Thursday, March 26, 2009

Averitt Improves LTL Service in Virginia, Adds New Points in Maryland and West Virginia

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (March 26, 2009) — Averitt Express recently announced it has improved its LTL service in Virginia and has expanded its LTL coverage into new points in Maryland and West Virginia.

The expansions were made possible by a newly-constructed service center in Winchester, Virginia. Featuring 14,000 square feet of dock space and 28 bay doors, the facility will allow Averitt to improve transit times and flexibility for northern Virginia shippers, as well as serve dozens of new zip codes in eastern West Virginia and western Maryland, including the cities of Hagerstown and Frederick.

The expansion into Maryland marks the first time in Averitt's 37-year history that the company will provide direct coverage in that state.

The Winchester location is also serving as a hub for Averitt's recent expansion of its truckload service into New Jersey. As a result of this expansion, Averitt plans to add about a dozen regional drivers in Winchester.

"The increased size of our new facility will help us deliver earlier and be more flexible for our Northern Virginia customers, while allowing us to bring those same benefits for the first time to customers in western Maryland," said Phil Pierce, Averitt's executive vice president of sales and marketing.

Averitt has operated a facility in Winchester since 2000. The new service center nearly triples the dock space and bay doors of the previous facility. It is one of five Averitt service centers in Virginia and more than 100 nationwide.

About Averitt Express
Established in 1971, Averitt Express is the leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management with international reach to more than 100 countries. The company specializes in delivering customized solutions with a single source of accountability for service offerings that include less-than-truckload, truckload, time-critical, importing/exporting and supply chain management. Backed by successful execution for hundreds of customers, Averitt’s supply chain management capabilities include dedicated fleet operations, warehousing services and transportation management. For more information, call 1-800-AVERITT or visit http://www.averittexpress.com.

DB wins contract for rail project in Mongolia

Contract signed in Berlin • DB International plans construction of a 260 kilometer long freight railway line to China • Wiesheu: A further success for the international strategy of the DB Group

(Berlin, 26 March 2009) Experts from Deutsche Bahn will be responsible for the overall project planning for a new freight railway in southern Mongolia. This involves a 260-kilometer long line for the transport of coal to the Chinese border. The relevant contract was signed at the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology on Thursday by Jambaljamts Odjargal, CEO of the Mongolian company Energy Resources LLC, and Martin Bay, Chairman of the Board of Management of DB International GmbH. This was timed to coincide with the visit of Sanjaa Bayar, Prime Minister of Mongolia, to Berlin.

The ceremony was also attended by Federal Minister Dr. Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg and Dr. Otto Wiesheu, member of the Deutsche Bahn Board of Management. DB International, a wholly owned subsidiary of DB Mobility Logistics AG, has already prepared a preliminary study for the planned mine railway.

“This contract is a further success for the international strategy of DB and the expertise of our project managers,“ commented Wiesheu, who is Chairman of the Supervisory Board of DB International. The agreed order volume amounts to almost EUR 4 million, and the overall project planning is estimated at approx. EUR 15 million. Total investment volume for this rail project is expected to amount to up to 800 million dollars.

Mongolia is an important transit country between China and Russia and is also assuming an increasingly significant role for rail freight traffic between Asia and Europe. “DB International has been active in Mongolia for the past two years and this contract is proof of the confidence our Mongolian partners have in our company,“ said Bay in Berlin on Thursday. DB International will assume overall project planning, procurement management, monitoring of deadlines and costs, as well as quality assurance. DB International will also provide support in connection with establishment and operation of the freight railway, which will be designed as a single-track line for an axle load of 25 tons. It will be used for the transport of coal from Ukhaa Khudag in the south of Mongolia to the border crossing at Gashuun Sukhait. Construction work on the railway line to China is scheduled to begin before the end of this year and the first trains are to run in 2011.

MERCURYGATE AND TRANSWIDE FORM STRATEGIC ALLIANCE CREATING GLOBAL ON-DEMAND TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

The combined strength of MercuryGate in North America and Transwide in Europe now provide a Global On-Demand TMS

Cary, North Carolina/Brussels, Belgium – March 23, 2009 – MercuryGate International, Inc. and Transwide a Wolters Kluwer business announced they have formed a strategic alliance to integrate and resell their solutions. The MercuryGate TMS with Mojo provides end to end transportation planning and execution. Transwide is a global provider of transport execution network and solutions.

Transwide customers use a suite of technology that enables electronic communication, visibility of transport orders, pick-up and delivery time slots booking and transportation document management. MercuryGate customers’ use multi-mode rating and the Mojo optimization engine to plan and execute shipments. MercuryGate is a leading software provider for the Logistics Service Provider (LSP) industry serving both Freight Brokerage and 3PLs, while Transwide has established a leading position in serving Fortune 1000 manufacturing and logistics companies. By combining the companies solutions, MercuryGate customers will have robust appointment and dock door scheduling and strengthened carrier portal functionalities along with immediate access to over 6,000 transport companies in Europe and USA, while Transwide will be able to offer greater value to its customers by offering a full chain of transportation solutions from planning to settlement.

“MercuryGate’s leading position in the on-demand TMS market in North America, and its planning and optimization solutions perfectly complement Transwide’s European leadership and electronic transport execution suite” said Fabrice Maquignon CEO of Transwide “our multinational clients will now have access to a global SaaS end to end transportation management solution”.
“Transwide has a long standing track record in online services to the transport & logistics industry. Their commitment provides the support we need for our global clients,” said Monica Wooden, MercuryGate CEO. “We are strong in North America and now our TMS will be available to the rest of the world.”

Adrian Gonzalez, Director Logistics Executive Council for the ARC Advisory Group commented, “The ‘on demand’ or ‘software-as-a-service’ deployment model continues to gain traction in the TMS market, due to its lower upfront costs and faster time-to-value. However, most solution providers have achieved critical mass, in terms of clients and trading partner connections, in only a single country or geographic region. This partnership between MercuryGate and Transwide, therefore, lays the foundation for creating a more global ‘on demand’ TMS solution and connectivity network. The combination of MercuryGate’s capabilities for logistics service providers (LSPs) and optimization tools with Transwide’s extensive network of European carriers and execution functionality should bring enhanced value to clients if integrated successfully.”

About MercuryGate
MercuryGate delivers solutions that allow shippers, carriers, freight forwarders and third party logistics providers to plan their transportation, execute their freight movements, and analyze the performance of all involved. Customers optimize loads, rate and route loads, spot quote through both private and public bid boards, tender freight, track movements, audit carrier freight invoices, and send customer invoices. Through a customizable workflow engine, MercuryGate customers are able to move the straightforward parcel, LTL (less than truckload), and truckload shipments as well as the more demanding multi-leg ocean, air, and rail movements. Customers may then analyze the information gathered as they move freight to provide key performance indicators on their internal business as well as on carriers, suppliers, and all parties in the supply chain. For more information, visit www.mercurygate.com.

