Thursday, September 30, 2010

Averitt Announcement

Averitt takes state association’s Clean Diesel Leadership Award Transportation provider tabbed for the second time in as many years.

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (Sept. 30, 2010) – For the second straight year, Averitt Express earned the Clean Diesel Leadership Award from the Tennessee Trucking Association. The TTA made the announcement at its annual awards ceremony held in Destin, Fla.

According to the TTA, the award is designed to recognize organizations within the transportation industry that have made “significant, measurable improvements in air quality through the development and/or implementation of clean diesel actions.” These actions range from educating drivers on fuel efficiency to equipping tractors with auxiliary power units to using alternative fuels.

“In an industry like ours, it’s vital that we maintain a focus on environmental stewardship and sustainability,” said Gary Sasser, Averitt's president and CEO. “We’re extremely honored to have been recognized by TTA two years in a row for our ‘green’ efforts. The entire Averitt team takes great pride in continually finding new ways to be environmentally friendly.”

To be eligible for the award, a transportation provider must demonstrate environmental leadership and meet such criteria as: directly or indirectly reducing air pollution through its actions; developing a replicable model with measurable, sustainable outcomes that other companies can follow; and employing technology aimed at reducing diesel engine emissions. Award entries are judged by members of the Southeast Diesel Collaborative Leadership Group, the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation and the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

A founding partner of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s SmartWay program, Averitt has taken numerous steps to reduce its environmental impact, including:

- Using only ULSD (ultra-low-sulfur diesel) at in-house fuelingstations, helping reduce emissions of particulate matter and nitrogen oxides

- Equipping road tractors with APUs (auxiliary power units) to maintain driver comfort and reduce fuel use through idling when parked for extended periods of time

- Installing sophisticated electronic technology that gathers data from tractor engine computers to track and measure fuel efficiency

- Equipping trucks with systems that automatically shut down idling engines

- Using leading-edge software to plan routes as efficiently as possible and alert drivers to the most cost-effective fueling locations

- Using Biodiesel in select markets

- Using low-viscosity lubricants and engine oils that lower the frequency of maintenance service intervals, therefore producing fewer waste products

- Providing numerous e-commerce solutions, such as electronic bills of lading, invoicing and various forms requests, in order to reduce and potentially eliminate paper use

- Striving to maintain balance within distribution network to reduce empty miles, thus reducing emissions and fuel usage

About Averitt Express

Established in 1971, Averitt Express is a 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 cross border/domestic offshore, dedicated, expedited, intermodal, international ocean/air, local customization, less-than-truckload, PortSide ®, transportation management, truckload (dry van, flatbed, refrigerated, brokerage), warehousing and value-added services, including a centralized call center, strict performance metrics and an ongoing focus on green/sustainability efforts. Averitt’s technology offerings include a full suite of web-based shipping tools, electronic data interchange (EDI) and transportation and operations management systems. For more information, visit http://www.AverittExpress.com.

UPS Announcement

UPS Purchases 130 Hybrid Electric Vehicles

UPS (NYSE: UPS) today announced the purchase of 130 next generation hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) to add to its growing alternative-fuel vehicle (AFV) fleet.

The 130 hybrids all will be deployed next year, with 30 going to New York and New Jersey and 100 to California. UPS estimates these vehicles will save 66,085 gallons of fuel and 671 metric tonnes of CO2 annually, representing a 35 percent improvement in fuel economy. That's the equivalent of 128 passenger cars being taken off the road.

UPS already operates one of the largest private fleets of alternative-fuel vehicles in the transportation industry - 2,022 in total. The company has invested more than $25 million to develop its AFV fleet, which besides hybrid electric includes such other fuels as compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, propane and all-electric. The fleet is deployed in eight countries besides the U.S. and since 2000, has traveled 185 million miles.

UPS was the first package delivery company to introduce a hybrid electric vehicle into daily operation with a research program in early 1998. Currently, there are 250 UPS HEV delivery vehicles operating in the United States.

"Hybrid electric technology has proven itself to be effective in the field," said Mike Britt, UPS's director of vehicle engineering. "We are eager to receive these new HEVs in 2011 and get them on the road. Continued investment in fuel-efficient technology is a part of UPS's overall environmental strategy."

The hybrid electric power system utilizes a conventional diesel engine combined with a battery pack, saving fuel and reducing pollution-causing emissions. The energy generated from braking is captured and returned to the battery as electricity. The combination of clean diesel power and electric power, supplemented by regenerative braking, allows dramatic improvements in fuel savings and emissions reductions.

The HEV fleet features two different size vehicles from Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation and a hybrid drive system from Eaton Corporation. The external truck bodies are identical to UPS's other signature brown trucks, although they feature additional labeling identifying them as hybrid electrics.

"Eaton is very proud of our 10-year relationship developing hybrid power systems with UPS," said Dimitri Kazarinoff, vice president and general manager, Eaton Hybrid Power Systems Division. "UPS is a global leader in the adoption of clean transportation technologies and their support and continued orders are helping to make both of our businesses sustainable."

About UPS

UPS pursues a wide range of socially responsible and sustainable business practices designed to reduce its impact on the environment and improve communities around the world. Learn more about UPS's responsible business practices at www.ups.com/responsibility.

Canadian Purchasing Research Foundation Awards

Research on transshipment in decentralized supply chains expected to help oil and gas industry

The 2010 Codère Canadian Purchasing Research Foundation (CPRF) Doctoral Thesis Scholarship has been awarded to Bezhad Hezarkhani, a PhD student at Memorial University in St. John’s.

“The purpose of the Codère Scholarship is to foster a Canadian community of scholars in the field of purchasing and supply chain management by supporting outstanding doctoral candidates in their thesis development and research,” said Bruce Gorman, a director of CPRF.

Hezarkhani’s doctoral thesis will research transshipment in decentralized supply networks. Specifically, it will examine how organizations can employ coordinating transshipment contracts for balanced risk sharing, improved resource utilization and better inventory management.

“I am very proud to be awarded this prestigious scholarship,” said Hezarkhani. “Even more rewarding is that the funding body is attached to an engaged and practical association (Purchasing Management Association of Canada) so that my research can have applied benefits in the field and not be limited only to theoretical applications.”

