Thursday, March 28, 2013

Menlo Extends its Capacity in Belgium


AMSTERDAM — March 28, 2013 — Menlo Worldwide Logistics (Menlo), the global logistics subsidiary of Con-way Inc. (NYSE: CNW) continues its expansion of distribution centers (DCs) across Europe with the establishment of a 16,000 sqm facility at Genk, Belgium.  Providing warehousing, distribution and supply chain management services to a variety of manufacturing and retail industries, Menlo now operates two facilities in Belgium, with combined space of 21,000 sqm.  The Genk DC has the capability to serve local customers and also to act as a supply hub for Western European markets.

The Genk distribution center (DC) provides a wide range of receiving, inventory management, fulfilment, export shipping, distribution, returns management and supply chain control services.  In particular Menlo’s transport management services (TMS) and Lean philosophy are employed to implement a program of continuous improvement within customers’ international supply chains.

A typical example of such a process would be a multi-national manufacturing organization with a wide range of consumer or business-to-business products and a need to integrate and optimize its supply chain across multiple brands. Apply the resources of its multi-user facilities such as Genk, Menlo becomes a critical outsourced component of the customer’s supply chain by establishing a centralized European distribution hub.  The DC works in harmony with a flexible supply chain management solution that can be adapted to the customer’s changing marketing and production demands.

Menlo’s Genk facility is operating as a multi-user facility for companies distributing product throughout Europe and has capacity to extend its services to further users both regional and international.

 “The European business community recognized early on the value of logistics outsourcing,” said Tony Gunn, Menlo’s Managing Director, Europe.  “Our strategic operations in Genk, and our other facilities throughout Europe, provide value-added services for major manufacturers and retailers in the region.  Genk is a key location for the global Menlo network.”


About Menlo Worldwide Logistics Europe:

In Europe Menlo Worldwide Logistics maintains seventeen dedicated and multi-client logistics centres located in the Netherlands, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany and the United Kingdom. This warehouse network can serve as pan-European distribution solution using one or several facilities.
Supply chain and transport management solutions as well as 3PL, warehousing and distribution services are offered to a variety of vertical industry sectors including: fashion & apparel; healthcare and medical equipment; hi-tech electronic and data network equipment; automotive; defence and government services and retail e-fulfilment.

Menlo’s European headquarters is at the multi-client Amsterdam Distribution Centre in the Netherlands.

About Menlo Worldwide Logistics:

Menlo Worldwide Logistics, LLC, is a US$1.7 billion global provider of logistics, transportation management and supply chain services with operations in five continents, including North America. As a third-party logistics provider, San Francisco-based Menlo Worldwide Logistics’ services range from dedicated contract logistics to warehouse and distribution management, transportation management, supply chain reengineering and other value-added services including packaging, kitting, order fulfilment and light assembly through a strategic network of multi-client and dedicated facilities. With more than 17 million square feet of dedicated warehouse space in North America, the Asia Pacific, Europe and Latin America, and industry-leading technologies, Menlo Worldwide Logistics creates effective, integrated solutions for the transportation and distribution needs of leading businesses around the world.

Menlo Worldwide Logistics, LLC, is a subsidiary of Con-way Inc. (NYSE:CNW), a $5.6 billion diversified freight transportation and logistics company. For more information, please visit us on the Web at www.con-way.com.

Follow Menlo Worldwide Logistics on Twitter: http://twitter.com/MenloLogistics

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

UPS Expands EXPEDITED OCEAN FREIGHT SERVICES, Global Reach


UPS adds Preferred LCL lanes between Western Europe and the U.S. to help importers balance speed and cost

ATLANTA, March 26, 2013 – UPS®(NYSE:UPS)today announced the expansion of its Preferred Less-Than-Container Load (PLCL) expedited ocean freight service to include Western Europe.  The move highlights UPS’s competitive advantage in providing customers new options to move goods quickly, yet economically. Additional port access will open in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium and the United Kingdom, providing shippers up to 40 percent faster port-to-door delivery time to the U.S. than UPS’s standard LCL service*.  Customers will also have access to the same visibility technologies used for package shipments.

“The expansion of our expedited ocean freight service comes at a time when many companies are considering other modes of transportation for their freight movements,” said Keith Andrey, vice president, UPS ocean freight services. “In the two years that we’ve offered the PLCL service in Asia, we have seen a great deal of customer interest in an expedited ocean freight product.  Now that we are expanding this service to Europe, we can help customers bridge the gap between the speed of air freight and the economy of ocean freight to better compete in the global market.”

UPS’s PLCL service was first launched in the spring of 2011.  The time-in-transit improvements are the result of leveraging UPS’s existing North American freight network. UPS continues to be a leader in the ocean freight market for expedited LCL services, providing service from 26 Asian ports and now four Western European ports.

Companies positioned to benefit from this expedited ocean freight service include U.S. importers and European customers in the industrial, automotive, retail and healthcare industries.

As a top 10 global freight forwarder and one of the world's top U.S. Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs), UPS provides a complete portfolio of ocean freight services ranging from transportation to a Supplier Management service that handles overseas vendors and orders. To learn more about UPS's ocean freight offerings and access our global freight services videos, visit ups.com/global freight.

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.

*Transit times will vary based on origin, destination and commodity and is not guaranteed.

Monday, March 25, 2013

C.H. Robinson Named a 2013 National Top Workplace; Increases Headcount in 2012


Eden Prairie, MN (March 25, 2013) — C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., one of the world’s largest logistics companies, has been named one of America’s Top Workplaces by WorkplaceDynamics. C.H. Robinson was ranked #65 nationwide among 872 organizations with more than 1,000 employees that participated in regional top workplaces programs.

Being named a National Top Workplace comes during a time of job growth at C.H. Robinson. Worldwide, the company added 720 jobs in 2012 and along with two acquisitions, employed 10,929 individuals at the end of the year, a 30.8 percent growth rate from 2011.
Currently, C.H. Robinson has over 400 job openings throughout their North American office network.  Openings range from support staff to account managers, sales, and various IT positions.

“Our employees have spoken and their collective voice confirms what we have known for a very long time: that C.H. Robinson is one of the best places to work in the world,” said Angie Freeman, vice president of Human Resources at C.H. Robinson. “We have a dynamic culture that allows fun and opportunity while still working hard to achieve company goals and to make a difference in the community.  Combined with our philosophy to promote from within and reward performance, you have a recipe for our employees to develop a long-term, successful career at C.H. Robinson.”

In addition to being recognized as a National Top Workplace, C.H. Robinson has been named a “Best Place to Work” by the Minneapolis/Saint Paul Business Journal for 11 years, the most for any company on the 2012 list.

The National Top Workplaces list was determined solely by feedback gathered through an objective employee survey. The survey was conducted by WorkplaceDynamics, LLP in conjunction with 30 leading regional newspapers.

Details about current job openings, internships and recruiting calendar are available at jobs.chrobinson.com.

About C.H. Robinson:

Founded in 1905, C.H. Robinson is a global provider of multimodal logistics services and fresh produce sourcing to 42,000 customers through a network of 276 offices and over 10,900 employees around the world. The company works with 56,000 transportation providers worldwide. C.H. Robinson is a Fortune 500 company and has annual revenues in 2012 of over $11 billion.

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.

Friday, March 22, 2013

Canadian Pacific announces annual meeting of shareholders & filing of Management Proxy Circular


CALGARY, March 22, 2013 - Canadian Pacific (TSX:CP)(NYSE:CP) today announced its annual meeting of shareholders to be held at the Royal York Hotel in Toronto, Ontario on Wednesday, May 1, 2013, at 9:00 am eastern standard time.

Paul Haggis, Chairman of the Board of Directors, will chair the meeting and the Company's Chief Executive Officer, E. Hunter Harrison will review the company's 2012 performance and talk about the transformational journey that is occurring at CP. Mr. Harrison will then be joined by Keith Creel, President & Chief Operating Officer, to answer questions from shareholders.