About Transwide
Transwide is a global leader of transport execution network and solution providers; it offers a suite of technology solutions to enable the electronic communication and visibility of transport orders, pick-up and delivery time slots booking, real time tracing of shipments, transport documents dematerialization and performance monitoring, on a multimodal and global scale. Transwide has more than 6,000 companies working on its network and serves carriers and shippers equally. For more information, visit www.transwide.com.

About Wolters Kluwer
Wolters Kluwer is a leading global information services and publishing company. The company provides products and services for professionals in the health, tax, accounting, corporate, financial services, legal, and regulatory sectors. Wolters Kluwer had 2008 annual revenues of €3.4 billion, employs approximately 20,000 people worldwide, and maintains operations in over 35 countries across Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. Wolters Kluwer is headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Its shares are quoted on Euronext Amsterdam (WKL) and are included in the AEX and Euronext 100 indices. Visit www.wolterskluwer.com for information about our market positions, customers, brands, and organization.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

The San Antonio-Bexar County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

36th STREET EXTENSION PROJECT RECEIVES FEDERAL STIMULUS FUNDING

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – The San Antonio-Bexar County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) voted today to approve $14.74 million dollars in stimulus funding for 36th Street Extension Project. This project is unique in that it expands and reconfigures an important road which connects U.S. HWY 90 to Port San Antonio. One segment of the project is on City property and the second phase is part of Port San Antonio’s property.

The City, which receives $4.5 million of the MPO’s $14.74 million dollar award, has agreed to manage the construction of both portions of the 36th Street Extension Project. This will be the second time that the City and the Port have undertaken a successful road project. The first project was the building of the Frio City Ramp which was completed in February of 2008.

The improvement to 36th Street will have a significant economic impact on San Antonio and South Texas by connecting six major highway components to produce a trade corridor for the area. The project will also open up an additional 150 acres of airfield accessible property. Conservative forecasts project that over 4,500 new jobs will be created as a result of the extension project and the acreage that will become contiguous to Kelly Field (SKF)

“The leadership of the MPO believes in this project and its importance to our City,” said Wayne Alexander – Chairman of the Board of Directors for Port San Antonio. “The MPO Board members and staff are to be commended for their sound judgment in making this come to fruition.”

The City of San Antonio, City Public Service Energy, the San Antonio Water System and Port San Antonio have already committed $25.6 million dollars for the 36th Street Extension Project. The federal stimulus money granted today guarantees funding of the project which will begin immediately

As part of the guidelines set forth by the government, the federal stimulus bill seeks job creating investments in economically distressed areas, such as Port San Antonio, and also seeks projects that have leveraged other sources for funding. Because of these requirements the 36th Street Extension Project was an ideal project to receive this federal stimulus funding from the MPO.

Geodis Wilson Uses Descartes to Standardize Global Customs Filings

ATLANTA, Georgia — March 24, 2009 — Descartes Evolution 2009 User Group Conference — Descartes Systems Group, a global on-demand software-as-a-service (SaaS) logistics solutions provider, announced that Geodis Wilson, one of the world’s largest freight forwarders, is using Descartes to standardize its global customs filing process.

With over 5,500 employees and a global network of customers, Geodis Wilson chose Descartes Customs Filing and Compliance services to help it comply with international customs agencies’ regulatory requirements and security initiatives. Descartes’ customs services enable Geodis Wilson to streamline its operations, accelerate filings and ensure compliance. In addition, by addressing its customs compliance needs through a single provider with a multimodal, global network of transportation providers and their customers, Geodis Wilson has improved its customer service and productivity, as well as reduced overall operational costs. Specifically, Geodis Wilson will be using Descartes for its Ocean AMS Ocean ACI, Air AMS and ACI Direct filing requirements.

“Geodis Wilson is focused on improving our core processes to enhance the customer experience. Our relationship with Descartes enables us to automate previously manual processes, ultimately reducing costs,” said Frank Baranski, Process Director at Geodis Wilson Headquarters.

Descartes provides a range of offerings that facilitate the end-to-end shipment management process across modes of transportation, including customs compliance, for organizations and trading partners around the globe. Its Customs Filings and Compliance services enable organizations like Geodis Wilson to facilitate global shipments while meeting the various requirements for global regulatory and customs compliance agencies.

“As organizations face increasing pressure to keep pace with the diverse and growing range of global customs requirements, they must also meet an equally compelling customer demand for efficiency and speed,” said Art Mesher, CEO of Descartes. “We help our customers address these needs by providing a single source to manage current global customs compliance filings across modes of transportation for organizations and trading partners around the globe.”

As a value-added application of the Descartes Global Logistics Network (GLN), these filing and compliance services also leverage Descartes’ established relationships with global regulatory and government agencies, enabling users to streamline any part or all of their customs processes, from providing electronic connectivity with border agencies to turnkey data capture and customs filing.



About Geodis Wilson
Geodis Wilson is one of the world’s largest freight management companies. They serve their customers with integrated supply chain solutions that deliver cargo by sea and air. Their expertise, value-added services and e-services enable their customers to streamline the flow of goods. They also make your supply chain more transparent and easier to manage. They have in-depth knowledge of several markets including high-tech, pharmaceuticals, textiles and automotive products. And also specialize in marine logistics, industrial projects and other niche markets. For more information, please visit www.geodiswilson.com

About Descartes
Descartes (TSX: DSG) (NASDAQ: DSGX), is making the world a better place by enabling global organizations with logistics-intensive businesses to save money by improving the productivity and performance of their operations. Underlying Descartes’ offerings is the Descartes Global Logistics Network (GLN), one of the world’s most extensive multi-modal business applications network. As a federated software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform, the Descartes GLN combines with component-based ‘nano’ sized applications to provide messaging services between logistics trading partners, shipment management services to help manage third party carriers and private fleet management services for organizations of all sizes. Descartes’ solutions and services deliver results by enabling organizations around the world to reduce administrative costs, billing cycles, fleet size, contract carrier costs, and mileage driven; improve pick up and delivery reliability; and optimize working capital through fleet visibility. Descartes’ hosted, transactional and packaged solutions deliver repeatable, measurable results and fast time-to-value. Descartes customers include an estimated 1,600 ground carriers and more than 90 airlines, 30 ocean carriers, 900 freight forwarders and third-party providers of logistics services, and hundreds of manufacturers, retailers, distributors, private fleet owners and regulatory agencies. The company has more than 350 employees and is based in Waterloo, Ontario, with operations in Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Ottawa, Montreal, Miami, Minneapolis, Washington DC, Derby, London, Stockholm, Shanghai, and Toronto. For more information, visit www.descartes.com.

Monday, March 23, 2009

Werner Enterprises Receives NASSTRAC Carrier of the Year Award

OMAHA, Neb. –Werner Enterprises, a premier global transportation and logistics company, has been awarded the 2009 NASSTRAC Carrier of the Year award in the national truckload category.

