Wednesday, April 29, 2009

ROADWAY RECEIVES 2009 NASSTRAC CARRIER OF THE YEAR AWARD FOR 19th CONSECUTIVE YEAR

OVERLAND PARK, Kan., April 27, 2009 –Roadway, a YRC heritage brand, announced today that it has been named “2009 Carrier of the Year” by the National Shippers Strategic Transportation Council (NASSTRAC) and Logistics Management magazine.

The annual program recognizes transportation providers on a quantitative scale in five key areas: customer service, operational excellence, pricing, business relationship, leadership and technology.

“For the 19th consecutive year, we are pleased to receive this prestigious industry award,” said Mike Smid, President YRC. “Our dedicated team has an outstanding reputation, and we are proud that our efforts continue to exceed the challenging demands in the transportation industry.”

The 2009 Carrier of the Year Awards Program will take place during the NASSTRAC Logistics Conference & Expo taking place April 26-29 at the Buena Vista Palace & Spa in Orlando, FL.
Terry Gilbert, SVP, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, YRC will accept the award on the company's behalf, and will speak briefly at the ceremony.

Smid will also speak on an industry panel at the conference titled: “Motor Carrier CEOs: 2009 Opportunities, Issues, Challenges.”

The NASSTRAC Carrier of the Year program is an annual program co-sponsored by NASSTRAC and Logistics Management, a trade magazine for buyers of logistics services. Roadway has been named the NASSTRAC carrier of the year for 19 consecutive years and 20 of the 22 years the award has been given.

NASSTRAC provides education, advocacy, connections and solutions for professionals involved in all areas of transportation, ranging from full truckload and LTL to containerization and global logistics. For more information, visit www.NASSTRAC.org.

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 YRC, YRC Reimer, YRC Logistics, New Penn, Holland, Reddaway and YRC Glen Moore. Building on the strength of its heritage brands, Yellow Transportation and Roadway, 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 49,000 people.

Luc Jobin, C.A., Named Executive VP & CEO

MONTREAL, April 29 /CNW Telbec/ - E. Hunter Harrison, president and chief executive officer of CN (TSX: CNR)(NYSE: CNI), announced today the appointment of Luc Jobin, C.A., as the executive vice-president and chief financial officer of the company effective June 1, 2009.

Jobin, 50, will be responsible for financial management and strategic planning at CN.

Jobin will succeed Claude Mongeau, whom the CN board of directorsrecently selected to become CN president and chief executive officer effective Jan. 1, 2010. Between June 1 and yearend, Mongeau will act as executive
vice-president, spending most of his time in the field broadening his knowledge of CN's network and operations before assuming his new duties at the beginning of next year.

Jobin was recently executive vice-president of Power Corporation of Canada (PCC), a diversified international management and holding company, with responsibility for overseeing PCC's portfolio of diversified investments.

Prior to joining PCC in 2005, he spent 22 years in a variety of financial and executive management positions with Imasco Limited and its Canadian subsidiary, Imperial Tobacco Canada Limited. Imasco, a major North American consumer products and services company, became a British American Tobacco Plc subsidiary in 2000. Jobin was president and chief executive officer of
Imperial Tobacco when he joined PCC.

Harrison said: "CN is pleased to appoint Luc Jobin as its new executive vice-president and chief financial officer. Luc is a seasoned corporate executive known for delivering sustainable corporate performance improvements and increased shareholder value. We look forward to Luc leading further gains in CN's strong financial record and helping to shape our strategic vision for the future."


Jobin obtained his Chartered Accountant Accreditation from the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants in 1983. He received his Diploma in Public Accountancy from McGill University in Montreal in 1982. He has been a member of the board of directors of Reynolds American, Inc. since 2008 and also serves on the boards of directors of two not-for-profit organizations in
Montreal.

To view Jobin's biographical notes, click
here.(http://www.cn.ca/documents/Media-News-Release/LJ_en.pdf)

Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements. CN cautions that, by their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk, uncertainties and assumptions. Implicit in these statements, particularly in respect of long-term growth opportunities, is the Company's assumption that such growth opportunities are less affected by the current situation in the North American and global economies. The Company cautions that its assumptions may not materialize and that the current economic conditions render such assumptions, reasonable at the time they were made, subject to greater uncertainty. The Company cautions that its results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to, the effects of adverse general economic and business conditions, including the current deep recession in the North American economy and the possibility of a global economic contraction in 2009, industry competition, inflation, currency fluctuations, changes in fuel prices, legislative and/or regulatory developments, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, various events which could disrupt operations, including natural events such as severe weather, droughts, floods and earthquakes, labor disruptions, environmental claims, investigations or proceedings, other types of claims and litigation, and other risks detailed from time to time in reports filed by CN with securities regulators in Canada and the United States. Reference should be made to "Management's Discussion and Analysis" in CN's annual and interim reports, Annual Information Form and Form 40-F filed with Canadian and U.S. securities regulators, available on CN's website, for a summary of major risks.


CN - Canadian National Railway Company and its operating railway subsidiaries - spans Canada and mid-America, from the Atlantic and Pacific oceans to the Gulf of Mexico, serving the ports of Vancouver, Prince Rupert,B.C., Montreal, Halifax, New Orleans, and Mobile, Ala., and the key metropolitan areas of Toronto, Buffalo, Chicago, Detroit, Duluth, Minn./Superior, Wis., Green Bay, Wis., Minneapolis/St. Paul, Memphis, and Jackson, Miss., with connections to all points in North America. For more information on CN, visit the company's website at www.cn.ca

DHL EXPANDS ITS EXPRESS NETWORK CAPACITIES IN ASIA

Bonn, 29 April 2009 -- At the same time DHL Express announced the opening of two new state-of-the-art gateways, the company has won five awards at the 2009 Asian Freight & Supply Chain Awards (AFSCA). The awards reconfirm the strength of the DHL brand, its service excellence and DHL's market-leading position in Asia. Announced at a ceremony in Hong Kong on April 22, the company was named Best Express Operator, Best Road Haulier Asia, Best Contract Logistics Provider, Best 3PL and Best Lead Logistics Provider. The AFSCA are organized by Cargonews Asia, one of the leading freight industry publications in Asia Pacific.