There will be a live audio webcast of the meeting available on the company's corporate website www.cpr.ca.

The company also filed today its Management Proxy Circular which is available at www.cpr.ca, as well as on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

About Canadian Pacific:

Canadian Pacific (TSX:CP)(NYSE:CP) is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to eight major ports, including Vancouver and Montreal, providing North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is a low-cost provider that is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of Canadian Pacific.

Panama Canal Authority Board of Directors’ Chairman Hears Savannah Update


Savannah, Ga. – March 22, 2013 – In a visit to the Port of Savannah today, Panama’s Minister for Canal Affairs Roberto Roy described progress on the canal expansion, and heard the latest news on deepening the Savannah Harbor to 47 feet.

“With the historic expansion of the Panama Canal nearing completion, I applaud Georgia for making the improvement of its port infrastructure a fiscal priority,” said Roy, who also serves as Panama Canal Board Chairman.

The Record of Decision, signifying final federal approval for the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project, was issued in October 2012. The Record of Decision also means that federal funding for construction can be allotted in the FY2014 budget.

“This final clearance affirms this project carries national significance; it is a major milestone,” said GPA Executive Director Curtis Foltz. “The next step is for Congress to approve the project budget and fund the deepening.”

Earlier in the week, Roy met with Georgia Governor Nathan Deal, who stressed the importance of both maritime projects.

“The expanded Panama Canal will play a pivotal role in the future of global commerce, instituting a sea change in the efficiency of Trans-Atlantic trade,” said Gov. Deal. “As the busiest terminal on the East Coast for U.S. export tonnage, it is vital for the Port of Savannah to prepare for the larger ships that will soon transit via Panama.”

The Panama Canal expansion will increase the maximum possible draft of vessels traveling to and from the U.S. East Coast via Panama from 39.5 feet to as much as 50 feet in tropical fresh water. Vessel capacity will also increase from the current limit of up to 5,000 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TUEs) to up to approximately 13,000 TEUs. The work is scheduled for completion in 2015.

Georgia Ports Authority Board Chairman Robert Jepson noted that U.S. Army Corps of Engineers studies indicate the port deepening will reduce shipping costs by at least $213 million a year.

“The 5.5-to-1 benefit-to-cost ratio demonstrates that the expenditure would be a wise investment of federal dollars,” Jepson said.

The Georgia Ports Authority renewed its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Panama Canal Authority in 2011. It was first signed in 2003. This strategic alliance allows both authorities to improve services for customers and generate new economic opportunities for Georgia and the eastern half of the United States. Areas of cooperation include, among others, joint marketing efforts, exchange of data, market studies, expansion plans, training and technology.

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) is the autonomous agency of the Government of Panama in charge of managing, operating and maintaining the Panama Canal. The operation of the ACP is based on its organic law and the regulations approved by its Board of Directors. For more information, please refer to the ACP's website: http://www.pancanal.com/. You can also follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/thepanamacanal.

Georgia’s deepwater ports and inland barge terminals support more than 352,000 jobs throughout the state annually and contribute $18.5 billion in income, $66.9 billion in revenue and $2.5 billion in state and local taxes to Georgia’s economy. The Port of Savannah was the second busiest U.S. container port for the export of American goods by tonnage in FY2011. It also handled 8.7 percent of the U.S. containerized cargo volume and 12.5 percent of all U.S. containerized exports in FY2011.

Budget 2013 Builds Capacity in the Short Sea Shipping Industry


OTTAWA, March 21, 2013 - The Canadian Shipowners Association (CSA) congratulates Minister Flaherty on a budget that will ensure Canada continues on a path of growth and prosperity into the future.

The budget's strong focus on skills and training for current and new Canadians as well as programs that will support the Canadian labour market has shown the government clearly understands the needs of businesses across the country. The creation of the Canada Job Grant and the "Expression of Interest" immigration management system and the dedication of $19 million for outreach support are important tools to help our industry grow its human capital.

"Like many industries in Canada, the short sea shipping industry requires well-trained and experienced workers to keep its companies growing and supporting the economy," said Robert Lewis-Manning, President of the CSA. "Budget 2013 is an important step towards ensuring that the targeted skills development our country requires is in place where and when it is needed."

The CSA was equally pleased to see the government renew its commitment to infrastructure. Our industry plays an important role in linking Canadian commodities to continental and global markets. With short sea shipping eligible for the $21.8 billion Community Improvement Fund, we applaud the government for recognizing the critical place that infrastructure holds in keeping Canada at the forefront as a trading nation.
With a membership of small and medium sized companies that provide vital transportation services, the Canadian Shipowners Association employs Canadians on Canadian ships on Canadian waters.

About the Canadian Shipowners Association:

The Canadian Shipowners Association (CSA) has been representing the interests of Canadian companies with domestically flagged vessels for over 110 years. The Association advocates in the development of marine policy, regulations and operational matters for ship owners operating vessels on the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence Waterway, the Arctic and the eastern seaboard of the United States and Canada.

Canadian Government Leveraging Military Procurement to Drive Jobs in High-end Manufacturing


CADSI Strongly Endorses Government's "Positive, Unambiguous Policy Statement" on Defence Procurement Strategy in Federal Budget

OTTAWA, March 21, 2013 - The Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI) strongly endorses the federal government's commitment to create and implement a defence procurement strategy in which Canadian companies will be part of any plan to build equipment for the Canadian Forces, as expressed today in the federal Budget.

"Military procurement is the largest single area of discretionary spending the government has," said Mr. Page.  "The Government is boldly seizing the opportunity this spending represents to create jobs, especially high-end manufacturing jobs, in the Canadian defence and security sector.  This is an important step forward, putting Canada on a similar footing to other highly industrialized countries with clear strategies to promote their defence and security sectors."

Mr. Page added, "The government's commitment in the Budget recognizes that it is in the national interest to have a strong, innovative, domestic defence-related manufacturing base that produces leading edge equipment, generates high-value exports, and supports knowledge-based jobs for Canadians."

CADSI had broadly supported recommendations put forward by OpenText chairman Tom Jenkins in his report to the government on leveraging defence procurement around Key Industrial Capabilities in the Canadian sector.  "Our industry is delighted that the government endorsed Tom Jenkins' proposal to use Key Industrial Capabilities to leverage military procurement and has committed to expediting the implementation of the Jenkins recommendations this Spring," said Mr. Page.

Mr. Page welcomed the Government's commitment to actively promoting the significant export opportunities for Canadian-produced goods and services in the defence and security sector, which are crucial to the long term success and sustainability of the industry.
Page said the government has recognized that implementing the announced procurement strategy in the Budget includes the need for process reform.  Two key elements of the proposed reform package, which CADSI strongly endorses, are:

• a plan for participation by Canadian industry prior to approving defence projects; and,
• an effective challenge function at the front end of the procurement process to better manage risk, cost, and equipment specifications.

"We look forward to getting down to business with the government at its first opportunity, to contribute to the effective and timely implementation of these very important policy commitments."

CADSI is the voice of Canada's defence and security industries. CADSI represents over 950 member companies who are essential contributors to Canada's national defence and security. The sector employs 109, 000 Canadians and generated over 12.6 billion dollars to the Canadian economy in 2011.

Thursday, March 21, 2013

FREIGHT EXCHANGE OF NORTH AMERICA OPENS LAREDO TERMINAL


A leading North American truckload carrier opens its sixth terminal. Adjacent to the largest non-sea-based land port in the U.S, Laredo, Texas, this terminal further solidifies Freight Exchange’s standing as a major carrier in supporting NAFTA cross border trade.

