 vehicles through Tacoma during its current fiscal year, which ends March 31. About 500 units are projected for the following year.

Those numbers compare to about 170,000 vehicles a year handled through the Port of Tacoma. Mitsubishi – like the Port's other auto manufacturer customers – uses Auto Warehousing Co. in Tacoma for auto processing.

Casebolt said the Eclipses are loaded onto rail cars at Mitsubishi's distribution center near Normal, hauled by Norfolk Southern to Kansas City and then transferred to Union Pacific for the trip to Tacoma. "What it really comes down to is cost," Casebolt said of Mitsubishi's decision to export through Tacoma. "We get better rates on the rail movement to Tacoma."

Casebolt added that Mitsubishi has always had a good relationship with both the Port of Tacoma and Auto Warehousing Co. "Tacoma has been a very positive port for us to operate out of," he said. "They are very accommodating, customer oriented, and we have a great relationship with them both on the import and the export side."

Elmaleh said the Port is happy to have the business. "We are fortunate that Wallenius Wilhelmsen calls here in Tacoma and that Mitsubishi already uses Auto Warehousing," he said, noting that most major ocean shipping lines that carry autos call Tacoma. "This unusual export arrangement came together very well for the Port."

About the Port of Tacoma

The Port of Tacoma is an economic engine for South Puget Sound, with more than 43,000 family-wage jobs in Pierce County and 113,000 jobs across Washington state related to Port activities. A major gateway to Asia and Alaska, the Port of Tacoma is among the largest container ports in North America, handling an estimated more than $36 billion in annual trade and about 2 million TEUs (20-foot equivalent container units). The Port is also a major center for bulk, breakbulk and project/heavy-lift cargoes, as well as automobiles and trucks. Find out more online at: www.portoftacoma.com.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Canadian Chamber of Commerce - A Canada-U.S. Border Vision Report

Canadian Chamber of Commerce - A Canada-U.S. Border Vision Report

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has published a report with the title: “A Canada-U.S. Border Vision”. The report identifies five border principles to strengthen security and competitiveness for North American business:

Taking a bilateral, co-management approach to the Canada-U.S. border;

Giving strategic and resource priority to trusted shippers and travelers;

Expanding the definition of the border to not always be ‘at the border’, including performing inspections and risk assessments at offsite venues;

Moving the border ‘away from the border’ to our shorelines and foreign ports;

Achieving regulatory cooperation or mutual recognition on differences between our domestic product and consumer safety regulations.

The Executive Summary contained in this report also proposes: “To move forward on this vision, we propose launching a “Green Light” pilot project at, at least one major port of entry, co-managed by Canada and the United States, to expedite the movement of low-risk goods and people. This pilot project will provide uniform and consistent border planning, targeting trusted shippers and travelers, and coordinating agency resources, linking crossborder infrastructure projects, and actually strengthening port (and between port) security, enforcement protocols and incident responses. A successful pilot project would create best practices that could be applied across the Canada-U.S. border.”

The full report can be found at: http://www.chamber.ca/cmslib/general/blueprint.pdf

Deadline Approaches for 2009 J. Shipman Gold Medal Award

Institute for Supply Management(TM) (ISM) accepting nominations until January 31, 2009.

(TEMPE, Ariz.) December 18, 2008 — The Tempe, Arizona-based Institute for Supply Management(TM) (ISM) is currently taking nominations for the J. Shipman Gold Medal Award and will continue taking nominations until January 31, 2009. The J. Shipman Gold Medal Award is presented annually to an individual whose persistent efforts have aided the advancement of supply management.

Johnson Shipman, a pioneer member of the New York affiliate of the National Association of Purchasing Agents, was well known for giving liberally of his time and counsel. The award was established in 1931 to commemorate the contributions of Shipman, a man known for his vision, intellect and influence on important issues. The award is presented annually to an individual whose modest, unselfish, sincere and persistent efforts have aided the advancement of the supply management field. Those chosen for the award have also assisted and guided members of the supply management profession in their endeavors.

If you wish to nominate someone who has performed distinguished service for the cause and advancement of supply management as an innovator, community leader, mentor and teacher, please contact Judy Waters at ISM: 800/888-6276 or 480/752-6276, extension 3034; jwaters@ism.ws. Nominations are due by January 31, 2009. Nominees do not have to be ISM members.

For more information on previous Shipman medalists, visit the ISM Web site at www.ism.ws. Select About ISM/J. Shipman Gold Medal Award.

As the largest supply management institute in the world, the mission of Institute for Supply Management(TM) (ISM) is to lead supply management. By executing and extending its mission through education, research, standards of excellence, influence building and information dissemination — including the renowned monthly ISM Report On Business® — ISM continues to extend the global impact of supply management. ISM is proud to recognize professional excellence in supply management with awards such as the ISM R. Gene Richter Awards for Leadership and Innovation in Supply Management and the J. Shipman Gold Medal Award. ISM's membership base includes more than 40,000 supply management professionals in 75 countries. Supply management professionals are responsible for trillions of dollars in the purchases of products and services annually. ISM is a member of the International Federation of Purchasing and Supply Management (IFPSM).

Premier Express Industry Trade Association

Premier Express Industry Trade Association Announces Sweeping Changes
XLA Broadens Member Benefits; Provides Government and Policy Access to Complete Membership

(December 17 , 2008 - Kansas City, Missouri) -- The Express Delivery & Logistics Association (XLA), the premier trade association of the industry, will now provide full access to, and participation in, the work of its Government Affairs Committee (GAC) to all its members, beginning in January 2009. For many years, the XLA has operated with two levels of membership, the basic membership in the trade association with standard membership benefits, and a separate membership required to participate in the GAC.

The XLA of 2009 is an integrated, aligned association representing the interests of all the members, with no delineation between the basic and Government Affairs Committee memberships. All members will receive the benefits of the work done by the GAC in Washington, D.C. on behalf of the express delivery industry--specifically in the areas of security, Customs, postal, trade and independent contractor issues. The GAC is one of five standing committees established by XLA's Board of Directors, and is managed by George Trapp, of Trapp Consulting, Inc., and the leadership of the GAC.

Members of XLA are the influential companies that participate in policy and legislative initiatives to protect the industry from onerous laws and regulations that impair business activity. For more than 32 years, XLA has been highly successful in representing the interests of these companies in Washington, D.C., and to the world agencies that impact their businesses globally.

Founded in 1976, XLA is a nonprofit association whose members include large firms with global delivery networks and smaller businesses with strong regional delivery networks. For more information, contact Kristy McKibben, Executive Director, at 816-221-0254 or visit www.expressassociation.org.

PORT OF TACOMA SELECTS RON STUART AS ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT MANAGER-AIR QUALITY

TACOMA (Dec. 17, 2008) – The Port of Tacoma recently selected Ron Stuart as Environmental Project Manager-Air Quality.

In this position, Stuart manages Port-related diesel and greenhouse gas emissions reduction programs, including implementation of the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy – a partnership with the Port of Seattle and Port Metro Vancouver, British Columbia. He also oversees the preparation of Air Quality aspects of environmental impact assessments, identifies best management practices and implements initiatives for emission control, energy conservation and alternative clean energy.

Before joining the Port, Stuart spent 21 years with Simpson Tacoma Kraft Company (Tacoma), where he served in several positions, including Chemist, Laboratory Supervisor, Environmental Engineer and Environmental Compliance Auditor.

Stuart holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in General Chemistry (1984) from Humboldt State University (Arcata, Calif.), an Environmental Manager Certificate (1995) from the University of Washington-Tacoma, and a Professional Environmental Certification from the Board of Environmental Health and Safety Auditor Certifications (1999).

About the Port of Tacoma

The Port of Tacoma is an economic engine for South Puget Sound, with more than 43,000 family-wage jobs in Pierce County and 113,000 jobs across Washington state related to Port activities. A major gateway to Asia and Alaska, the Port of Tacoma is among the largest container ports in North America, handling an estimated more than $36 billion in annual trade and about 2 million TEUs (20-foot equivalent container units). The Port is also a major center for bulk, breakbulk and project/heavy-lift cargoes, as well as automobiles and trucks. Find out more online at: www.portoftacoma.com

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Cristiano Koga is Named Director of Sales at Penske Logistics – South America

São Paulo, December 17, 2008 – Penske Logistics today announced that Cristiano Koga was named Director of Sales for South America. In this role, Koga will be responsible for furthering Penske Logistics’ strategy of expanding its customer base to include companies in the pharmaceutical, chemical and industrial assets industries and growing its sales force by 20 percent in 2009.

“Penske Logistics’ business in South America has experienced a consistent, strong uptick during the past couple of years, and the region continues to have tremendous growth potential,” said Bill Scroggie, Managing Director, Penske Logistics – South America. “Cristiano’s deep experience in the logistics sector will be a welcome addition, and help us increase market share and further establish Penske Logistics as a leader in the region.”

Cristiano will be based at Penske Logistics’ Alphaville office (Sao Paulo, Brazil) and will work directly with Bill Scroggie, as well as with the Finance and Operations business units to stimulate business growth among a more diverse customer industry base. Before Koga, this position was the responsibility of Paulo Sarti, who is now focused on the direction of operations.

Koga has 11 years of experience in the logistics sector. Prior to joining Penske he worked for Panalpina (carrier management) for eight years and at Royal Shipping Services/CSAV (sea freight transportation) for three years. He graduated from Mackenzie University in São Paulo, Brazil, with a degree in Business Management and a focus in International Commerce. He has a Masters degree in Business Management Strategy and in Business Logistics at Fundação Getulio Vargas and also in Management Leadership at FIA/USP.