The two new gateways, the DHL Express Taipei Gateway at Taoyuan International Airport, Taiwan and the DHL Express Incheon Gateway at Incheon International Airport, South Korea, are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, which will help DHL further increase operational efficiency and enhance service quality as well as flexibility in express services.

Building the new Taipei Gateway, DHL has invested US$6.2 million. The facility, measuring 13,500 sqm, is four times larger than the previous site, and will triple shipment-handling capacity from 3,600 to 11,000 pieces per hour. Drop-off cut-off time will also be extended for up to two hours. DHL¿s Taipei Gateway is the only express gateway in Taiwan that houses a 24-hour Drop-Off Centre.

The Incheon Gateway also sets new industry benchmarks: An US$50 million investment, the 20,000 sqm facility includes a fully automated sorting system for parcels, ensuring a fivefold increase of the distribution volume compared with the previous facility. The Incheon Gateway will serve as a consolidation and distribution center from South Korea to markets such as Mongolia, northern China and the Russian Far East. It will also serve as the intercontinental link to USA and Europe.

To ensure high flexibility for the expected growth in volumes, DHL has also added a new Boeing 747-400F aircraft to service its vital Singapore - Hong Kong route through Air Hong Kong, a joint venture between Cathay Pacific and DHL. The 110 ton Boeing freighter will operate between both cities six days a week, more than doubling capacity on the Singapore - Hong Kong route, an important link for intra-Asian trade.

This additional expansion allows major Asia Pacific cities and other business centers to be interconnected through DHL's regional hubs and gateways, providing customers with enhanced overnight services across the Asia Pacific region.


DHL - The Logistics company for the world

DHL is the global market leader in the logistics industry and "The Logistics company for the world". DHL commits its expertise in international express, air and ocean freight, road and rail transportation, contract logistics and international mail services. A global network composed of more than 220 countries and territories and 310,000 employees worldwide offers customers superior service quality and local knowledge to satisfy their supply chain requirements. DHL accepts its social responsibility by supporting climate protection, disaster management and education.

DHL is part of Deutsche Post DHL. The Group generated revenue of more than 54 billion Euros in 2008.

Logistics Industry Organizations Look to OHL for Leadership

Rogacki and Oses hold Presidential Positions in Logistics Industry Associations

Brentwood, Tenn. (April 29, 2009) – Deborah Rogacki, OHL station manager, and Albert Oses, regional sales manager for OHL, have accepted presidential positions within their communities’ industry organizations. Rogacki has accepted the position of president of the Columbus Importers and Brokers Association (CIBA). Oses has accepted the position of president for a second term for the Florida Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association, Inc. (FCBF).

Rogacki has been involved in the brokerage industry for 17 years and has been a member of CIBA for five years. CIBA is an organization dedicated to promoting and advancing international trade in Columbus, Ohio, and surrounding areas. During 2008, she served as a program director for the association.

“Debbie is an excellent choice for CIBA president because she is knowledgeable of CIBA by-laws and the broker and importing community at large,” said Charlene Whitfield, CIBA treasurer. “She appreciates the importance of CIBA and works to keep the association working in the right direction.”

Oses, OHL regional sales manager, has been an active member of FCBF for 26 years. Oses also serves on the International Trade Consortium (ITC) of Miami-Dade County, Florida, and has recently been appointed chair of the ITC Internal Management and Marketing Committee.

“Having OHL employees in these leadership positions is important to OHL. Through the organizations, our people stay informed and involved in the current issues impacting our customers and our industry,” said Larry Antonucci, president, OHL Global Freight Management and Logistics, Americas. “We are proud of Debbie and Albert and congratulate them on their recent accomplishments.”

The Florida Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association, Inc., is a statewide association that fosters communication between the logistics and trade community and federal agencies. It works to expand Florida’s trading communities at the local, state and national levels. Oses will lead the association in helping Florida effectively compete for international trade resources while reducing barriers for its members.

For photos of Oses or Rogacki or to view this release online, please visit http://www.ohl.com/news/archives/2009-news/logistics-industry-organizations-ohl.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 forwarding 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.

Friday, April 24, 2009

Canadian Pacific to address Scotia Capital Transportation & Logistics Conference

CALGARY, April 24 /CNW/ - Fred Green, President and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Pacific (TSX/NYSE: CP) will address the Scotia Capital Transportation & Logistics Conference on Tuesday, May 5, 2009 at 09:45am Eastern Time

Mr. Green's presentation will provide highlights of CP's currentperformance and business initiatives. The conference will be held at the Le Meridien King Edward Hotel in Toronto, Ontario.

There will be a live audio webcast of Mr. Green's presentation. A replay of the webcast, as well as the presentation materials, will be available in the Investor section of CP's website, http://www.cpr.ca.

Canadian Pacific, through the ingenuity of its employees located across Canada and in the United States, remains committed to being the safest, most fluid railway in North America. Our people are the key to delivering innovative transportation solutions to our customers and to ensuring the safe operation of our trains through the more than 900 communities where we operate. Come and visit us at www.cpr.ca to see how we can put our ingenuity to work for you. Canadian Pacific is proud to be the official rail freight services provider for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Challenger Motor Freight opens new terminal in BC

Tremendous growth encourages major truck carrier to expand operations and services

April 23, 2009 – ALDERGROVE, BRITISH COLUMBIA – Challenger Motor Freight is pleased to announce the opening of its new 10-acre terminal, drivers amenities centre and offices – more than doubling its previous space – for future expansion in the region.

“Challenger’s BC operation has seen double-digit growth each of the past four years,” said Brian Jones, Regional Manager for Challenger. “We began operations in the west 14 years ago primarily as a service to one of Canada’s largest couriers. It’s now home to more than 100 BC drivers and inside staff, and we’re still growing.” The new terminal brings truck maintenance, service, and refuelling in house, and complies with the USA’s C-TPAT, counter-terrorism security regulations, for yard safety. The move takes place at a time when many other trucking companies are downsizing or joining forces with larger companies.

