Thursday, September 27, 2012

Old Dominion Debuts North Carolina’s Third Largest Rooftop Solar Array System


THOMASVILLE, North Carolina (Sept. 24, 2012) – Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. today unveiled the third largest roof mounted solar panel photovoltaic (PV) system in the state of North Carolina.

Old Dominion showed off the 1.8 megawatt system during an open house event attended by David Congdon, president and CEO of Old Dominion; North Carolina State Rep. Ruth Samuelson; U.S. Rep. Howard Coble; and SunEnergy1 CEO Kenny Habul. The event was held in conjunction with SunEnergy1, the contractor that built the system at Old Dominion’s Vault Logistics warehouse located four miles from the company’s corporate headquarters.

The system of 7,660 individual solar panels completely covers the warehouse’s 160,000-square-foot roof. The system, which has been operating since late December, can produce more than 2.2 million kilowatt hours of electricity a year ? enough to offset more than 90 percent of the building’s annual energy costs (or power 200 houses annually).

“Old Dominion has made a promise to customers, shareholders and employees alike to enhance our corporate sustainability efforts,” Congdon said. “As we continue our rapid global expansion, it is increasingly important for us to be mindful of our company’s impact on the environment. We’re always exploring ways to reduce our carbon footprint – because our commitment to sustainability is another promise we will keep.”

In addition to the solar panel installation, Old Dominion has implemented a number of sustainable initiatives in its facilities over the past few years.

Old Dominion has installed more energy-efficient bulbs in 80 percent of its lighting systems at company service centers nationwide as well as adopting industry-leading technologies to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency for its fleet of more than 5,800 tractors. Last year, the company also opened its first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified service center, a facility located in Canton, Ohio.
       
About Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. (NASDAQ: ODFL) is a leading, less-than-truckload (“LTL”), union-free motor carrier providing regional, inter-regional and national LTL service and value-added logistics services. In addition to its core LTL services, the Company offers its customers a broad range of logistics services including ground and air expedited transportation, supply chain consulting, transportation management, truckload brokerage, container delivery, warehousing and consumer household moving services. Through marketing and carrier relationships, the Company also offers door-to-door international freight services to and from all of North America, Central America, South America and the Far East. For more than 78 years, Old Dominion has been helping the world keep promises. In 2012, the company was named as one of America’s 100 Most Trustworthy Companies by Forbes magazine and ranked as the No. 1 National LTL carrier by Mastio & Company as part of the company’s 2011 Value and Loyalty Benchmarking Study. More information can be found at www.odfl.com.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

RedPrairie to Discuss Demand-Driven Supply Chains, All-Channel Commerce at CSCMP Annual Conference


September 26, 2012 - ATLANTA – RedPrairie Corporation, a global supply chain and retail technology provider, announced today that RedPrairie thought leaders Andre Martin and James LeTart will be speaking at the upcoming Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals’ (CSCMP) Annual Global Conference. The event is being held September 30 through October 3 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.
 
Martin, co-founder of RedPrairie’s Collaborative Flowcasting Group, will be discussing the importance of store-level distribution resource planning (DRP) in improving forecasting accuracy in the sessions “The Ultimate Retail Supply Chain Machine: Connecting the Consumer to the Factory” and “Accurately Modeling the Retail Business to Improve End-to-End Supply Chain Management.”
 
LeTart, director of marketing at RedPrairie, will be participating in a panel discussion on “Connecting the Multichannel Enterprise” that will explore the challenges and opportunities associated with multichannel retailing and how retailers can leverage technologies that integrate store and consumer direct supply chains.

“The CSCMP Conference is a valued platform for professionals who have a vested interest in keeping commerce in motion across manufacturing, distribution and retail sectors,” said Martin. “The industry is realizing that inventory visibility across the extended supply network and the ability to take action is more crucial than ever before. I look forward to discussing how RedPrairie’s solutions can create competitive advantage amidst complex business challenges.”

To network with RedPrairie at the CSCMP Conference and learn more about RedPrairie’s best-of-breed supply chain, workforce, and all-channel retail solutions, please visit booth 710. For more information on upcoming RedPrairie events, please visit http://www.redprairie.com/events/. 

About RedPrairie
For more than 35 years, RedPrairie’s best-of-breed supply chain, workforce, and all-channel retail solutions have put commerce in motion for the world’s leading companies. Installed in over 60,000 customer sites across more than 50 countries, RedPrairie solutions adapt to help ensure visibility and collaboration between manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and consumers. RedPrairie is prepared to meet its customers’ current and future demands with multiple delivery options, flexible architecture, and 24/7 technical and customer support. For a world in motion, RedPrairie is commerce in motion.

C.H. Robinson Worldwide to Acquire Phoenix International


MINNEAPOLIS -- Sep. 25, 2012-- C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. ("C.H. Robinson") (Nasdaq: CHRW), today announced that it has reached a stock purchase agreement to acquire Phoenix International, Inc. ("Phoenix") for $571.5 million in cash and approximately $63.5 million in newly-issued C.H. Robinson stock. The agreement is subject to certain customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval. Closing of the acquisition is expected to occur in the fourth quarter of 2012. C.H. Robinson will use existing cash and plans to enter into a revolving credit facility with major banks to finance the cash portion of the purchase price. The acquisition is expected to be modestly accretive in the first year.

Phoenix is a privately-held international freight forwarder. In its most recently completed fiscal year, as of June 30, 2012, Phoenix generated gross revenues of approximately $807 million, net revenues of approximately $161 million and adjusted operating income of approximately $48 million.

Phoenix primarily provides international freight forwarding services, including ocean, air, and customs brokerage, currently serving approximately 15,000 customers globally. Phoenix has approximately 2,000 employees, located in 76 offices in 15 countries. The company is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

"Phoenix is a high quality growth company that brings additional expertise and scale to a key part of our long term growth strategy," said John Wiehoff, C.H. Robinson chairman and chief executive officer. "Along with their proven track record of success, Phoenix has strong customer and carrier relationships, a talented management team and excellent people, and a performance-based company culture that is very similar to Robinson's."

Wiehoff continued, "We see significant long-term opportunity in international forwarding as global trade expands, scale and technology continue to become more important, and shippers increasingly look to transportation providers to provide global services. Together, Robinson and Phoenix will be in a strong competitive position to capitalize on those growth opportunities and continue expanding our market share."

Bill McInerney, executive chairman of Phoenix, founded the company in 1979. Following the completion of the acquisition, McInerney plans to retire. Other key executive management will assume management positions with C.H. Robinson. Phoenix chief executive officer Stéphane Rambaud, 48, will lead the combined international freight forwarding services of C.H. Robinson and Phoenix.

"It was our top priority to ensure that Phoenix be acquired by an organization that is strongly positioned for success, while sharing similar cultural values of service and performance," said McInerney. "Joining with C.H. Robinson enables Phoenix to offer its customers a broader menu of services, leverage combined volumes more efficiently, and provide employees with even greater career path opportunities. Although I will not be part of the enterprise going forward, I share the enthusiasm for the future that has so excited the Phoenix leadership team and I believe strongly that C.H. Robinson offers exactly the premier global logistics network that was needed."