His research is expected to have practical implications for supply chain professionals working in the oil and gas industries. Hezarkhani has experience in the international oil and energy sectors and has completed projects that manage supply chain networks within those industries. He holds both an MSc and BSc in industrial engineering from universities in Iran.

The scholarship is made available in memory of Claude Codère, a.p.a, FACGA. Codère is remembered for his passion for his profession and his advocacy of purchasing research.

About the Canadian Purchasing Research Foundation:

The Canadian Purchasing Research Foundation (CPRF) is a non-profit organization established in 1996 by the Purchasing Management Association of Canada (PMAC) to

support and promote research and education in the field of purchasing and supply chain management. Through the Leenders PMAC Chair at Richard Ivey School of Business, University of Western Ontario and the HEC Montreal Chair in Supply Management, as well as through funding grants, scholarships and awards, CPRF provides support to students and academics. CPRF is dedicated to promoting research leadership and advancing the body of knowledge in strategic supply chain management.

Cathay Pacific Announcement

Cathay Pacific appoints Angus Barclay as new General Manager Europe

Cathay Pacific Airways is pleased to announce the appointment of Angus Barclay as its General Manager, Europe. In his role as General Manager Europe, Angus Barclay is responsible for the airline’s strategic planning and business development in Europe and for overseeing the operation of the airline within the region.

Angus joined John Swire & Sons in 1987 and has worked with three companies within the group in six countries. Within Cathay Pacific Angus has held senior positions in Hong Kong and served as Country Manager for India, Nepal and Bangladesh, The Benelux and Singapore. From 2000 – 2006, Angus was seconded first as the Swire Group’s Commercial Manager in Australia and then as Director and General Manager of a Cathay Pacific Subsidiary: Cathay Pacific Catering Services (Hong Kong) Ltd. In 2006 he was appointed to the role of General Manager International Affairs, Cathay Pacific, which he held until 2010, when he moved to his current post.

Angus Barclay comments: “I am delighted to be joining operations in Europe at what is a significant time for the group in this region. The recent enhancement in our European service with the addition of Milan and Moscow to our network and the announcement of the company’s investment in new aircraft are fundamental developments in our long haul markets. These improvements highlight Cathay Pacific’s continued commitment to expansion, a focus which makes this an exciting time to be part of the organisation.

Cathay Pacific has been named as the World’s Best Airline at the Skytrax World Airline of the Year Awards on three separate occasions in 2003, 2006 and 2009; it received further accolades at the 2010 Awards where it was named Best Transpacific Airline. Most recently Cathay Pacific was voted favourite Business Airline at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Awards.

Cathay Pacific operates four daily flights from London Heathrow to Hong Kong International Airport with onward connections to 119 destinations worldwide, including 40 Asian cities and 18 destinations in China (through its sister airline, Dragonair).

Friday, September 24, 2010

Hellmann Announcement

Hellmann Worldwide Logistics celebrates its 22nd Worldwide Meeting in Chicago

23 September 2010: On September 8 – 11 2010 the global Network of Hellmann Worldwide Logistics held its 22nd Worldwide Meeting in Chicago. In attendance were 251 delegates, representing the top management from 91 countries. Following a tough year in 2009 all delegates reported double digit increases, as high as 70-80%, over all services and in all relevant categories, for the first 6 months of 2010.

Besides the main products like air freight, sea freight, sea-air, trucking, warehousing, and contract logistics/consulting, the focus in the years to come will be on industry specific solutions. Hellmann has already made an excellent name for itself in fashion, automotive, healthcare, perishables, and marine services and will continue to invest in these more specialised areas.

Andy Connor, Managing Director of Hellmann UK, said:

“The meeting in Chicago was a fantastic way to celebrate Hellmann’s achievements throughout 2010 so far, and it was also a great opportunity to bring the organisation together and share ideas and developments between countries and colleagues. It ended on a high and it’s looking like a record breaking year is definitely within reach.”

The Hellmann Network is set to expand further with all eyes focusing on emerging markets in Africa, the Caspian Region, and Middle East.

Hellmann Worldwide Logistics is one of the largest privately owned and family run logistical global networks, currently employing over 16,500 dedicated people to serve customers worldwide – and operates from 443 branches across 157 countries.

Hellmann’s UK network has 10 individual offices based throughout the country including state of the art corporate headquarters at Fradley Park in Lichfield, Staffordshire.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

RILA Sustainability Announcement

Casey Sheahan Opens RILA Environmental Sustainability and Compliance Conference

San Diego, CA - The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) kicked off the educational programming for its third annual Environmental Sustainability and Compliance Conference (ESCC) with an inspiring keynote address from Casey Sheahan, CEO of Patagonia.

One of the pioneers of sustainability, Patagonia is widely known for its commitment to product quality and environmental responsibility. Sheahan described the company’s founding by climber and environmentalist Yvon Chouinard, and its subsequent growth, the result of a dedicated focus on its mission: Build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis. Widely known for its quality outdoors products, its excellent work environment and generous benefits, and its dedication to environmental stewardship, the company has a loyal and expanding customer base and growing sales.

"Being green and socially responsible are essential, but it will become equally important to lead with mindfulness, compassion, and soul. As Patagonia has become more conscious of the impact of its business practices, we have been rewarded with increasing prosperity. There is no business to be done on a dead planet," said Sheahan.

“Casey’s story of Patagonia provided a poignant message about how strong sustainability leadership has built an ultra-loyal customer community and attracted a passionate and devoted employee base – both of which contribute significantly to any retailer’s bottom line,” said Adam Siegel, vice president of sustainability and retail operations.

Also presenting was Linda Povey, vice president of strategic consulting for the Natural Marketing Institute, who spoke on the evolution of consumer attitudes toward environmental issues. Her research demonstrates how the values of the ultra-green consumers are increasingly becoming mainstream, as the general public’s views are trending toward and converging with the Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS). Her research helped attendees’ understand what is most important to today’s consumers, and how corporations can tap into public desires to help the planet and drive their own sales.

On tap for later in the afternoon, members of the the Sustainability Consortium will discuss the group’s mission, accomplishments and future direction. Panelists include Mary Capozzi, senior director of corporate responsibility for Best Buy; Fred Bedore, senior director of sustainability for Walmart and Jonathan L. Johnson, professor of sustainability at the University of Arkansas. Launched in 2009, the Sustainability Consortium is an independent organization of diverse global participants who work collaboratively to build a scientific, life-cycle based foundation to drive consumer product innovation.