CHICAGO, March 21, 2013 – Freight Exchange North America (F/X) has announced the planned opening of their newest terminal in Laredo, TX. The terminal, which is the company’s sixth, is meant to deepen its strong hold of the Texas cross border market. The new terminal will give F/X’s customers complete coverage of the major Mexican border crossing points in Texas and act as a base for recruiting owner operators.  The new terminal will feature a large trailer yard, tractor parking, sales and recruiting office and many other driver amenities.

F/X was recently named a 2013 Best Fleets to Drive For “Fleets to Watch” by Truckload Carriers Association and Carriers Edge.  The “Fleets to Watch” award honors companies demonstrating innovation in their driver programs.  
“We are very happy to add Laredo to our network, our customers and owner operators have been asking us to open a Laredo terminal for years,” said Todd Bennett, president of F/X. “Only because of their tremendous support of F/X were we able to answer their call for this new facility”.

F/X plans to grow more terminals in 2013. By continuing the geographic expansion strategy across the US, F/X can provide more service offerings for customers as well as provide a friendly network to its fleet of drivers. Bennett believes that factoring customer and driver needs into decisions affecting growth is the best way to add value to the enterprise.


About Freight Exchange of North America:

Freight Exchange of North America (F/X) is a full truckload carrier providing service to the continental U.S., Canada and Mexico. With strategically placed terminals in Southern California, El Paso, Dallas, Laredo, The Rio Grande Valley and Chicago, F/X has a superior network to cater to a wide array of customers across the country. F/X also supports NAFTA trade in Mexico and Canada. Driven by flexibility, responsiveness to customer needs, and a strong focus on safety, F/X is recognized by countless shippers as one of the premier full truckload carriers in North America. F/X is a subsidiary of Chicago-based Transportation Solutions Enterprises LLC. www.fxfreight.com

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Heiner Murmann appointed to Management Board of Schenker AG


Responsible for global air and ocean freight business of DB Schenker Logistics

Berlin/Essen, March 20, 2013 - Heiner Murmann has been appointed by the Supervisory Board of Essen-based Schenker AG to the company's Management Board effective May 1, 2013.

He will be responsible for air and ocean freight. Murmann, born in Germany, began working for the group in 1992, first at Stinnes AG in Mülheim an der Ruhr and in New York.

He transferred to Canada in 1996, assuming responsibility for developing the national company there. Three years later, he was appointed CEO of Schenker of Canada Limited. In late 2003, Murmann also became CEO of Schenker, Inc., DB Schenker's national company in the United States.

When BAX Global was acquired and integrated, Murmann took on responsibility for North American operations. There he oversaw the successful realignment of business in the region. Dr. Thomas C. Lieb, who is currently responsible for global air and ocean freight, will be focusing on his position as CEO of Schenker AG in the future.

"Heiner Murmann will help us strengthen and further expand our leading position on the air and ocean freight market," said Dr. Karl-Friedrich Rausch, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Schenker AG and Member of the Management Board of DB Mobility Logistics AG responsible for Transportation and Logistics.

"Our trade and industrial customers around the globe are dependent on reliable chains of service, and we will continue to develop innovative solutions in air and ocean freight," Rausch said.

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Con-way Issues First Quarter Update


ANN ARBOR, Mich., March 19, 2013 -- Con-way Inc. (NYSE:CNW) today provided an update on first quarter 2013 trends at Con-way Freight, the company's less-than-truckload unit.

Weight per day in the first quarter of 2013 is expected to be down approximately 1.5 percent compared to the first quarter of last year. First quarter 2013 revenue per hundredweight, excluding the impact of fuel surcharges, is expected to increase approximately 3.5 percent over the first quarter of 2012.

In addition, several items during the first quarter of 2013 have negatively impacted near-term profitability. These items primarily include: a reserve for a large vehicular claim, a charge related to a transition to new technology, costs associated with adverse weather, and field training expenses pertaining to line-haul optimization. Collectively, these items are expected to impact Con-way Freight's first quarter 2013 operating income by approximately $14 million.

Importantly, the key 2013 initiatives at Con-way Freight, while still in early stages, are on track with internal projections. These initiatives, lane-based pricing and line-haul optimization, are expected to provide increasingly improved results as the year progresses.

"Tonnage trends, while below last year, have been relatively stable throughout the first quarter and our core operational performance is trending in the right direction," stated Douglas W. Stotlar, Con-way Inc. President and CEO. "Despite the near-term cost headwinds at Con-way Freight, confidence in our key initiatives and the ability to expand margins -- particularly in the second half of 2013 -- is being reinforced each day."

Con-way Inc. will release consolidated results for the first quarter of 2013 after the market close on Wednesday, May 1, 2013 and host a conference call for the investment community at 8:30 am ET on Thursday, May 2, 2013.

ABOUT CON-WAY INC. -- Con-way Inc. (NYSE:CNW) is a $5.6 billion freight transportation and logistics services company headquartered in Ann Arbor, Mich. Con-way delivers industry-leading services through its primary operating companies of Con-way Freight, Con-way Truckload and Menlo Worldwide Logistics. These operating units provide high-performance, day-definite less-than- truckload (LTL), full truckload and multimodal freight transportation, as well as logistics, warehousing and supply chain management services. Con-way also operates Road Systems Inc., a trailer refurbishing and manufacturing company which supplies trailing equipment to the company's trucking fleets. 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 www.con-way.com

Port of Halifax News


March 19, 2013: An email letter from Karen Oldfield, President and CEO, Halifax Port Authority

We have some good news to share about the container business at the Port of Halifax. Starting this Spring, the Port will have three new container shipping lines calling with an Asian-Suez service – APL, MOL and Hyundai. With this addition, Halifax will have 10 of the top 15 global carriers providing service in our port.

"Big ships", to a maximum capacity of 10,000 TEUs, will be deployed on this service with exact vessel size and terminal nomination to be soon finalized.

Halifax has been targeting this type of Asian service as part of our container growth strategy. This service plays to our Port’s strengths including transit time advantages via the Suez Canal, deep container berths, rail connectivity to major inland markets, and modern, well-equipped terminals.

Thanks to all Port of Halifax supply chain partners involved in recent years with marketing and developing Halifax as a "big ship" container port. Private and public investments, combined with HPA reinvestment in infrastructure, have positioned Halifax well to tap into the evolving container industry. Today, Asia represents 48% of Halifax’s cargo and we have potential to grow volumes over Asian trade lanes. We are pleased that a Canadian port is included in this new service, which provides Atlantic Canadian and Canadian companies with direct access to the important growth markets in Asia.

As the G6 Alliance finalizes plans for this new Asia Suez express service, we will share more details with customers and port stakeholders.

Regards,

Karen Oldfield
President and CEO, Halifax Port Authority

This message was sent by: Halifax Port Authority, P.O. Box 336, Halifax, NS B3J 2P6

Cargolux Launches Twice-Weekly Cargo Service from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport to Luxembourg


One of Europe's largest cargo airlines connects DFW with its global freighter service

DFW AIRPORT, Texas, March 19, 2013 -- Cargolux Airlines International S.A., one of Europe's largest cargo airlines, tomorrow will launch its first freighter flight connecting Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Luxembourg.

The twice-weekly operation will be operated with Cargolux's new 747-8 freighters, offering cargo customers fast and efficient overseas cargo service.

The new service is routed from Luxembourg to Baku, Azerbaijan and then Hong Kong and on to DFW Airport.  The round-the-world flight returns to Luxembourg after touching down at DFW on Wednesdays. The second weekly flight will operate on Saturdays starting March 23, and is routed via Mexico. Offering increased network reach to customers, this service expands the airline's Trans-Pacific services and meets the growing demand for electronic components and IT-related commodities from Asia to Texas.

"DFW is proud to welcome Cargolux to Texas," said Jeff Fegan, DFW Airport's Chief Executive Officer. "This is the kind of air service expansion that makes our Airport a major economic driver for the Dallas-Fort Worth region. We've worked very hard to bring Cargolux to DFW Airport, and we're confident that our Airport will become a major U.S. market for this renowned carrier."