Founded in 1905, C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., is a global provider of multimodal transportation services and logistics solutions, serving over 37,000 customers through a network of 234 offices in North America, Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia. C.H. Robinson is one of the largest third-party logistics companies in the world, with annual total revenues of over $10 billion. For more information about our company, visit our Web site at www.chrobinson.com.

Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this release are forward-looking statements that represent our expectations, beliefs, intentions or strategies concerning future events. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience or our present expectations, including, but not limited to such factors as changes in economic conditions, including changes in market demand and pressures on the pricing for our services; competition and growth rates within the third party logistics industry; freight levels and availability of truck capacity or alternative means of transporting freight, and changes in relationships with existing truck, rail, ocean and air carriers; changes in our customer base due to possible consolidation among our customers; our ability to integrate the operations of acquired companies with our historic operations successfully; risks associated with litigation and insurance coverage; risks associated with operations outside of the U.S.; risks associated with the potential impacts of changes in government regulations; risks associated with the produce industry, including food safety and contamination issues; fuel prices and availability; and the impact of war on the economy; and other risks and uncertainties detailed in our Annual and Quarterly Reports. In addition, such forward-looking statements relate to the expected closing date of the acquisition and the anticipated benefits of the acquisition. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements as a result of (i) unexpected delays in obtaining regulatory approvals; (ii) the inability of either C.H. Robinson or Phoenix to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the acquisition; (iii) unforeseen difficulties in integrating the operations of Phoenix; or (iv) unanticipated negative reaction to the proposed transaction by customers or suppliers. Any forward looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and we undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect events or circumstances arising after such date.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Five New LQ Executive Insight Videos


September 25, 2012 – Toronto – LQ’s team has prepared a set of Five New LQ Executive Insight Videos - which are now online today – offering the opportunity to learn from the successes shared in conversations between the following thought leaders and innovative companies in our field:

• Kate Vitasek, Founder, Supply Chain Visions and a faculty member at the University of Tennessee’s Center for Executive Education, and James Applegate, Vice President, Corporate Sales & Marketing, Landstar Transportation Logistics http://logisticsquarterly.com/videos/20091202/james_applegate_sep2012.html

• Tom Schmitt, Former CEO & President, Purolator, Tadd Moreland, Senior Project Engineer, GENCO ATC, Lauren Spirnak, Senior Project Engineer, GENCO ATC http://logisticsquarterly.com/videos/20091202/tadd_lauren_sep2012.html

• Loray Mosher, PhD, Assistant Director, Supply Chain Management Research Center, Sam M. Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas, and Greg Hewitt, President, DHL Express Canada
http://logisticsquarterly.com/videos/20091202/greg_hewitt_sep2012.html 

• Kate Vitasek, Founder, Supply Chain Visions and a faculty member at the University of Tennessee’s Center for Executive Education, AJC (Allan) Smith, President & CEO, BCG Logistics Group, Michel Khennafi, Manager, Logistics Parts & Service Organization, Case New Holland (CNH)
http://logisticsquarterly.com/videos/20091202/allan_michel_sep2012.html

• David Closs, PhD, LQ Executive Editor & John H. McConnell Chaired Professor of Business Administration in the Department of Marketing and Supply Chain Management at Michigan State University and Randall P. Hudkins, Group Director, Ryder Supply Chain Solutions
 http://logisticsquarterly.com/videos/20091202/randy_hudkins_sep2012.html


LQ’s Executive Insight Videos cover a wide range of topics that are cover different areas in the supply chain, logistics and transportation field, as well as management functions, and geographic areas. They focus on such areas as leadership in logistics, organizational change, sustainability strategy, operations, and managing people. While LQ’s Executive Interviews cover a wide array of topics they are all prepared in consultation with senior executives whose authority comes from their professional experience and background. If you have insights on this executive interview, please contact LQ’s Publisher and Editor, Fred Moody at fmoody@logisticsquarterly.com. Additional LQ Executive Insight Videos can be viewed at: http://www.LQ Exec.com

Gary Morter has joined SEKO Logistics UK’s board


September 25, 2012 - Gary Morter has joined SEKO Logistics UK’s board as Executive Director to help realize the potential of the company’s strategic growth and expansion program.

In a career spanning 25 years in liner and logistics businesses, Gary has held senior management positions with P&O Containers, P&O Nedlloyd, APL Logistics and latterly as Group Managing Director of WT Sea-Air, which was acquired by Toll Group in 2010. He was Regional Ocean Freight Director, Europe/Middle East prior to joining SEKO Logistics.

Earlier this summer, the inaugural Sunday Times HSBC International Fast Track 200 league table ranked SEKO Logistics UK as one of the UK’s fastest-growing private companies in terms of international sales. Ranked 131st SEKO Logistics was one of 36 companies in the southeast of England recognized as making a significant contribution to the regional economy over the last two tears, despite the downturn.

SEKO’s London-based Chairman and COO, Mark White commented: “We are excited to have Gary join our team as we continue to grow our UK business. His in-depth knowledge and experience will further strengthen our ability to provide our clients with innovative logistics solutions. Our profile is growing quickly and that is creating a whole host of new and exciting opportunities. Adding Gary to our already-strong executive team in the UK means we can turn more of this potential into new business.”

Gary Morter said: “I’m very happy to be joining such a positive and talented team of people that are driving SEKO Logistics UK forward. The recent Sunday Times’ listing is an endorsement of the company's progression and I aim to continue that trend.”

About SEKO

Founded in 1976, SEKO is a global supply chain solutions and logistics provider with more than 100 locations around the globe.  SEKO deploys tailored services to the retail, consumer goods, fashion, apparel, health care, pharmaceutical, aerospace, government, high-tech, automotive, exhibiting & energy sectors.

SEKO offers a full range of supply chain solutions including global air and ocean transportation, ground transportation, freight forwarding, customs brokerage, warehousing & distribution, home delivery and contract logistics. SEKO’s IT solutions offer a broad range of real?time, web?based shipment management and data-exchange tools for a high degree of supply-chain visibly. To learn more about SEKO visit us at www.sekologistics.com.

Penske Logistics Earns Delphi Above & Beyond Award for DCM


READING, Pa., Sept. 25, 2012 – Penske Logistics has been given the 2011 Delphi Above & Beyond Award, one of its Pinnacle Family of Awards, for Penske’s distribution center management services.

Delphi honors companies that have exceeded contractual obligations. Penske was one of 18 suppliers from nine countries to receive this award.

“Suppliers contribute to Delphi’s growth and success in so many ways – in collaborative efforts to eliminate waste; in cooperative projects to improve productivity and in innovative methods to improve speed to market,” explained Sidney Johnson, Delphi Senior Vice President of Global Supply Management. “Congratulations to the team at Penske Logistics.”

Penske has been operating Delphi’s distribution centers along the U.S.-Mexico border for over 25 years.

“Our company is delighted to have received this award from Delphi,” said Dave Cumbo, Senior Vice President of the West Region for Penske Logistics. “This is a testament to the hard work of Penske associates. Delphi is one of our oldest and most valued customers.”