Werner Enterprises was recognized by the shipping community for demonstrating excellence in performance and results. Specifically, the company received the award for having superior customer service, operational excellence, pricing competitiveness and flexibility, positive business relationships and leadership in technology.

“We are very honored to receive this award,” said Derek Leathers, chief operating officer and president of Werner Global Logistics. “It further demonstrates our commitment to delivering best-in-class global transportation and logistics solutions for our customers.”

Werner Enterprises will accept the award at the 2009 NASSTRAC Annual Conference and Logistics Expo, where Derek Leathers will also participate in an executive panel highlighting key challenges and opportunities in the multimodal transportation segments. NASSTRAC, also known as the National Shippers Strategic Transportation Council, is an organization for transportation professionals that provides advocacy, education, provider relationships and peer networking.

Werner Enterprises, Inc. was founded in 1956 and is a premier transportation and logistics company, with coverage throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia, Europe and South America. Werner maintains its global headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska and maintains offices throughout North America and China. Werner is among the five largest truckload carriers in the United States, with a diversified portfolio of transportation services that includes dedicated, medium-to-long-haul, regional and local van capacity, expedited, temperature-controlled and flatbed services. Werner's Value Added Services portfolio includes freight management, truck brokerage, intermodal, load/mode and network optimization and freight forwarding. Werner, through its subsidiary companies, is a licensed U.S. NVOCC, U.S. Customs Broker, licensed Freight Forwarder in China, licensed China NVOCC, TSA-approved Indirect Air Carrier and IATA Accredited Cargo Agent.

For more information, please visit www.werner.com.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Penske Truck Leasing and Smith System Team Up For Exclusive Driver Safety Training Programs


READING, Pa., March 19, 2009 – Penske Truck Leasing announced it has teamed up with Smith System, the global leader in driver safety training. This partnership is unique to the full-service truck leasing industry and provides Penske customers exclusive online access to E Learning truck driver safety training courses and related training materials.

“Working with Smith System will help enhance the safety and improve the fuel economy performance of our customers,” said Jim Feenstra, Senior Vice President – Marketing, Penske Truck Leasing. “These programs will also help ensure our customers can continue improving their operations in spite of a tough economy.”

Penske’s U.S. customers are now able to access these Smith System driver-safety training programs, including online and in-person training, and a wide selection of instructional safety-related DVDs, books, posters, and related materials. Penske customers access the Smith services as well as several other fleet management tools through MyFleetAtPenske, Penske’s exclusive customer Web site.

“Smith System’s unique partnership with Penske Truck Leasing gives us the opportunity to introduce our products and services to Penske customers through its extranet site and sales department,” said Frank Powers, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Smith System. “Our training delivers proven results in reducing collisions and saving lives. This is another example that demonstrates Penske’s commitment to driver safety and we look forward to serving their customers.”

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.

Smith System Driver Improvement Institute, Inc. was founded in 1952 as the nation's first fleet driver safety training organization with on-road, hands-on safety education techniques for experienced drivers. Smith System delivers behind the wheel instruction to more than 35,000 fleet drivers each year and has presented its program in 90 countries and in 21 languages. In the past decade, Smith has provided services to more than half of the current Fortune 500® fleets and is the only company in the industry that guarantees the quality of its training. In addition to its on-road training and extensive video and DVD library, the company offers E Learning courses and fleet monitoring. Visit www.Smith-System.com to learn more.

MERCURYGATE AND NEXXIO SIGN RESELLER AGREEMENT

Nexxio will integrate and resell the MercuryGate TMS with their small package, high volume logistics offering

CARY, NC – March 20, 2009 – MercuryGate, the industry leading TMS software provider for shippers, freight brokerage and third party logistics firms has announced a partnership with Nexxio. Nexxio is a leader in high volume, small package logistics and helps clients automate and streamline logistics processes, re-purpose logistics data to multiple front-line business operations and enterprise applications.

The MercuryGate TMS solution will benefit Nexxio clients with multi modal rating functionality and end-to-end TMS processes. Nexxio’s sales channels will complement MercuryGate’s go-to-market strategy with increased coverage in the shipper market.
“By adding MercuryGate’s TMS technology to our small parcel logistics suite we immediately extend our technology footprint,” said David Vannoy, Nexxio’s CEO. Shippers are looking for ways to cut transportation costs, while at the same time improve service levels; Nexxio is now better positioned to help them achieve these ends.”

“We have been a dominate player in the logistics provider services (LSP) market but our TMS is a high value solution for shippers of all sizes. Nexxio will give us greater reach into the shipper community, said Monica Wooden, MercuryGate’s CEO. Shippers of all sizes such as HD Supply, Cargill, Siemens, Chatsworth Products and Exemplis have achieved a high ROI using the MercuryGate TMS.”

About MercuryGate International
MercuryGate delivers solutions that allow shippers, carriers, freight forwarders and third party logistics providers to plan their transportation, execute their freight movements, and analyze the performance of all involved. Customers optimize loads, rate and route loads, spot quote through both private and public bid boards, tender freight, track movements, audit carrier freight invoices, and send customer invoices. Through a customizable workflow engine, MercuryGate customers are able to move the straightforward parcel, LTL (less than truckload), and truckload shipments as well as the more demanding multi-leg ocean, air, and rail movements. Customers may then analyze the information gathered as they move freight to provide key performance indicators on their internal business as well as on carriers, suppliers, and all parties in the supply chain. For more information, visit www.mercurygate.com.

About Nexxio
Nexxio is a pioneering developer and vendor of high quality logistics software; with focus on providing complimentary and supporting technology to help its clients better leverage their investment in existing enterprise applications.
A privately held company located in Dallas, Nexxio’s clients range from small, privately held businesses to large, globally located, public companies. Common to all our clients, however, is the need to automate and streamline logistics processes, re-purpose logistics data to front-line business operations and enterprise applications, and improve their bottom-line on costs and profits.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Calyx Transportation Group Expands Operations Through Acquisitions

TORONTO – March -- 17, 2009 – Calyx Transportation Group Inc., a leading provider of transportation and logistics services, today announced it has acquired Totalline Transport, Kreative Carriers Transportation & Logistics Services Inc. and Bransam Logistics Services Inc. These three acquisitions augment the services currently provided by companies within the Calyx Group, and reinforce the company’s growth strategy to become one of North America’s leading providers of transportation and logistics services. Totalline, Kreative and Bransam will become separate operating subsidiaries of the Calyx Group. Financial details of the acquisitions were not disclosed.

Calyx customers will benefit from Totalline’s Premier Express service, an expedited carrier service that offers the industry’s only unconditional, on-time guarantee. The acquisitions also enhance Calyx’s service offering to, from and intra Maritimes; while expanding its existing third party logistics (3PL) capabilities nationally with more than one million square feet of warehouse space across Canada. Calyx also extends its freight brokerage capabilities across Canada.