The new Cargolux flight highlights DFW Airport's commitment to expanding its cargo service to connect the world. Cargo airlines at DFW enjoy a multitude of amenities, including two million square feet of cargo warehouse space, seven unrestricted runways, 24-hour-a-day/seven-day-a-week operations, and a prime geographic location for efficient distribution of goods across the central United States.

The expansion of cargo service often serves as a leading indicator of economic growth. Luxembourg has one of the world's most robust economies with the largest GDP per capita.  Because the Dallas/Fort Worth region represents one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the United States, the DFW region remains a key strategic market for expansion.
"DFW's commitment to growing its cargo portfolio is paying off with service such as this new Cargolux flight to Luxembourg," said Luis Perez, Vice President for Air Service Development at DFW.

"Our mission is to bring more air service to the citizens of Dallas/Fort Worth, which brings more economic opportunity, jobs and growth to our region."

In the last decade, DFW's cargo service has more than tripled. More than 664-thousand metric tonnes of cargo shipped from DFW in 2012, with almost half of that total shipped by international cargo carriers. DFW currently serves as home to a total of 18 dedicated cargo airlines.

About DFW International Airport:

Located halfway between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, DFW International Airport is the world's fourth busiest, offering 1,900 flights per day and serving 58 million passengers a year. DFW provides nonstop service to 149 domestic and 52 international destinations worldwide. For five consecutive years, DFW has ranked in the top five for customer service among large airports worldwide in surveys conducted by Airports Council International. For the latest news, real-time flight information, parking availability or further details regarding the many services provided at DFW International Airport, visit www.dfwairport.com or download the official DFW Airport mobile app for iOS, Android or Blackberry devices.

Georgia’s Fifth Annual Logistics Summit to Attract 2,000 Attendees


ATLANTA, March 19, 2013 – The fifth annual Georgia Logistics Summit will be held on March 19-20, 2013 at the Georgia World Congress Center. The Summit is hosted by the Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics, a division of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, and is the only industry-driven, state-led event of its kind and size in the nation and continues to grow in attendance each year. The Summit is expected to attract a record 2,000 attendees.

“As we celebrate our fifth year, I’m thrilled at how the Summit has rapidly grown to become one of the largest logistics industry gatherings in the U.S., “said Page Siplon, executive director of the Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics.

The new “2013 Georgia Logistics Report: A Global Perspective” (http://bit.ly/149yXq2) will be released at the Summit. The report takes a unique and current look across key sectors of the logistics ecosystem including trucking, rail, air cargo, ocean cargo, warehousing/distribution, and retail/manufacturing and explores the changing logistics landscape at a global, national and state level for each of these sectors.  The report is a reference guide filled with data, charts, and information extracted and summarized from over 300+ industry and government resources from around the world.  It’s a starting point for industry professionals looking to expand into new markets or just keep up with the current state of the global logistics industry.

The 2013 Summit will feature four new interactive panel discussions in line with the Summit’s theme, “Connect. Compete. Grow.” Attendees will get a chance to interact with some of Georgia’s newest located and expanding companies in the “New Kids on the Block” panel; hear updates from truck, rail, air, and sea transportation leaders in the “Rapid Fire Transportation Update” panel; participate in a Q&A with some of the industry’s most recognized experts in the “Ask the Experts” panel; and learn about business opportunities with experts from around the world in the “International Logistics Partnerships & Possibilities” panel.

Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal will kick off the Summit by sharing a State of the State logistics-focused update. The lunch keynote speaker will be Richard Westenberger, CFO of Carter’s, Inc., who will cover the impact of multi-channel commerce on logistics and retail operations. In addition, the Summit will offer networking events and industry-focused opportunity sessions for food, manufacturing and retail. Opportunity sessions will be led by a diverse list of seasoned industry executives. The Summit’s Growth Champion partners include Coca-Cola Refreshments, CSX Transportation, Delta Cargo, Georgia Ports Authority, Georgia Power, Manhattan Associates, Microsoft, Norfolk Southern, The Home Depot, and UPS.

Georgia’s seamless logistics ecosystem allows companies to move people and products quickly and easily by air, road, railway and sea. Georgia is home to the world busiest passenger airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and to the world’s largest carrier, Delta Air Lines. Eighty percent of the U.S. is within a two-day truck haul from Georgia. The Peach State has the Southeast's most extensive rail system and largest intermodal hub, and the Port of Savannah is the fastest-growing and fourth-largest U.S. port in total volumes. These among other key logistics assets give companies doing business in Georgia a competitive edge.

About GDEcD:  The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) plans, manages and mobilizes state resources to attract new business investment to Georgia, drive the expansion of existing industry and small business, locate new markets for Georgia products, inspire tourists to visit Georgia, and promote the state as a top destination for arts events and film, music and digital entertainment projects. More information on Georgia’s services for international trade and other industries is available at www.georgia.org.

About the Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics:  The Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics is the leading statewide resource for fueling logistics industry growth and global competitiveness. Directly assisting companies to overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities related to the movement of freight, the Center provides focused expertise, specific industry data, connections to state resources, and an extensive cross-sector industry network. For more information please visit www.georgialogistics.com.

Echo Global Logistics, Inc. Acquires Open Mile, Inc.


CHICAGO, March 19, 2013 -- Echo Global Logistics, Inc. (Nasdaq: ECHO), a leading provider of technology-enabled transportation and supply chain management services, has acquired Open Mile, Inc., a truckload brokerage headquartered in Boston, MA.

Founded in 2010, Open Mile is a non-asset transportation service provider that combines high tech automation with freight management expertise to create superior shipping services for clients and carriers.

 “Open Mile has developed leading edge, cloud-based technology that successfully automates many of the manual tasks of transportation management,” said Douglas R. Waggoner, Chief Executive Officer of Echo Global Logistics.  “The acquisition of Open Mile enhances the technology solutions we offer clients and carriers while also expanding our client base, sales force and carrier network in the Northeastern United States.”

"Echo is the premier third party logistics firm in the transportation industry,” stated Evan Schumacher, CEO of Open Mile. "We look forward to joining the Echo team and contributing to the industry leading technology that drives their business.”

About Echo Global Logistics:

Echo Global Logistics, based in Chicago, is a leading provider of technology-enabled transportation and supply chain management services.  Echo maintains a proprietary web-based technology platform that compiles and analyzes data from its network of over 24,000 transportation providers to serve its clients' transportation and supply chain management needs. Echo services clients across a wide range of industries, such as manufacturing, construction, consumer products and retail. For more information on Echo, visit: www.echo.com.

Monday, March 18, 2013

Manitoulin Group of Companies Acquires Cratex Industries Ltd.


EDMONTON, Alberta – March 18, 2013 – Manitoulin Group of Companies announced today that it has acquired Cratex Industries Ltd., Alberta’s largest crating, packaging and export services company, based in Edmonton. This is the fourth acquisition Manitoulin has made since May 2012, demonstrating its continued commitment to building out a portfolio of services that fulfill the total supply chain requirements of its customers.

“We are delighted to welcome Cratex Industries into our expanding Manitoulin family,” said Gord Smith, chief executive officer, Manitoulin Group of Companies, in a press release.  “The company shares our culture of excellence and dedication to customer service, and is a terrific fit for us.  Cratex is a valuable addition to Manitoulin as it complements our existing businesses. Our intent is to eventually expand Cratex to other locations and provide an even greater breadth of service for our customers.”

Headquartered in Edmonton, with a facility in Calgary, Cratex has been providing professional packaging for the shipment of manufactured goods since it was established in 1989.  A leading supplier to Alberta’s oil and gas technology services sector, the company’s offerings include: crating, skidding, poly wrap, container loading and unloading, mobile site teams and project packaging.