Penske Logistics is a wholly owned subsidiary of Penske Truck Leasing. With operations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia, Penske Logistics provides supply chain management and logistics services to major industrial and consumer companies throughout the world. Penske Logistics delivers value through design, planning and execution in transportation, warehousing, and international freight forwarding and carrier management. To learn more visit www.PenskeLogistics.com and our “Move Ahead” blog.

Monday, September 24, 2012

Agility Names New Asia Pacific and Europe CEOs


September 24 - 2012 - BAAR, Switzerland - Agility, a leading global logistics provider, has named 28-year company veteran Chris Price as Chief Executive Officer of its fast-growing Asia Pacific operations. The company has also named 11-year company veteran Mike Bible as Chief Executive Officer of its Europe operations, following the decision by Beat Simon to depart the company.

"These changes allow us to move Chris and Mike, two of our most dynamic leaders, into important new roles,” said Essa Al-Saleh, President and CEO of Agility Global Integrated Logistics. “They bring fresh energy, deep knowledge of our company and industry, and strong cross-regional relationships to their new positions.”

Chris Price to Build on Agility’s Momentum in Asia Pacific

As CEO of Asia Pacific, Price will oversee 160+ offices in 23 countries and more than 7,000 employees. Before his appointment, Price was CEO of Agility for Area North Europe, a role he had held since 2007. Previous Agility roles included CEO Netherlands for four years, CEO UK and Ireland for five years, and various sales management and operational roles. He assumes his new role in Singapore on January 1, 2013.

“Agility has invested heavily in Asia in the last decade,” said Al-Saleh. “The company is a top five logistics provider across the region, with a strong base in China that serves the domestic and international markets, extensive operations in India, and market-leading presence in Southeast Asian countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia. In addition, we have a strong presence in Australasia, particularly in the resource logistics sector. Chris is one of our most consistent performers. He champions our values, and is the right person to lead the region at this stage of development.”

“This is a tremendously exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of changing patterns in world trade,” said Price. “As consumer demand continues to grow in emerging markets, companies in the Asia Pacific region will be looking to further expand and companies in developed countries will be looking to increasingly tap these new markets. As CEO of Asia Pacific, I look forward to helping customers access these new worlds of opportunity, and further build on Agility’s momentum in the region.”

Mike Bible to Lead European Organization

As CEO of Europe, Mike Bible will succeed Beat Simon, who is departing the company but will continue to serve on the board of Agility Switzerland. Under his stewardship, Agility successfully grew its operations across Europe, through a combination of acquisitions and organic growth. Commenting on the change, Al-Saleh said, “Beat Simon was instrumental in establishing Agility as a strong logistics provider across Europe, expanding our footprint from 11 to 29 countries and launching a number of strategic initiatives. We are sorry to be losing Beat but thank him for his hard work and dedication and wish him the best for his future endeavors,” said Al-Saleh.

In Europe, Bible will oversee 140+ offices in over 29 countries, and more than 3,000 employees. Before his appointment, Bible was CEO of Agility Americas for five years, and before that, CFO of Agility Americas. Bible played an important role in the company’s Latin America expansion into Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Peru. Prior to Agility, Bible held various financially-related positions with a number of companies in different sectors. He assumes his new role in Basel, Switzerland on January 1, 2013.

“Recent challenges in Eurozone economies have impacted business across Europe,” said Al-Saleh. “During these difficult times, Mike brings to the table valuable experience in managing through diverse and challenging market conditions. As CEO of the Americas, Mike built a lean team in the U.S. that consolidated and improved our financial performance and expanded into Latin America. We are looking for Mike to bring a new perspective to our European team in the coming months and years.”

“I am excited to be leading Agility’s Europe team and am confident that we can build on the strong foundations that have been laid,” commented Bible. “With our business operating across 29 countries in the region, we will continue to work with our customers to provide them with the products and solutions they require to grow their businesses and address the challenges they face.”

About Agility:
Agility brings efficiency to supply chains in some of the globe’s most challenging environments, offering unmatched personal service, a global footprint and customized capabilities in developed and developing economies alike. Agility is one of the world’s leading providers of integrated logistics. It is a publicly traded company with $4.8 billion in revenue and more than 22,000 employees in 500 offices across 100 countries. ??Agility’s core commercial business, Global Integrated Logistics (GIL), provides supply chain solutions to meet traditional and complex customer needs. GIL offers air, ocean and road freight forwarding, warehousing, distribution, and specialized services in project logistics, fairs and events, and chemicals. Agility’s Infrastructure group of companies manages industrial real estate and offers logistics-related services, including e-government customs optimization and consulting, waste management and recycling, aviation and ground-handling services, support to governments and ministries of defense, remote infrastructure and life support.

Thursday, September 20, 2012

RILA Statement on East Coast Port Labor Extension


September 20, 2012 - Arlington, VA - The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) issued the following statement in response to an announcement that the U.S. Maritime Alliance and the International Longshoremen’s Association have agreed to a 90 day extension of the collective bargaining agreement due to expire on September 30.

“The 90 day extension is welcomed news for retailers because it ensures that a work stoppage at the ports will not interfere with the flow of goods during the critical holiday season,” said Kelly Kolb, vice president for government affairs. “Ports play a critical role in the supply chain and a potential disruption would be harmful to the retail industry as it would lead to lost sales and aggravated customers.”

“RILA will continue to closely monitor the progress of negotiations and strongly urge the parties to reach a long-term agreement as soon as possible in order to remove the threat of a devastating work stoppage at the East and Gulf Coast ports.”

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

PetSmart CEO Bob Moran Opens RILA’s 5th Annual Retail Sustainability Conference


September 20, 2012 - Phoenix, AZ – The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) opened the Retail Sustainability Conference today in Phoenix, AZ. The fifth annual meeting brings together executives involved in diverse efforts to reduce environmental impacts and integrate sustainable programs to their company models.

Keynote speaker Bob Moran, chairman & CEO of PetSmart, shared insight from his 25 years of experience working in international retail and discussed PetSmart’s vision for sustainable initiatives.

“At PetSmart, we are a company that cares,” said Moran. “We care about people, pets and the communities where we live and work. We know that reducing our carbon footprint is the right thing to do. So, initiatives like our Think Twice sustainability program encourage our associates, our customers, and our vendors to make environmentally-conscious decisions – both big and small – every day.”

Pre-conference events allowed attendees to experience a tour of the National Audubon Society’s Nina Mason Rio Salado Habitat highlighting the most important and threatened habitat in Arizona. An overflow crowd showed up for the special workshop on “Ramping up in Your Sustainability Role” featuring insights from several seasoned sustainability executives.

The educational sessions closed with key issues in compliance, as enforcement officials from the EPA and the state of California joined legal expert Grant Nakayama with Kirkland & Ellis for updates on environmental compliance, enforcement, and regulatory trends, including what retailers should expect in the next five years.

“This event gives us all the opportunity to reflect on the value of sustainability for retail businesses and the consumers they service, and brings together value chain players in the discussion of ever-changing business practices,” said Adam Siegel, vice president of sustainability and retail operations for RILA. “As the dialogue continues to evolve, retailers will find innovative ways to work in their supply chains, stores, and communities to develop models and practices that will bring financial and sustainable value to all stakeholders.”