RILA is the trade association of the world’s largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

2010 Oil and Gas Supply Chain Excellence Awards

Chevron, Shell, and Baker Hughes have won BOSTON STRATEGIES INTERNATIONAL (BSI's) 2010 Oil and Gas Supply Chain Excellence Awards

The selection was made after BSI screened over 300 candidate operations and supply chain management improvements among National Oil Companies (NOCs), International Oil Companies (IOCs), Equipment Providers, and Service Providers.

Chevron Corporation (USA) won for its effective in extending its internal Lean Six Sigma techniques to its suppliers. Lean Sigma, which officially started as a grass roots initiative in year 2000, achieved a validated financial benefit of $250 million in 2008, $400 million in 2009 and is projected to exceed $500m in 2010.

Shell won based on its high-performing standardization program, which allowed it to reduce purchase prices by up to 30% and inventories by more than 50% through use of its extensive Materials and Equipment Standards and Code (MESC) catalog.

Baker Hughes won the award in the Equipment Provider category based on its supply chain transformation strategy and year-one achievements: the group has publically declared $100m in volume adjusted cost reduction per year for the next three years.

The awards were conferred at the annual event of OFS Portal, a not-for-profit data standardization body dedicated to the upstream oil and gas industry.

Click here for the full press releases for Shell, Chevron, or Baker Hughes.

National Defense Transportation Association Annnouncement

National Defense Transportation Association Honors American Military University with Distinguished Service Award

Charles Town, WV – Sept. 23, 2010—American Military University (AMU), an American Public University System (APUS) institution, today announced that it has been honored by the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) with a 2010 NDTA Distinguished Service Award. The award was presented as part of NDTA’s International Awards Luncheon at the organization’s annual conference this week in Washington, DC.

“Our core mission is to advance the knowledge of global logistics and transportation, and facilitate knowledge-sharing between government and industry,” said NDTA President Kenneth R. Wykle, LTG, USA (Ret.). “American Military University has provided invaluable assistance to us in fulfilling this educational mission to foster a strong and efficient global logistics and transportation system in support of national security.”

NDTA is a non-political, non-profit educational association of government, military, and industry professionals dedicated to fostering a strong and efficient global logistics and transportation system in support of our economy and national security. It serves as a vital link among the armed forces, government and industry on current matters of logistics, transportation, travel, distribution, and security.

“I’m honored to accept this prestigious award on behalf of my colleagues at American Military University,” said APUS President & CEO Dr. Wallace E. Boston. “NTDA is a valued partner and we're pleased to collaborate with them on helping educate their members on key security-related issues in global logistics and transportation management."

About American Public University System

American Public University System, winner of the Sloan Consortium’s 2009 Ralph E. Gomory Award for Quality Online Education and two-time recipient of Sloan’s Effective Practices Award, offers 79 online degree programs through its American Public University and American Military University institutions. APUS’s relevant curriculum, affordability and flexibility help more than 70,000 working adults worldwide pursue degrees in subjects ranging from homeland security to management and liberal arts. For further information on APUS, please visit www.apus.edu.

Retailers Take Environmental Tour of the San Diego Zoo and PETCO Park

San Diego, CA - The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) welcomed attendees to San Diego yesterday for RILA’s Environmental Sustainability & Compliance Conference (ESCC) with environmental tours of the San Diego Zoo and PETCO Park Stadium for the San Diego Padres.

Through this opportunity attendees observed the green practices of one of the largest and most highly regarded zoos in the country. Highlights included the efforts in recycling – they recycle more that 80% of what they bring in, buildings & energy usage, composting, and sustainable practices in food services and customer convenience. The zoo participates in state and city programs to encourage reduced use of electricity and water. The zoo also focuses its resources on conservation in areas such as ensuring genetic diversity among its animals and working worldwide on preservation of endangered species.

Other attendees took a behind the scenes look at what a major league baseball stadium is doing to enhance their sustainability efforts. These techniques include on-grounds recycling systems to recycle food waste, cooking oil and grass clippings and water conservation.

“We were delighted to welcome such an esteemed group of executives to participate in these unique experiences,” said Adam Siegel, vice president of sustainability and retail operations. “We got behind the scenes to see how these two facilities use sustainability programs to engage their customers, create new business opportunities, and tackle local and global environmental challenges,” Siegel concluded.

RILA’s ESCC is a three day conference that brings together the top executives involved in establishing environmental programs and integrating green practices into retail and consumer product manufacturer operations. The conference’s program addresses the key operational aspects of environmental sustainability and compliance for the retail industry, including energy, waste management, water conservation, store operations, real estate development, supply chain issues, and corporate social responsibility. With the iconic brands of retail in attendance, including Best Buy, Costco, IKEA, J.C. Penney, Safeway, Target, Wal-Mart, and many more, the conference advances continuous improvement of sustainability within the retail industry and its suppliers.

RILA is the trade association of the world's largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

Manitoba Outlook on Transportation 2010 Conference, October 26, 2010

The Transport Institute at the I.H. Asper School of Business is very pleased to announce the 3rd Annual Manitoba Outlook on Transportation Conference

Confirmed speakers include:

Hon. Steve Ashton, Minister of Infrastructure & Transportation

Ms. Diane Gray, President & CEO, CentrePort Canada

Mr. Bob Dolyniuk, President, Manitoba Trucking Association

Mr. Chris Lorenc, President, Manitoba Heavy Construction Association

Mr. Michael Rodyniuk, Vice President & COO, Exchange Income Corporation

Dr. Paul D. Larson, CN Professor of SCM, Director, Transport Institute

Early Bird Registration is $19.95 Cdn. plus GST if you register and pay before September 30, 2010. The regular registration fee after September 30 is $29.95 plus GST.

Manitoba, Winnipeg, Hotel Fort Garry, Crystal Ballroom, 9 a.m. - Noon

Register now as space is limited. Register online and view the full agenda at www.umti.ca

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

INTERGIS Announcement

INTERGIS NAVIGATES ITS WAY ONTO THE INC. 5000: HONORING AMERICA’S FASTEST GROWING COMPANIES

CRANFORD, NJ – September 21, 2010 – Intergis, an industry leader in mobile resource management (MRM) and logistics software solutions has been named to the 2010 Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest growing companies.