“Cratex has been sought out worldwide to securely package items as delicate as an entire dinosaur fossil, to something as immense and bulky as a C-130 freight plane,” says Smith.  “Clearly, we’re bringing in a capable company with the expertise to handle a highly diverse range of packaging requirements. We’re extremely excited about how this new addition will enhance our existing customer offerings.”

Manitoulin intends to retain all Cratex employees, with Ron Holdinga, its former owner, staying on as president.  Cratex’s customers will continue to have access to all of its offerings, and experience the same high level of customer service they have come to expect.

About Manitoulin Group of Companies:

Manitoulin Group of Companies is one of Canada’s leading transportation and logistics solutions providers.  It has over 50 years’ experience servicing a variety of industries and some of the world’s largest organizations.  As a single source provider, its offerings include; expedited LTL/TL, customs brokerage, global forwarding, warehousing, logistics, global time critical service, packaging and supply chain management. Manitoulin leverages its extensive network to connect businesses across Canada and around the world.  For more information, please visit: www.manitoulingroup.com


Thursday, March 14, 2013

WTS International Announces 2013 Award Winners


March 14, 2013—(Washington, DC) WTS International, the association for the professional advancement of women in transportation, just announced that it has selected the winners of its annual recognition awards for 2013. Each of the five awards will be presented at an awards banquet on May 16 during the 2013 WTS Annual Conference in Philadelphia, PA. The recognition award winners are:

• Woman of the Year – Beverley Swaim-Staley, President/CEO, Union Station Redevelopment Corporation
• Member of the Year – Lupe Harriger, Former Senior Transportation Planner, Arizona DOT
• Employer of the Year – HDR Engineering
• Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award – Ann Richards School for Young Women
• Innovative Transportation Solutions Award – Presidio Parkway Project

“Beverley Swaim-Staley’s efforts for women and minorities in the transportation industry are a testament to her passion for workforce development, a mission aligned with WTS International’s goals. We’re honored that she brings her professional acumen for making a difference in the industry to our organization and appreciative of the opportunities she is working on for our members. We congratulate her on her Woman of the Year recognition,” said Marcia Ferranto, WTS President and CEO. Prior to her current post at USRC, Beverley Swaim-Staley was the first woman to be appointed as Maryland’s Transportation Secretary, a department with 10,000 employees and a $3.6B annual budget.  As Secretary, Ms. Swaim-Staley directed initiatives to assure Maryland’s national prominence in the area of minority business development by enhancing the State’s Minority Business Enterprise Program.  She also developed the first office within MDOT dedicated to comprehensively addressing equity and diversity issues. Ms. Swaim-Staley was recently named by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials as one of the nation’s most influential women in the transportation industry. In 2010, she was named by the Maryland Washington Minority Contractors’ Association as the Most Inclusive Government Leader of the Year for Minority Business Enterprise.

Lupe Harriger, a member of WTS since 1998, was nominated for WTS Member of the Year by her local chapter in Phoenix, AZ. This recognition is awarded to a member who has shown extraordinary commitment to the goals and growth of WTS, has promoted the reputation of WTS within the transportation industry, has worked effectively to strengthen communication between local and national levels or between chapters, and has done an outstanding job of revitalizing or expanding a chapter or any of its functions.  “Serving the transportation industry for 23 years at ADOT, Lupe has not only been a fixture of WTS, but has been an example of the professionalism of our industry.  Her upbeat and supportive style exemplifies the essence of WTS, and her passion for the mission to advance women in transportation has helped create the strong chapter we all benefit from today,” said Alicia Robertson, WTS Metropolitan Phoenix Chapter president. Among her many contributions to the association over the years, Ms. Harriger has shared her experience with other new members as a formal mentor in the WTS mentorship program, imparting the lessons of her many years of professional and chapter experience.

The Employer of the Year recognition is awarded each year to an organization that has enhanced the transportation industry through its commitment to excellence and quality in its services or products, has an outstanding record of affirmative action in hiring and promoting at all employment levels, supports continuing education of its employees, and encourages women students to enter the transportation field by providing internship opportunities. “HDR is honored to be recognized as the WTS International 2013 Employer of the Year. We are proud supporters of WTS and its mission, and we‘re committed to a diverse workforce and strongly believe that diversity makes us a better company,” said Dorri Giles Raposa, Senior Vice President with HDR.

HDR’s affirmative action initiative is robust.  Professional development, internships, and professional growth through mentorship and training ensure that HDR’s current and future female employees have the support and role models they need for a successful career.  HDR is also a strong supporter of WTS and other professional organizations that promote women in the engineering and transportation industries.  “HDR is a very strong supporter of WTS both locally and internationally, and we are very pleased to be awarding the firm with Employer of the Year. Their dedication to affirmative action, professional development, and continuing education make HDR a model organization for the industry,” said Ferranto. HDR’s record for hiring and promoting women at all levels of the organization are noteworthy for the male-dominated industry; of its 7,800 employees, 32% are women and 18% are minorities. The company places value on providing flex time and part-time opportunities, and offers in-house training and tuition reimbursement programs.

The Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award is awarded for exhibiting extraordinary efforts or initiatives in facilitating professional opportunities for women and minorities and contributing significantly to the promotion of diversity, inclusion, and multi-cultural awareness.  The Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders, a public school in Austin, TX, serving girls in 6th - 11th grades, is a unique all-girls school founded to educate young women and give them the confidence and skills necessary to succeed in college, in their careers, and in their communities. The academic curriculum is challenging with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), encouraging students in areas and careers where girls are under-represented. The single-gender setting allows for unique instruction specific to issues encountered by girls and women. Research has found that single-gender classrooms may be particularly helpful to girls at the developmental level of early adolescence.

The Ann Richards School dedicates itself to prepare young women to attend and graduate from college, commit to a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle, lead others with courage and compassion, and solve problems creatively and ethically in support of the global community. During the 2011 - 2012 school year, 61% percent of students were Hispanic, 22% were Caucasian, 13% were African-American, 3% were Asian-American and 1% were American Indian/Alaskan Native. Approximately 60% of the students qualify for free and reduced meals. The demographics of the student body mirror that of the local community.

Presidio Parkway Project in San Francisco will receive the Innovative Transportation Solutions Award, created to recognize its application of innovative techniques to overcome obstacles and the difference it has made in people’s lives. The project is a multi-year effort to replace Doyle Drive, the 1.5 mile segment of Highway 101 that carried traffic between the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco from 1936 until the historic traffic shift onto a seismically-safe temporary bypass in April 2012. The world-class design will improve the seismic, structural, and traffic safety of the roadway, and supports community accessibility, environmental goals, and employment opportunities through enhanced pedestrian connections, improved natural environments, and a small-business program.

The Awards Banquet will be held during the 2013 WTS Annual Conference, being held this year in Philadelphia, PA, May 15 – 17. As WTS International’s flagship event, it attracts more than 500 corporate and governmental industry leaders worldwide, including executives, CEOs, government administrators, and leading engineering authorities. For more information about the conference, visit www.WTSinternational.org or contact Margaret Mullins, WTS Managing Director, at 202-955-5085.

WTS International and WTS Foundation, headquartered in Washington, DC, seeks to attract, retain, and advance women in transportation. As the industry's premier multi-modal association, WTS boasts a network of more than 5,000 transportation professionals—women and men from across the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. Every transportation mode is represented, as is every service within the industry. From federal leaders to engineers and planners, the WTS membership base represents nearly 1,500 companies and 400 agencies in more than 90 cities. WTS Foundation has provided more than $1,000,000 in scholarships to deserving women throughout the transportation industry, supporting the next generation of transportation professionals and advancing the principles of WTS. More information can be found at www.WTSinternational.org

GHX Honors “Best 50” Healthcare Providers for Streamlining Operations and Reducing Costs Through Supply Chain Excellence


Small-to-midsize hospitals top the list, as top five hospitals save an average of $1M each in 2012

LOUISVILLE, Colo. – March 13, 2013 – For their work in improving operational performance and driving down costs through supply chain automation, GHX is honoring 50 healthcare provider organizations with its 2012 GHX Best 50 Customer awards. The award recipients will be honored at the 2013 GHX Healthcare Supply Chain Summit, which takes place May 20-22, 2013, in Las Vegas.