As one of Canada’s largest east-west carriers, Challenger is developing further regional business to BC, Alberta, Washington, and Oregon through their western operation with an extensive fleet of tandem, tridem, and quad axle trailers.

"We've become a major player in Western Canada's triaxle and the US quadaxle business, quadrupling our volumes within the Pacific Northwest and Alberta/BC in the last 2 years, and we'll be exploring new opportunities in drayage, warehousing, air and ocean services through our Logistics Division,” Jones says. “The opportunities for growth are significant, and we are positioned and prepared to supply these services to our customers.”

A date for Challenger’s Aldergrove open house is expected soon.

Challenger Motor Freight’s western operations are located in Aldergrove, BC, and employ more than 100 drivers and administrative staff. Headquartered in Cambridge, Ontario, Challenger employs in excess of 2,300 people across the country and operates 1,500 trucks and 3,300 trailers. It is the largest privately owned truckload carrier in Canada and the fifth largest trucking company in the country. Challenger has been recognized repeatedly by its customers and the industry for outstanding service. In December 2008, they were given the honour of being one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies for the eighth consecutive year. Challenger also has terminals in Montreal and Toronto, and additionally operates Elgin Motor Freight, Cam Hiltz Trucking, Lodwick Transport, and MCX as unique separate entities.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

RILA and Leading Coalition Urge Renewal and Reform of U.S. Trade Preference Programs

Arlington, VA – Today the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), as part a coalition of non-governmental organizations and U.S. businesses, urged Congress and the Administration to review and reform U.S. preference programs for developing countries, and to do so in a timely manner given the scheduled expiration of certain programs. The coalition sent letters to the Chairmen and the Ranking Members of the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committees and to the United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Ron Kirk.

The letters, signed by a group of 28 importers and non-governmental organizations, highlights the benefits that properly structured preference programs can have on development in poor countries and on the creation of economic opportunities both in developing countries and in the United States; the letters encourage policymakers to replace the patchwork of current preference programs with a single, comprehensive trade preference program for developing countries with:

- Simple and straightforward rules of origin,
- Broad product coverage
- Clear and predictable eligibility criteria for countries and products, and
- A strategic view to address country and product “graduations” that would encourage additional bilateral and multilateral trade between and among the United States and developing countries.

“U.S. trade preference programs have a profound positive effect on the reduction of poverty in the world’s poorest countries by creating new economic opportunities for people in the developing world as well as here in the U.S., ” said Stephanie Lester, vice president for international trade.

The Proposal for U.S. Preference Program Reform created by this coalition would preserve the best aspects of existing programs and repair ineffective previsions to deliver meaningful benefits to developing countries and the United States.

“RILA strongly supports the coalition’s efforts to make strategic changes to U.S. preference programs that provide meaningful trade benefits, coordinate trade and capacity building efforts, and create a bridge to a more open trading system,” added Lester.

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.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Calyx Transportation Group Launches New Freight Brokerage Company

Toronto – Calyx Transportation Group Inc., a leading provider of third party logistics and transportation services, has launched Hyphen Freight Brokerage Inc., a new operating subsidiary. As a North American freight broker, Hyphen facilitates the safe and efficient movement of freight anywhere in North America across multiple modes.

Hyphen is at the forefront of change in today’s freight brokerage market. The company is setting stringent standards by focusing on sustainability and investing in the most sophisticated technology, infrastructure and people.

“With the launch of Hyphen, we are setting rigorous standards for a transportation brokerage company,” says Mark Kummer, President of Hyphen. “Our approach to delivering brokerage services is multi-faceted. Service is not achieved through one element alone; it requires a set of standards that include best-in-class technology, the best people, and a vetted carrier base. All of these elements are what will differentiate Hyphen as a leader in the industry.”

Hyphen’s attention to detail meets the demands of every client across multiple industries – including Consumer Packaged Goods, Retail, Steel, Produce and Energy – and sets stringent standards in service excellence. The company is backed by the financial strength, transportation assets, best practices and more than 200 years of combined experience within the Calyx group of companies.

“Through our businesses, Calyx provides a customizable suite of transportation and logistics service offerings that allow us to service multiple segments of our clients’ supply chains. Our typical approach is to acquire companies that fill gaps in our current service offering. But as we explored the myriad of freight brokerages in the market today, we concluded that to set service standards that aligned with the other Calyx brands, we had to build a unique, original model. This led us to create Hyphen as what the future of today’s brokerage market will be,” adds Douglas J. Harrison, President, Calyx Transportation Group Inc.


Hyphen has established relationships with carriers throughout North America, ensuring that clients have access to a wide variety of equipment – including flatbed, temperature-controlled trucks, rail container and railcar equipment – to safely and efficiently transport freight to destinations within the U.S. and Canada, and for cross-border movements. Hyphen provides shippers with access to the broadest network of carriers and railroads, making it easy to move freight on demand.

While Hyphen’s focus is on addressing the truckload transportation needs of clients within the U.S. and from the U.S. into and across Canada, the company is backed by the assets and full range of transportation services provided by members of the Calyx Group, including ground, air and ocean transportation.

About Hyphen
As a leader in the North American Freight Brokerage marketplace, Hyphen utilizes a combination of best practices to set itself apart in the industry. The Hyphen team is comprised of seasoned professionals and transportation specialists that have dedicated their careers to providing sophisticated solutions to address the most complex transportation needs for businesses across multiple industry sectors. For more information, please visit www.hyphenateit.com

About The Calyx Transportation Group
Calyx Transportation Group Inc. is a provider of transportation and logistics and services to the North American market. Comprised of several operating entities, companies within the Calyx Group cover a wide range of services including domestic Truckload (TL) and less than truckload (LTL); 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 supply chain management. 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.