Inc. magazine’s fourth annual “Inc. 5000”, is an exclusive ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The list represents a comprehensive look at the most important segment of the economy—America’s independent-minded entrepreneurs.

In the last three years, Intergis has grown more than 450 percent through strategic acquisitions and organic expansion. Intergis provides GPS tracking and route optimization technology solutions to thousands of companies across the United States.

As one of the fastest growing companies in the MRM sector, Intergis was honored as one of Inc.’s Top 50 software companies and ranked in the Top 20 percent of all 5000 companies recognized.

“We are proud to be named one of Inc. magazine’s Top 50 software companies,” said Intergis CEO Jeffrey Cohen. “This accomplishment reinforces our reputation as one of the fastest growing Mobile Resource Management providers. Despite the current economic climate, Intergis continues to gain traction in the MRM market and increase revenue and market share.”

Intergis delivers highly adaptable and reliable mobile resource and fleet management solutions that can be configured to meet specific requirements of small and large businesses in a variety of industries. Intergis customers garner tangible cost savings and a proven ROI by integrating GPS tracking technology and automated routing, scheduling and dispatch software into their back-office systems.

“The leaders of the companies on this year’s Inc. 5000 have figured out how to grow their businesses during the longest recession since the Great Depression,” said Inc. president Bob LaPointe. “The 2010 Inc. 5000 showcases a particularly hardy group of entrepreneurs.”

The 2010 Inc. 5000, unveiled on Inc.com, serves as a unique illustration of the profound changes taking place in the U.S. economy. Despite the fact that most of this year’s measuring period of 2006-2009 took place during the latest recession, aggregate revenue among the companies on the list actually increased to $321.6 billion, up more than 50 percent from last year.

About Intergis:
Intergis is a leading single-source provider of Mobile Resource Management (MRM) and logistics solutions for small, medium and large businesses in a variety of industries. Intergis solutions perform as promised by integrating GPS tracking and navigation technology with scheduling and route optimization applications. Intergis helps customers gain efficiencies in their operations and get measurable results quickly to control costs, improve productivity, minimize risk and increase customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.intergis.com.

Con-way Inc. Announcement

Con-way Names Edith Perez to Board of Directors

SAN MATEO, Calif. — Sept. 20, 2010 — Con-way Inc. (NYSE: CNW) announced that Edith R. Perez has been named to the Board of Directors. The appointment is effective immediately.

Ms. Perez has been with the law firm of Latham & Watkins, LLP for more than 25 years, is a partner in the firm’s Los Angeles office and is a member of its Finance department.

“We are pleased to have Edith join our Board,” said Douglas W. Stotlar, Con-way’s president and CEO. “She is a highly respected attorney whose expertise and diverse experience are an excellent complement to our current Board. We welcome her counsel and insight as we continue to position Con-way as a leader in freight transportation and global supply chain services.” The addition of Ms. Perez increases Con-way’s Board to 11 members.

Ms. Perez has extensive experience representing national and international clients in financing, real estate, land use, mergers and acquisitions and general corporate transactions. Her work has involved a variety of industries including hotel and resort, healthcare, telecommunications, aerospace and commercial real estate development.

She began at Latham & Watkins in 1980 with a summer clerkship, later working as a visiting attorney in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Mexico City, Mexico for leading firms in those countries, before returning to the firm’s Los Angeles office. She is active in numerous civic organizations including the boards of the California Minority Counsel Program and the National Recreation Foundation (for youth at risk). She also is a member of the American Bar Association, California State Bar Association and Los Angeles County Bar Association.

CON-WAY INC. BOARD DECLARES QUARTERLY DIVIDEND ON COMMON STOCK

SAN MATEO, Calif. — Sept. 20, 2010 —The Board of Directors of Con-way Inc. (NYSE:CNW) yesterday declared a cash dividend of 10 cents per share on the company's common stock. The dividend is payable December 15, 2010 to shareholders of record on November 15, 2010.

About Con-way -- Con-way Inc. (NYSE:CNW) is a $4.3 billion freight transportation and logistics services company headquartered in San Mateo, Calif. A diversified transportation company, Con-way delivers industry-leading services through three primary operating companies: Con-way Freight, Con-way Truckload and Menlo Worldwide Logistics. These operating units provide high-performance, day-definite less-than-truckload and full truckload freight transportation, as well as logistics, warehousing, multimodal and supply chain management services, and trailer manufacturing. Con-way Inc. and its subsidiaries operate from more than 500 locations across North America and in 20 countries. For more information about Con-way, visit us on the Web at www.con-way.com.

Kenco Announcement

American Standard Brands Award to Kenco Logistic Services

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.—September 21, 2010 — Kenco Logistic Services LLC (KLS), a leading third-party logistics (3PL) firm, has been awarded a contract by American Standard Brands to manage and operate its newly-established, Dallas-area 625,000-square-foot Hutchins, Texas distribution center.

American Standard Brands is a leading North American manufacturer of a wide range of high-quality kitchen and bath products, which markets products under the Crane®, Eljer®, Porcher®, Jado® and Flat® brands.

“This contract was awarded to Kenco based on our strong business case and reputation,” says Andy Smith, KLS president and COO.



The new Hutchins DC is operated by 72 Kenco associates, providing a full range of finished goods distribution services, including warehouse inbound/outbound operations, repackaging, packaging of toilet kits, spotter and yard management, contract security and material handling equipment.

About American Standard Brands (www.americanstandard-us.com)

American Standard Brands is a leading North American manufacturer of a wide range of high-quality kitchen and bath products, including faucets, furniture, vitreous china fixtures, cast iron sinks, whirlpool tubs and other related products. The company currently serves both the residential and commercial markets; employs more than 5,000 people in the United States, Canada and Mexico; and markets products under the American Standard®, Crane®, Eljer®, Porcher®, Jado® and Flat® brands. American Standard Brands is an affiliated portfolio company of Sun Capital Partners.

About Kenco Logistic Services (www.kencologisticservices.com)


Kenco Logistic Services is one of the nation's leading third-party logistics providers (3PL), managing over 100 facilities and 25 million square feet of warehouse space in 30 states and Canada. Kenco currently provides logistics services for many industry-leading, Fortune 500 companies such as Whirlpool, GlaxoSmithKline, Cummins, and General Mills. Kenco specializes in facilities and services for the pharmaceutical, apparel, automotive, food, textile, and appliance industries.