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.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Norfolk Southern Improves its Score in 2012 Carbon Disclosure Project


NORFOLK, Va., Sept. 19, 2012 -- Underscoring a record of continuous improved performance in corporate environmental responsibility and in reducing its carbon footprint, Norfolk Southern Corp. (NYSE: NSC) has achieved its best-ever score in the S&P 500 Climate Change Report released by the Carbon Disclosure Project.

The company's 2012 carbon disclosure score is 88, 15 percent better than its 2011 score of 76 and the highest score the company has attained in the five years Norfolk Southern has participated in the survey.

The Carbon Disclosure Project is an independent nonprofit organization supporting greenhouse gas emissions reduction and sustainable water use. The scores released in its annual Climate Change Report are regarded as a measure of climate mitigation performance and quality of disclosure. In addition to a score, a grade is awarded on a scale of E to A. Norfolk Southern's grade for 2012 is B, matching its 2011 grade.

"We are pleased to have demonstrated continuous improvement in our disclosure score during the years we have participated in the Carbon Disclosure Project," said Blair Wimbush, NS vice president real estate and corporate sustainability officer.

"The 2012 result exceeded our goal and puts Norfolk Southern in the high range of companies disclosing, well above the average disclosure score of 70. This positive trend complements our sustainability goal to achieve industry leadership in fuel conservation, emissions reduction, efficient energy use, recycling, use of renewable materials, and environmental partnerships," Wimbush said.

Among efforts to lessen the company's environmental impact, Norfolk Southern has attained 60 percent of a five-year goal to reduce emissions per revenue ton-mile 10 percent by 2014. With reforestation playing a key role in its carbon mitigation strategy, the company has partnered with Green Trees to plant more than 6 million trees in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. For more about the company's environmental programs, visit www.nssustainability.com.

The Carbon Disclosure Project collects data from the world's largest companies on behalf of 655 institutional investors with combined assets of $78 trillion. For its 2012 report, more than 3,000 companies, including Norfolk Southern along with 81 percent of the Global 500 and 68 percent of the S&P 500, responded to a climate change questionnaire in 2011.

Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the premier U.S. transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 20,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

Monday, September 17, 2012

C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation Creates Carrier Scholarship Program


Eden Prairie, MN (September 17, 2012) — To celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, the C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation has created the C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation Scholarship Program for Truckload Contract Carriers.
The Truckload Contract Carrier Scholarship Program was developed to support and expand the educational success of both C.H. Robinson truckload contract carrier employees and their children. This is the first scholarship program that has been supported through the C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation.

The program will award up to 10- $2,500 college scholarships to eligible students for the 2013-2014 academic year.  Scholarship recipients must be employees at one of the 53,000 qualified truckload contract carriers of C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.  Recipients must be employees with a minimum of one year employment with their respective company or dependent children of these employees.

“We want to help make sure that the cost of education isn’t a roadblock for those looking to take the next step in their education journey,” said Angie Freeman, president of the C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation.  “The C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation Scholarship Program helps make the dream of additional education more of a reality.”

All recipients must plan to enroll in full-time undergraduate programs.  Dependent children must major in transportation logistics, supply chain or business related programs at an accredited college or vocational school. The scholarships are non-renewable, but students may reapply to the program each year they meet eligibility requirements.

Applications will be made available on the C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation webpage beginning in January 2013.

About the C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation

The C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation is committed to ensuring that our communities continue to be great places to live and work, and through our employee match programs and grants provides support to hundreds of organizations each year including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Community Health Charities, American Red Cross, Children's Hospital and Clinics of Minnesota, and Global Impact.  For more information about the C.H. Robinson Worldwide Foundation, visit http://www.chrobinson.com/en/us/About-Us/Corporate-Responsibility/Foundation/.

Halifax as an East Coast Gateway


September 17, 2012, Halifax, NS – The Halifax Port Authority and the Halifax Stanfield International Airport hosted a reception together this evening in Shanghai, China to promote Halifax as an east coast gateway.

The reception was hosted as part of the Council of the Federation trade mission to China, led by Premier Darrell Dexter.  This event provided the Port of Halifax and Halifax Stanfield International Airport with the opportunity to promote Halifax as an international connection point for moving people and trade to and from North America.

“Nearly half of our cargo today is Asian and this region represents one of our key target markets for growth. Raising awareness and generating new contacts in Asia is important for the Port of Halifax,” said Karen Oldfield, President & CEO, Halifax Port Authority. “This reception gave our international Port and Airport an opportunity to build upon the existing relationships we have in China as well as forge new ones.”

Local Nova Scotia businesses participating in the mission also had the opportunity to network and talk about potential opportunities.  The reception was also hosted in partnership with the Canada China Business Council. Approximately 120 people attended.

“We are pleased to continue building relationships in China and with the completion of our main runway extension program in November, we look forward to increasing our cargo and passenger traffic with the Asian market,” said Jerry Staples, Vice President, Air Service Marketing & Development with Halifax International Airport Authority.


Penske Logistics Earns Awards from Whirlpool Corp. for Supply Chain Excellence


 READING, Pa., Sept. 17, 2012 – Penske Logistics recently earned two awards from Whirlpool Corporation for supply chain excellence as 2011 3PL Supplier of the Year for Warehousing, its third consecutive year, and 2011 Specialty Service Supplier of the Year.

Penske Logistics currently manages and optimizes a combined network of 11 major distribution centers for Whirlpool across the United States. These facilities encompass approximately 7.6 million square feet of warehousing space and accommodate more than 40 million units of finished goods annually. Penske was recognized for its excellence in managing and optimizing these facilities using lean processes, labor management systems and standardized processes and metrics.

“All of our Penske-managed sites have achieved excellent performance scores against our key performance indicators,” said Michelle VanderMeer, Senior Director for Whirlpool Corporation’s North America logistics operations. “Penske’s strong management focus and willingness to collaborate on key business initiatives has helped us to achieve important cost reductions while providing a top level of customer service.”

Penske earned Whirlpool’s Specialty Service Supplier of the Year award designation for implementing an innovative Lead Logistics approach, which reduces costs and boosts on-time delivery performance. Penske manages a majority of Whirlpool’s inbound and outbound freight transportation in North America.

Using the latest technology, Penske’s Load Control Center in Beachwood, Ohio, dynamically optimizes and builds shipments to minimize costs and maximize service. Then, Penske Logistics manages the activities of multiple carriers and 3PLs to ensure on-time deliveries to distribution centers, builders and end consumers. In 2011, Penske’s efforts delivered a 98 percent on-time delivery record and helped reduce costs and carbon footprint by maximizing trailer utilization and reducing the number of transportation shipments required.

“The Penske LCC has helped to take our transportation operations platform to a new level,” said Elizabeth Hall, Supply Chain Senior Manager for Whirlpool Corporation’s North America transportation. “We now execute our transportation strategy on one platform, increasing service to our customers while driving down costs. The relationship we have forged with Penske LCC continues to strengthen as we collaborate on new and innovative initiatives within our world-class logistics organization.”