CANADIAN GOVERNMENTS MAKE MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS IN INLAND PORT

The governments of Canada and Manitoba today committed more than $212 million to build CentrePort Canada Way. This priority infrastructure project will be fast-tracked to support the development of CentrePort Canada, Manitoba’s 20,000-acre inland port.

Premier Gary Doer made the announcement today with Prime Minister Stephen Harper at an event at the Winnipeg Airports Authority.

“I would like to thank the prime minister for his support and the business community for their vision – one that we all share and agree is important to continuing to build our province for the future,” Doer said.

“These improvements will help ensure further private sector investment in CentrePort Canada by enhancing access to the site, which is already a desirable location for warehousing, distribution and other industrial activity that depends on convenient and efficient access to transportation services including air, road and rail.”

The funding will develop CentrePort Canada Way, a four-lane divided expressway linking the inland port to the Perimeter Highway. The high-speed corridor will connect Inkster Boulevard (PR 221), the James A. Richardson International Airport and the CP Weston rail intermodal facility to the Perimeter Highway near Saskatchewan Avenue.

CentrePort Canada is a co-operative effort of the Province of Manitoba and the federal government together with the City of Winnipeg, RM of Rosser, business and labour. It builds on Manitoba’s strategic location in the heart of North America and is expected to serve as an international transportation, trade, manufacturing, distribution, warehousing and logistics centre, the premier said.

The $212.5-million expressway is being funded jointly by the provincial and federal governments, with the federal share coming from the Provincial Territorial Base Funding Agreement ($68.35 million) and the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative ($33.25 million). Manitoba will match the federal funds and contribute an additional $9.2 million for land acquisition.
CentrePort Canada is a private sector-led corporation, created by provincial legislation last fall, to develop and promote the inland port and build on Manitoba’s well-established infrastructure network of air, rail, trucking and sea routes. CentrePort Canada’s 15-member board is led by Kerry Hawkins as chair and Art Mauro as vice-chair.

“CentrePort Canada Way is critical to the development of our inland port,” Mauro said. “It will provide an efficient and unimpeded link to the Perimeter Highway for the inland port area and its major assets including the James A. Richardson International Airport and intermodal rail facilities.”

The governments of Manitoba and Canada have supported CentrePort Canada through a variety of recent joint-funding initiatives including $85 million to upgrade PTH 75, Manitoba’s key trade route to the U.S., and $48 million for upgrades to the Hudson Bay rail line and the port of Churchill.

The province also introduced legislation to allow tax increment financing to support development in the inland port area and Budget 2009 expanded the fuel tax exemption for international cargo flights to include direct and indirect flights to the U.S.

Monday, April 20, 2009

MercuryGate International to Be Premier Sponsor of CSCMP’s 2009 AGM

MercuryGate International to Be Premier Sponsor of CSCMP’s 2009 Annual Global Conference Event to Be Held in Chicago, September 20-23

Lombard, Illinois USA (April 20, 2009)—The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) announced that MercuryGate International, Inc. will be the premier sponsor of its annual global conference scheduled for September 20-23, 2009 in Chicago,
Illinois.

“MercuryGate is a transportation management system software provider that has been one of the industry’s best-kept secrets for too long,” said Monica Wooden, CEO of MercuryGate. “CSCMP’s conference is the perfect place for logistics and supply chain management profes-sionals to get to know us. We look forward to a long-term partnership with CSCMP.”

“We very much appreciate MercuryGate’s support of our event and are excited about working with them to maximize their brand’s exposure among the key supply chain management decision makers who will attend our conference,” said Rick Blasgen, President and CEO of CSCMP.

The conference will host over 3,000 global supply chain professionals from over 40 countries who will gather in Chicago for three days of professional education, industry research, best practice presentations, and business networking. Companies interested in becoming a sponsor for CSCMP’s Annual Global Conference should contact Chuck M. Martinez at +1 305.661.2896 or Chuck@AdelfiGroup.com.

About MercuryGate
MercuryGate is a leading provider of transportation management system (TMS) software that allows 3PLs, freight brokers, and shippers to plan their transportation and execute their freight movements. Customers are able to move the straightforward parcel, less-than-truckload (LTL), and truckload shipments as well as the more demanding multi-leg ocean, air, and rail movements.

About CSCMP
Founded in 1963, the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)
is the leading worldwide professional association dedicated to education, research, and the advancement of the supply chain management profession. With over 9,000 members globally, representing business, government, and academia from 63 countries, CSCMP members are the leading practitioners and authorities in the fields of logistics and supply chain management.

For more information, please contact:
Madeleine Miller-Holodnicki, ABC
Manager of Communications
Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)
333 East Butterfield Road, Suite 140
Lombard, Illinois 60148-5617 USA
mholodnicki@cscmp.org

CITT Announces Agenda for Reposition 2009

TORONTO, Ontario -- CITT has announced the learning sessions for Reposition 2009 - the national symposium for supply chain and logistics professionals - to be held in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario from November 4 – 6.

HR Boot Camp for Supply Chain Professionals
As companies become leaner, everyone must now step in and occasionally play a human resources role within their organization. But becoming more proficient at developing and motivating staff requires training. HR Boot Camp for Supply Chain Professionals is an interactive workshop designed to provide practical, hands-on tools for supply chain professionals tasked with hiring, training and developing staff. This session will be facilitated by Fiorella Callocchia of HR Impact.

The Next Chapter in Supply Chain Management
Due to the volatile North American economy, a new chapter in supply chain management is now being written. The choices companies make in the coming months will define their future success. During The Next Chapter in Supply Chain Management, leaders with expertise in different areas of supply chain will discuss how they have adjusted their operations to suit the current economic climate. Speakers include: John Salt, Vice President of Distribution & Operations Planning for Canadian Tire Corporation; Doug Harrison, President of Calyx Transportation Group; Warren Sarafinchan, Senior Director, Logistics Solutions for Mars Canada and Claude Germain, EVP and COO of Schenker of Canada Ltd. This session will be moderated by Lou Smyrlis, Editorial Director, Business Information Group’s Transportation Group of Properties.

