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.

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

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

YRC Worldwide Names Mike Kelley Chief Sustainability Officer

Newly Created Role Reinforces Company’s Commitment to
Environment and Sustainability

Overland Park, Kan., September 4, 2008 – YRC Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ: YRCW) announced today that Mike Kelley has been named Chief Sustainability Officer. Mr. Kelley’s appointment is effective immediately.

In this newly created position, Mr. Kelley is responsible for the company’s overall sustainability efforts, including working with all the business units of YRC Worldwide to continue to develop, implement and integrate sustainability strategies, goals, measurements and reporting. He will also represent the company in sustainability discussions with customers, the community and with a number of national, international and industry groups to advance issues important to YRC Worldwide.

“Sustainability continues to be increasingly important to the success of YRC Worldwide, our customers and our communities,” said Bill Zollars, Chairman, President and CEO of YRC Worldwide. “Mike Kelley has been instrumental in driving our green initiatives. Under Mike’s leadership, we will move forward in our sustainability efforts in a way that is environmentally and socially responsible and economically sound.”

Added Mike Kelley, “I am excited about my new responsibility and the opportunity it creates to execute our sustainability strategy to effectively and aggressively promote greenhouse gas reduction, waste reduction, and conservation across our daily operations to reduce our carbon footprint.”

Mr. Kelley will also continue to serve as Vice President of External Affairs for the company, a role in which he is responsible for government affairs, including promoting and protecting the interests of YRC Worldwide before trade associations and with legislative and regulatory officials at the local, state and federal level.

With over a decade of experience in the transportation industry and government affairs, Mr. Kelley has held previous positions at the Kansas Motor Carriers Association and Yellow Transportation. He also served as a Congressional Aide to members of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate.

Most recently, Mr. Kelley was appointed by Kansas state Governor Kathleen Sebelius to serve on the Kansas Energy and Environmental Policy Advisory Group. He is also past Chair and current member of the American Trucking Associations (ATA) Environmental Policy Committee, Co-Chair of the ATA Sustainability Task Force, Chair of the ATA Image and Policy Committee, and Chairman of Gifts in Kind International. He holds a BA in Political Science with an emphasis in state and local government from Avila College and an MBA from Rockhurst University.
YRC Worldwide currently participates in programs designed to protect and preserve the environment, including the Environmental Protection SmartWay program. YRC Worldwide is a charter member of the SmartWay program and was one of the first transportation companies to win the SmartWay Excellence award.

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, 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, Kan., YRC Worldwide employs approximately 60,000 people.