“These acquisitions represent a tremendous opportunity for both the Calyx Group and our customers as it increases the scale of our operations and enhances the service offerings we currently provide,” said Robert J. Donaghey, CEO, Calyx Transportation Group Inc. “The trio of companies we are acquiring have an impressive track record of growth, consistent with other companies within the Calyx Group.”

“This is an exciting time for our company as we embark on a new journey. Joining the Calyx Transportation Group provides us with an opportunity to excel in a highly competitive marketplace,” said Uwe Petroschke, President and CEO of Totalline Transport. “Our focus is on strengthening our partnerships with our customers and aligning our resources with the Calyx team to deliver unparalleled services in our industry.”

Uwe Petroschke will continue in his role as President of the Totalline organization; and Rodi Saarloos, as President, will maintain overall responsibility for Kreative and Bransam.

With the acquisition of Kreative and Bransam, the Calyx Group strengthens its presence in Atlantic Canada as both companies have developed strong reputations on the Atlantic seaboard, and provide transportation services across Canada and the United States. In addition, Bransam maintains one of the only bonded warehouses located in Atlantic Canada.

Totalline
Totalline Transport is an award-winning provider of forward-thinking transportation and warehousing solutions, specializing in products that are high value, time-sensitive and require unique delivery solutions. Totalline’s expedited service, Premier Express, guarantees the only unconditional, on-time delivery in the business. Also achieving an unparalleled loss and damage ratio in the industry, Totalline has earned the reputation of being a high quality carrier across Canada.

Bransam
Founded in 1998, Bransam Logistics Services Inc. is a Halifax-based transportation company that offers Truck Load, Less Than Load and Freight Broker services within Canada and to/from the United States. With an established foundation in the Maritimes – including terminal locations in Moncton, New Brunswick and Halifax, Nova Scotia – Bransam delivers on a reputation of knowledge, service and quality.

Kreative Carriers

Based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Kreative Carriers Transportation & Logistics Services Inc. is a Truck Load carrier servicing all of North America. Established in 2003, Kreative has earned its reputation delivering time sensitive, secure freight services to its long-standing customer base.

The Calyx Group
Calyx Transportation Group Inc. is a provider of third party logistics and transportation services to the North American market. Comprised of several operating entities, companies within the Calyx Group cover a wide range of services including domestic intermodal freight forwarding; North American freight brokerage; international air and ocean freight forwarding; dedicated and closed loop transportation; specialized less-than-load (LTL) transportation, truckload transportation (TL) and third party logistics services. Members of the Calyx Group include: National Fast Freight; Indis; Euroworld; Muir’s Cartage; Nesel Fast Freight; Hyphen; Totalline; Kreative and Bransam. Calyx has approximately 1,800 employees and operates a network across Canada, the U.S.A. and Mexico. Learn more about the Calyx Group of Companies at www.calyxinc.com.

Purolator USA Offers Logistics Solutions to Improve E-Commerce Efficiency

JERICHO, NY – March 17, 2009 – Purolator USA, a leading provider of cross border logistics services for e-commerce businesses, has outlined several service options that will improve efficiencies and trim logistics costs for customers. Shipment consolidation and distribution center bypass (DC bypass) are two options that can benefit e-commerce customers, along with Purolator’s unique capacity to offer both northbound and southbound logistics service.

“Speed and flawless execution are non-negotiable for our e-commerce customers,” says Purolator USA President John Costanzo. “From the moment a consumer hits the submit button on an order, our customers are working against the clock to have that consumer’s order packed, loaded and in the delivery pipeline. Purolator’s role is to assist our customers deliver on their promise of timely and seamless delivery of their shipments.

“In an environment where consumers increasingly expect expedited delivery service for free, our job is to provide our e-commerce customers with logistics solutions that offer real value and that reflect real understanding of their business needs,” Costanzo added.

Unlike most U.S. logistics providers, Purolator USA maintains operations in Canada, and has access to deep distribution networks throughout the country. This allows Purolator to consolidate shipments prior to crossing the border, for a faster, less expensive and less-onerous border crossing process. Purolator offers extensive knowledge of U.S./Canada regulatory requirements, and is an active participant in all government programs designed to facilitate the speed and costs associated with cross border commerce.

Once across the border, Purolator is able to deconsolidate packages, and feed them into a direct distribution route, often enabling a package to arrive at its end user without a costly stopover at a distribution center.

DC bypass can shave several days off of a delivery schedule, which can alleviate the need for a U.S. business to operate a DC in Canada. In addition, DC bypass eliminates the need for a company to maintain duplicate inventories.

Purolator’s established operations in both the United States and Canada allow the company to offer comprehensive logistics solutions for shipments traveling into Canada, and also for shipments destined for the United States. This allows Purolator to serve as a single source provider, ensuring consistency of service, customized service plans and cost efficiencies.

“As a single source provider of logistics services, we’re in a position to offer real value to our customers,” says Costanzo. “The same distribution networks and cross border expertise that move goods into Canada can also ensure the timely and cost efficient delivery of returns and other materials back into the United States. Customers benefit from our economies of scale, and also from our thorough understanding of their complete logistics needs.”

Purolator USA is known for its high commitment to customer service. Purolator USA sales reps work closely with customers to offer logistics solutions that meet each business’ unique priorities. “Our competitors offer faceless 800 numbers, or online ‘troubleshooting’ options and call it customer service. Purolator offers each customer a dedicated customer service professional, and we call it good business sense,” Costanzo added.

For more information about Purolator USA, please visit www.purolatorusa.com.

About Purolator USA
Purolator USA, Inc. is a subsidiary of Purolator Courier Ltd, Canada’s largest overnight courier company. Purolator USA specializes in the air and surface forwarding of small packages and freight shipments, customs brokerage and delivery to, from and within the North American market.

In addition to its facilities throughout New York State, Purolator USA has expanded into several key markets including Los Angeles, Seattle, Chicago, Detroit, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Philadelphia and Raleigh/Durham.

Con-way Multimodal Names Orr and Dietrich to Leadership Positions

PORTLAND, Ore., and ANN ARBOR, Mich. — March 17, 2009 — Con-way Multimodal, the nationwide truckload brokerage division of Menlo Worldwide Logistics, today announced that Greg Orr and David Dietrich have joined the company. Greg Orr serves as vice president/general manager at its Portland, Ore., headquarters, while Dietrich holds the same position at the Ann Arbor, Mich., location. Relaunched in August 2008 as the successor to the company's previous brokerage operation, Con-way Multimodal arranges third-party carrier services for over-the-road, intermodal, flatbed, heavy haul and specialized transportation for truckload freight shipments. Menlo Worldwide Logistics is an operating company of Con-way Inc. (NYSE: CNW).

"Greg and David are both 'roll up the sleeves' leaders who will deliver real value to customers during these trying economic times,” said Tyler Ellison, president of Con-way Multimodal. "More than ever, the combination of execution excellence and superior values matters. Greg and David exemplify both — they will quickly make a positive impact with both Multimodal customers and employees, enabling accelerated growth.”