About Penske Logistics
Penske Logistics is a wholly owned subsidiary of Penske Truck Leasing. With operations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia, Penske Logistics provides supply chain management and logistics services to leading companies throughout the world. Penske Logistics delivers value through design, planning, and execution in transportation, warehousing, and international freight forwarding and carrier management. Visit www.penskelogistics.com to learn more.

DB Schenker: contract worth in total 190 million Norwegian kroner

Scandinavian Business Seating signed a joint freight agreement with DB Schenker in Norway, Sweden and Denmark

(Oslo, 17 December 2008) Scandinavian Business Seating, an Oslo-based international company in the office chairs segment, recently signed a joint freight contract with DB Schenker in Norway, Sweden and Denmark.
The contract started in December and will generate an annual freight turnover of approximately 63 million NOK (almost seven million Euro). The three year agreement may be extended by yet another two years. Scandinavian Business Seating compiles of HÅG in Norway, RH in Sweden and RBM in Denmark.

“The contract has been won after intense competition between the leading freight and logistics players in the industry, to pursue Scandinavian Business Seatings ambition to become the leading office chair specialist in Europe,” said Michael Holmstrøm, Managing Director, Schenker AS. “DB Schenker’s extensive global network and proactive response to new joint logistic solutions has stood central in the final decision of our customer.”

The good collaboration between DB Schenker and HÅG over many years has also lead the way to a new developed working relationship. DB Schenker and Scandinavian Business Seating shall jointly work towards an effective and reliable distribution solution with strong focus on environment, quality and transparency.

DB Schenker at boot 2009 - setting a new weight record with luxury

(Frankfurt am Main/Düsseldorf, 15 December 2008) Five yachts weighing
540 tons in total were transported by Schenker Deutschland AG on 15
December 2008 to the halls of the Düsseldorf Exhibition Center, where
they are to be the highlights of the “boot 2009” international boat
show. The trade fair logisticians have set a new record with this
consignment. “This is the heaviest total weight we have ever had in one
special transport for 'boot' since this international trade fair first
started," confirmed Ulrich Zähres, the person responsible for “boot” at
Schenker Deutschland AG in the Düsseldorf Exhibition Center branch. When
empty, the largest yacht shipped, the “Bandido 90”, weighs almost 210
tons by herself.

The five luxury yachts traveled on the deck of cargo ships from the
Taiwanese port of Kaohsiung to Rotterdam, where they were placed onto
pontoons with the aid of heavy-duty floating cranes. From there, they
were transported up the Rhine to Düsseldorf. The specialists from DB
Schenker used low loaders for unloading onto a ramp set up by the
company itself. The low loaders were initially positioned under the
yachts on the floating pontoons, hydraulically raised and then
transported onto land and to the trade fair hall by means of two
heavy-duty trucks with 660 horsepower each.

DB Schenker will be moving another 37 boats from the Rhine to the
exhibition grounds before the start of the boat show on 17 January 2009.
Yachts weighing up to 90 tons will mostly make it to “boot 2009” on
their own steam and then be lifted out of the water using the exhibition
center’s heavy-duty crane, known affectionately as “Big Willi”.
Following this, DB Schenker will transport them on low loaders to the
show.

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Companies Team Up to Support Air Quality Efforts at LA, Long Beach Ports

PLANO, Texas & CONCORD, Calif., (Dec. 9, 2008) — Taking a major step toward achieving their goal to convert 100 percent of the truck fleet handling JCPenney imports at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to low-emissions, clean-diesel technology, J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE:JCP) and PDS Trucking, Inc., a subsidiary of Pacer Distribution Services, Inc., have taken delivery of more than 20 new Kenworth T-800 tractors that will replace aging diesel trucks currently in use by independent owner-operators in Pacer’s port network.

“We’re committed to clearing the air around the ports by putting clean trucks on the road as quickly as we can,” said Marie Lacertosa, senior vice president and director of logistics for JCPenney. “This fleet conversion demonstrates that the private sector is capable of implementing sustainable, long-term solutions to port environmental issues that also preserve jobs and maintain the efficient flow of goods.”

Kent Prokop, president of PDS Trucking, added, “We are very pleased to be supporting our customer, JC Penney and the Coalition for Responsible Transportation (CRT) in their efforts to reduce emissions by adding clean trucks to our owner-operator fleet. Pacer will be taking delivery of up to 230 of these trucks by early 2009.”

As members of CRT, JCPenney and Pacer have committed to sponsoring the fleet conversion to support the Los Angeles and Long Beach ports’ 2012 air quality goals. The companies expect the fleet hauling JCPenney merchandise to meet the ports’ emissions goals by early 2009, well ahead of the ports’ deadlines, while also preserving the livelihoods of independent owner-operators in the port trucking community.

The voluntary truck replacement program is based on a leasing model providing owner-operators with new, clean trucks through a private-sector financial arrangement. The financing model represents an innovative and cost-effective way for the private sector to meet recently adopted goals for the retirement of pre-2007 diesel trucks at the Ports of LA and Long Beach.

Independent owner-operators will begin using the trucks in early December to move containers of JCPenney merchandise out of the ports, where a substantial portion of the retailer’s apparel, home furnishings, footwear and accessories arrive from the Asia-Pacific region. The new T-800 trucks, with a 38-inch Aero sleeper, are powered by a Cummins ISX clean-diesel engine capable of operating on ultra-low-sulfur diesel fuel or B20 biodiesel. Each clean-diesel truck with the Cummins ISX engine reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 78 percent and particulate matter emissions by 90 percent compared with a typical truck it replaces.

ABOUT JCPenney

JCPenney is one of America's leading retailers, operating 1,093 department stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, as well as one of the largest apparel and home furnishing sites on the Internet, jcp.com, and the nation's largest general merchandise catalog business. Through these integrated channels, JCPenney offers a wide array of national, private and exclusive brands which reflect the Company's commitment to providing customers with style and quality at a smart price. Traded as "JCP" on the New York Stock Exchange, the Company posted revenue of $19.9 billion in 2007 and is executing its strategic plan to be the growth leader in the retail industry. Key to this strategy is JCPenney's "Every Day Matters" brand positioning, intended to generate deeper, more emotionally driven relationships with customers by fully engaging the Company's 155,000 Associates to offer encouragement, provide ideas and inspire customers every time they shop with JCPenney.

ABOUT PACER INTERNATIONAL (www.pacer-international.com)


Pacer International, a leading asset-light North American freight transportation and third-party logistics provider, through its intermodal and logistics operating segments, offers a broad array of services to facilitate the movement of freight from origin to destination. The intermodal segment offers wholesale services provided by Pacer Stacktrain (cost-efficient, two-tiered rail transportation for containerized shipments) and Pacer Cartage (local trucking), as well as retail services through its Rail Brokerage group (intermodal marketing). The logistics segment provides retail truck brokerage, trucking, warehousing and distribution, international freight forwarding, and supply-chain management services. Pacer International is headquartered in Concord, California. Its intermodal and logistics operating segments are headquartered in Concord, California, and in Dublin, Ohio, respectively.

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

GLOBAL LOGISTICS COMPANY EXPANDS INTO SOUTHERN TEXAS

C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. Identifies Corpus Christi As Prime Expansion Area

Corpus Christi, TX, December 3, 2008 — C.H. Robinson Worldwide, one of the world’s largest third party logistics (3PL) providers of transportation and supply chain services, has expanded its operations into Corpus Christi, Texas.

Eric Marshall, manager of C.H. Robinson – Corpus Christi, said, “We offer strong and competitive transportation solutions for our customers through our global network and can handle anything from small shipments to complete transportation outsource packages. With the knowledge of our people, our technology, our logistics expertise and our flexible business model, we create effective ways to improve service metrics and reduce overall supply-chain spend.”

With the opening of the Corpus Christi office, C.H. Robinson now has an office in each port city in the United States. The C.H. Robinson- Corpus Christi office provides transportation services to companies with freight needs and will focus on providing supply-chain and transportation solutions ranging from truckload, less than truckload, rail, refrigerated transportation, and complete transportation outsourcing.

Marshall said, “C.H. Robinson has a proven track record of financial strength and stability. We earn and value the loyalty of our contracted carriers and shippers, and we work hard to support their success. This region has shown a steady economic growth and I look forward to working with the local business community. Corpus Christi is a great area with amazing beaches, attractions, and recreational opportunities. I am very excited to be a part of the growing community and to be able to utilize the talent from Texas A & M for hiring and internship opportunities.”

Prior to opening the Corpus Christi office, Marshall gained sales experience at C.H. Robinson’s Detroit office and has been with C.H. Robinson for 13 years. Marshall is joined by Glenn Harkin, who has over seven years of industry knowledge. Marshall plans on hiring two to three employees within the next three months. The office is located at 2820 South Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi, TX and can be reached at 877.764.7439.

About C.H. Robinson
Founded in 1905, C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., is a global provider of multimodal transportation and logistics services, serving over 29,000 customers through a network of more than 224 offices and approximately 8,000 employees in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. The company works with 48,000 transportation providers worldwide, many of whom are small trucking companies and owner operators. C.H. Robinson is a Fortune 500 company and the largest provider of truckload transportation in North America, with annual gross revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. Through the company and its Foundation, C.H. Robinson contributes millions of dollars annually to a variety of organizations, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the American Cancer Society, Children’s Hospital of Minnesota, and the United Way. The company is headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and has been publicly traded on the Nasdaq since 1997. For more information about C.H. Robinson, visit our Web site at www.chrobinson.com.