“These awards are only possible through close customer collaboration,” stated Penske Logistics President Marc Althen. “We are proud to receive these awards recognizing the amazing work of our associates and the creativity of our logistics engineering and technology teams.”

Penske Logistics is a wholly owned subsidiary of Penske Truck Leasing.  With operations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia, Penske Logistics provides supply chain management and logistics services to major industrial and consumer companies throughout the world.  Penske Logistics delivers value through design, planning and execution in transportation, warehousing, and international freight forwarding and carrier management. To learn more visit www.PenskeLogistics.com and our “Move Ahead” blog.

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Damco Moving Headquarters to The Hague, Netherlands

September 11, 2012 - Global freight forwarder and logistics provider, Damco, is moving its headquarters from Copenhagen, Denmark to The Hague, Netherlands. The move, which should be completed in Q1 y 2013, brings Damco closer to the heart of the European logistics community and supports its strategy to become a Top-5 industry player in the years to come.

“In The Hague, we will be closer to many of our customers, our main air and sea carriers, Europe’s biggest transportation hubs, as well as our competition and the kind of additional international logistics experience we’ll be looking to hire as we continue to grow,” says Damco CEO, Rolf Habben-Jansen in the company's press release.

Damco recorded USD $97 million EBIT in 2011, a nearly five-fold increase from USD $22 million in 2009. The improvement has been driven in particular by strong business in Asian and African markets. By 2015, Damco aspires to achieve net revenue of around USD $5 billion.

“Our goals are ambitious and to reach them will require a combination of organic growth and selected acquisitions as well as strict attention to all of our costs. Only that will create the needed flexibility to invest when opportunities arise,” says Habben-Jansen.

The move to The Hague will allow Damco to further optimize its cost structure, bringing it closer to the level of its primary competitors in the region.

The moving process will start towards the end of Q4 this year, and the transition will be completed by the end of Q1 2013. There are approximately 150 positions in Damco’s Copenhagen headquarters. Except for approximately 75 positions that will remain in Copenhagen to continue handling IT functions, all positions are expected to be affected by the move.

About Damco

Damco is one of the world’s leading third party logistics providers specializing in customized freight forwarding and supply chain solutions. The company has 10,800 employees in over 280 offices across 90 countries and representation in a further 30 countries. In 2011, the company had a net turnover of USD $2.8 billion, managed more than 2.5 million TEU of ocean freight and supply chain management volumes and air freighted more than 110,000 tons. Damco is part of the A.P. Moller - Maersk Group. www.damco.com

Monday, September 10, 2012

U.S. Xpress DCC Location Named Site of the Year by Dollar General Award

CHATTANOOGA, TN. – September 10, 2012 – The Marion, Ind. distribution center serviced by U.S. Xpress Enterprises, a leading provider of transportation services throughout North America, has been honored as site of the year by Dollar General Corporation. This award - given to one of its 11 sites annually by the large discount retail chain - recognizes excellence in on-time performance, tractor utilization, customer service, productivity and overall efficiency.

U.S. Xpress provides dedicated carriage services to Dollar General locations throughout the country, leveraging its vast expertise in direct-store delivery & asset management, as well as scalable capacity, to meet the retailer’s transportation needs. Both companies attribute the award to their team-based effort.

“The Marion site exceeded company goals and targets in all areas,” said Kenneth Alder, senior manager, dedicated operations, Dollar General Corporation. “U.S. Xpress has always been great to work with and did an excellent job carrying the site. We are proud of what our joint team has accomplished there.”

U.S. Xpress offers each of its dedicated services customers an individualized approach based on joint planning, the establishment of mutually agreeable objectives, frequent communication and continuous improvement.

“Our dedicated services group prides itself on meeting deadlines, handling special requests and providing capacity while reducing transportation costs for our customers,” said Bill Farris, senior vice president of dedicated operations, U.S. Xpress, Inc. “This award validates our approach to doing business and the strength of our working partnership with top companies like Dollar General.”

About Dollar General

Dollar General (NYSE: DG) is a leading discount retailer with 10,000 stores in 40 states. Dollar General Stores provide convenience and value to customers by offering consumable basic items such as food, snacks, health and beauty aids and cleaning supplies, as well as basic apparel, house wares and seasonal items at everyday low prices. To learn more about Dollar General, visit www.dollargeneral.com.

About U.S. Xpress Enterprises:

Founded in 1985, U.S. Xpress Enterprises is the nation’s second largest privately-owned truckload carrier, providing a wide variety of transportation solutions throughout North America. We are committed to being at the forefront of safety compliance, using comprehensive training for our staff and drivers and ensuring our trucks feature the latest safety innovations. With a dedication to minimizing our impact on the environment, U.S. Xpress is a SmartWay Transport Partner and was honored with a 2009 SmartWay Environmental Excellence Award. U.S. Xpress Enterprises’ affiliates include Arnold Transportation Services, Smith Transport, Total Transportation of Mississippi, Xpress Global Systems, and Xpress Internacional. For more information, please visit www.usxpress.com.

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Day & Ross introduces newly formed Supply Chain Solutions division

September 7, 2012 - Day & Ross Transportation Group is pleased to introduce a newly created division, Day & Ross Supply Chain Solutions. This strategic new division combines six current services that formerly operated individually under the Day & Ross Group of Companies.

The groups include non-asset based freight brokerage, intermodal services, air freight forwarding, ocean freight forwarding, Freight Brokerage solutions, and special project/over-dimensional freight forwarding. “This is not new to the Day & Ross suite of services” says Douglas Harrison, president of Day & Ross. He goes on to say “what we’ve done is package these existing services into a more strategic offering for our existing and prospective clients”. The group manages over $120 million of freight today and is growing at a rapid pace.

The Supply Chain Solutions group makes sense for companies requiring a range of services from road and rail transportation within North America and/or ocean and air transportation in and out of North America, seamlessly to fully outsourcing their supply chain.

The Supply Chain Solutions features include non-asset based transportation, single or bundled services, single point of contact, and value-added supply chain expertise to name a few. “This autonomous non asset based group is already one of the largest freight brokerage and international ocean service providers in Canada.

Through a focused consultative approach Day & Ross Supply Chain Solutions can develop a customized approach for a portion of a company’s supply chain or manage the entire supply chain for a client who is looking to outsource its requirements in full” says Mike Chisholm, Executive Vice-President of the newly formed group.

Featuring a responsive organization that includes customized and specialized services, this solutions based group boasts industry expertise, leading edge technology and world-class talent, setting them apart from their competitors, such as smaller 4PL’s, larger international 4PL’s, asset-based carriers, and single service providers. Specific services offered through this new division include:

- 4PL services and full Supply Chain management
- Freight Brokerage
- Over Size/Dimensional project movements
- Transportation Management – all modes
- Intermodal
- Air / ocean services
- Warehousing
- Value added customized solutions
- Advanced technology

Established more than 60 years ago, The Day & Ross Transportation Group – operating as Day & Ross General Freight, Sameday Worldwide, Day & Ross Dedicated Logistics, Day & Ross Supply Chain Solutions – has grown to become one of the largest national transportation & Logistics companies in Canada. Day & Ross provides a full range of transportation and logistics solutions from Supply Chain Management, Freight Brokerage, Warehousing, Dedicated Contract Carriage, 3PL and 4PL solutions, Intermodal Freight Forwarding, Ocean Carriage, International and Domestic air freight forwarding, Project and over dimensional move management, Small Package and Retail home delivery and retail fulfillment, LTL and TL services.