In their new positions, Orr and Dietrich are responsible for all profit and loss-related activity for the Portland and Ann Arbor operations, respectively. In addition, they will manage the creation and implementation of overall strategy, and recruit, select and develop team members in accordance with Con-way's core values of safety, integrity, commitment and excellence. Key objectives emphasize customer/carrier and employee satisfaction, revenue growth and margin maximization.

Orr joined Con-way Multimodal from Greatwide Dedicated Transport in Dallas, where he was vice president of operations overseeing 16 locations across the United States. Prior to that, he managed $375 million in total transportation spend for five customers as vice president/account general manager at Schneider Logistics in Green Bay, Wis. Orr had previously spent nine years in various management roles at Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., where he eventually became regional operations manager with responsibility for a $28 million division. He holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Southern Indiana.

Prior to his new role with Con-way Multimodal, Dietrich was general manager for M2 Logistics Incorporated in Green Bay, Wis., where he managed more than $40 million in revenue and more than 500 core carriers. Previously, he spent 11 years with Schneider National, Inc. serving in a range of leadership roles in sales and customer service. Most recently, he was the on-site account manager for a Fortune 500 consumer packaged goods company. There he managed 14 associates, $70 million in revenue, a capacity of more than 350 dedicated schematic drivers and a national collaborative fleet of 180 drivers. Under his direction, Schneider received Carrier of the Year awards from the customer in 2004 and 2005. Dietrich holds a bachelor's degree from Northern Michigan University.

Connect with Con-way:
Follow the company on Twitter: http://twitter.com/Con_way_

About Con-way Multimodal
Con-way Multimodal provides expanded freight brokerage capabilities and services in the third-party logistics and multimodal freight transportation business, focusing on flexible, efficient capacity solutions for the marketplace. Through its network of more than 15,000 carriers, Con-way Multimodal arranges resources to meet the capacity needs of its shippers using over-the-road, intermodal, dry van, flatbed, heavy haul and specialized transportation solutions. The Portland, Ore.-based company is an operating unit of Menlo Worldwide Logistics, LLC, a subsidiary of Con-way Inc. (NYSE: CNW), a $5.0 billion freight transportation and logistics company. For more information, please visit us on the Web at www.con-way.com.

Monday, March 16, 2009

Mark Holmes, VP Global Integrated Solutions for OHL, Appointed Chairman of The American Society of Transportation and Logistics® (AST&L)

Brentwood, Tenn. (March 16, 2009) – OHL, a global leader in third-party logistics solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Holmes, VP Global Integrated Solutions for OHL, as chairman of The American Society of Transportation and Logistics® (AST&L).

Holmes has been involved with the society for seven years, most recently serving two terms as vice chairman. During 2008, AST&L held the second annual China World Logistics Conference in Nanjing PRC, partnered with APICS offering joint student memberships, produced the top-ranked education track (“Career Insurance”) at the CSCMP Annual Conference, received an award from the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration for their partnership with Arkansas Delta Training and Education Consortium in building a regionally focused workforce strategy, and was awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration to develop a certification in China. Under Holmes’ leadership, the 2009 plans include focusing on membership satisfaction, implementing the new global logistics management certification program with the AST&L-China office, and continuing to develop relationships with other leading industry organizations.

AST&L offers a Certification in Transportation and Logistics (CTL), which was started in 1948, and a Professional Designation in Logistics and Supply Chain Management (PLS). Hundreds of supply chain professionals enter the programs each year. Holmes holds a current CTL.

“I am delighted to serve in this role,” commented Holmes. “Having proper credentials is always important, and the current economic condition makes them even more valuable. AST&L’s organizational mission is to facilitate education and certification in the fields of transportation, logistics, and supply chain management. We support this mission through the continuing expansion of our certification programs amongst logistics and supply chain professionals in the U.S. and around the world. We will also continue to partner with organizations and colleges that offer our programs to their members and students.”

“Mark’s dedication and enthusiasm about the society in addition to his extensive knowledge and experience in logistics are impressive,” stated Laurie Hein Denham, executive director of AST&L. “He will help us ensure that our training continues to be relevant and offers value to the global supply chain industry. AST&L and OHL have both been in the logistics business for over 50 years, and we look forward to advancing the education of today’s leaders as well as the industry’s future leaders.”

“Having our people in leadership roles within organizations like AST&L allows us to be directly involved in developing training curriculum for professionals in the supply chain industry,” stated Fred Loeffel, OHL’s Executive Vice President, Global Account Management. “Mark is a great resource of industry information, which is an asset to OHL, our customers and to the members of AST&L.”

To view this release online or obtain a photo of Mark Holmes, please visit http://www.ohl.com/news/archives/2009-news/american-society-transportation-logistics-names-chairman.htm


About OHL
Based in Tennessee, OHL is one of the largest 3PLs in the world, providing integrated global supply chain management solutions including transportation, warehousing, customs brokerage, freight management, and import and export consulting services. With three divisions—Global Freight Management and Logistics, Contract Logistics and North America Transportation—OHL operates more than 120 value-added distribution centers, offers comprehensive transportation management services, employs over 6,000, and has offices worldwide. OHL has expertise in direct to consumer fulfillment, serves a wide range of business sectors from specialty retail to manufacturing, and specializes in the apparel, electronics, printing, food and beverage, and consumer packaged goods industries.

For more information about OHL, please call (877) 401-6400 or visit us online at www.ohl.com.

About AST&L

The American Society of Transportation and Logistics® is a professional society founded in 1946 by industry leaders to ensure a high level of professionalism and promote continuing education in the field of transportation and logistics. AST&L’s mission is to facilitate education and certification in the fields of transportation, logistics, and supply chain management. The membership of shippers, carriers, educators, consultants and third-party logistics individuals are dedicated to continuing education and are committed to raising the professional standards in the industry. For additional information, visit www.astl.org or send a message to info@astl.org.

RILA Welcomes Checkpoint Systems as Title Sponsor of 2009 Loss Prevention, Auditing & Safety Conference

Arlington, VA – The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) welcomes Checkpoint Systems Inc., the leading supplier of retail shrink management solutions, as its title sponsor of the 2009 RILA Loss Prevention, Auditing and Safety (LPAS) Conference.

The conference, which takes place May 3 – 5 in Orlando, FL, will feature more than 40 educational sessions on topics critical to loss prevention, audit and safety professionals. This year’s event is designed to help retail executives develop strategies that minimize risk and drive performance in a volatile economic environment. Conference attendees can look forward to learning about top issues facing loss prevention professionals including organized retail crime, shortage analytics, hiring talent and building partnerships within an organization.

“This conference provides a unique and unparalleled opportunity to bring together top leaders in retail asset protection, for general education and networking and to learn about emerging trends and see cutting edge solutions from the vendor community,” said RILA President Sandy Kennedy. “We are delighted to have Checkpoint Systems, a longtime RILA member, as the title sponsor for this year’s Loss Prevention, Auditing and Safety Conference.”