Message in a Bottle: Supply Chain Challenges from the LCBO
Being successful in an industry built around personal taste that sources product from around the globe and serves a diverse customer base across Canada requires a very complex supply chain. In the heart of Ontario wine country, learn about the supply chain challenges faced by the LCBO and discover how they manage to cultivate a flourishing customer grapevine in such a highly competitive business. This session will feature Dr. George Soleas, Senior Vice President of the Logistics/Quality Assurance Division of the LCBO.

Near Shoring: The Next Wave or Just a Faze?
The greater the customization or market uncertainty, the closer to market the product has to be. As such, many companies have shortened their supply chain back from traditional off shoring practices. During Near Shoring, a panel of experts will discuss the pros and cons of near shoring, including control issues, shorter lead time, potential loss of intellectual property as well as who is doing it, and how. Panelists will include Garland Chow, Associate Professor at the Sauder School of Business; John O’Reilly, Director of Customs & Traffic, EQL for Toshiba of Canada and Jim Kilpatrick, Partner, from Deloitte Supply Chain Management.

amajor@citt.ca
www.citt.ca

CITT is Canada’s leading professional development organization in the supply chain and transportation logistics sector. We promote professional excellence and advancement for transportation logisticians by offering

RILA Announces Kelly Kolb as Vice President of Global Supply Chain Policy

Arlington, VA – The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) announced today that Kelly Kolb has joined the association as vice president of global supply chain policy. Kolb will represent the RILA’s members before Congress and the Executive Branch on supply chain and transportation issues.

Kolb was most recently the acting assistant secretary for government affairs at the U.S. Department of Transportation, a position she held after serving as the deputy assistant secretary within the same office. In this position, Kolb served as the secretary’s primary advisor for all intergovernmental matters and was responsible for developing and advancing the department’s governmental affairs strategy. Before joining the Department of Transportation in 2005, Kolb served as a Senate staffer, most recently for Senator George Allen (R-VA).

“Kelly brings a strong background in both transportation policy and advocacy and is a great addition to our organization and an asset to the retail industry,” said RILA President Sandy Kennedy.

Kolb will manage RILA’s supply chain committees and advocacy which includes supply chain security, transportation infrastructure, modal efficiency, and customs and border issues.

“Kelly is a proven leader and strong advocate for the critical issues that impact the movement of goods,” said John Emling, senior vice president, government affairs. “Her experience and insight will help advance the cause of the retail industry on these critical issues.”

Kolb officially joined RILA on March 19 and will report directly to John Emling.

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.

Friday, April 17, 2009

STATEWIDE REPORT SHOWCASES GEORGIA’S LOGISTICS INDUSTRY AS POSITIONED FOR GROWTH

The Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics released the first-ever comprehensive snapshot of Georgia’s logistics industry at the 2009 Logistics Summit

ATLANTA (April 16, 2009) – The Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics introduced the first-ever statewide logistics industry report at a gathering of 400+ industry leaders in Midtown Atlanta. The report, titled 2009 Georgia Logistics Report: A Focus on Providers is the first comprehensive profile of Georgia’s logistics industry and was conducted by an independent research firm.

“Not only is logistics a priority for us, but it is also a key draw for foreign investment into our state,” remarked Kenneth Stewart, Commissioner, Georgia Department of Economic Development. “From our deepwater ports in Savannah to our busy Atlanta airport, the state of Georgia gives companies global reach.”

The logistics summit was held at TWELVE Atlantic Station from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 16. Following an opening message from Governor Perdue, speakers included Curtis Foltz, chief operating officer of the Georgia Ports Authority; Dick Anderson, executive director, Georgia Regional Transportation Authority; Mark Holifield, senior vice president, global supply chain, Home Depot, Inc.; and Page Siplon, executive director, Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics.

“There are many moving parts in this ecosystem of companies we call the ‘logistics industry’. Georgia is focused on feeding this ecosystem with innovative tools and information, highlighting its success around the world, and showcasing its unique assets and advantages,” said Page Siplon, executive director of the Center of Innovation for Logistics. “This in turn attracts new jobs, investment and business opportunities. It’s a unique business development cycle of which GDEcD and the Center of Innovation for Logistics are proud to be a part.”

Key facts from the 2009 Georgia Logistics Report: A Focus on Providers:
• Georgia is ranked 5th in the nation for business process (logistics-related) patents issued.
• Georgia’s container terminal in Savannah is the 3rd largest in the nation, shipping over 2,616 million TEU’s in 2008.
• Each week, a combined 12 million tons of cargo moves on Georgia’s 21,000 miles of highways.
• The direct total value of output from logistics providers was $11.2B in 2007 dollars.

The 2009 Logistics Summit was presented in collaboration with the Georgia Motor Trucking, Georgia Railroad and Georgia Economic Developers Associations (GMTA, GRA, GEDA), the Savannah and Atlanta Maritime Associations, the Metro Atlanta Chamber Logistics Council and both the Savannah and Atlanta chapters of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP).

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Accellos Announces Accellos One Claims

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado – April 15, 2009 – Accellos, a leading provider of supply chain execution software solutions, today announced Accellos One Claims, an advanced system to track and manage freight claims built on the Microsoft CRM foundation.

“Especially in the difficult economy we find ourselves in, keeping track of the disposition of freight claims can have a significant financial effect on businesses with a healthy volume of daily shipments,” said Ross Elliott, Accellos’ CTO. “As we evaluated the business problem, it looked more and more like a CRM system would provide a great solution. We’ve built a really great claim system by leveraging the extensibility, dynamic workflow capability and underlying data design of Microsoft CRM.”

Accellos One Claims provides tools that allow a transportation company, or any company that interacts with freight brokers or carriers, to capture all salient information about a claim, including rich media like pictures and videos, and assign it to a company-designed lifecycle and workflow. By evaluating the progress of the claim through its lifecycle, the user can cause specific events to take place, such as:
Conditionally determined emails to be sent
Reports and letters to be generated and sent
Escalations to be effected
Claims empowers the user to ensure that outstanding claims are brought to closure within the proper timelines and with the proper guidelines adhered to.