To select the Best 50, GHX looked across the landscape of more than 4,000 hospitals in the U.S. and Canada currently connected to the GHX electronic trading exchange and identified top performers on a number of key metrics, such as purchasing and invoice volume, exception rates, exchange utilization and trading partner connections. GHX then identified the 50 healthcare organizations that scored highest across all of these categories during the 2012 calendar year.

The top five organizations on the Best 50 list are, in order:
1) Virginia Mason Medical Center
2) Edward Hospital and Health Services
3) Tufts Medical Center
4) Crouse Hospital
5) Scottsdale Healthcare

Looking at results for 2012, each of the top five organizations – the largest of which is a three hospital system with fewer than 800 beds and the smallest is a single hospital with fewer than 300 beds – saved an average of $1M by working with GHX to automate purchase orders and invoices, take control of contract spend and increase their electronic trading partner connections. Lower utilization of the GHX exchange and fewer electronic trading partners were the hallmarks of lower-performing hospitals of similar sizes. When compared with the top five organizations, lower-ranked but similarly sized hospitals saved an average of $94,000 annually. The savings analysis was conducted using the GHX 5-in-5 model, which was validated by global management consulting firm PRTM.*

“By comparing savings figures for the top performers to those at the bottom of the ranking, it becomes clear: organizations that have made supply chain automation a priority are deriving the greatest value through both dollars savings and efficiencies,” said GHX chief commercial officer Derek Smith. “These results show us the savings among hospitals with a strong commitment to automation is almost 1000% higher than savings in organizations where we see far less automation. GHX is enabling an average of $1M in savings each year for these hospitals to reinvest in their organizations, so they can continually be providing the best patient care.”

The 2012 GHX Best 50 Customers are as follows (in alphabetical order):

> Akron General Health System
> Allina Hospitals and Clinics
> Baptist Health – Jacksonville
> Bellin Health
> BJC Healthcare
> Bon Secours Health System Inc.
> Centra Health
> Central DuPage Health
> Centura Health
> Community Health Network
> Crouse Hospital
> Edward Hospital and Health Services
> El Camino Hospital
> Fairview Health Services
> Hackensack University Medical Center
> Harborview Medical Center
> HealthEast Care System
> HealthPartners Inc.
> Indiana University Health
> Jackson Health System
> Lahey Clinic
> Mary Washington Healthcare
> MedStar Health
> Memorial Sloan Kettering
> NorthBay Healthcare
> Overlake Hospital
> Parkview Medical Center
> Pitt County Memorial Hospital
> Presbyterian Healthcare Services
> Rockingham Memorial Hospital
> Santa Clara Valley Health and Hospital System
> Scottsdale Healthcare
> Seattle Children's Hospital
> Shands HealthCare
> Shands Jacksonville
> Shared Support Services Southeastern Ontario (3SO)
> Sisters of Charity - Providence Hospitals
> Southwest General Health Center
> St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center
> St. Joseph's/Candler
> Tucson Medical Center
> Tufts Medical Center
> University of California
> University of Colorado Hospital
> University of Maryland Medical Systems (UMMS)
> Valley Medical Center
> ValleyCare Health System
> Vanderbilt University Medical Center
> Virginia Commonwealth University Health System
> Virginia Mason Medical Center
> Westchester Medical Center


*Since January 2010, GHX has been tracking savings achieved by its customers as part of its “5-in-5” strategic goal of cutting $5 billion in healthcare costs over five years. The model GHX is utilizing to track its “5 in 5” goal was validated by PRTM, the global management consulting firm that developed the Supply-Chain Operations Reference-model (SCOR?) process reference model.


About GHX:

Global Healthcare Exchange, LLC (GHX), a healthcare technology and services company, helps reduce the cost of doing business in healthcare by enabling better supply chain management. GHX makes it easier for hospitals, other healthcare providers and the suppliers that do business with them to drive cost and inefficiency out of their processes. Working with GHX, the healthcare organizations that make up the GHX Global Network are on track to save $5 billion by 2014. GHX is owned by organizations on both the buy and sell side of the healthcare supply chain, including some of the largest companies in the world. Find GHX on the Web, on Twitter @GHX_LLC and on Facebook @GHX and get a global perspective on healthcare industry news, issues and trends at the company’s blog, the GHX Healthcare Hub.

Port Authority Board Elects New Officers


MARCH 14, 2013 – The Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority’s Board of Directors elected officers today to new one-year terms, effective immediately.

The Board elected Marc Krantz as Chair, Chris Ronayne as Vice Chair, and Diane Downing as Secretary.

“I am honored to be elected Chair and feel fortunate to succeed Bob Smith, who has led our Board during the last two years with integrity and strong, insightful leadership,” said Krantz.

“The Port will continue to build on our successes and pursue additional strategic growth in our maritime business.  With last year’s expansion of the rail tracks at the Port, we have new capabilities that can be marketed to businesses in Northeast Ohio and across the globe.  Through the use of our finance powers, the Port will continue to take an active role in the key development and re-development projects throughout our community, as well as provide needed capital to businesses throughout our area.”

Krantz is managing partner of the Cleveland law firm of Kohrman Jackson & Krantz. He has served on the Board since 2009, and was for the last two years Vice Chair of the Board, and Chair of the Real Estate and Development Finance Committee.

Ronayne and Downing were both appointed to the Port Board in 2011. Ronayne is president of University Circle Inc.; Downing is senior vice president and regional manager of corporate affairs for Huntington National Bank in Cleveland.

Smith joined the Board in 2007 and served one year as Vice Chair and two years as Chair. He also headed the committee that in 2010 selected Will Friedman to become the Port’s President and CEO.

“It has been a pleasure to work with the highly-qualified individuals on our management team and to see the increased engagement by our Board members,” said Smith. “I am also proud of our 2011 Strategic Action Plan, which set a new direction for the Port to grow its core maritime business and play a more vital role in our community.” Smith will remain on the Board, but chose to continue the recent tradition not to seek re-election to open leadership opportunities for other Directors.
 
During the Board meeting Port Directors also voted to issue up to $90 million in bonds to finance Cuyahoga County’s new headquarters. The project is expected to revitalize an older business district in downtown Cleveland and serve as an anchor for surrounding mixed-use redevelopment.

In other actions the Board agreed to:

* The $2 million sale of a building on E. 40th Street in Cleveland to Charter Stone Capital, LLC. The building is currently leased to I Can Schools. Proceeds will help support the Port’s 2013 capital program.
* The issuance of up to $85 million in bonds for the Medical Center Co., a non-profit that provides electrical, steam and other services to institutions in University Circle. The fixed-rate bonds will be used to refinance existing variable-interest bonds.
* A new one-year operating agreement with Federal Marine Terminals, Inc., which operates the Port’s general cargo facilities.
* Renewal of a one-year operating agreement with Kenmore Construction Co., which uses Port property to receive and distribute bulk construction materials.
* The execution of an agreement with VOCON Inc. for architectural and engineering services at the Port’s new administrative headquarters at 1100 W. 9th Street.  The Port plans to move to the building later this year.

The Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority operates the Port of Cleveland, a leading gateway for waterborne trade on the Great Lakes/St. Lawrence Seaway System. Nearly 18,000 jobs and $1.8 billion in economic activity result from the roughly 13 million tons of cargo that move through Cleveland Harbor on average each year. The Port also provides innovative financing services for a wide range of development projects in Northeast Ohio, and is leading initiatives to solve critical infrastructure challenges along Cleveland’s waterfronts.