Penske Truck Leasing teams up with PeopleNet

READING, Pa., Dec. 3, 2008 – Today, Penske Truck Leasing announced it has teamed with PeopleNet for onboard commercial truck technology solutions. The move marks a shift in Penske’s Fleet I.Q. strategy from offering a single private-labeled product to a suite of products and services.

“We are very pleased to be working with PeopleNet,” said Jim Feenstra, Senior Vice President, Marketing – Penske Truck Leasing. “We selected them based on their ability and commitment to offer our customers a high level of customer service as well as a quality product with robust functionality.”

“We’re excited to work with Penske to offer their customers excellent integrated onboard computing and mobile communications systems,” said Ron Konezny, chief executive officer for PeopleNet. "Our alliance with Penske is a natural fit. We both are customer-oriented companies. Together, we offer fleet managers an effective way to reduce operating costs and improve fleet productivity."

Penske’s move to begin working with PeopleNet is part of its wider technology and decision support strategy to support its customer’s fleet productivity needs. Fleet I.Q. will become a portfolio of services and solutions at various price points that will include onboard technology solutions from a variety of high-caliber, value-added suppliers, like PeopleNet. Penske will also provide a new financing option and in-house consulting to help its customers analyze and get the most from the data captured by these on-board fleet technology systems.

“Over the last several years, we offered customers one Fleet I.Q. product through one vendor,” said Feenstra. “At the time this was right because of the various vendor business models and our customers weren’t yet comfortable with these systems. However, today the market is maturing. Companies are looking to optimize fleet productivity and reduce transportation costs. Also, through our experience we understand that one size doesn’t fit all and different customers need different solutions. That’s why Fleet I.Q. is becoming a broader offering of solutions with more choices, price points and functionality but based on the foundation of solid and indisputable customer service. This is why we chose a partner like PeopleNet.”

Penske Truck Leasing Co., L.P., headquartered in Reading, Pa., is a joint venture among Penske Corporation, Penske Automotive Group and General Electric. A leading global transportation services provider, Penske operates more than 200,000 vehicles and serves customers from more than 1,000 locations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. Product lines include full-service truck leasing, contract maintenance, commercial and consumer truck rentals, transportation and warehousing management, and supply chain management solutions. Visit www.gopenske.com to learn more about the company and its products and services.

PeopleNet, based in suburban Minneapolis, is North America's leading provider of Internet-based and integrated onboard computing and mobile communications systems. Its transportation products are used by top truckload, LTL, private, and service fleets in the U.S. and Canada. PeopleNet was the first major technology provider to offer Internet-based communications to the transportation industry 14 years ago and now serves more than 1,500 customers, including several Fortune 500 companies. PeopleNet is on the web at www.peoplenetonline.com.

Ohio’s $100 Million Investment in Logistics Infrastructure Launched at Hyperlogistics Group

Columbus, Ohio - Hyperlogistics Group’s state-of-the-art warehouse facility was the setting on November 21, 2008 when Ohio’s leaders launched the $100 million Jobs Stimulus Package for development of infrastructure to expand and support logistics and distribution business in Ohio. Governor Ted Strickland addressed the crowd and provided an overview of the Jobs Stimulus Package and its impact on Ohio’s economic outlook. Lt. Governor and Ohio Director of Development Lee Fisher presented more detailed information about how the package will spur job creation. Ohio Department of Transportation Director Jim Beasley closed the presentation by summarizing current ODOT initiatives to concentrate on inter-modal transport.

”Ohio’s economic development strategy is built on the back of our logistics and infrastructure systems and Hyperlogistics Group was a perfect stage to showcase this $100 million investment from our Ohio Jobs Stimulus Plan,” said Lt. Governor Fisher. “Enhancing the movement of freight allows Ohio companies to launch Ohio products into new markets and better support our existing manufacturing and retail sectors.”

Located in Columbus Regional Airport Authority’s new Rickenbacker Global Logistics Park, Hyperlogistics Group provided an appropriate backdrop for the presentation. One of the country’s most advanced logistics hubs, Columbus Regional Airport Authority holds 1300 acres surrounding Rickenbacker airport with plans to develop 22 million square feet of warehousing and distribution space. As a Foreign Trade Zone approved warehousing and distribution center in Ohio, Hyperlogistics Group sits adjacent to Norfolk Southern’s Intermodal Terminal. This is the first facility ready to receive loaded-to-capacity containers on a roadway built specifically by the Columbus Regional Airport Authority to allow transport of overweigh loads.

Founded in 1973, Hyperlogistics Group performs warehouse, distribution and transportation functions in a unique and flexible manner in the logistics arena. Hyperlogistics Group works with each client on an individual and customized plan to improve efficiencies and reduce supply chain costs. For more information, visit www.hyperlog.com.

DB Schenker - Siemens Alliance: Customers Big Winners

(Sydney, December 3, 2008) Schenker Australia Pty Ltd has been providing import and export services for Siemens medical products for more than eight years. From now on, this will extend to all Siemens Australia and New Zealand international and domestic import and export activities and domestic freight, providing a consolidated, streamlined service that ultimately benefits the customer.

According to Ron Koehler, CEO of Schenker Australia Pty Ltd, the contract extension is the result of significant improvements in the company's supply chain across its businesses during the last two years, and a responsive approach to reducing the environmental impact of its freight services. “We are proud to have been awarded the Siemens contract for import and export services across Australia and New Zealand, and will transfer solutions originally developed to meet the demands in the Healthcare business, to strengthen and develop Siemens supply chain in other sectors,” said Mr Koehler.

“We have also considered ways of reducing the environmental impact of our international and domestic freight services. By providing an optimised combination of transport modes and reducing paper in freight documentation and invoicing, Schenker Australia Pty Ltd reduce environmental impacts in the supply chain, which is in line with Siemens principles of environmentally responsible practice.”

Jeff Connolly, Siemens Ltd Chief Financial Officer, said that of the tenders received, Schenker Australia Pty Ltd was best placed to deliver a consolidated, time and cost effective international and domestic import and export service for Siemens customers.
“Having provided freight forwarding, warehousing and distribution services for Siemens medical products and for large projects since the late 90’s, Siemens is pleased to extend our relationship with Schenker Australia Pty Ltd to include freight forwarding services for import and export activities across Australia and New Zealand, including transport and distribution services throughout both countries,” said Mr Connolly.

“DB Schenker provides the optimal solution for Siemens freight services, with the ability to deliver some very challenging cargo, from an extremely large power generation turbine, to delicate medical devices within very tight timeframes and cost effectively. Priority medical products have always been deliverable from Europe within just two days, but now this exceptional turnaround rate can be provided to customers for all priority products across Siemens three sectors – Industry, Energy and Healthcare. The delivery time for goods other than priority medical products was previously nine days.”
Mr Connolly said DB Schenker also offered Siemens customers complete visibility throughout the entire journey, with ready access to the online track and trace system, and improved order and invoicing processes. “As Schenker Australia Pty Ltd is now the single preferred provider of international and domestic import and export services for Siemens customers in Australia and New Zealand, customers will be able to check online where a product is at any time throughout its journey. This streamlined, all encompassing freight service is another example of how Siemens is working proactively to improve business outcomes for our customers.”

The development of the electronic interface between DB Schenker and Siemens also means a vast reduction in paperwork, and timely receipt and issuing of invoicing, with all related documents to now be processed electronically.

Monday, December 1, 2008

DHL expands partnership with UNICEF to India and Peru in the fight against child mortality

Bonn, December 1, 2008: DHL has given UNICEF a $ 650,000 grant to fund a three-year pilot project to empower communities to improve child survival rates in 1,000 villages in the Nandurbar district of Maharashtra, India. DHL extends its partnership with UNICEF to include India, along with Kenya and Peru.

Working together with the Government of India, the Government of Maharashtra, NGOs and other partners, UNICEF will use the funds to strengthen the health system. This will include educating villagers in the prevention and treatment of common communicable diseases as well as providing immunizations and micronutrients to infants and young children. The grant from DHL will be used to develop and implement village health and nutrition plans, to set up village information posts and train midwives and other workers.

Along with the municipal and regional government, UNICEF in Peru - supported by DHL funds - is also developing an integrated program against child mortality and chronic malnutrition, including an information campaign on the importance of immunization for children. Hermann Ude, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding and Freight and Board Member of Deutsche Post World Net recently visited the Rosaspata community in the Ayacucho region of Peru to inform himself about the progress of the project. “I wanted to get a real picture of the situation first hand and show my support to the local management and to the entire Group for this endeavor," Ude said. “As a father of three children myself, I can understand how important this is to the local people. As a manager, I am impressed by the organization of the project because it is well implemented within the local community and its culture instead of being brought onto the people from outside.”

In Peru four out of ten Peruvians live in poverty. In regions like Ayacucho, poverty affects 68 percent of the population. The program covers selected municipal districts in the Andean regions of Ayacucho, Apurimac and Amazonas where up to 3,000 pregnant women and up to 7,000 children under age three will receive assistance. The program’s goals by 2010 are to reduce infant mortality by ten percent, to reduce low-weight births, chronic malnutrition and anemia in children under three by ten percent, to increase the immunization rate among children under 18 months to 95 percent and increase birth registration to 90 percent.

In Kenya, another 13 DHL employees have supported the "Malezi Bora" campaign as volunteers, a country-wide education program in Kenya to improve the health of children and mothers. This was carried out by UNICEF in consultation with the Kenyan Ministry of Health in the district of Kwale, located in southern Kenya. The Deutsche Post World Net employees, recruited from all entities and all geographical regions where the company is operating in, visited eight remote villages and assisted local staff to prepare meals for 600 mothers and their children. During the 14-day-visit, about 2,500 children received health services.