About Accellos
Accellos, headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is a global provider of logistics, warehouse, third-party logistics, transportation and mobile fleet management software solutions. The company addresses the supply chain management and execution market with warehouse management systems for multiple environments, including transportation management software and in-field mobile resource management solutions. Accellos’ powerful supply chain execution solutions are easy to customize and implement, providing customers with more innovation for less investment.

Kewill and Deringer Achieve Another Industry-First

April 15, 2009- Saint Albans, VT- A.N. Deringer, Inc., one of the largest, privately held Customs brokers in North America, was the first to have filed an error-free entry through US Customs and Border Protection's Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) using Kewill, a leading provider of solutions that simplify global trade and logistics.

The automated solution Deringer used accelerated the clearance process of imports by facilitating the submission of entry summary data directly through ACE. This new technology provides Deringer with a distinct competitive advantage by allowing them to meet the evolving requirements of CBP and the needs of clients.
Deringer's Buffalo office was successful in transmitting the first ACE entry summary to CBP error-free on Sunday, April 12, 2009. CBP personnel, Kewill, and Deringer Buffalo Customs specialists, backed by Deringer's IT department, were on-site when the entry was filed and successfully transmitted to CBP.
Jake Holzscheiter, President and CEO of Deringer, commented, "In our 90 years, Deringer has been a pioneer for many Customs initiatives, and having Kewill as a strategic partner allows us to continue this heritage. As an early adopter of entry data filing through ACE, Deringer reaffirms its commitment to helping importers better manage their regulatory compliance."

Those filing entries through ACE will reap immediate benefits including the ability to electronically review and respond to CBP's, CF28s, CF29s, and marking notices through the importers own ACE portal. Importers will also have the option of attaching an electronic file containing supplemental materials and using the ACE portal to track the status of their submissions, ensuring CBP has received the requested documentation.

Other Industry Firsts for A.N. Deringer, Inc. include:
• Earned one of the first Customs Brokerage Licenses (US Customs Brokerage License #22)
• Obtained one of the first ISO 9001 certifications in the industry
• Received the first national permit for Customs brokerage
• Pilot broker for CBP's Broker Account Management Program
• Worked closely with CBP during the test phase of eManifest and was the first company to submit an eManifest on a carrier's behalf
• First to submit error free ACE entry
Kewill First to Implement Major Customs Initiatives, including:
• 1985 - ABI
• 1996 - AES
• 1999 - Recon
• 2003 - FAST
• 2009 - ACE

About Deringer
Customer care, service excellence, and a firm commitment to Customs compliance illustrate the differences that have led to Deringer's success as a leading logistics provider for more than 89 years. Deringer's turnkey logistics services include Customs brokerage, international freight forwarding, warehousing and distribution, cargo insurance, and consulting. With over 30 offices strategically located at northern border and air/vessel ports throughout the United States, and a strong network of international agents, Deringer helps companies optimize efficiencies in their supply chain. For more information, please visit www.anderinger.com

About Kewill plc

Kewill delivers solutions that simplify global trade and logistics.
Global businesses face ever increasing complexity across their supply chains including decisions on sourcing, customs, compliance, transportation, storage, finance, visibility and connectivity. Inefficiency in any of these areas will lead to supply chain delays and result in increased costs. Kewill has a suite of software solutions that significantly simplify the management of the most complex global supply chains for enterprises and logistics service providers.

With over 35 years experience in global trade management and logistics, and over 600 employees worldwide, Kewill is a long-time innovator of solutions for manufacturers, distributors, retailers, freight forwarders, transport companies, customs brokers, 3PL's and 4PL's, as well as other related institutions involved in financing and underwriting global trade such as banks and insurance providers.

Kewill's solutions are in daily use by more than 40,000 users worldwide and our global customer base which entrusts us with the management of their supply networks includes divisions of 3M, Bayer, Caterpillar, DHL, FedEx, Ford, General Electric, General Motors, H.J. Heinz, Kimberley-Clark, Kraft, Levi Strauss, Mazda, Nestlé, Nike, Palm, Procter & Gamble, Smith & Nephew, Sony, TNT, Unilever, UPS, Vodafone, Yamaha, Xerox.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

TSI Executive Search and Mediacorp Canada Inc.

TSI Executive Search is proud to announce that they have entered into a partnership with Mediacorp Canada Inc. to become the exclusive executive search sponsor of the Top Employer Summit.

The Top Employer Summit is the annual conference for the Canada's Top 100 Employers project as well as 18 additional regional and special interest competitions. It is the largest annual gathering of executive and senior-level human resource professionals in Canada, providing leaders and their organizations with inspiration and the latest thinking of how to become an employer of choice.

When asked about the partnership, Michael Mundy the Managing Director of TSI Executive Search stated “we are privileged and honoured to align ourselves with the Mediacorp team to put on this outstanding program.” Pamela Ruebusch, President & CEO of TSI Group added “the Canada's Top 100 Employers competition utilizes a thorough adjudication process that we feel truly identifies top employers.”

Previous speakers at the summit have included such world renowned leaders as Stephen Lewis, Robert F. Kennedy, Al Gore and the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize winner, Muhammad Yunus.

Tony Meehan, Publisher of Canada’s Top 100 Employers and President & CEO of Mediacorp Canada Inc. echoed Mr. Mundy’s sentiments when he stated that “Mediacorp Canada is very much looking forward to building a long term partnership with TSI” and believes “they will add tremendous value and raise awareness among the nation's senior executives of the significant benefits associated with becoming an employer of choice and the Canada's Top 100 Employers project.”

RILA Announces REI President and CEO Sally Jewell as Sustainability Conference Keynote Speaker

Arlington, VA - Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) President and CEO Sally Jewell will be featured as the keynote speaker at the 2009 Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) Environmental Sustainability and Compliance Conference to be held October 5-7 in Dallas, TX.