Friday, September 7, 2012

CANADIAN PACIFIC RAILWAY LIMITED DECLARES DIVIDEND


September 7, 2012, CALGARY – The Board of Directors of Canadian Pacific Railway Limited (TSX: CP) (NYSE: CP) today declared a quarterly dividend of thirty-five cents ($0.35) Canadian per share on the outstanding Common Shares.  The dividend is payable on October 29, 2012 to holders of record at the close of business on September 28, 2012, and is an eligible dividend pursuant to subsection 89(14) of the Income Tax Act.

About Canadian Pacific
Canadian Pacific (CP: TSX)(NYSE: CP) operates a North American transcontinental railway providing freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Incorporating best-in-class technology and environmental practices, CP is re-defining itself as a modern 21st century transportation company built on safety, service reliability and operational efficiency. Visit www.cpr.ca to learn more.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

CN to invest C$12 million in expansion of Prince George, B.C.


PRINCE GEORGE, B.C., Sept. 5, 2012 — CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE:CNI) announced today a C$12-million expansion of its Locomotive Reliability Centre (LRC) in this northern British Columbia centre.

Keith Creel, CN executive vice-president and chief operating officer, said: “The Prince George LRC is strategically located midway between Edmonton, Alta., and Prince Rupert, B.C., which are roughly 1,000 miles apart.

“The facility serviced locomotives for more than 9,000 CN trains that transited the city last year. We are at maximum capacity at the LRC, with three shifts per day, seven days a week, and we need to expand it to handle existing and forecast growth of intermodal, coal and other traffic in northern B.C.”

CN will increase floor space at the Prince George locomotive shop by 50 per cent to nearly 50,000 square feet, permitting the addition of four repair bays with pits to handle the forecast increase in locomotive inspections and repairs.

CN will also spend more than C$4 million this year to extend two key sidings north of Prince George on the line toward Chetwynd, B.C., to efficiently and safely accommodate 10,000-foot coal trains serving mines in northeastern region of the province.

CN has invested heavily in the Prince George area to handle increased freight volumes. Including the LRC project and siding extensions this year, CN will have spent more than  C$60 million since 2004 on capital projects in the city. Initiatives have included:

* The construction and expansion of a major transloading and intermodal terminal for the export forest products via the Port of Prince Rupert;
* Yard capacity expansion and upgrades;
* Mechanical installations to repair and service freight cars and,
* Environmental controls, including a fueling station upgrading and new storm water sewers.

In addition to capital spending in the Prince George area and, by year-end 2012, CN will have invested more than C$150 million since 2004 in longer sidings along the Edmonton-Prince Rupert corridor.

Creel added: “CN is a major economic player in the markets it serves, and we are investing proactively in our infrastructure to ensure the supply chains we are part of and the customers we serve have safe, efficient rail capacity to grow and compete effectively at home and abroad.”

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.  

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 or 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.

Ryder Opens First Used Vehicle Sales Center in Vancouver, British Columbia


MIAMI, September 5, 2012 - Ryder System, Inc. (NYSE: R), a leader in commercial transportation and supply chain management solutions, today announced the opening of its new Ryder Vehicle Sales center, offering used trucks for sale in the Greater Vancouver Area.  The facility is the first Ryder Vehicle Sales location in British Columbia.

Located at 9616 188 Street in Surrey, British Columbia, the center is conveniently situated along the 57 Trans-Canada Highway and just down the street from Ryder’s full service maintenance facility on 190th street.

“The Surrey facility enables Ryder to better serve our valued BC customers and accommodate the increasing demand for quality used vehicles in the Greater Vancouver area,” said Michael Cagney, Director of Asset Management for Ryder.  “With this new location, we can conveniently provide businesses with affordable, professionally-maintained used vehicles to support their needs.”

Ryder’s used vehicle inventory includes commercial and heavy-duty vehicles including tractors, trailers, straight trucks, panel and cube vans, refrigerated trucks and stake trucks.  Each vehicle is Ryder Road Ready TM certified and comes with a 30-day warranty and complete vehicle maintenance history. Ryder is one of the largest retailers of used vehicles in North America, selling more than 19,000 vehicles a year from over 55 used vehicle sales centers across North America, including seven in Canada.
     
Ryder will be hosting an official grand opening event for local businesses at the new facility on September 25th, 2012.  Attendees will enjoy a barbeque, as well as participate in a raffle drawing, receive discounts on vehicles, and meet Ryder’s local Used Vehicle Sales Manager, Darryl Wood, as well as members of the Ryder management team.

To view Ryder’s complete used vehicle sales inventory, visit www.ryderusedtrucks.ca  or in the U.S., visit www.usedtrucks.ryder.com.  Alternatively, customers can reach Darryl Wood at the British Columbia location by calling 1 (800) USED-TRK or directly at (604) 881-4821.  Hours of operation are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

About Ryder

Ryder is a FORTUNE 500® commercial transportation, logistics and supply chain management solutions company.  Ryder’s stock (NYSE:R) is a component of the Dow Jones Transportation Average and the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index.  Inbound Logistics magazine has recognized Ryder as a top third party logistics provider and green supply chain partner.  Ryder has also been ranked two years in a row as one of the top 250 U.S. companies in the Newsweek Green Rankings.  In addition, Security Magazine has named Ryder one of the top companies for security practices in the transportation, logistics, supply chain, and warehousing sector.  Ryder is a proud member of the American Red Cross Annual Disaster Giving Program, supporting national and local disaster preparedness and response efforts.

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Old Dominion Opens New Parkersburg Service Center


PARKERSBURG, West Virginia (Sept. 4, 2012) – Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. today opened its new Parkersburg Service Center, allowing the company to keep up with continued growth in the region.

The new Parkersburg Service Center is located at 190 Elizabeth Pike in Mineral Wells, West Virginia. The two-acre facility will employ 12 people.

      The addition is part of a $90-120 million investment Old Dominion has committed to real estate purchases and expansion projects in 2012. The new Parkersburg Service Center is positioned directly off of Interstate 77.

“This new facility will allow Old Dominion to grow its operations in the Parkersburg area,” said Adam Osborne, the terminal’s manager. “The new and expanded facility will enable us to react faster to customers’ needs and meet the steady increase of customer demands in the area.”

      The Parkersburg Service Center’s coverage area includes seven West Virginia cities (Parkersburg, Clarksburg, Sistersville, New Milton, Harrisville, West Union and Ravenswood) and three eastern Ohio cities (Marietta, Watertown and Athens).