Monday, September 20, 2010

FedEx Announcement

New FedEx Express Canada President Lisa Lisson

A Customer Experience Expert and Innovator

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, September 20, 2010 – Lisa Lisson, a native Canadian and 18-year veteran of the FedEx organization, has been named president of FedEx Express Canada Ltd. Lisson was most recently vice president of Marketing, Customer Experience and Communications, where she led the innovation and implementation of services to address customer needs and opportunities. She is also involved at a global level with strategic growth initiatives for FedEx Express.

“Canada is a marketplace where Lisa’s global perspective and understanding of local business growth drivers are enormously valuable leadership assets,” said Michael Ducker, chief operating officer and president, International, FedEx Express. “She has already been deeply involved in aligning FedEx Express Canada with the increasingly international growth aspirations of Canadian business, which she has done by listening to customers, by innovating and by providing great leadership.”

Lisson is an accomplished officer in the FedEx senior global executive team. In Canada she has used her roles in marketing, communications and customer experience to drive important innovations in product offerings, service delivery and organizational structure.

“When I look across Canada, I see enormous opportunities for Canadian companies to diversify and expand into new markets around the globe,” Lisson said. “I have tremendous confidence in the future economic growth of Canada, and at FedEx we are committed to helping Canadian businesses tap into these opportunities both domestically and abroad.”

Lisson graduated from Guelph University with a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree in Marketing. She is the mother of four children, and four-time winner of the FedEx Five Star Award, the company’s highest performance accolade.

In the role of president, she succeeds David Binks, who was appointed senior vice president of FedEx European Operations, based in Brussels.

Her role as president will see her leading FedEx Express Canadian operations and business development as part of the company’s global leadership team.

"I look forward to the challenges of this new role and to assisting our customers present and future and the communities we serve achieve their business goals and aspirations," Lisson said.

About FedEx Express Canada

Federal Express Canada Ltd. is a global logistics and transportation company offering domestic and international shipping and electronic commerce solutions. The company uses advanced package status tracking systems, automated customs clearance services and a dedicated air and ground transportation network to serve Canadian and global markets. FedEx Express Canada employs approximately 5,000 people in over 60 facilities coast-to-coast. For more information, visitwww.fedex.ca.

Friday, September 17, 2010

Weber Distribution Announcement

Weber Distribution Celebrates 30 Years in San Diego and Hires General Manager for the Region

SANTA FE SPRINGS, California – Weber Distribution, a leading third party logistics and supply chain management provider, announced today that it is celebrating 30 years of providing warehousing and logistics services in San Diego, California this month.

To service the growing needs of the region, Weber recently hired Kevin Anderson as its general manager responsible for operations management, business development, and customer relations in the San Diego market.

Before joining Weber, Anderson held various titles for DHL Express over a 12-year period. He most recently worked as director, corporate account executives where he managed a team covering 11 Western states. He was responsible for site-level management of $300 million in annual sales for national and global customers.

Celebrating its 30th year, Weber’s San Diego warehouse is based in a very popular location, just miles from downtown, the Port of San Diego, and the Tijuana, Mexico border crossing. The facility provides the region with a variety of outsourcing options, including warehousing and distribution, fulfillment, light assembly and pick pack services. The 100,000+ square foot stand-alone facility offers bulk and racked storage, 16 dock high doors and 14 rail transload positions. It is also a food-grade facility with an “Excellent” rating from the American Sanitation Institute (ASI).

“In order to be the strongest privately held 3PL provider of warehousing and over-the-road transportation in the West, it has always been part of our strategy to maintain a long-term commitment to San Diego,” said Bill Butler, Weber’s president and CEO.

“We are proud of celebrating our 30th anniversary and we have invested in the San Diego community, not only to enhance our regional distribution network, but to support the local needs of Southern California businesses and the ever-growing cross-border business,” said Butler. “Kevin is a huge asset to us in the region with his strong background in San Diego, as well as developing successful strategies and innovative solutions for the US/Mexico border crossing.”

About Weber Distribution

Weber Distribution has evolved into a nationwide provider of logistics solutions. Weber’s expertise includes non-asset freight management, temperature sensitive asset-based LTL and TL services, dedicated and shared warehousing, distribution, cross-docking/pool distribution, transloading, network optimization modeling and analysis, retail compliance, order fulfillment, material handling, supply chain management, real estate development, and personnel staffing.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

FedEx Corp. First Quarter Earnings Surge

Strong Demand for FedEx Express International and FedEx Ground Services; FedEx Freight to Combine LTL Operations

FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) today reported earnings of $1.20 per diluted share for the first quarter ended August 31, up 107% from $0.58 per diluted share a year ago.

"Strong demand for our services resulted in higher volumes and better revenue per shipment at FedEx Express and FedEx Ground," said Frederick W. Smith, FedEx Corp. chairman, president and chief executive officer. "This increased demand comes from improved global economic conditions and the benefit provided by the strength and flexibility of our unparalleled global networks, which we've improved during the downturn to deliver even more reliability and value to our customers."

First Quarter Results

FedEx Corp. reported the following consolidated results for the first quarter:

Revenue of $9.46 billion, up 18% from $8.01 billion the previous year

Operating income of $628 million, up 99% from $315 million last year

Operating margin of 6.6%, up from 3.9% the previous year

Net income of $380 million, up 110% from $181 million a year ago

Earnings increased as a result of strong FedEx International Priority (IP) growth at FedEx Express, continued growth at FedEx Ground and a benefit from the net impact of higher fuel surcharges. The reinstatement of certain employee compensation programs, higher pension, medical and aircraft maintenance expenses, and an operating loss at FedEx Freight dampened the quarter's solid results.

FedEx Freight to Combine Operations

FedEx will combine its FedEx Freight and FedEx National LTL operations effective January 30, 2011. This action will increase efficiencies and reduce operational costs. Additionally, it will provide customers a choice of priority or economy less-than-truckload (LTL) freight services across all lengths of haul from one integrated company. This change, along with the company's ongoing yield management initiatives, is expected to substantially improve the profitability of the FedEx Freight segment in fiscal 2012.