RILA’s 2009 Environmental Sustainability & Compliance Conference (ESCC) is the only sustainability conference designed and presented by retailers, for retailers. This second annual conference brings together business leaders from across the retail spectrum to hear from their peers, share best practices, and learn the latest operational strategies for environmental sustainability and compliance.

“RILA is pleased to have Sally Jewell, one of the retail industry’s most recognized leaders on issues of sustainability as our keynote speaker,” said RILA President Sandy Kennedy. “Under her leadership, REI continues to excel, implementing environmentally sustainable practices and driving forward-thinking change throughout the retailer’s supply chain and business.”

Jewell’s presentation will focus on the sustainable leadership initiatives and strategies that have earned REI its standing as a leader in environmental sustainability. Last month, the company received a Social Innovation Award by the Financial Times and JustMeans in recognition of its social and environmental efforts.

"Sustainability is a team sport," said Sally Jewell, president and CEO of Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), and RILA board member. "We can accomplish so much more when we work together to protect our planet while benefitting our industry."

Jewell joined REI as chief operating officer in 2000, after serving on its board of directors for four years. Named president and CEO in 2005, she regularly serves as a spokesperson on behalf of REI and the outdoor industry regarding the importance of outdoor recreation, especially among young people. Prior to joining REI, Jewell spent nearly 20 years in the commercial banking industry. In addition to serving on the RILA board of directors, Jewell is a founding board member and the immediate past president for the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust. She also serves on the University Of Washington Board Of Regents, board of the National Parks Conservation Association, and board of the Initiative for Global Development—business leaders working to end global poverty. In 2008 she was appointed as a commissioner on the National Parks Second Century Commission.

REI is credited as one of the retail industry’s sustainability leaders because of its commitment to weave social and environmental innovation throughout its business strategies. Among its many sustainability activities, REI partners with community organizations to encourage active hands-on conservation efforts, and works closely with paper suppliers to accelerate the adoption of sustainable forestry practices. The company has also partnered with its peers in the Outdoor Industry Association eco-index working group. With more than 100 organizations, the group is sharing collective knowledge to ultimately improve on the environmental performance of outdoor gear and clothing. REI’s environmental sustainability goals include its long-term goal to be climate neutral by 2020.

The conference’s program will address the key operational aspects of environmental sustainability and compliance for the retail industry, including sessions on energy, waste management, water conservation, store operations, real estate development, supply chain issues, and opportunities for improving corporate social responsibility. RILA’s conference offers a unique perspective by incorporating the latest in environmental regulatory issues and tactical keys to compliance that create immediate business value.

Retailers and consumer product manufacturers understand that sound environmental practices improve their companies’ performance, create opportunities for growth and sustain business longevity. In today’s economic climate, green initiatives can be a differentiator for customers, a money-saver for retailers and driver of innovation – in other words, a business imperative.

About REI

Founded in 1938 by a group of Pacific Northwest mountaineers seeking quality outdoor equipment, REI operates 107 retail stores nationwide in 27 states, two online stores – REI.com and REI-OUTLET.com – REI Outdoor School and an adventure travel company, REI Adventures. REI offers products from all of the top brands for camping, climbing, cycling, hiking, outdoor fitness, paddling, snow sports and travel, including its own line of award-winning gear and apparel.

As an active member of the communities in which it does business, REI is committed to promoting environmental stewardship and increasing access to outdoor recreation through education, volunteerism, gear donations and financial contributions. REI has been named among FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For in America” every year since 1998.

About RILA

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) promotes consumer choice and economic freedom through public policy and industry operational excellence. Its members include the largest and most successful retailers operating in the U.S.--which together provide millions of jobs and operate more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad. In 2007 RILA launched the RILA Sustainability Initiative (RSI) to help leading retail companies meet and exceed environmental standards relevant to the retail industry and pursue responsible environmentally sustainable activities and business practices.

CEVA Logistics Using Descartes for Cargo 2000 Compliance

WATERLOO, ONTARIO — April 14, 2009 — Descartes Systems Group, a global on-demand software-as-a-service (SaaS) logistics solutions provider, announced that CEVA Logistics, a leading global supply chain management company, is using Descartes Cargo 2000 to help it comply with business process and automation standards established by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

CEVA, a long-time Descartes customer, recently undertook an initiative to improve the quality and timeliness of the data that it exchanges with its air carrier partners. CEVA started by adding Descartes Quality Monitor solution to monitor the content and delivery of its existing logistics messages. CEVA Logistics then joined Cargo 2000 and deployed Descartes’ Cargo 2000 solution with its existing portfolio of Descartes solutions to enhance its air cargo messaging business process.

Descartes Quality Monitor and Descartes Cargo 2000 are both value-added solutions available over Descartes’ Global Logistics Network (GLN), one of the world’s largest multi-modal networks for exchanging logistics data. Both solutions are designed to help reduce errors and increase accuracy in electronic logistics messaging while helping users, such as CEVA, comply with Cargo 2000 certification.

Cargo 2000, an industry initiative led by IATA, was created to standardize processes that improve efficiencies for the worldwide air cargo industry. Descartes has supported IATA’s Cargo 2000 initiative since 1998.

“At CEVA, we are committed to streamlining our operations and improving our service by embracing Cargo 2000 standards,” said Richard J. Zablocki, VP Air Products, CEVA Logistics. “We are already working with Descartes to improve the quality of our logistics messaging data, so going one step further to use Descartes’ solutions for Cargo 2000 compliance was a natural decision.”

Using Descartes Cargo 2000, CEVA can monitor shipments at a master air waybill level between airports; monitor events and match route map milestones against actual event timing; consolidate status data of multiple route maps to obtain statistical data about transportation quality; and use route maps to describe transportation milestones from origin to destination.