Checkpoint Systems is an $834.2 million multinational manufacturer and marketer of technology-driven shrink management and merchandise visibility solutions. Established in 1969, Checkpoint Systems is the world's leading provider of radio frequency (RF) based loss prevention systems to the $1 trillion global retail industry.

“This year, perhaps more than any other, it is important for retailers to continue to build comprehensive loss prevention programs, and Checkpoint is committed to partnering with them to address their most pressing challenges," notes Morag Harmsen, vice president and general manager of customer management for Checkpoint Systems. "Our involvement with RILA is another way in which we can help the retail community gain access to the valuable resources and information that this organization provides, and we are proud to sponsor the 2009 RILA Loss Prevention, Auditing and Safety Conference."

RILA welcomes and encourages exhibitors to attend all the educational sessions alongside the retailer attendees to learn firsthand what potential customers are thinking about; andgain the knowledge needed to maximize shrink reduction, increase productivity, streamline operations and control expenses. RILA’s LPAS Conference is recognized as the most important educational event in loss prevention and asset protection. This year's conference is under the direction of the RILA's Loss Prevention Steering Committee, which is led by Dennis Klein of Abercrombie & Fitch and Libby Rabun of AutoZone.

To learn more about the conference visit www.rila.org.

About Checkpoint Systems, Inc.
Checkpoint Systems, Inc. is the leading supplier of retail shrink management solutions. Checkpoint's global team helps retailers —and their suppliers—reduce theft, achieve operational excellence, increase inventory visibility and provide consumers with greater merchandise availability through the company's rapidly evolving RF technology, expanding shrink management offerings and Check-Net labeling solutions. Listed on the NYSE (NYSE:CKP), Checkpoint operates in every major geographic market and employs 3,900 people worldwide. For more information, visit www.checkpointsystems.com

About RILA
The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) promotes consumer choice and economic freedom through public policy and industry operational excellence. Its members include retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers--which together provide millions of jobs and operate more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad. Visit us at www.rila.org .

Friday, March 13, 2009

MAYOR PHIL HARDBERGER APPOINTS DAN WEINGART TO PORT SAN ANTONIO BOARD OF DIRECTORS

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – Mayor Phil Hardberger has named Dan Weingart as his appointee to serve on the Port San Antonio Board of Directors. This will be the first stint on the Port Board for Mr. Weingart.

Mr. Weingart brings a very strong resume to his Port San Antonio Board of Directors post. He is CEO of The Alisam Group, a San Antonio-based company doing business in the Americas (United States, Canada, Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean basin). He is known for successfully leading multi-national teams in multicultural and entrepreneurial settings, as well as negotiating strategic partnerships on an international level.

Mr. Weingart first began his international experience with the Coca-Cola Company when he was recruited to enter a specialized training program for international service associates (expatriates). It was with Coca-Cola that he successfully completed a two-year foreign assignment, focusing on key account management and retail execution.

Mr. Weingart then moved on to Tampico Beverages in 2000 where he began as a Vice President for International Marketing. He quickly moved up to positions of Vice President of Andean, Caribbean and Central America Regions; Senior Vice President of North Latin America Division; and ultimately as Executive Vice President – International in 2005.

In 2006 Mr. Weingart became Director of World-Wide Sales with Genesis Today, the fastest growing nutritional supplements company in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. In addition to this

position, he is also the President and Chief Executive Officer of The Alisam Group where he leads all operational, sales, marketing and financial functions for a $27 million multi-national logistics and sales company.

Besides the Port Authority, he currently also serves as the Vice President of Fundraising for Congregation Agudas Achim; is a former board member of the Eleanor Kolitz Academy; is a member of the World Affairs Council; and is a guest lecturer in the MBA program at Incarnate Word University.

The fact that Mr. Weingart was appointed by Mayor Hardberger, who has been instrumental in San Antonio’s recent and rapid progress, is significant. Additionally, Mr. Weingart’s extensive experience in the international business realm bodes well for his desire to help with Port San Antonio.

Friday, March 6, 2009

Schenker, Inc. and BAX Global complete integration




DB Schenker is the new brand name for the integrated company in the USA

(Essen/Freeport NY, March 6, 2009) After two years of careful planning, Schenker, Inc. and BAX Global operations within the USA are fully integrated and doing business under the brand name, DB Schenker. BAX Global was purchased by Deutsche Bahn AG in January of 2006.

“This is the final step of a succesful integration process,” says Dr. Thomas C. Lieb, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Schenker, Inc. “For the benefits of our customers, we now offer all the main services from a single source, in Asia, in Europe, and also in the Americas.”

All USA operations have successfully transitioned to DB Schenker. The domestic business, with the international hub in Toledo, Ohio and transportation and express consignment operating groups along with the Container Freight Station located in Toledo will continue under the name of BAX Global Inc., as a separate legal entity. BAX Global Inc. will focus on serving the wholesale community of air cargo users as a neutral provider handling primarily domestic cargo under its BAX Forwarder Network program.

DB Schenker in the USA has 140 branch locations offering integrated logistics services, such as International air and ocean services, contract logistics, global supply chain management, and customs brokerage. Additionally, customers can select guaranteed overnight, second day, and day-definite ground; standard overnight, second day and economy ground delivery throughout North America.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Transportation Industry Thought Leaders Convene at Upcoming AmeriQuest Symposium

CHERRY HILL, NJ, March 5, 2009 - Charles "Shorty" Whittington, Chairman of the American Trucking Association, Michael Sansolo, retail food industry consultant, and Dan North, chief economist with Euler Hermes ACI are among the slate of speakers at the AmeriQuest Transportation Industry Symposium April 16-18 at The Ritz-Carlton in Orlando, The event gathers top-ranking private fleet, truckload carrier, and rental and leasing executives for intensive discussions aimed at positively impacting each company's performance now and in the future.

Other speakers to present during the three-day conference are Richard A. Epstein, a law professor with the University of Chicago, and Michael Gallis, America's leading expert in large-scale metropolitan regional development strategies.

ATA's Whittington talk is entitled "What's Ahead for the Transportation Industry" and will give Symposium participants a complete look at the trends, challenges, and opportunities facing leaders in the industry at present and in the years ahead. Sansolo, former Senior Vice President of the Food Marketing Institute, will speak on "Going Green: Where Sustainable and Profitable Meet." The talk gives a look at how retailers around the world view issues impacting environmental readiness, with the goal of educating listeners on how the alignment between better business practices and environmental measures can be critical to future success.