The estimated cost of this program is $150 to $200 million, primarily related to charges that will be recorded in the second and third quarters of fiscal 2011. These charges will include severance costs associated with personnel reductions, lease terminations and certain non-cash charges. The net cash effect from the one-time cost of these actions is expected to be immaterial over time due to anticipated proceeds from asset sales. As a result of this combination, headcount is expected to be reduced by approximately 1,700 full-time employees and approximately 100 facilities will be closed.

Outlook

FedEx projects earnings to be $1.15 to $1.35 per diluted share in the second quarter and $4.80 to $5.25 per diluted share for fiscal 2011, up from the company's previous estimate of $4.60 to $5.20 per diluted share. This guidance excludes any FedEx Freight combination costs, and also assumes the current market outlook for fuel prices and continued moderate growth in the global economy. The company reported earnings of $1.10 per diluted share in last year's second quarter. The capital spending forecast for fiscal 2011 has increased to $3.5 billion, primarily due to anticipated aircraft purchases for continued international growth.

The earnings ranges above exclude the costs from the FedEx Freight combination. Including the expected cost of this program, $0.14 to $0.18 per diluted share for the second quarter and $0.30 to $0.40 per diluted share for fiscal 2011, earnings are expected to be $0.97 to $1.21 per diluted share for the second quarter and $4.40 to $4.95 per diluted share for fiscal 2011. The actual cost will be dependent on the number and timing of employee departures and lease terminations.

"We expect continued strong demand for our package transportation services through at least December," said Alan B. Graf, Jr., FedEx Corp. executive vice president and chief financial officer. "Shippers of high value-added goods, especially in the technology sector, know that we have unmatched air express capacity to deliver quickly and reliably for them, even when demand surges. We expect the yield improvement initiatives we have underway, coupled with the current high utilization of our planes, vehicles and facilities, will drive higher earnings, margins and returns."

FedEx Express Segment

For the first quarter, the FedEx Express segment reported:

Revenue of $5.91 billion, up 20% from last year's $4.92 billion

Operating income of $357 million, up 243% from $104 million a year ago

Operating margin of 6.0%, up from 2.1% the previous year

IP average daily package volume increased 19%, led by exports from Asia. IP revenue per package grew 4% primarily due to higher fuel surcharges and weight per package. IP Freight pounds increased 41%, led by exports from Latin America, Asia and the U.S., with revenue per pound up 10%. U.S. domestic revenue per package grew 7% due to higher fuel surcharges, weight per package and rate per pound, while average daily package volume increased 3%.

Operating profit and margin improvements were driven by volume and yield growth, particularly in higher margin IP package and freight services, along with a benefit from the net impact of higher fuel surcharges. Results also include higher compensation, benefits and aircraft maintenance expenses.

FedEx Express added a tenth daily scheduled transpacific flight in August, and an eleventh such flight earlier this week, providing needed capacity between Asia and the United States. There are currently six Boeing 777Fs operating on strategic, long-range international routes, providing best-in-market cut-off times. Two additional Boeing 777Fs, delivered in August, are scheduled to go into international service in October.

FedEx Ground Segment

For the first quarter, the FedEx Ground segment reported:

Revenue of $1.96 billion, up 13% from last year's $1.73 billion

Operating income of $287 million, up 37% from $209 million a year ago

Operating margin of 14.6%, up from 12.1% the previous year

FedEx Ground average daily package volume grew 7% in the first quarter driven by increases in the business-to-business market and FedEx Home Delivery. Yield increased 5% primarily due to higher fuel surcharges and package weight. FedEx SmartPost average daily volume increased 9%, with net yield increasing 19%. The increase in FedEx SmartPost yield was primarily due to lower postage costs as a result of increased deliveries to U.S. Postal Service final destination facilities and increased fuel surcharges.

Operating income and margin increased due to higher package yield and volume, as well as a benefit from the net impact of higher fuel surcharges and lower self-insurance expenses.

FedEx Freight Segment

For the first quarter, the FedEx Freight segment reported:

Revenue of $1.26 billion, up 28% from last year's $982 million

Operating loss of $16 million, compared with operating income of $2 million a year ago

Operating margin of (1.3%), compared with 0.2% the previous year

LTL average daily shipments increased 29% and yield declined 3% year over year primarily due to the effects of discounted pricing in contracts signed in fiscal 2010. However, yields increased 4% from the fourth quarter as a result of the company's recent yield management initiatives to improve pricing.

Operating losses in the quarter were driven by lower yields and higher volume-related costs, as significantly higher shipment levels required increased purchased transportation and other expenses.

FedEx Services Segment

FedEx Services segment revenue for the first quarter, which included the operations of FedEx Office, was down 8% year over year, due to the September 1, 2009 realignment of FedEx SupplyChain Systems into the FedEx Express segment and declines in copy product revenues.

Corporate Overview

FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and business services.

With annual revenues of $36 billion, the company offers integrated business applications through operating companies competing collectively and managed collaboratively, under the respected FedEx brand. Consistently ranked among the world's most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 280,000 team members to remain "absolutely, positively" focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards and the needs of their customers and communities. For more information, visit news.fedex.com .

Additional information and operating data are contained in the company's annual report, Form 10-K, Form 10-Qs and first quarter fiscal 2011 Statistical Book. These materials, as well as a Webcast of the earnings release conference call to be held at 8:30 a.m. EDT on September 16 are available on the company's Web site at www.fedex.com/us/investorrelations . A replay of the conference call Webcast will be posted on our Web site following the call.

Certain statements in this press release may be considered forward-looking statements, such as statements relating to management's views with respect to future events and financial performance. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from historical experience or from future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, economic conditions in the global markets in which we operate, legal challenges or changes related to FedEx Ground's owner-operators, new U.S. domestic or international government regulation, the impact from any terrorist activities or international conflicts, our ability to effectively operate, integrate and leverage acquired businesses, changes in fuel prices and currency exchange rates, our ability to match capacity to shifting volume levels and other factors which can be found in FedEx Corp.'s and its subsidiaries' press releases and filings with the SEC.