      About Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. (NASDAQ: ODFL) is a leading, less-than-truckload (“LTL”), union-free motor carrier providing regional, inter-regional and national LTL service and value-added logistics services. In addition to its core LTL services, the Company offers its customers a broad range of logistics services including ground and air expedited transportation, supply chain consulting, transportation management, truckload brokerage, container delivery, warehousing and consumer household moving services. Through marketing and carrier relationships, the Company also offers door-to-door international freight services to and from all of North America, Central America, South America and the Far East. For more than 78 years, Old Dominion has been helping the world keep promises. In 2012, the company was named as one of America’s 100 Most Trustworthy Companies by Forbes magazine and ranked as the No. 1 National LTL carrier by Mastio & Company as part of the company’s 2011 Value and Loyalty Benchmarking Study.

Ryder and Fresh & Easy Receive LQ’s 2012 Best 3PL Sustainability Winner’s Award


 Ryder and Fresh & Easy Receive LQ’s 2012 Best 3PL Sustainability Winner’s Award

July 17, 2012 - Toronto – Ryder System, Inc. (NYSE: R), a leader in supply chain, warehousing and transportation management solutions, and its customer, Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market, a leading grocery retailer, have received the prestigious Logistics Quarterly (LQ) 2012 Third Party Logistics (3PL) Sustainability Award. This annual awards program recognizes third-party logistics providers that work closely with their customers to demonstrate leadership and innovation in sustainable supply chain practices.

Ryder and Fresh & Easy were recognized for implementing innovative, sustainable practices that have resulted in improved service, environmental performance, and cost effectiveness in Fresh & Easy’s supply chain operations.

Fresh & Easy currently operates 199 grocery stores in California, Arizona and Nevada and relies on a total fleet of 74 vehicles managed by Ryder to support grocery and perishable store deliveries from its Riverside, California distribution center. Services provided by Ryder include Temperature Controlled Dedicated Transportation, Inbound Freight Management, and Reverse Logistics.

The LQ 3PL Sustainability Award Evaluation Committee, comprised of leading executives and academics from the U.S. and Canada, recognized Ryder System, Inc., and Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market, as the Best 2012 3PL Performer in Sustainability Winner, representing the finest of the four “Best 3PL Performers in Sustainability” finalists following the 3PL Finalist Firm Presentations on July 17th at LQ’s Symposium in Toronto, Canada. In addition to collaboration, LQ’s Evaluation Committee considered each 3PL finalist’s strategic vision in this area, as well as their performance in economic, environmental and societal areas of sustainability.

The members of LQ’s 3PL Sustainability Study and Awards (2012) Evaluation Committee included: Dave Closs, PhD, LQ Executive Editor, and Professor, Michigan State University; Bill Horrocks, Vice President, Supply Chain/Logistics at Rogers Communications Inc.; Cliff Lynch, C.F. Lynch & Associates; Loray Mosher, PhD., Assistant Director at the Supply Chain Management Research Center (SCMRC), Sam M. Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas; Kate Vitasek, Founder, Supply Chain Visions and a faculty member at the University of Tennessee’s Center for Executive Education.

The four finalists were selected by LQ’s Executive Editors, Dave Closs, PhD, LQ Executive Editor, and Professor, Michigan State University and Thomas Goldsby, PhD, The Ohio State University, based on applications submitted earlier this year by 3PLs and their clients documenting their best practices together. This year, 30 leading North American 3PLs registered to participate in LQ’s 3PL Study and Awards Program.

LQ was honored to have the following finalists present at its July 17th Symposium and share their insights and inspiring case studies in sustainability. A few of excerpts of their presentations have been included here as well:

C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
• Steve Raetz, Director of Supply Chain Integration, C. H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
• Walter Kowal, CPA, Internal Audit Manager, John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.

“Because of the work we did together John B. Sanfilippo & Son passed the Walmart audit, and this positioned them for future growth and retention of that business. It demonstrates how sustainability practices in these collaborative relationships can enhance the business. It is not only about the innovations in manufacturing and our relationship. It shows how sustainability practices cascade upstream to the suppliers and to the customers downstream. It illustrates how sustainability contributes to the brand equity and, ultimately, how your customers perceive you.” - Steve Raetz, Director of Supply Chain Integration, C. H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.

“Because of our great relationship of innovation and challenging each other to make improvements - we have been able to show our customers, such as Walmart and Pepsico that we are innovative and sustainable in our business and constantly striving for continuous improvement.” - Walter Kowal, CPA, Internal Audit Manager, John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.


GENCO ATC
Tadd Moreland, Senior Project Engineer, GENCO ATC
Lauren Spirnak, Senior Project Engineer, GENCO ATC

“GENCO ATC’s lean-to-green approach begins with our staff of lean trainers, and then identifying waste and finding sustainable solutions. In this case, we developed a technology solution that enhanced our performance for a retailer with some 1,100 stores, 10,000 products and an estimated 18,000 daily internet orders from their location in Georgia. Our case study reflects the fact that one of the key requests from our clients is for more reporting information. More customers want information to share with their stakeholders, and increasingly they’re turning to their providers to garner more of this information.” - Tadd Moreland, Senior Project Engineer, GENCO ATC

“Engineering and Operations worked together to create this new and innovative solution for this retail client; Three innovative apps for an iPod to provide data on picking, replenishing and put-away. The result is “iSmart”, which enables our supervisors to be instantaneously informed on the floor. This results in more data-supported decisions, eliminates paper and less timely paper reports, reduces costs associated with supervision and improves the overall velocity of work flow. Plus it reduces overtime for team mates, and ‘No fill rate’ on orders have been reduced due to the increased visibility. Today, supervisors as well as and team mates are happier.” - Lauren Spirnak, Senior Project Engineer, GENCO ATC


Ryder Supply Chain Solutions
Bethany Gentry, Supply Chain Engineer, Ryder Supply Chain Solutions
Randall P. Hudkins, Group Director, Ryder Supply Chain Solutions
Donald W. Showell, Sr. Director of Solutions Execution and Standards (Network Design and Transportation) for the Global Supply Chain Services Team, Ryder Supply Chain Solutions
Linda Wytovich, Logistics Manager, Fresh & Easy

“In one of our first meetings with Fresh & Easy focusing on predictive analysis, we were asked to share innovative ideas to help bring more efficiency to their operations. Our first recommendation was to have Fresh & Easy collaborate with another grocery retailer by sharing transportation. This involves literally putting competitors’ product on the same vehicles and in the same lanes. Fresh & Easy was very open to this idea. We were able to take 200,000 miles out of the lane with one truck and we shared in the savings with both companies.” - Donald W. Showell, Sr. Director of Solutions Execution and Standards (Network Design and Transportation) for the Global Supply Chain Services Team, Ryder Supply Chain Solutions

UPS Supply Chain Solutions
Alan P. Amling, Global Logistics and Distribution Marketing, UPS Supply Chain Solutions
Stephen Rodgers, Director Global Manufacturing Operations, March Networks

“There is not one solution because sustainability is not something that is
one and done. It must be part of the corporate culture. If sustainability
is simply a project, then it is going to fail. At UPS we look at
sustainability as encompassing social responsibilities, environmental
stewardship and economic prosperity. One of the things I enjoyed today is
the partnership shown in every one of the finalist presentations. That is
what it is all about. Leveraging resources to take carbon out of the
environment and to do it in an economical way. It needs to be part of your
DNA and culture. That’s how we all win.” - Alan P. Amling, Global
Logistics and Distribution Marketing, UPS Supply Chain Solutions

Tom Schmitt, Former President and Chief Executive Officer, Purolator, and recipient of LQ’s 2011 3PL Sustainability Award, was the moderator of the afternoon session dedicated to LQ’s 3PL Finalists on July 17th at the Toronto Board of Trade’s Country Club.