Focusing on “Young Child Survival and Development”, all three UNICEF projects – in Peru, Kenya and India – are specifically funded by contributions from DHL and its employees. Both the India and Peru projects are extensions of DHL’s partnership with UNICEF. In September 2006, DHL’s parent company Deutsche Post World Net (DPWN) agreed to provide UNICEF with long-term support in its worldwide fight to reduce child mortality.

Media Inquiries:
DHL Express USA
Robert Mintz
Sr. Manager, Public Relations
Tel.: (954) 888-7114
E-Mail : usa.pressoffice@dhl.com

DHL
Corporate Communications
Claus Korfmacher
Tel.: +49 (0)228-182-9944
E-Mail: pressestelle@deutschepost.de

About DHL
DHL is the global market leader of the international express and logistics industry, specializing in providing innovative and customized solutions from a single source.

DHL offers expertise in express, air and ocean freight, overland transport, contract logistic solutions as well as international mail services, combined with worldwide coverage and an in-depth understanding of local markets. DHL's international network links more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. Some 300,000 employees are dedicated to providing fast and reliable services that exceed customers' expectations.

DHL is a Deutsche Post World Net brand. The group generated revenues of more than 63 bn euros in 2007.

For the latest news and happenings about DHL in Asia Pacific, please visit: http://press.ap.dhl.com


About UNICEF
UNICEF is on the ground in over 150 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive, from early childhood through adolescence. The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS. UNICEF is funded entirely by the voluntary contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments.

GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS NOT READY FOR CHALLENGING TIMES

Survey Shows Businesses Ignore Risks, Raise Vulnerabilities

ATLANTA, Dec. 1, 2008 – Nearly half of companies with global supply chains say they fear major disruptions in their ability to source, produce and ship goods around the world. And they’re not doing much to prevent it.

In a new survey sponsored by UPS, 47 percent of companies say they need to pay more attention to risk mitigation compared to just 16 percent that believe they pay an adequate amount of attention. As a result, only 38 percent of those surveyed rate the resilience of their supply chain above average, while a troubling 42 percent say the expansion of their global supply chains has outpaced their ability to manage risk.

The global survey of nearly 350 senior executives was released today by UPS and the Economist Intelligence Unit. The survey itself was supplemented with interviews of academic experts and leading supply chain practitioners.

“Businesses appear to be increasingly vulnerable to supply chain disruptions that can have a catastrophic impact on business performance,” said Dan Brutto, president, UPS International. “Success in the global economy depends in large part on building successful risk mitigation strategies that can turn a resilient supply chain into a competitive advantage.”

Kim Andreasson, senior editor at the Economist Intelligence Unit and the editor of the report, points out that companies today already are more vulnerable as a result of having created tighter and leaner supply chains. “A lean organization is a requirement for competitiveness, but that can also expose a business to an increasing number of risks,” he adds.

The survey pointed out some troubling findings, reinforcing the point that rising risks to supply chain resilience are too often ignored in the rush of day-to-day business -- and companies know it.

For example, insufficient monitoring, risk assessment and contingency planning are leaving companies ill-prepared when crises hit. One of every 10 companies do not monitor suppliers for anything. About half of the remainder look only at immediate suppliers. Furthermore, in almost half the companies surveyed, formal risk assessment takes place only annually.

“Although some companies are taking sensible precautions to address risk, too many firms are leaving themselves open to unanticipated dangers,” said Brutto. “And some of the steps companies are taking to improve resilience are not necessarily the best choices.”

For example, a significant minority of businesses are falling back on increased inventory to address resilience problems, an expensive and ineffective approach. Almost half the companies surveyed expect to hold additional stock and raise inventory even more in the future.

Low-cost country sourcing, which has grown significantly in recent years, brings its own set of challenges to global supply chains. Almost half of all survey respondents said low-cost sourcing had posed significant problems, such as the quality received from such suppliers and even their ability to deliver goods as promised. Although most companies intend to increase their low-cost sourcing, 10 percent of those surveyed intend to reduce it.

“We don’t expect to see low-cost sourcing go away,” said Brutto, “but it will look different in the future. The keys to successful sourcing from low-cost countries are like those of supply chain resilience in general: understand the issues, structure the supply chain appropriately, monitor performance and work with suppliers to improve operations.” He also noted that multi-sourcing and near-sourcing to enhance resilience are likely to become part of best practices in the future.

Brutto offered four recommendations that companies should consider as they operate in an increasingly risk-filled environment:

Assess your supply chain
“Companies need to map their existing supply chains to assess points of vulnerability,” said Brutto. “These could be a key supplier critical to your organization, a bottleneck from using a single port of entry for all your products into a continent or a single transportation mode that could make your supply chain susceptible to a strike or some natural disaster. Once these points of failure are identified, you can develop contingency plans to mitigate risks.”

Develop alternative plans
“Critical supplier risk can be mitigated by developing alternate sources of supply,” said Brutto. “A bottleneck can be alleviated through setting up alternate entry points to less-crowded ports. Adopting a multi-modal strategy will give you flexibility to move your product if your primary mode were to fail.”

Ensure visibility across your supply chain
“Supply chain visibility is the key to a resilient supply chain,” said Brutto. “Because supply chains today span multiple continents and multiple partners, you need visibility into the progress of your purchase order through your supplier’s manufacturing process, during the transportation of the product through your freight forwarder and delivery to your facility. In addition, you need order cycle visibility through the distribution process. Having real-time visibility across your supply chain will enable you to identify a problem as soon as it occurs and put your contingency plans in action.”

Develop key partnerships with your logistics providers
“Developing trusted partnerships with your logistics providers can increase the resilience of your supply chain,” said Brutto. “Integrated logistics partners have the ability to provide supplier management services, enable excellent visibility to products within the supply chain and implement a multi-modal strategy. They also enable smooth trans-border movements of goods and can quickly implement an alternate operating plan to get around bottlenecks.”

While the challenges are daunting, there is an upside: an opportunity for competitive advantage. “By pursuing risk mitigation and resiliency strategies, supply chain executives can help their organizations grow and retain customers, increase revenues and profits and improve shareholder value,” Brutto concluded.

View the entire report and more survey results at http://longitudes08.com/Barcelona08/research/white_papers/Barcelona_Survey.pdf

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Hamilton Port Authority conducts Container Feeder Shipping Trial

November 26, 2008 -Hamilton, Ontario - The Hamilton Port Authority will launch its short sea shipping initiative with a dedicated container feeder vessel bound for India and Pakistan via the Montreal Gateway Terminal.

The shipment, for Sunrise Metals, is centered around recycled metals, primarily sourced locally and in the Golden Horseshoe. It consists of 68 containers which will be barged to Montreal by Hamilton based McKeil Marine and be routed from there by Maersk and CMA CGM, two of the top five container lines in the world.

This first of its kind shipment marks a significant step in the advancement of Great Lakes short sea shipping through the development of viable container feeder services linking with both Halifax and Montreal. Short sea shipping, a significant component to goods movement throughout Europe, has been increasingly identified as providing long term sustainability for the Seaway.

“We’ve invested a significant amount of time with a number of port partners over the past two months making this long-discussed concept a reality with this trial shipment,” said HPA president and CEO Bruce Wood, “Making this specialized type of service an important piece of the port’s traffic connecting to Canada’s East Coast ports is a central part of our overall Hamilton Port Authority strategy.”

“We have great faith in the Hamilton Port Authority’s ability to make this service a sustainable and economically viable option for us,” said Amandeep Singh Kaloti, president of Sunrise Metals. “The ability to ship via vessel containerized cargo from Hamilton to Montreal and Halifax for transfer to global markets provides us with a great opportunity to operate efficiently in the Golden Horseshoe.”

Global economic conditions are forcing many sectors to evaluate further cost saving measures and programs. Transportation costs are a substantial constituent of the total supply chain and one which is not insular to recent downturns in the economy. It is hoped the trial will act as a stimulus for other products to move via the waterways and incent future cargo volume to consider the marine alternative. Short Sea Shipping has been promoted by Canada’s Federal Government and was recently supported in a speech by United States President-elect Barack Obama.

The trial supports the push in identifying new short sea shipping opportunities in line with the St. Lawrence Seaway’s Highway H2O program which promotes the waterways available capacity and infrastructure. The move is being applauded by stakeholders including The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC). Richard Corfe, SLSMC president and CEO commented

“We are very pleased to see the development of this trial feeder service from the Port of Hamilton. It is a positive sign for short sea shipping on the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway System and demonstrates the viability of moving containers via the waterway.”


The Hamilton Port Authority is committed to being a leader in the economic, environmental and social vitality of Ontario. The port sees the largest volume of traffic and tonnage among Canadian Great Lakes ports.


For further information please contact:
Brent Kinnaird
Manager, Communications & Public Relations
Hamilton Port Authority
905-525-4330
bkinnaird@hamiltonport.ca

A Proud Partner in www.hwyh20.com

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

New Product Meets Consumers’ Demand For Fresh, Healthy, and Convenient Products

Minneapolis, MN, October, 15 2008 – C.H. Robinson, one of the largest produce sourcing and logistics companies in the world, in conjunction with River Ranch Fresh Foods, LLC , has launched a new product line, Fresh ’n Easy® QuickSteam™ vegetable side dishes. The product will be available to consumers this year, in early November.