“CEVA is a long-time Descartes customer, and we are pleased that we could extend the value we deliver to them over our GLN to help them comply with Cargo 2000,” said Scott Sangster, Vice President, Global Logistics Network at Descartes. “Descartes enables our customers, like CEVA, to become Cargo 2000 certified and use the power of the GLN to improve the overall quality of the air cargo shipment process.”

About CEVA Logistics

CEVA Logistics is a leading global supply chain management company. We provide end-to-end design, implementation and operational solutions in contract logistics and freight management to large and medium-sized national and multinational companies. CEVA employs circa 50,000 people and runs an extensive global network with facilities in over 100 countries. For the year ending 31 December 2008, the Group reported revenues of €6.3bn. For more information, please visit www.cevalogistics.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.

Market Share of Ocean Freight Providers has Grown

(London, 14 April 2009) “The market share of ocean freight forwarders is growing faster than the market share of the shipowners,” said Dr. Thomas C. Lieb, Chairman of the Management Board of Schenker AG, Essen, in London recently. Speaking to the delegates at the CI Global Liner Shipping 09 conference, he explained the factors which he believes will continue to be crucial for the success of the ocean freight market, not only in difficult economic conditions.

“Over the past four years, the market share of the top 4 container shipping companies has grown by 4.3 percent. During that same period, the market share of the top 4 ocean freight providers grew by 18.8 percent,” added Lieb. He therefore believes that major logistics companies will play an increasingly important role in future. On the whole, however, the ocean freight market is highly fragmented.

By constantly developing and expanding the supply chain, providers of integrated logistics services create significant added value for carriers and customers, continued Lieb. Thanks to more cooperation at the interface to the carriers, they can offer more reliable cargo space for both carriers and customers. On the one hand, the customer benefits from tailor-made solutions for optimizing and completing his supply chains. Large logistics companies can offer a wide range of value added services, for example in the IT sector. Lieb also pointed out that assigning customer support activities to a Key Account Management generates innovation potential which should not be underestimated.

“Only logistics providers enable the comprehensive control of logistics costs,” continued Lieb, especially in respect of the ratio between the costs of warehousing and the transport costs. Logistics providers enable their customers to control the supply chain by determining both the inventories as well as the size and frequency of transports. “Cost transparency means that the point of maximum cost effectiveness can be clearly defined.”

“Green” logistics is one of the four key trends for the future: “We already have a whole number of options for designing logistics as a truly sustainable process. These include lowering CO2 emissions, close cooperation with partners and suppliers, innovative solutions such as a combination of ocean and air freight, choosing the most suitable transport mode, as well as measures to save energy,” stressed Lieb.

Friday, April 10, 2009

Reimer Express Lines Ltd. and Yellow Canada integrate networks, services and capabilities


OVERLAND PARK, KAN. and WINNIPEG, MB, April 9, 2009 – YRC Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ: YRCW) announced today that Reimer Express Lines Ltd. and Yellow Canada have become YRC Reimer, a single market facing brand built on the expertise of Reimer, Roadway and Yellow. YRC Reimer now offers Canadian customers the strength of the newly integrated YRC network and the supply chain advantage of simplified access to flexible, efficient solutions.

”We are excited to be an integral part of the Roadway and Yellow networks in the U.S., creating the single most comprehensive network throughout North America,” said Clayton Gording, President, YRC Reimer. “This is truly a game changing event for our company and our industry, and I’m proud that the successful integration of several Canadian service centers served as the pilot for the recent YRC integration across North America.”

Gording reinforced that the name change does not change the company’s working relationships or focus: The Canadian team at YRC Reimer will continue to offer shippers the confidence of an unmatched selection of direct connections within Canada, throughout North America, and around the world.

Although the company will begin using the new YRC Reimer name and logo this month, the heritage brand names will continue to be visible – most notably on trailer graphics and building signs – while the new logo is phased into operations.

YRC Reimer is a wholly owned subsidiary of YRC, a brand providing more than 160 combined years of experience moving big shipments. With nearly 450 service centers across North America, YRC offers about 100 more service centers than either Roadway or Yellow did individually. The changes provide 21,000 additional direct service points and position YRC 20 percent closer to customers in major markets. This enables quicker pickups and deliveries, increased flexibility and reduced emissions.

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 YRC, YRC Reimer, YRC Logistics, New Penn, Holland, Reddaway and Glen Moore. Building on the strength of its heritage brands, Yellow Transportation and Roadway, 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 53,000 people.

Friday, April 3, 2009

Bear Market Bites 3PLs

Stoughton, WI, April 2, 2009 – First quarter 2009 third-party logistics provider (3PL) revenues are down 6.7% compared to the first quarter of last year according to a survey just completed by industry experts Armstrong & Associates, Inc. Of the survey respondents, 53% said that revenues were down; 37% said revenues were up primarily due to new business.

International Transportation Management¹ is down 14.6% reflecting the steep decline in international trade and container movements. Domestic Transportation Management², reflecting the drop in North American truck traffic, is down 10.9%. Value-added Warehousing and Distribution (VAWD)³ has been impacted less. Revenues in VAWD are down 4.3%. Dedicated Contract Carriage is down 11.9% following the trucking trend reported by the ATA.

The results of the current recession are unevenly distributed across industry verticals. Automotive 3PLs have been hit the hardest (-37.5%). On the other hand, 3PL food related revenues are down only 0.1%.

Respondents to the survey felt that the economic recovery would be relatively slow. They expect revenues for 2009 to be down 4.6%. Armstrong & Associates, Inc. estimates 2008 revenues for 3PLs in the U.S. at $128 billion.

“We will have a more complete financial analysis and report available May 1,” said Richard Armstrong, chairman of Armstrong & Associates, Inc. “Recent upticks in transportation volume and consumer spending indicated that we have bottomed out. The question now is whether the recovery will be V or L shaped. Company results are very mixed, but 3PLs as a group should bounce back quickly. Non-asset based players are particularly resilient.”

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¹ Freight forwarding, NVOCC and related 4PL activities
² Freight brokerage and systems-based transportation management
³ Contract logistics