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

International Longshoremen's Association Labor Negotiations


Statement by FMCS Director George H. Cohen On United States Maritime Alliance And International Longshoremen's Association Labor Negotiations

WASHINGTON, March 13, 2013 -- Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service Director George H. Cohen issued the following statement today on the labor negotiations between the United States Maritime Alliance and the International Longshoremen's Association:

"I am extremely pleased to announce that today the parties have approved their tentative agreement for a successor Master Agreement.  In doing so, the parties have successfully concluded lengthy, complex and understandably sometimes contentious negotiations concerning a multitude of economic and job related issues. Mutual respect, good old fashioned 'roll up your sleeves' hard work and applying innovative problem solving skills ultimately prevailed."

"This monumental result, which will be submitted to their respective memberships for ratification, paves the way for six years of stable labor-management relations covering all the Atlantic and Gulf Coast ports.  What this means in real life terms is that once again collective bargaining proved up to the task and played a major constructive role in helping to avoid a potential disruption that unquestionably would have had severe impact on the nation's economy—at the precise time that a significant recovery is in progress."

"I especially want to convey my appreciation to ILA President Harold Daggett and USMX Chairman and CEO James Capo for the confidence they exhibited in our agency first by jointly requesting our assistance and thereafter by fully cooperating with myself and my colleagues throughout the mediation process.  Finally, I want to acknowledge the extraordinary contributions of Deputy Director Scot Beckenbaugh, Director of Mediation Services Jack Sweeney and Commissioner Pete Donatello."

The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, created in 1947, is an independent U.S. government agency whose mission is to preserve and promote labor-management peace and cooperation. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 10 district offices and 67 field offices, the agency provides mediation and conflict resolution services to industry, government agencies and communities.

CSCMP Announces New Award Designed to Recognize Emerging Supply Chain Management Leaders


Lombard, Illinois USA (March 4, 2013) --The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals  (CSCMP) announced its inaugural Young Professionals Emerging Leader Award, created to offer up-and-coming leaders in the supply chain management (SCM) field an opportunity to be recognized by their mentors or established leaders. The award recognizes active CSCMP members age 30 or under for their contributions to the industry.
 
Nominees will be evaluated based on three criteria: recognition as up-and-coming leaders; contributions to the SCM profession; and potential future impact on the practice of SCM. Nominations should include  descriptive summaries of the nominees' achievements and contributions in 500 words or less. Summaries should describe specific aspects of the nominees' business and professional experiences, including detailed examples. Submissions must also include one letter of recommendation written by an individual who is involved in the SCM discipline. Letters written by current members of CSCMP's board of directors are not admissible.

The award recipient will be recognized at CSCMP's 2013 Annual Global Conference, October 20-23, in Denver, Colorado, and will be invited to speak in a Young Professionals' educational session at the event. The award winner will also be spotlighted in CSCMP publications, including CSCMP's Supply Chain Quarterly magazine, the CSCMP membership newsletter, and the Young Professionals Bulletin.

Nomination forms and supporting materials for the 2013 Emerging Leader Award must be submitted no later than April 15, 2013. The nomination form and instructions for submission can be found at
cscmp.org/community/awards/emerging-leader-award. Questions regarding the award may be directed to cscmpyp@cscmp.org.

About CSCMP:
 
Since 1963, the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) has been the leading worldwide professional association dedicated to education, research, and the advancement of the supply chain management profession. With more than 9,000 members globally, representing business, government, and academia from 62 countries, CSCMP members are the leading practitioners and authorities in the fields of logistics and supply chain management.

CN Announcement


CN announces results and settlement of Tender Offer and Consent Solicitation for 4.40% Notes due 2013

MONTREAL, March 12, 2013 - CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE: CNI) today announced that holders of 85 per cent of its 4.40% Notes due 2013 have tendered their notes pursuant to the tender offer and consent solicitation commenced by its wholly-owned subsidiary, CNLX Canada Inc., on Feb. 11, 2013. Also today, CNLX Canada Inc. has accepted and paid for the tendered notes.

Notes not tendered and purchased pursuant to the tender offer will remain outstanding until paid by CN on the stated maturity date of March 15, 2013.

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.

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

An Invitation to Leading North American 3PLs


March 12, 2013, Toronto - LQ's team is pleased to announced the 3PL registrations to participate in its 3PL Sustainability Study and Awards Program (2013) have surpassed the number of registrations by 3PLs to participate in this program in 2012.

North America 3PLs interested in participating in this year's 3PL Sustainability Study and Awards Program can register at: http://www.LQ3PLstudy.com (Applications are due by April 26, 2013).

LQ’s team would like to take this opportunity to express its appreciation for the support of the following organizations in contributing to the success its 3PL Sustainability Study and Awards Program this year:

• Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA)
• Cargo Logistics Canada
• LeanCor Supply Chain Group
• Eyefortransport
• The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA)
• The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC)
• Women in Trucking

LQ's team would also like to express its thanks to C.H. Robinson for underwriting LQ's 3PL Sustainability Study and Awards Program for the third consecutive year.

Announcing LQ’s Top North American 3PL Edition


March 7, 2013, Toronto - LQ's Executive Editors are pleased to announce that LQ’s Top North American 3PL Report is now available as a Digital Edition at: www.logisticsquarterly.com.

LQ’s Editorial team would like to take this opportunity to convey our appreciation to the contributors of this year's Top North American 3PL Edition:

Alan Amling, Vice President Marketing, Global Logistics & Distribution, UPS Supply Chain Solutions; Richard Armstrong, Chairman and CEO, Armstrong & Associates; Rick Blasgen, President and CEO, Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP); David J. Closs, PhD, LQ Executive Editor and Chaired Professor of the Eli Broad College of Business, Michigan State University; John Cutler, Jr., General Counsel, NASSTRAC and a Principal of McCarthy, Sweeney & Harkaway, P.C.; Jeff Keckler, Director, U.S. Sales, Boardwalktech; Michel Khennafi, Manager, Distribution Network, CNH North American Parts and Service Organization (NAPO); John Langley Jr., PhD, Clinical Professor of Supply Chain Management and Director of Development for the Center for Supply Chain Research (CSCR), The Penn State Smeal College of Business; Derek Leathers, President and Chief Operating Officer, Werner Enterprises; Clifford F. Lynch, C. F. Lynch & Associates; Michael Mikitka, CMP, CAE, CEO, WERC; Tom Nightingale, President, Sales and Marketing, ModusLink Global Solutions; Christopher Norek, PhD, Senior Partner and Founding Member, Chain Connectors, Inc.; Susan Promane, Director Supply Chain, Parts and Service, Whirlpool Canada; Tom Schmitt, Former President and CEO, Purolator; Guy Toksoy, Vice President, Ryder Canada, Supply Chain Solutions; Kate Vitasek, Faculty Member, University of Tennessee’s Center for Executive Education; Ellen Voie, President and CEO of Women In Trucking.

LQ's Next Edition focuses on Trends in Transportation and Women in Supply Chain Management. For more information, please contact Fred Moody at: fmoody@logisticsquarterly.com

A.N. Deringer, Inc. Announces its New Corporate Video

March 12, 2013 - St. Albans, VT - A.N. Deringer, Inc. announces the release of a new corporate video, “The Deringer Difference.” The two-minute video provides a fast-paced glimpse of the services and dynamics that define this nearly century old logistics company. The upbeat video uses interviews with the leadership team, graphics, videography from the Port of Montreal and other ports, as well as still shots of Deringer employees to tell Deringer’s story.