LQ’s team would also like to take this opportunity to express its appreciation for the support of C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc, which has made LQ’s annual 3PL Sustainability Study and Awards Program possible in 2012 and 2011, and share the following acknowledgement and vision statement by C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc:


We are pleased to support the 2012 LQ 3PL Sustainability Study. For C.H. Robinson Worldwide, sustainability is not a single initiative, but an overall approach to business that continually adds value, improves efficiencies, and invests in the long-term success of our customers, contract carriers, growers, employees and communities. As a leader in our industry, we believe it’s important to help drive innovations that reduce the freight logistics industry’s impact on the environment. We salute LQ for its commitment to highlighting the significant contributions our industry is making, and we are proud to help underwrite such an important effort.



About C.H. Robinson Worldwide

Founded in 1905, C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., is a global provider of multimodal logistics services, fresh produce sourcing, and information services to 37,000 customers through a network of more than 230 offices and over 8,300 employees around the world. The company works with 53,000 transportation providers worldwide. C.H. Robinson is a Fortune 500 company and had annual revenues of $10.3 billion in 2011.

Through the company and its Foundation, C.H. Robinson and its employees contribute millions of dollars annually to a variety of organizations, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Community Health Charities, American Red Cross, Children's Hospital and Clinics of Minnesota, and Global Impact. The company is headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and has been publicly traded on the NASDAQ since 1997. For more information about C.H. Robinson, visit http://www.chrobinson.com.  

BNSF Expands Bakken Oil Transport Capacity to One Million Barrels per day


FORT WORTH, Texas, September 4, 2012 – BNSF Railway (BNSF) today announced that it has increased capacity in 2012 to enable the railroad to haul one million barrels per day out of the Williston Basin in North Dakota and Montana. This increased capacity will allow the energy industry to continue the record expansion of oil production in the Williston Basin and to ship the new production to markets throughout the U.S. It will also benefit shippers of other commodities, including agricultural products.

      “Historically, oil and gas producers have used pipelines to transport crude from production to refineries and ultimately on to end users,” said John Lanigan, BNSF executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “Because this shale development growth came about so quickly, there has been a shortage of pipeline capacity to deliver production from new unconventional sources to coastal refiners. BNSF has responded quickly to enable producers to move crude to the most attractive markets and secure the best prices.”
 
      Today, through direct and interline service, BNSF’s network reaches all major coastal and inland markets, and it directly serves 30 percent of U.S. refineries in 14 states. BNSF currently has 1,000 miles of rail line in the Williston Basin area and serves eight originating terminals with two more scheduled to be completed by the end of 2012. BNSF connects to 16 of the top 19 oil producing counties in Central and Western North Dakota, and five of the six oil producing counties in Eastern Montana.

      “BNSF has been hauling Bakken crude out of the Williston Basin area for over five years. In that time, we have seen the volume increase nearly 7,000 percent, from 1.3 million barrels in 2008 to 88.9 million in 2012,” said Dave Garin, BNSF group vice president, Industrial Products. “We see this trend continuing and we are committed to serving this growing market now and in the future.”
     
     BNSF has been able to achieve this increase in capacity due to increased investment, maintenance and hiring efforts.

      BNSF is investing $197 million in 2012 on projects in North Dakota and Montana. Some of those projects include 2,188 miles of track surfacing, two new inspection tracks, raising track at Devil’s Lake,  replacement of 121 miles of rail and about 332,000 rail ties, as well as signal upgrades and equipment acquisitions.

      Since 2011, BNSF has hired more than 560 new employees to fill existing and newly created positions in North Dakota and Montana. These employees include crews to help deliver the inbound freight that supports drilling efforts and the outbound crude to destination markets throughout the U.S.

      In addition to hiring new employees in the field, BNSF has also formed a dedicated Unit Energy Desk that works directly with our customers to help coordinate and plan unit train movements to and from the Williston Basin. With an expanded team, the Unit Energy Desk provides customers a single-source point of contact for their rail operations planning needs.
 
      BNSF has also employed numerous efficiency enhancements to increase capacity on routes into and out of the Williston Basin. These include working with our customers to increase train sizes from 100 to 104 tank cars and in some cases up to 118 tank cars, adding signalization and sidings along key routes, and identifying and developing the most efficient routes.

About BNSF
      BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies operating on 32,000 route miles of track in 28 states and two Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of consumer goods, grain, industrial goods and low-sulfur coal that help feed, clothe, supply, and power American homes and businesses every day. BNSF and its employees have developed one of the most technologically advanced, and efficient railroads in the industry. And we are working continuously to improve the value of the safety, service, energy, and environmental benefits we provide to our customers and the communities we serve.

CN Acquires New Freight Cars and Containers in 2012


MONTREAL, Sept. 4, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE: CNI) announced today that it is acquiring more than 2,200 new freight cars in 2012, as well as 1,300 new containers, to support traffic growth and improve customer service.

Jean-Jacques Ruest, executive vice-president and chief marketing officer, said: "CN is acquiring new freight cars and containers for a range of markets, including forest products, metals, minerals, coal, iron ore, steel, consumer goods, finished vehicles, and grain. These fleet additions will help us grow in line with our customers' demands and ensure CN has the right mix of modern, productive assets."

CN's largest rolling stock addition in 2012 is the acquisition of 600 premium 60-foot, double-door box cars for forest products, and metals traffic. These higher payload cars help improve customer loading efficiency.

CN's other main 2012 fleet additions are:

• 1,300 containers for grocery and consumer goods.
• 558 high-capacity modern covered hoppers for grain exports.
• 317 multi-level cars for finished vehicles deliveries to major cities.
• 300 gondolas for coal exports.
• 232 new ore cars for pelletized iron ore produced in Minnesota to supply steel mills in the United States.
• 200 multi-purpose box cars for the North American freight car pool.
Ruest said: "CN's rolling stock acquisition strategy is responding to evolving market conditions and is intended to ensure reliable, predictable supply chains for our customers."

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.

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 or 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 matters, or any other forward-looking statement.

Axsun Opens Two New U.S. Offices


Sept 4, 2012 - Montreal - Axsun is pleased to announce the opening of two new offices based in the United States; located in Anaheim, California and the second in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Establishing these two new offices strengthens Axsun’s foot hold in the United States as the firm continues its expansion throughout North America.

With its investment in SAP technology and its expertise in the transportation industry, Axsun continues to provide a comprehensive portfolio of transportation solutions, including Intermodal, Trucking, Ocean, Air, and Warehousing services throughout North America.