Bud Floyd, C.H. Robinson’s vice president of produce marketing, said, “The Fresh ’n Easy® QuickSteam™ products were developed in response to the changing needs and trends of today’s consumers’ demand for healthy and convenient food that is fresh. We went through a rigorous testing process with consumers and believe that each of the seven flavors answers the consumers' demand for flavorful, fresh vegetables. These products are a great, easy, and wholesome addition to a family meal.”

C.H. Robinson and River Ranch tested 32 sauces with approximately 1,500 consumers before selecting the top seven Fresh ’n Easy® QuickSteam™ sauces. Each of the flavors - Alfredo, Asian Citrus, Blue Cheese, Creamy Tomato Basil, Garlic & Butter, Sharp Cheddar, and Southwestern - are made with dairy-based sauces. Each serving ranges from 70 to 110 calories with no trans fats. The Fresh ’n Easy® QuickSteam™ products also offer four bagged items without sauce. All QuickSteam™ products use microperf technology, which allows the products up to a 17-day shelf life. No preparation is necessary and cooking is complete in three minutes or less. The packaging utilizes a new steam valve cooking system that ensures perfectly cooked product while maintaining a high nutrient level.

C.H. Robinson will showcase the new Fresh ’n Easy® QuickSteam™ products at the Produce Marketing Association (PMA) Fresh Summit convention in October. Free samples will be available at the C.H. Robinson booth, number 1619, and the River Ranch booth, number 1119, and the products will be featured at the C.H. Robinson-sponsored breakfast on, October 26 at the PMA convention.

About C.H. Robinson:
C.H. Robinson Company got its start in the produce industry over 100 years ago, providing fresh fruits and vegetables to the settlers of the Dakotas and Minnesota. Today, C.H. Robinson is one of the largest produce sourcing and non-asset based third party logistics companies in the world, with 2007 sourcing gross revenues of $1.3 billion. C.H. Robinson sources the highest quality products while integrating value-added logistics, distribution, and information reporting services. We provide our customers with complete customized supply-chain solutions that meet each customer's needs.

About River Ranch:
River Ranch Fresh Foods, LLC is a premium grower/shipper headquartered in Salinas, maintaining year-round operations with two state-of-the-art processing and cooling facilities in Salinas and El Centro, California. The company processes and distributes salad kits and side dish vegetables under Retailer’s Own and River Ranch brands, and spinach, salads, and fresh-cut vegetable snacks and side dishes under the Popeye Fresh! brand pursuant to an exclusive long-term agreement with Hearst Holdings, Inc., King Features Syndicate Division. River Ranch is also a broad-line distributor of high quality commodity products and services customers throughout North America in all classes of trade, including retail, foodservice and club stores.
For additional information, please visit www.RiverRanchFreshFoods.com or www.PopeyeFreshFoods.com.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Wheels Logistics Forges a New Link in Customers’ Supply Chains

Mississauga, ON, – Wheels Logistics proudly announces the opening of its new warehouse facility featuring expanded services that provide a new link in their customers’ supply chains. Located within minutes of Pearson International Airport in Mississauga, Ontario, the 70,000 square foot warehouse provides customers from both Canada and the United States with a central facility capable of reaching 64% of Canada's population with next-day service.

The new warehouse offers existing Wheel's Logistics customers with expanded services beyond traditional road delivery. Warehousing, kitting, order picking, fulfillment and distribution services will use advanced technology solutions to leverage operational efficiencies. Both the strategic location of the warehouse and the service capabilities of Wheels Logistics give distributors operating out of the U.S. an excellent, cost-effective opportunity to tap into the Canadian market without the associated overhead costs and logistics concerns.

“Wheels Logistics is committed to providing award winning logistics solutions that will help our customers succeed in a competitive global environment. Our new facility has been in the planning stages for a year and every detail has been assessed to ensure our ability to help our customers’ optimize their supply chains”, says Jim Davidson, Wheels Logistics President. “We are excited about the growth opportunities that this will bring to our organization and to our customers as we continue to expand our supply chain service offering”, he adds.
About Wheels Logistics

Wheels Logistics is a division of Wheels Group, winner of the Ryder Carrier Quality Award and one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies. Wheels Group provides innovative supply chain products, services and information technologies that deliver leading-edge, value-added business solutions. The company serves an international client base through four divisions: Wheels Group, which provides the company’s shared services and strategic vision; Wheels Clipper, a third-party logistics provider with 90 years of combined experience; Wheels Logistics, specializing in contracted services that support just-in-time delivery; and Wheels Global, which provides a full range of freight forwarding services. Through these offerings the company applies a forward thinking approach to supply chain management that optimizes business results and creates long-term value for customers.

For more information please contact:

Michael Czopka
Senior Account Manager, Supply Chain Solutions
Wheels Logistics
5090 Orbitor Drive, Unit 1
Mississauga, ON L4W 5B5
Canada

T: 800.663.6331 x4220
E: mczopka@wheelsgroup.com

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Economic Shifts: What's the Impact on Your Supply Chain (CITT News)

News about the economy hits us from every angle and through every medium. Whether the source is television, radio, newspaper or online, the message is the same. The economy is reeling, and nobody it seems can stop the bleeding.

Dollars on both sides of the border are in falling, fuel prices are fluctuating rapidly and a major recession looms. Sand to bury your head in is becoming scarce as the ramifications of an erratic North American economy are seeping into every crack and fissure of our lives.

For the supply chain and logistics professional, these facts are more than just headlines. They are woven into the fabric of your daily work, and then they follow you home at night. But what makes the current problems unique are the solutions. Dusting off the corporate hatchet and simply cutting costs is no longer the panacea it once was.

The economics of 2008 combined with changes common to the supply chain and logistics profession emphasize the fact that you must now fully understand key monetary trends in order to craft your individual strategies. Today, everyone from the CEO to the logistics manager to the warehouse supervisor must learn to think strategically and act decisively in the face of unprecedented market turmoil. That includes finding ways to take advantage of an unstable marketplace.

For even during recessionary times, there are still opportunities for growth through expansion into new markets, outperforming competitors through better service or by adopting new technologies. Companies and corporate individuals who view market slowdowns as opportunities usually outdistance their competitors when the recovery comes around. Supply chain managers have a vital role to play in such initiatives.

Economic Shifts, featured at CITT's Reposition 2008, has assembled an expert panel for one purpose. To help you better understand the nature of economic cycles across North America and their impact on supply chain and logistics with a focus on five areas directly impacting your job right now.

The Economic Shifts senior panel will discuss these critical issues:

1. The Global Outlook on the Economy
The short and long-term global economic outlook will be discussed, along with the accompanying risks and opportunities the logistics professional will face. (Speaker – David Newman, CFA, Senior Vice President, Transportation and Aerospace Analyst, National Bank Financial)


2. Regulatory and Legislative Changes and Currency Issues
This session will focus on the changes in store for trade, transportation, governance and environmental legislation and the impact these changes will have on supply chain. Exchange rates and their impact on your margin will be discussed, as well as how holding inventory in another country is valued. Monetary value due to currency changes will also be touched upon. (Speaker – Dr. Barry Prentice, Professor, Supply Chain Management, Transport Institute University of Manitoba)

3. Consolidation of the Transportation Industry
Will consolidation become more prevalent and how will that affect capacity, rates and service? Which modes are going to survive and thrive, and which will suffer? Pricing issues will also be discussed. (Speaker – Patrick Bohan, CITT, Manager, Business Development, Halifax Port Authority)

4. The Supply Chain Manager
Have you ever wondered how a supply chain manager can impact a company’s growth and profitability? What is the new role of the logistics professional? Supply chain managers must learn how to employ the right tactics to show that sound supply chain management can indeed influence a company’s success. (Speaker – Warren Sarafinchan, CITT, Senior Director, Logistics Solutions, Maple Leaf Foods.)

The unpredictable nature of the economy is here to stay, so doing your due diligence now means expanding your career competencies into new and sometimes unfamiliar territory. The Economic Shifts session at Reposition 2008 was designed to help keep you informed about the changes and opportunities that come with an unsteady economy.

Economic Shifts is just one of many learning sessions featured at Reposition 2008. To find out more about this and other sessions, please visit www.citt.ca

Thursday, September 18, 2008

YRC Worldwide Appoints Timothy Wicks

OVERLAND PARK, KAN. -- YRC Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ: YRCW) announced today that Timothy A. Wicks has been named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer effective October 13, 2008. In this role, Mr. Wicks will be responsible for all aspects of the corporation’s finance activities including treasury, tax, accounting, and financial reporting. He will report to Bill Zollars, Chairman, President and CEO of YRC Worldwide.

Mr. Wicks comes from UnitedHealthcare where he served as Senior Vice President - Strategic Growth Initiatives, and was primarily responsible for launching new distribution and investment capabilities.

“Tim’s leadership experience in various strategic and financial roles will be invaluable as we take our next step in the transformation of our organization,” said Bill Zollars. “I am confident Tim will continue the development of the strong talent within our finance team and form solid partnerships with all functional areas.”

Zollars added, “I would like to thank Paul Liljegren for his contributions as Interim Chief Financial Officer over the last couple of months. Paul has done an excellent job and we are pleased that he is a key member of the team.”

Mr. Wicks graduated with honors from the University of Chicago with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics in 1988. After working in finance and economics for Northwest Airlines, he attended Harvard Graduate School of Business and obtained an MBA with concentrations in Finance and Corporate Strategy. Mr. Wicks was Co-Founder and President of Great Northern Capital for six years before joining Dell, Inc. as Director of Global Business Strategy. In 2002, Mr. Wicks joined UnitedHealthcare, the largest division of UnitedHealth Group, serving in a variety of business development roles.