North, whose macroeconomic analyses have been featured on ABC, CNBC, and FOX Business Network, will speak on the "State of the Economy," giving valuable insight into the condition of the current economy and what it means for businesses in 2009 and beyond. "The Employee No Choice Act" is the presentation by Epstein, the James Parker Hall Distinguished Service Professor of Law at the University of Chicago. He will address the profound changes the Obama administration's overhaul of employee law as it relates to unions may bring to employers, including matters such as card check, compulsory arbitration of first labor contracts, comparable worth, and statutes of limitations.

"Our Future Economy, Transportation, and Environment in the Global Network" is the title of Gallis's presentation, which will focus on four main categories of change, including the integration of the global network, a new global economic geography, the new economy, and the environment. He will provide insight into the status of the U.S. infrastructure that will help Symposium participants prepare for the future.

In addition to the slate of speakers, the AmeriQuest Transportation Industry Symposium will feature three panels addressing the topics of the state of the industry, the capital and credit markets, and supply management.

Transportation Industry Thought Leaders Convene at Upcoming AmeriQuest Symposium

CHERRY HILL, NJ, March 5, 2009 - Charles "Shorty" Whittington, Chairman of the American Trucking Association, Michael Sansolo, retail food industry consultant, and Dan North, chief economist with Euler Hermes ACI are among the slate of speakers at the AmeriQuest Transportation Industry Symposium April 16-18 at The Ritz-Carlton in Orlando, The event gathers top-ranking private fleet, truckload carrier, and rental and leasing executives for intensive discussions aimed at positively impacting each company's performance now and in the future.

Other speakers to present during the three-day conference are Richard A. Epstein, a law professor with the University of Chicago, and Michael Gallis, America's leading expert in large-scale metropolitan regional development strategies.

ATA's Whittington talk is entitled "What's Ahead for the Transportation Industry" and will give Symposium participants a complete look at the trends, challenges, and opportunities facing leaders in the industry at present and in the years ahead. Sansolo, former Senior Vice President of the Food Marketing Institute, will speak on "Going Green: Where Sustainable and Profitable Meet." The talk gives a look at how retailers around the world view issues impacting environmental readiness, with the goal of educating listeners on how the alignment between better business practices and environmental measures can be critical to future success.

North, whose macroeconomic analyses have been featured on ABC, CNBC, and FOX Business Network, will speak on the "State of the Economy," giving valuable insight into the condition of the current economy and what it means for businesses in 2009 and beyond. "The Employee No Choice Act" is the presentation by Epstein, the James Parker Hall Distinguished Service Professor of Law at the University of Chicago. He will address the profound changes the Obama administration's overhaul of employee law as it relates to unions may bring to employers, including matters such as card check, compulsory arbitration of first labor contracts, comparable worth, and statutes of limitations.

"Our Future Economy, Transportation, and Environment in the Global Network" is the title of Gallis's presentation, which will focus on four main categories of change, including the integration of the global network, a new global economic geography, the new economy, and the environment. He will provide insight into the status of the U.S. infrastructure that will help Symposium participants prepare for the future.

In addition to the slate of speakers, the AmeriQuest Transportation Industry Symposium will feature three panels addressing the topics of the state of the industry, the capital and credit markets, and supply management.

DB AG main sponsor of RUHR.2010 as Capital of Culture

Deutsche Bahn supports the European Capital of Culture RUHR.2010 with an overall package of mobility and logistics services

(Berlin, 4 March 2009) Deutsche Bahn plans to contribute a comprehensive package of services towards the activities of RUHR.2010 as European Capital of Culture. This was announced by the DB Group at a joint press conference with RUHR.2010 GmbH held in Essen today. “RUHR.2010 is an important event for Deutsche Bahn, as it gives us a chance to present our company as one of the world’s leading providers of mobility and logistics services to a wide public from all areas of Germany and Europe,” said Reiner Latsch, Corporate Representative of DB AG for the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

“A cultural event like RUHR.2010 depends on top-quality sponsors. We are delighted to have succeeded in winning DB as the main sponsor of RUHR.2010. This cooperation will enable us to keep environmental impact to a minimum when implementing our programme, especially in the case of mass events,” stated Fritz Pleitgen, Chairman of the Management Board of RUHR.2010 GmbH.

Deutsche Bahn’s commitment involves both financial and non-financial support, provided across the entire corporate product portfolio. In its capacity as “Official Logistics Partner of the European Capital of Culture RUHR.2010”, DB Schenker will contribute highly diverse transport and logistics services. The company has appointed one of its logistics specialists to advise RUHR.2010 GmbH directly in all aspects of logistics. The DB Schenker Logistics Centre in Essen will coordinate the services for RUHR.2010 and bundle transports efficiently, so as to avoid unnecessary truck trips. Amongst other things, DB Schenker will handle the logistics services for the opening ceremony and for other major events organised by RUHR.2010. “This commitment will demonstrate that we are the prime logistics partner in this region,” stated Dr. Thomas C. Lieb, Chairman of the Board of Schenker AG.

The DB Passenger Transport Division, as Official Mobility Partner, will offer a range of attractive regional and inter-regional transport products for RUHR.2010. Deutsche Bahn will also promote the events in the cultural capital by operating a range of local mobility products, such as the popular DB bicycle rental system Call a Bike, in the five main host cities of RUHR.2010, Duisburg, Oberhausen, Essen, Bochum and Dortmund, and also in the nearby cities of Hagen and Hamm. “We are also planning to run a pilot project for our innovative e-ticketing system Touch&Travel in cooperation with the state of North-Rhine Westphalia in the course of RUHR.2010. In this system, the passenger’s mobile phone serves as a ticket,” explained Hans-Hugo Schnöring, Head of Projects and Programmes for Passenger Transport at DB. The pilot project will involve the installation of around 1500 reading devices at more than 80 stops along

DB and Essener Verkehrs AG transport lines.

The major railway stations in the Ruhr Metropolitan Area will be refurbished into attractive transport hubs well before the launch of RUHR.2010. Essen central station will be completed by the end of 2009 and the passenger buildings at the central stations in Dortmund and Duisburg will also be given a new look by 2010.
Information for photo journalists:
As from 16 h today, pictures of the contract being signed in Essen can be downloaded from the photo database at www.db.de/foto, “New pictures” and from the RUHR.2010 GmbH website, www.ruhr.2010.de.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Averitt Expanding Truckload Service into Four New States

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (March 4, 2009) — Averitt Express recently announced it is expanding its asset-based truckload coverage to include Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and New Jersey.

With the opening of the new states, Averitt now provides asset-based coverage for truckload shipments across half the nation—25 states in the South and Midwest are now directly served by the company’s fleet. Its Integrated Services team provides coverage of the other 25 states and Canada through the use of proven, reliable partner carriers.

Averitt's transportation fleet currently includes more than 1,500 road units specifically dedicated to truckload transportation.

"We made this expansion because customers accustomed to the quality service they receive from us wanted that same service to and from these states," said Averitt Vice President of Sales Phil Pierce.

The expansion was made possible by the opening of new domiciles in Wichita, KS; Davenport, IA; Des Moines, IA; and Kansas City, MO, along with the addition of truckload units at Averitt's newly constructed Winchester, VA service center. The openings will allow Averitt to position more trucks in the new states to respond quickly to localized demand.