CN, DP World sign comprehensive Service-Level Agreement

Agreement aimed at improving customer service and container throughput at Vancouver's Centerm Terminal

VANCOUVER and MONTREAL, Sept. 16 /CNW Telbec/ - CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE:CNI) and DP World, operators of the Centerm Terminal in Vancouver, announced today the signing of a comprehensive Service-Level Agreement designed to further enhance the competitiveness of Canada's Pacific Gateway and improve services for customers. The agreement ensures best practices are followed to improve productivity with the aim of increasing market share.

This agreement follows other recent CN supply chain collaboration agreements with ports on both the west and east coasts of Canada - part of CN's continuing drive to promote balanced accountability among all port stakeholders.

The CN-DP World Service-Level Agreement will ensure that best practice technology is utilized where appropriate to meet the common goals of the parties. The two parties hope these objectives are achieved through commercial means that avoid unnecessary regulation or government intervention. CN and DP World will work closely on all matters related to security, in coordination with the relevant government agencies, with the goal of branding Centerm Terminal in Vancouver as a secure point of entry to North America.

Claude Mongeau, president and chief executive officer of CN, said: "DP World is an important, strategic partner of CN and this innovative Service-Level Agreement will lead to increased collaboration and information-sharing in order to make one of the country's busiest gateways even more efficient."

Matthew Hoag, general manager of DP World Vancouver, said: "We are pleased to be working even more closely with CN to help improve productivity. Sharing best practices is key to the overall improvement of intermodal transportation and more efficient supply chains for customers."

To achieve the goals and take advantage of solid growth opportunities in Asia/North America trade, the parties agree to establish working subcommittees with senior, fully engaged personnel to coordinate operational issues, communications between the parties and other stakeholders, as well as commercial and business matters.

About DP World

DP World is one of the largest marine terminal operators in the world, with 50 terminals and 11 new developments across 31 countries.(1) Its dedicated, experienced and professional team of nearly 30,000 people serves customers in some of the most dynamic economies in the world.

DP World aims to enhance customers' supply chain efficiency by effectively managing container, bulk and other terminal cargo.

The company constantly invests in terminal infrastructure, facilities and people, working closely with customers and business partners to provide quality services today and tomorrow, when and where customers need them.

In taking this customer-centric approach, DP World is building on the established relationships and superior level of service demonstrated at its flagship Jebel Ali facility in Dubai, which has been voted "Best Seaport in the Middle East" for 15 consecutive years.

In 2009, DP World handled more than 43.4 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent container units) across its portfolio from the Americas to Asia. With a pipeline of expansion and development projects in key growth markets, including India, China and the Middle East, capacity is expected to rise to around 95 million TEU over the next ten years, depending on market demand. http://www.dpworld.com

(1) As of January 2010

About CN

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, St. Louis, 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.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information included in this news release constitutes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and under Canadian securities laws. CN cautions that, by their nature, these forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. The Company cautions that its assumptions may not materialize and that current economic conditions render such assumptions, although reasonable at the time they were made, subject to greater uncertainty. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results of performance of the Company or the rail industry to be materially different from the outlook or any future results or performance implied by such statements. Important factors that could affect the above forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the effects of general economic and business conditions, industry competition, inflation, currency and interest rate fluctuations, changes in fuel prices, legislative and/or regulatory developments, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, actions by regulators, various events which could disrupt operations, including natural events such as severe weather, droughts, floods and earthquakes, labor negotiations and disruptions, environmental claims, uncertainties of investigations, proceedings or other types of claims and litigation, risks and liabilities arising from derailments, 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 assumes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect future events, changes in circumstances, or changes in beliefs, unless required by applicable Canadian securities laws. In the event CN does update any forward-looking statement, no inference should be made that CN will make additional updates with respect to that statement, related maters, or any other forward-looking statement.

Dematic Acquisition

Dematic Group Completes Acquisition of HK Systems, Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI, September 16, 2010 --- Dematic Group, a leading global supplier of integrated material handling solutions and services, announces today that it has successfully completed the acquisition of HK Systems, a North American automated material handling and software solutions provider. This strategic union was made final on September 15, 2010.

John K. Baysore, Chief Executive Officer, Dematic North America, will be responsible for leading and developing the newly combined company in the United States and Canada. With more than twenty years of executive experience, Baysore will lead Dematic in the design, delivery,and support of a more robust and diversified solution offering to the company’s customers.

The newly combined company will be called Dematic with its North American headquarters in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The expanded manufacturing footprint will allow Dematic to domestically manufacture automated storage and retrieval machines and automated guided vehicles in addition to conveyor, sortation and order fulfillment technology.

“Throughout the transition, customers will remain our top priority”, Baysore stated. “The combined company will provide enhanced material flow solutions to improve our customers’ supply chain performance while increasing their service levels and profitability. Our goal is to deliver seamless end-to-end solutions for diversified vertical markets from manufacturing to distribution. In addition, the acquisition combines two powerful customer service infrastructures to deliver the industry’s most responsive and dependable integrated material handling systems support.”

For more information regarding this announcement, visit www.dematic.us

About Dematic

Dematic is a global provider of intelligent logistics and materials handling solutions. With a global knowledge network of more than 4100 skilled logistics professionals, Dematic is able to provide its customers a unique perspective in world class materials handling solution design. Our commitment to product and solution R&D combined with manufacturing plants in the US, Europe, China and Australia ensures Dematic has the range and capability to provide reliable, flexible, cost effective solutions globally. Our track record of success has led to the development and implementation of more than 4800 world class integrated systems for a customer base including some of the world’s biggest companies. Dematic currently generates a global business volume of around $1.2 billion.

UPS Ocean Service Announcement

UPS Makes Waves with New Preferred LCL Ocean Freight Service

Atlanta, September 15, 2010

Bridges Gap Between Air and Ocean Freight Services

UPS (NYSE:UPS) today launched a new ocean freight service that provides up to 20 percent faster door-to-door delivery than other less-than-container-load (LCL) services on the market.

UPS's Preferred LCL Ocean Freight service combines the strength of UPS's North American ground network with containerized ocean services to provide Container Freight Station (CFS) to door delivery from Japan to the United States in as little as 11-to-18 days, depending upon the destination. After arriving at a West coast port, preferred LCL ocean shipments will move to a trucking network operated by UPS to support air freight, ensuring faster transit and day-definite delivery to more U.S. destination points than competing services. In the case of East coast destinations in the U.S., the preferred service will cut 5-to-6 days of transit time off the current standard service.