In addition, Mr. Wicks served as Non-Executive Chairman of the Board for GenCorp, an NYSE-listed Aerospace/Defense and Real Estate Company. He was a Board and Audit Committee member for three years and was Chairman of the Finance Committee in 2006.

YRC National Integration Leadership

YRC Worldwide also announced today that it is aligning key members of the leadership team to ensure the successful integration of Yellow Transportation and Roadway. Mike Smid, President of YRC North American Transportation, and Phil Gaines, President of Yellow Transportation, have assumed the additional responsibility of the operational integration, while Terry Gilbert, President of Roadway, has assumed lead responsibility for the local sales integration.

“The operations and sales integrations of Yellow and Roadway are significant steps for our organization,” stated Zollars. “With Mike’s extensive operational experience, Phil’s operations and finance background, and Terry’s sales expertise, we are confident we will continue to provide quality service to our customers throughout the integration.”

YRC Worldwide Inc., a Fortune 500 company and one of the largest transportation service providers in the world, is the holding company for a portfolio of successful brands including Yellow Transportation, Roadway, Reimer Express, YRC Logistics, New Penn, USF Holland, USF Reddaway, and USF Glen Moore. The enterprise provides global transportation services, transportation management solutions and logistics management. The portfolio of brands represents a comprehensive array of services for the shipment of industrial, commercial and retail goods domestically and internationally. Headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, YRC Worldwide employs approximately 60,000 people.

Paul Kurrat Earns 
CITT Award of Excellence

September 18, 2008 – Patrick Bohan, chair of the CITT National Board of Directors, is pleased to announce that Paul Kurrat, CITT, has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Award of Excellence.

The CITT Award of Excellence is presented to the member who best exemplifies a strong commitment to the logistics profession and to CITT. The winner must display qualities such as leadership, innovation and civic mindedness. Nominees are selected by their peers.

Mr. Kurrat is currently the operations manager at Global Distribution and Warehousing, a 3PL company based in Mississauga, ON. Previously, he worked in transportation and logistics for a major beverage manufacturer. Mr. Kurrat began his career as a planner and technologist in aircraft and mining equipment manufacturing.

Although he is well-established in supply chain and logistics, Mr. Kurrat still felt flattered by the award.

“I am honoured to win the Award of Excellence,” said Mr. Kurrat. “The Board’s consideration to place me in the ranks of the previous recipients makes it even more special. This is truly elite company to be in.”

Mr. Kurrat’s strong academic background includes: a Bachelor of Arts Degree from York University; a Certificate in Mechanical Technology from Ryerson University; a Bachelor of Education Degree from Brock University; an Advanced Diploma in a Business Administration from the Canadian School of Management; a Master of Business Administration Specializing in Action Learning, International Management Centres Association, United Kingdom and a Master of Business Administration, Aspen University, Colorado. His professional designations include P.MM (Materials Management and Handling Society). He earned his CITT designation in 1987.

Mr. Kurrat utilizes his diverse logistics and educational background in the classroom as a program coordinator, Continuing Education, for the CITT program at Sheridan College. He is also a program advisor at Sheridan, and a past program advisor at Centennial and Conestoga College. Mr. Kurrat is also a respected teacher, lecturer and course writer in the logistics field.

During his many years as a member, Mr. Kurrat has remained a guiding force within CITT. A familiar face to many in the organization, he attributes the longevity of CITT to the accessibility of its members and the way they interact.

“In over two decades as a member of CITT, I have witnessed many changes. One thing that has remained constant is how this membership has fostered its incredible network. Having access to an association of competent and engaged practitioners remains the greatest benefit of the designation for me.”

Mr. Kurrat shares this award with his wife of 29 years and his three daughters.

The CITT Award of Excellence will be presented at the Annual Awards Dinner during the CITT’s annual conference (Reposition 2008) on Friday, November 7 in Winnipeg.

SUNTECK ADDS AGENT OFFICE IN NORTH CAROLINA

Fayetteville, N.C. – Sunteck Transport Group, a non-asset based provider of transportation services, has added an agent office in eastern North Carolina. This brings the total of Sunteck agent offices to 50.

Rudy Young, d.b.a.Tar Heel Freight, is Sunteck’s agent based out of Fayetteville, N.C. at 214 Cedar Creek Road, Suite B, 28313 and (800) 230-5575. This office has more than seven years combined experience in the transportation and logistics industry, and will focus largely on refrigerated truckload shipments.

“Sunteck was the best choice when it came to finding the best brokerage back office for our business,” said Rudy Young, president of Tar Heel Freight. “Their access to a wide range of carriers and the depth of the services they offer to their agents was the primary reason for selecting Sunteck over other options in the marketplace.”

“We’re pleased to see our agent network grow in size and scope,” said Mark Weiss, executive vice president, Sunteck Transport Group. “We welcome Tar Heel Freight and their customers to our organization and family.”

About Sunteck Transport Group
Sunteck Transport Group, the operating subsidiary for AutoInfo, Inc., is a non-asset based transportation services company, providing transportation capacity and related transportation services through its agent network to shippers throughout the United States, and to a lesser extent, Canada. Sunteck’s services include ground transportation coast-to-coast, local pick-up and delivery. Sunteck has strategic alliances with less-than-truckload, contract carriers, truckload common carriers and independent owner-operators to service its customers’ needs quickly and effectively. For more information, please visit www.suntecktransport.com.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Agility Fairs & Events Win Multiple Awards

MELBOURNE, Australia, - Agility Fairs & Events won two prestigious International Exhibition Logistics Associates (IELA) awards for Best Site Agent and Best Export Agent at a ceremony here.

Agility Fairs and Events USA was awarded the Best Site Agent while the United Kingdom office picked up the Best Export Agent. Agility Fairs & Events’ France office won the runner-up prize in the Best Export Agent category.

IELA, an organization of the leading global Fairs and Events companies, established the awards to allow IELA companies to survey the service quality of other IELA agents. The IELA Best Site and Export Agent Awards are unique in that voting members select the winners. The winners are rated through a points system based on the quality of services provided during the year.
“This is a highly prestigious award and Agility F&E is delighted to have been recognized for industry excellence by IELA,” said Margaret Churchill, Vice President, Agility Fairs & Events, USA.

In the United Kingdom, Agility’s Managing Director of Fairs and Events, David Richards, said he was “thrilled to have been honored by our peers and competitors once again” in these two very competitive categories. “I have to thank the UK team and the wider Agility F&E team around the world for helping to win this award,” he added.

Agility’s Thailand office previously won the award three years in a row from 2003 to 2005 and the Singapore office picked up the award in 2002. The Malaysian office picked up the Best On-Site Agent award in 2007.

The IELA organization was formed to establish standards of performance for contractors involved in the physical movement of material to and from an exhibition site, as well as for contractors providing customs clearance, lifting, handling, trucking and storage services on-site.

About Agility

Agility is a leading emerging market multinational with more than 32,000 employees, and over 550 offices in 100 countries around the world. A publicly traded company, with over $6 billion in annual revenue, we have three key business groups - Global Integrated Logistics (GIL), Defense & Government Services (DGS) and Investments. Agility GIL is our commercial division, providing integrated logistics solutions to customers spanning a range of industries from technology and retail to defense and government and oil and gas. The Agility DGS business group provides comprehensive logistics solutions to various government entities and non governmental organizations on a global basis. With three business divisions - Real Estate, Private Equity and Trade Facilitators, Agility Investments utilizes the local insights from our global network to invest in specialized opportunities in the emerging markets.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

C.H. ROBINSON WORLDWIDE NAMED A “BEST PLACE TO WORK” IN MINNEAPOLIS

Minneapolis, MN —C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (“C.H. Robinson”), one of the world’s largest third party logistics provider of transportation and supply chain services, was named by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal as a “Best Place to Work” in the Minneapolis area for 2008. This is the seventh year C.H. Robinson has been recognized for their achievements in creating a positive work environment.

Jim Butts, C.H. Robinson’s senior vice president, said, “We receive a lot of recognition for the work that we do because of our success, but one of the most meaningful honors for us is to be recognized as a “Best Place to Work.” Our people have always been the number-one reason for our success. Because of that, we place a high value on fostering an environment where everyone's ideas and suggestions are valued and freely shared. We want our employees to really enjoy their work and their workplace, because we know that the strength of C.H. Robinson lies in our people and our unique, entrepreneurial culture.”

Butts continued, “Having a positive workplace that our success-minded employees appreciate as a great place to work is reflected in the level of service they provide to our customers and carriers. Our customers and our suppliers often tell us that the people of C.H. Robinson, and their continual drive for excellence, are the main reasons they choose us as a provider. And because of the strong and meaningful relationships our employees form with our shippers and carriers, we have had over 100 years of success.”

C.H. Robinson was selected from a group of over 160 qualifying companies and ranked number two in the large-size company category, which included companies with over 1,001 employees. A random selection of Minnesota-based C.H. Robinson employees, who responded to a survey from Quantum Market Research, gave C.H. Robinson high marks for: work environment, embracing innovations/new ideas, people practices, personal growth and development, people in the organization and how things work day-to-day.

C.H. Robinson receives high marks as an employer for its positive culture and workplace and its benefits program. Benefits include a competitive retirement plan, which matches employees’ 401(k) contributions dollar for dollar up to four percent of their total compensation, as well as a generous profit-sharing contribution. Combined, the company’s average annual contribution has been 10% for the past ten years.