In addition to the new states, Averitt provides asset-based truckload coverage throughout Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Kentucky, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida.

About Averitt Express

Established in 1971, Averitt Express is the leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management with international reach to more than 100 countries. The company specializes in delivering customized solutions with a single source of accountability for service offerings that include less-than-truckload, truckload, time-critical, importing/exporting and supply chain management. Backed by successful execution for hundreds of customers, Averitt’s supply chain management capabilities include dedicated fleet operations, warehousing services and transportation management. For more information, call 1-800-AVERITT or visit http://www.averittexpress.com.

The Hamilton Port Authority (HPA) Stimulating Economic Growth


March 4, 2009 HAMILTON - The Hamilton Port Authority (HPA) expresses our deep sympathy for our friends at US Steel Canada following the announcement of the Hamilton plant idling yesterday. "We wish the best for the employees of US Steel Canada as they and their families deal with this difficult time," said HPA president and CEO Bruce Wood.

The origins of the port are closely tied to steel production which has for decades contributed to economic growth and sustainability in our community. We are fully supportive of measures that aid the recovery of the local steel industry and recognize the importance of steelmaking and related services in Hamilton. The revival of steel production is an important piece of the economic landscape for the city.

Looking ahead, we will double our efforts in positioning the port as a driver for regional economic growth, promoting job creation through initiatives including the proposed container feeder service, the development of project cargo markets and through land development strategies. The HPA will work with valued port partners, users and stakeholders in advancing plans to stimulate new economic growth.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

GENCO Supply Chain Solutions Announces the Launch of NoBetterDeal.com



PITTSBURGH, Pa. – March 3, 2009 – GENCO Supply Chain Solutions today announced the launch of NoBetterDeal.com – an online B2C store where bargain shoppers can purchase high-quality surplus inventory and retail returns at below wholesale prices.

NoBetterDeal.com is operated by GENCO Marketplace, a subsidiary of GENCO Supply Chain Solutions, which works with retailers and manufacturers to liquidate their returned and surplus product. Every day GENCO Marketplace liquidates more than $5 million worth of product, most of which is sold in carton, pallet and truckload quantities. A select portion of new and like-new product is sold as single units on NoBetterDeal.com.

According to GENCO Marketplace CEO, Robert R. Auray, Jr., the bargain shopping site will introduce consumers to a level of discounting they don’t normally see.

“What makes this web store different is that we source our products from the secondary market,” says Auray. “Each year, billions of dollars worth of surplus inventory and returns are liquidated at a small fraction of their retail value, even though a majority of the goods are high-quality, fully functional items. Because our products are sourced from quality liquidation stock, NoBetterDeal.com can offer discounts shoppers rarely see, even at the most aggressive clearance sales.”

The site will feature a wide variety of consumer products, such as televisions, laptops, ipods and other electronics, video games and movies, furniture, tools, and sports equipment. NoBetterDeal.com has advanced eCommerce features that make online shopping fast, easy and safe. The sitetargets shoppers who are ready to buy at the lowest available price.

“Our intent is to pay off the promise in our name – no better deal,” says Auray. “We are confident that our ability to consistently offer the lowest price on a range of merchandise will attract a new market of value-conscious customers.”

About GENCO Marketplace. GENCO Marketplace, subsidiary of GENCO Supply Chain Solutions, is America’s largest wholesaler of retail returns and surplus inventories. The company brings together buyers and sellers to automate and speed the sell cycle for remarketed products. Buyers benefit from a steady supply of products, while retailers and manufacturers liquidate inventories faster for maximum return. GENCO Marketplace’s liquidation channels include direct sales by the truckload to high-volume buyers, internet auctions of truckload and pallet quantities on the company’s B2B website - www.gencomarketplace.com, and sales of individual items on eBay and the company’s new B2C site - www.NoBetterDeal.com.

About GENCO. GENCO Supply Chain Solutions is North America's second largest and a Global Top 50 third-party logistics provider and the recognized leader in Reverse Logistics. The company manages 130 operations and 37 million square feet of warehouse space throughout North America for a diverse range of retail, manufacturing and government customers. The company provides initial and ongoing value through a complete range of solutions, including contract logistics, transportation logistics, parcel negotiation and audits, reverse logistics, damage research, product liquidation, pharmaceutical services, government solutions and technology solutions. For more information, visit www.genco.com.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Draft Occupational Standards Available for Review by Supply Chain Stakeholders

March 2, 2009, Mississauga, Ontario – The Canadian Supply Chain Sector Council (the CSCSC) has developed 10 draft occupational standards that are available online for review by the sector’s employers, educators and other stakeholders. (Five more standards are in development.) Comments on the standards will be accepted until May 29, 2009, after which the standards will be revised based on feedback, reviewed by the project’s Working Group, and presented to the CSCSC Research Committee and Board for approval. The standards are expected to be finalized and ready for use in October 2009.

Occupational standards describe what a person in a particular occupation must know and be able to do to be considered “competent” at that occupation. Standards are used primarily in human-resources management. They serve, for example, as guidelines for developing job descriptions, for designing and delivering training for the occupation, and to assist employers to explain their expectations to the people working for them. They are used as reference points against which actual practice can be judged. They are also used by educational institutions in the development of curriculum. Generally, occupational standards are a written statement of:

• The skills and abilities required to perform the job in a competent fashion;
• The core knowledge required to perform the job in a competent fashion; and
• The standards of ethical practice expected of practitioners in the occupation.

The CSCSC engaged the Canadian Standards Association (the CSA) to lead this occupational-standards-development project, which is unique in both its approach and format. While the norm for development of an individual occupational standard ranges from three to four years, the CSCSC’s Canadian supply chain occupational standards will have been developed concurrently in only 18 months, using a best-practices approach.

With the project’s Working Group, the CSA identified priority occupations – high-demand occupations or those that require an increased emphasis on training or skills development – from among the 26 NOC codes that identify occupations within the sector, then undertook a review of existing standards, occupational profiles developed by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes and other sources to enable the development of seed documents for review by stakeholder focus groups across Canada. The “draft” documents currently available on the CSCSC’s website are those initial seed documents revised to reflect comments from focus-group participants.

The CSCSC’s draft standards, at an average of 8 to 12 pages in length, reflect industry’s desire for short, clear, simple and usable documents that outline key job tasks and essential knowledge and skills required by the occupation. The occupational standards have been designed for the potential future addition of information related, for example, to job descriptions and educational curriculum.

Upon completion of this project, the CSCSC will have developed 13 to 15 occupational standards, a fast-track process for the efficient development of occupational standards, and a list of priority actions for further work beyond this phase. A proposal has been submitted by the CSCSC to HRSDC for a second phase of this project, which would make possible the creation of a further 10 to 15 occupational standards for the supply chain sector.