In addition to speed, UPS's Preferred LCL Ocean Freight service gives businesses full shipment visibility via UPS's cutting-edge technology solutions such as Quantum View Manage or Flex Global View. UPS uses advanced handheld scanners and information management systems to capture and transmit pick-up and delivery information not typically available for ocean shipments.

"Greater visibility and faster transit times in ocean freight drive increased global commerce opportunities for companies in numerous industries that want to capture the economies of ocean freight without sacrificing speed and service," said Jimmy Crabbe, vice president of ocean freight services at UPS. "With our Preferred LCL service, companies can bridge the speed and economy gap between air and ocean freight services."

With UPS's Preferred LCL service, customers in industries such as high-tech/electronics, healthcare, retailing and automotive can take advantage of the following benefits:

Published CFS to door delivery transit times.

Day-definite delivery commitments.

Expedited inland transportation.

Simplified per kilo pricing and invoicing.

Dedicated operational and bi-lingual customer support.

Advanced technology tools for maximum shipment visibility.

The new UPS service now is available between Japan and the U.S. and will be extended to include additional countries in Asia over the next six months.

As a global freight forwarder and one of the world's Top 10 Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs), UPS provides a complete portfolio of ocean freight services. In addition to Full Container Load (FCL), the company offers a standard LCL service that provides reliable fixed-day port departures and arrivals supported with visibility and tracking technology. UPS's Sea-Air Service combines the economies of ocean freight with the speed of air freight in major ports worldwide while Trade Direct Ocean is a full-service, door-to-door option for delivering goods directly to customer locations to speed delivery times. With service in all major ports worldwide and facilities in more than 140 countries, UPS offers customers the frequency, capacity and flexibility to meet their shipping needs.

In addition to its full suite of ocean freight offerings, UPS provides comprehensive air and ground freight services as well as UPS Express Critical for global, time-critical freight services. For all of its freight services, UPS's advanced technologies give customers unparalleled visibility of their shipments. To learn more about UPS's ocean freight offerings, visit ups.com/globalfreight.

About UPS

UPS (NYSE:UPS) is a global leader in logistics, offering a broad range of solutions including the transportation of packages and freight; the facilitation of international trade, and the deployment of advanced technology to more efficiently manage the world of business. Headquartered in Atlanta, UPS serves more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. The company can be found on the Web at UPS.com and its corporate blog can be found at blog.ups.com. To get UPS news direct, visit pressroom.ups.com/RSS.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Panalpina Announcement

Panalpina inaugurates new all cargo air freight services

The global forwarding and logistics group Panalpina will commence additional own controlled regular airfreight services connecting Luxembourg with destinations such as South Africa, Dubai and Hong Kong. It will also cover the transpacific route to Huntsville, Alabama in the USA, complementing Panalpina’s existing transatlantic airfreight service Dixie Jet. Coinciding with the announcement of the new airfreight product, Panalpina celebrates the 20-year-anniversary of the Dixie Jet service.

The new all cargo service will be operated by Atlas Air using a Boeing 747-400F aircraft. It will consist of such important rotations as Luxembourg to Johannesburg (South Africa), Luxembourg via Dubai to Hong Kong as well as Hong Kong to Luxembourg and Hong Kong to Huntsville. It will therefore provide direct own controlled flights covering Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and North America. Panalpina and Atlas Air have signed an ACMI lease agreement (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) for a multi-year period.

The additional own controlled freighter capacity will provide utmost flexibility as far as schedules and routings are concerned. This means that Panalpina can adjust the rotations according to market and customer needs, while at the same time creating synergies with the existing transatlantic service.

“I am delighted to offer our customers an additional own controlled service which will serve the major trade centers and industrial areas around the globe. We will be able to provide upper and lower deck capacity when and where needed, providing customized value add solutions to various Industry Verticals at high service levels”, explains Karl Weyeneth, Chief Operating Officer of the Panalpina Group. “The launch coincides with the celebrations of the 20-year-anniversary of the famous and successful transatlantic Dixie Jet service which we extended last year”, he adds.

William J. Flynn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Air Worldwide (AAWW), comments: “On a day where we celebrate a long-standing relationship with one of the world’s leading suppliers of freight forwarding and logistics services, it’s only fitting that we announce a further commitment to serve Panalpina and its customers with state-of-the-art, high-quality capacity and time-definite service”.

Dixie Jet celebrates 20th birthday

20 years ago in September 1990, Panalpina launched its all cargo airfreight service Dixie Jet linking its hubs in Luxembourg and Huntsville. At a time when it was common to book freight shipments on commercial passenger planes this was a truly pioneering step. It was the first time ever that a freight forwarding company offered a scheduled cargo service between Europe and North America, guaranteeing total control during the entire transport chain from door to door, managing the capacity and establishing the flight schedules. Over the years, the service has been extended up to several weekly flights, and additional destinations were added.

“The world of the air cargo industry has changed fundamentally over the last 20 years, and yet, our Dixie Jet service is still booming. The service is a pillar of our worldwide airfreight network and customer demand for this product is very high”, explains CEO Monika Ribar.

The Dixie Jet aircraft is operated by Atlas Air, using a Boeing 747-400F aircraft. Panalpina and Atlas Air look back on a long and successful cooperation. The service provides regular flights between Panalpina’s airfreight hubs in Luxembourg and Huntsville. It offers several weekly frequencies, serving the Southern, Central and Southeast of the USA via an exclusive Road Feeder service. The service links Luxembourg with Huntsville and additionally serves Mexico City, Guadalajara and London Stansted.

Part of Panalpina’s unique own controlled network is the highly skilled charter and emergency group providing airfreight solutions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to any destination worldwide.

The Panalpina Group

The Panalpina Group is one of the world's leading suppliers of forwarding and logistics services, specializing in end-to-end supply chain management solutions and intercontinental air freight and ocean freight shipments. Thanks to its in-depth industry know-how and state-of-the-art IT systems, Panalpina provides globally integrated door-to-door forwarding services tailored to its customers' individual needs. The Panalpina Group operates a close-knit network with some 500 branches in over 80 countries. In a further 80 countries, it cooperates closely with partner companies. Panalpina employs approximately 14,000 people worldwide. More information is available at: http://www.panalpina.com