C.H. Robinson and its employees are also heavily involved in the communities in which they do business. Most recently they raised more than $2,000,000 for the American Cancer Society through the “8th Annual Mo & Jim Golf Tournament” fundraiser that draws more than 800 employees, customers, and friends. In Minnesota, C.H. Robinson held their ‘Third Annual Dodge for Cancer Kids Fund’ dodgeball tournament fundraiser that draws more than 200 employees and their family and friends with proceeds benefiting Children’s Hospital and Clinics of Minnesota. The C.H. Robinson Foundation also recently pledged $1 million to Children’s Hospital and Clinics of Minnesota to build the largest, most comprehensive pediatric infusion program in the Upper Midwest.

About C.H. Robinson Worldwide:
Founded in 1905, C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., is one of the world's largest third party providers of multimodal transportation services and logistics solutions, serving over 29,000 customers through a network of 221 offices in North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. For more information about our company, visit our Web site at www.chrobinson.com.

ISM supports equal gender compensation and opportunity worldwide

(Tempe, Ariz.) September 16, 2008 — Inequality, not based upon performance, still exists among certain groups of diverse individuals within the supply management profession. To that end, the world's leading supply management organization, Institute for Supply Management(TM) (ISM), has released an official Position Statement asserting that all equally-qualified professionals performing at a similar level should be given equal compensation and opportunity in the workplace without discrimination based on age, disability, ethnicity, gender, national origin, race, religion or sexual orientation.

In addition to compensation studies in several countries that reveal similar inequalities, ISM's own surveys confirm that a gender gap remains. One startling difference has been the difference in pay between men and women based on years of work experience. ISM's 2007 Salary Survey reported that the average salary for the male supply management professional with 11 to 20 years of experience was $99,854, while his female counterpart earned an average of $69,588. One year later, this gap narrowed only slightly according to responses to ISM's 2008 Salary Survey (males with 11 to 20 years of experience earned $103,908, while females earned $82,813).

"Gender should not be a factor at all,” says ISM CEO Paul Novak, C.P.M., A.P.P. "The profound transformations that have taken hold in this profession must also include equal opportunities for all on a global scale.”

ISM's Position Statements are drafted at the staff and committee level, and then brought to the ISM Board of Directors for final approval. All ISM Position Statements can be found online at www.ism.ws. Select About ISM, then Media Room. (Quick Search: QS130).

As the largest supply management institute in the world, the mission of Institute for Supply Management(TM) (ISM) is to lead supply management. By executing and extending its mission through education, research, standards of excellence, influence building and information dissemination — including the renowned monthly ISM Report On Business® — ISM continues to extend the global impact of supply management. ISM is proud to recognize professional excellence in supply management with awards such as the ISM R. Gene Richter Awards for Leadership and Innovation in Supply Management and the J. Shipman Gold Medal Award. ISM's membership base includes more than 40,000 supply management professionals in 75 countries. Supply management professionals are responsible for trillions of dollars in the purchases of products and services annually. ISM is a member of the International Federation of Purchasing and Supply Management (IFPSM).

YRC Worldwide Recognized as Leading IT Innovator

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – YRC Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ: YRCW), announced today that it has been named to the 20th Annual InformationWeek 500, a list of the nation’s most innovative users of information technology.

As part of the survey for the ranking, InformationWeek evaluated two technology initiatives that were created and implemented by YRC Worldwide. The first was The Computer Assisted Bill Entry (CABE) system, an inventive approach to handle complex billing issues that transportation providers face. CABE is a predictive program, built on data from previous shipments. CABE will improve bill entry cycle time and quality by reducing the manual data entry required. YRC Worldwide has also applied for a patent on this predictive billing entry process. The second initiative was the redesign of the my.roadway.com website that included a number of innovations, including the ability to display the site in multiple languages without any recoding. The benefits of the redesign were both quantitative and qualitative; with the additional functionality and improved technology, the site is easier for customers to use.

“It is an honor to be recognized by InformationWeek again this year for our innovation in providing technology solutions for the transportation and supply chain industries,” said Michael Rapken, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer, YRC Worldwide. “This award is a confirmation of our continued steps to develop and use technology that enables our employees to excel and better serve our customers.”

“For 20 years, the InformationWeek 500 has honored the most innovative users of business technology,” said InformationWeek Editor-in-Chief Rob Preston. “Year after year, InformationWeek 500 companies harness technology to improve efficiency, boost productivity, drive revenue, and establish a competitive advantage. We applaud this year’s winners, and the CIOs and other executives whose ingenuity and risk taking are at the center of business technology innovation.”

InformationWeek has identified and honored the nation's most innovative users of information technology with its annual listing, now in its 20th year, and has tracked the technology, strategies, investments and administrative practices of America’s best-known companies. The list is unique among corporate rankings because it spotlights the power of innovation in information technology, rather than simply identifying the biggest IT spenders.

Monday, September 15, 2008

Wheels Logistics Forges a New Link in Customers' Supply Chains

Mississauga, ON, September 15, 2008 – Wheels Logistics proudly announces the opening of its new warehouse facility featuring expanded services that provide a new link in their customers’ supply chains. Located within minutes of Pearson International Airport in Mississauga, Ontario, the 70,000 square foot warehouse provides customers from both Canada and the United States with a central facility capable of reaching 64% of Canada's population with next-day service.

The new warehouse offers existing Wheel's Logistics customers expanded services beyond traditional road delivery. Warehousing, kitting, order picking, fulfillment and distribution services will use advanced technology solutions to leverage operational efficiencies. Both the strategic location of the warehouse and the service capabilities of Wheels Logistics give distributors operating out of the U.S. an excellent, cost-effective opportunity to tap into the Canadian market without the associated overhead costs and logistics concerns.

“Wheels Logistics is committed to providing award winning logistics solutions that will help our customers succeed in a competitive global environment. Our new facility has been in the planning stages for a year and every detail has been assessed to ensure our ability to help our customers’ optimize their supply chains”, says Jim Davidson, Wheels Logistics President. “We are excited about the growth opportunities that this will bring to our organization and to our customers as we continue to expand our supply chain service offering”, he adds.

About Wheels Logistics

Wheels Logistics is a division of Wheels Group, winner of the Ryder Carrier Quality Award and one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies. Wheels Group provides innovative supply chain products, services and information technologies that deliver leading-edge, value-added business solutions. The company serves an international client base through four divisions: Wheels Group, which provides the company’s shared services and strategic vision; Wheels Clipper, a third-party logistics provider with 90 years of combined experience; Wheels Logistics, specializing in contracted services that support just-in-time delivery; and Wheels Global, which provides a full range of freight forwarding services. Through these offerings the company applies a forward thinking approach to supply chain management that optimizes business results and creates long-term value for customers.

For more information please contact:

Michael Czopka
Senior Account Manager, Supply Chain Solutions
Wheels Logistics
5090 Orbitor Drive, Unit 1
Mississauga, ON L4W 5B5
Canada

T: 800.663.6331 x4220
E: mczopka@wheelsgroup.com

Thursday, September 11, 2008

DB Schenker bundles activities in southern Norway at new Ganddal site

(Berlin/Essen/Oslo, September 11, 2008) In Ganddal near Stavanger, DB Schenker has now bundled the activities of its country organization, Schenker AS, at a new location. The new terminal in southwestern Norway handles both national and international land shipments under one roof. The location currently provides freight distribution services to 40 destinations in the Rogaland region. In addition, the terminal’s convenient location close to the highway improves connections to the north. It is also directly adjacent to a rail terminal.

On a site covering an area of 23,000 square meters, the 3,300-square meter terminal with its 43 loading bays offers 2,300 square meters of heated warehousing, with an additional 600 square meters of covered open space. A 700 square meters of office space are also available. The new terminal replaces the previous locations close to the center of Stavanger that were built in the sixties and offers greater capacity available for future growth. The company employs 50 people in Ganddal. The site’s proximity to the rail terminal will allow more shipments to be transferred from road to rail. A shuttle service already links Oslo to Ganddal.

Stavanger and the Rogaland region are regarded as the center of the Norwegian oil and natural gas industry. Major customers include enterprises in the health care, food, construction materials, agricultural and textile industries.

Schenker AS offers a complete range of products, from national and international land transport services, plus air and ocean freight, to warehousing and logistics services.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Choice Logistics Names Paul Malamet Executive Vice President of Client Services

NEW YORK – Sept. 10, 2008 - Choice Logistics, the global leader in highly optimized, flexible, mission-critical service parts logistics services, has announced the promotion of Paul Malamet, to Executive Vice President of Client Services. He will continue to lead the Sales Engineering and Client Support teams, which includes all account management and communications activities. His added responsibilities include new business development and the expansion of Choice’s professional sales approach, creating synergies between the pre-sales and new client transition processes.

“Paul’s expertise has been an essential component to our success,” said Michael Katz, CEO, Choice Logistics. “He is dedicated to improving our customers’ ability to provide the highest quality of service possible. We look forward to Paul’s ongoing contribution in his new position.”

Malamet has been a member of the Choice team since 1997. In his new business development and sales role, he will pursue the expansion of new markets on a global scale, and supervise the account executive team. He will also focus on new client engagement strategies and opportunities to proactively improve Choice’s account management teams. In addition, Malamet will continue to oversee the transition of new clients from the initial sales process to dedicated Client Services.

A seasoned logistics industry veteran, Malamet previously owned and operated LogisTechs, Inc. He has served as vice president of sales for Worldwide Express and held management positions with FedEx and SonicAir.

He is a graduate of McGill University with a Bachelor of Arts in political science.

About Choice Logistics
Choice Logistics creates highly optimized, flexible service parts logistics services built to meet the unique challenges of mission-critical, global service organizations. More than 370 strategic stocking locations (SSLs) around the world provide 24/7 same-day solutions and strategic inventory management. Choice blends new thinking with focused insight to address the challenges and opportunities of leading companies to provide them with a competitive advantage. Avaya, Cisco, Dell, EMC, Fujitsu, Hitachi Data Systems and others have selected Choice as their preferred global provider of outsourced logistics. To learn more about Choice Logistics, visit www.choicelogistics.com; call (800) 593-2108, or e-mail info@choicelogistics.com.

RedPrairie enhances internationalized shipment capabilities in Transportation Management System (TMS)

Milwaukee, WI – RedPrairie Corporation, a world leading consumer driven optimization company, announced today a host of new features in its updated TMS release – built especially for international users. Additions to the program include ocean, rail, and air-based multi-modal transportation support, time-based transit service standards, and enhanced geocoding. The new features will allow transport by means other than roads, including barge and ferry travel over ocean or short sea, maximizing the most efficient transportation methods and allowing better transit time calculation, while lowering costs and environmental impact.

“Implementing a TMS that can be applied across not only state lines but international borders is a major hurdle for any large, expanding business,” says Erv Bluemner, RedPrairie Vice President of Product Strategy, “This release allows our customers to include differences across geopolitical boundaries with all of their logistics strategies. In the past, European executives have had difficulty finding a single system to manage shipments both domestically and across far-flung regions. Our new release enables global shipments in one system.”

The new release is especially sensitive to a host of complicating factors associated with international logistics, including time zone changes, support for single as well as multiple contract multi-modal shipment planning, and extended European mapping and distance calculations. These new features will enable intra-European movement optimization, and more flexible options for how to conduct those movements.

International shipping in and between regions without postal codes, such as areas within central China, has been a particularly difficult issue for manufacturers, but RedPrairie’s new release features global map and guide support, while allowing customers to encode regions made up of locations as broad as multiple states or as specific as given address IDs.

“While RedPrairie has long been known as a leader in providing domestic U.S. transportation solutions, as well as support for exports, this new release enables customers in Europe and Asia to optimize localized and international shipment as well,” says Bluemner, “Transportation management is always difficult for any manufacturer, distributor or third party logistics (3PL) provider. This enhanced system will ease many of the extra burdens associated with shipping product over international borders.”

The software also includes a range of new features to assist third party logistics (3PL) providers with billing, booking, and managing their services.

About RedPrairie Corporation


RedPrairie is a world leading consumer driven optimization company. Built on an advanced Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) developed over the past 15 years, the RedPrairie integrated suite of solutions offers on-demand capabilities to over 32,000 sites worldwide for many of the world’s largest companies.

RedPrairie’s E2e™ solutions synchronize people and products throughout the customer buying cycle to ensure goods reach the right place at the right time. At the point of sale, this means consumers have access to desired products and that the store is staffed with the right people to help them make their purchases. In the production cycle, it means suppliers and manufacturers time and synchronize shipments and production based on demand signals from the retailer. And in the back room of the store, it means having the least amount of inventory, solving the “last yard” problem of the retail supply chain.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Menlo Worldwide Expands Presence in Guadalajara, Mexico

Logistics Provider to Locate Regional Office Activities near Growing Center for
High-Tech Manufacturing

SAN MATEO, Calif., and GUADALAJARA, Mexico — Sept. 4, 2008 — Menlo Worldwide Logistics, the global logistics subsidiary of USA-based Con-way Inc. (NYSE: CNW), today announced that it is expanding its presence in Guadalajara, Mexico. The expansion will include a relocation of functions from Mexico City to Guadalajara, including sales, finance, administrative, transportation management and engineering.

Menlo will continue to serve Mexico City through its existing network of distribution centers and account representatives. Currently, Menlo manages more than 15,000 square meters of warehouse space in Mexico with distribution facilities in Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara. The move to Guadalajara, known as a growing high-tech market, will position Menlo to take advantage of the region's rich labor pool, and to better serve existing and future customers as the region continues to expand.

"We are very pleased to welcome Menlo and its expanding operations to Guadalajara,” said Mr. Cesar Castro Rodriguez, national president of CNIMME (National Council of the Maquiladora and Manufacturing Industry for Exportation) and country director of logistics for Jabil Circuit. "Menlo recognized, as have many national and multinational companies, the competitive advantages that Guadalajara offers, particularly for those businesses that participate in manufacturing and distribution between Mexico and the United States. Menlo is clearly positioning itself to improve its support and responsiveness for its customers."

The trend toward expansion in the high-tech market and continuing pressure from the high cost of fuel is causing some companies to reconsider the length of their supply chains. Menlo works closely with its customers to optimize the design of their supply chain operations, with an emphasis on employing Lean methodologies to drive continuous improvement. This capability helps Menlo's customers to dynamically respond to changing supply chain needs around the world.

"Our unique supply chain solution is predicated on hiring, training and maintaining top industry talent,” said Robert Gahagen, Menlo's director of operations for Mexico and Latin America. "Relocating the regional offices to Guadalajara will provide Menlo with access to the staffing resources that will support our continued expansion in this market and provide the best service to our customers throughout the region.”

For more information about Menlo in Guadalajara call 52-333-793-8040 or e-mail Herrera.gonzalo@menloworldwide.com or gahagen.robert@menloworldwide.com. Information may also be obtained via the Web at www.Con-way.com/en/logistics.

About Menlo Worldwide Logistics
Menlo Worldwide Logistics, LLC, is a US$1.4 billion global provider of logistics, transportation management and supply chain services with operations in five continents, including North America. As a third-party logistics provider, San Mateo, Calif.-based Menlo Worldwide Logistics' services range from dedicated contract logistics to warehouse and distribution management, transportation management, supply chain reengineering and other value-added services including packaging, kitting, order fulfillment and light assembly through a strategic network of multi-client and dedicated facilities. With more than 16 million square feet of dedicated warehouse space in North America, the Asia Pacific, Europe and Latin America, and industry-leading technologies, Menlo Worldwide Logistics creates effective, integrated solutions for the transportation and distribution needs of leading businesses around the world.

Menlo Worldwide Logistics, LLC, is a subsidiary of Con-way Inc. (NYSE: CNW), a $4.7 billion freight transportation and logistics company

How Leaders Speak - Deciphering the Language of Success

How Leaders Speak - Deciphering the Language of Success
by Alan Major, CITT

Whether you aspire to become a leader in your organization or simply want to improve your performance, the gap between where you are and where you want to be is often found in your ability to communicate effectively.

Superior speaking skills are the “missing link” for many working professionals, not just for CEO’s and politicians. It is often the one skill set that holds people back in their chosen profession. This extends beyond your desire to climb the corporate ranks. Your current communication and presentation skills are probably already playing a part in the success of both your career and your department.

As a supply chain and logistics professional, you already know the increasingly important role your department plays within the organization. But awareness is not enough. How can you help the key decision makers in your organization better understand and appreciate the complexities of today’s integrated supply chains?

You persuade them with a compelling, well-conceived presentation.

There is a strong correlation between the ability to speak in front of groups large and small, and career success. In our rapidly changing workplace that is so reliant upon communication, this relationship is even more pronounced. The preparation for presenting with distinction to an audience of one or 100 begins long before you step to the front of the room. It all comes down to serving the needs of your listeners. Before you begin, you must always ask yourself one question:

Why is what you are about to tell your audience important to them?

In How Leaders Speak, you’ll learn how to identify the informational and emotional needs of listeners, how to hook them early and how to utilize commanding verbal and non-verbal techniques to exceed their expectations throughout.

How you communicate to senior management, to your team and to clients individually or in groups does impact how you are perceived within the corporate hierarchy. If you want to have a say in your future and the future of your department, it’s time to learn the basics about how successful leaders speak.

In How Leaders Speak - to be presented at Reposition 2008 in Winnipeg - delegates will learn:

• the seven powerful keys that leaders use to engage and influence their audiences
• how to create and maintain a dynamic, authoritative presence - and how to look and move like a leader
• practical, hands-on coaching from two of North America’s leading presentation skills coaches
• how to organize speeches and presentations quickly and efficiently for maximum impact
• how to overcome nervousness and communicate with confidence, like a ‘natural’
• how to hook even challenging listeners from the outset
• how to employ PowerPoint like leaders do
• how to wrap-up smoothly and deliver a strong, effective call to action

In the morning, you will learn about what it takes to speak and present with purpose, confidence and clarity. Through a fast-paced video session, you will quickly be able to identify the techniques used by accomplished speakers that sets them apart from their peers.

Later, you will be provided with a list of industry-related topics and be put to the test. You will deliver your own presentation and receive feedback from two renowned media experts. Delegates will then take to the podium and compete for prizes in a lively presentation showdown.

Whether you are a novice or an accomplished speaker, you will learn how to better engage your audience and convey a more commanding presence in order to realize your professional goals.

How Leaders Speak is presented by Jim Gray and Mary Civiello.

Jim Gray, Principal, Media Strategy, is a leading North American media strategist and communication skills coach. For 15 years, he has helped plan and implement sharp, productive communication strategies for organizations across a range of sectors.

Mary Civiello is president of Civiello Communications Group (CCG), and a former New York City television journalist who has earned accolades on both sides of the microphone.

* * *

This learning session is presented in partnership with the Canadian Supply Chain Sector Council.

To register, please visit: www.citt.ca/reposition