“This video aptly portrays Deringer’s core values, expertise, as well as our dedication to the trade and our customers,” said Claudia Ashton, Marketing Manager, in a press release. “Moreover, it nicely reinforces the Deringer brand and its suite of supply chain services—beyond Customs brokerage, we offer freight forwarding, warehousing and distribution, domestic and international transportation, consulting, and meat inspection.”

The video can be viewed on Deringer's website or on YouTube.

About Deringer:

A.N. Deringer, Inc. is a leading provider of international supply chain solution services including International Freight Forwarding, Warehousing & Distribution, Customs Brokerage, Logistics Consulting, Cargo Insurance, Duty Drawback, and Meat Inspection. Deringer combines over 30 US offices with a global agency network to facilitate the movement of cargo throughout the world.

The Honourable Steven Fletcher, Canada's Minister of State (Transport) Listens to Trucking Industry Perspectives


WINNIPEG, March 12, 2013 - The Honourable Steven Fletcher, Canada's Minister of State (Transport), today addressed trucking industry partners to reiterate the critical role they play in Canada's transportation system and the  Canadian economy, during the Annual Meeting of the Manitoba Trucking Association. Approximately 75 participants from various trucking companies and organizations were in attendance.

"Our government is working to ensure that our transportation system is efficient and that the country remains competitive through long-term policies, such as our Gateway and Trade Corridor initiatives, the development of a new long-term infrastructure plan and the Canada-U.S. Beyond the Border Action Plan," said Minister Fletcher in a press release.

In his speech, the Minister addressed trucking industry concerns, such as safety and environmental regulations, and road and border infrastructure.

"Our Government remains focused on four priorities, as outlined by the Prime Minister, that Canadians care most about: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and of course, their personal financial security," concluded Minister Fletcher. Minister Fletcher's speech is available at: www.tc.gc.ca/mediaroom.

CROSS-BORDER MEXICO SUPPLY CHAINS BENEFIT FROM NEWLY OPENED LAREDO FACILITY


OVERLAND PARK, Kan., March 12, 2013 – MIQ Logistics announces the opening of a new facility in Laredo, Texas, to better serve customers’ cross-border supply chain needs. The Laredo operations will be under the leadership of Salvador “Sal” Beattie.

“Businesses are considering near-sourcing strategies with Mexico as a way to lower their total landed costs, while making their supply chains more nimble,” says John Carr, president and CEO of MIQ Logistics. “Our new Laredo office will help customers achieve their goals with our local-market expertise in cross-border logistics, coupled with our comprehensive supply chain services, state-of-the-art technologies and professional experiences.”

The MIQ Logistics facility in Laredo specializes in import and export management, including customs brokerage, customs clearance and duty consultancy. Customers can anticipate fast processing of bonded shipments, document transmissions and inspections. The Laredo facility also can support customers’ warehouse management, transportation management and truckload brokerage needs.

About MIQ Logistics:

MIQ Logistics is a global logistics company headquartered in Overland Park, Kan., and with offices in North America, Asia, Europe and Latin America. MIQ Logistics enables companies to improve their transportation network and overall supply chain efficiency by offering flexible logistics solutions supported by Web-native technology and global logistics management capabilities.

Friday, March 8, 2013

Customers Benefit from Jaguar’s Operational Excellence Expansion


March 8, 2013, Valley Stream, NY - Jaguar Freight, an industry leader in the design and operation of bespoke transportation and supply chain strategies, announces a further expansion of the company’s Centre of Operational Excellence (COE) platform in Europe. This platform delivers increased supply chain efficiencies, as well as an enhanced service level to its customers.

As part of this commitment to enhancing the experience for its customers, Jaguar will be moving logistics operations from the company’s Paris office to the recently upgraded state-of-the-art European COE in London. The move will provide customers in Europe with Centralized Account Management and a ‘one stop shop’ for operations, and complete the ‘follow the sun’ 24x7 customer support model, which integrates with Jaguar’s existing COEs in APAC and North America.  Marketing services for France will continue to be provided through the Paris office, and supported by local agents who will ensure bespoke requirements are met.

“Our customers’ successes are our successes,” said Jaguar Freight President and CEO, Simon Kaye. “We listened to what our customers were saying and focused our attention on how to not only offer best-in-class strategies, but also improve the services that complement them. Our approach to operational excellence underpins the delivery of innovative solutions to our customers – this is what differentiates Jaguar from the pack.”

Jaguar Freight’s CyberChain™ supply chain management suite, which includes its renowned TMS software CyberTrax™, offers best-in-class IT solutions with lean and flexible integration schemes to help clients improve their processes and performance for better cost-effectiveness and competitive advantage. Kaye continues: “in today’s highly competitive environment, we understand that customers want to focus on their business and feel confident in leaving their supply chain management to us.”

About Jaguar Freight:

Jaguar Freight delivers supply chain innovation and logistics to a global client list that ranges from blue chip multinational corporations to small specialist businesses. Jaguar has offices in London, New York, Paris, Hong Kong and Shenzhen. Please visit us at www.jaguarfreight.com.

Thursday, March 7, 2013

TMS Webinar Announcement


Fleet Management Improvements: A webinar on distribution and dedicated fleet management operations improvement

BEACHWOOD, Ohio (March 6, 2013) – TMW Systems today announced it will offer a free, expert webinar to help distribution and dedicated fleet management identify improvement opportunities for a more productive and profitable year. The webinar is offered on March 19, 2013 at 1:30 ET. Fleet managers, traffic departments and distribution operations with private fleets can benefit from the insights on cost savings through route planning and scheduling optimization.

In a lukewarm economic recovery, it is vital for distributors and private fleets to stay knowledgeable on new ways to wring greater efficiencies from operations and to control or lower costs. This webinar will identify improvement opportunities to look for with major impact for fleets. Guidance on how to assess the costs in time, labor and profit from missed opportunities can help keep fleet operations more competitive.

TMW Systems specializes in technologies for fleet management, route management and scheduling that help companies reduce operating costs, streamline route planning and dispatch, improve customer service and analyze fleet operations for better performance.

The educational Webinar, “3 Keys to Improve Your Fleet Operations in 2013” is scheduled for Tuesday, March 19, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. EDT. To participate in this free webinar, visit http://www2.tmwsystems.com/l/3622/2013-03-07/33q33p to register. Participants will need access to the Internet and a telephone to take part.

About TMW Systems:

TMW Systems is the leading transportation management software (TMS) provider to for-hire and private fleets, brokerage and 3PL organizations. Founded in 1983, TMW has focused exclusively on providing mission-critical enterprise software to the transportation industry, including asset-based and non-asset-based operations as well as heavy-duty vehicle service centers. With offices in Cleveland, Dallas, Indianapolis, Nashville, Oklahoma City, Raleigh and Vancouver, the company serves over 2,300 customers, including many of the largest, most sophisticated and complex trucking companies in North America. TMW customers collectively manage over $71 billion in annual freight spend, direct more than 508,000 power units and maintain more than 1.7 million assets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Latin America and Australia-New Zealand. TMW is part of Trimble’s® (NASDAQ:TRMB) international Transportation and Logistics division. For more information, visit appian.tmwsystems.com.

Dukal Corporation Establishes Distribution Center to Enter the Savannah GA Market


Savannah, Ga. – March 7, 2013 – Dukal Corporation, a leading supplier of disposable medical products, has chosen the Port of Savannah as its major port of entry, and established new distribution center space in Savannah’s Foreign Trade Zone.

“Our new central distribution center in Savannah will provide closer proximity to our customers at reduced container rates and distribution costs,” said Travis Torre, director of logistics for Dukal.

Dukal has contracted for 140,000 square feet at a Tremont Road location in Savannah, in close proximity to Interstate 95 (north-south) and I-16 (east-west). The space features 32-foot clearance and 32 dock doors. Falcon Transport will handle drayage from the port to the warehouse, a distance less than six miles.

“Dukal’s decision to form its East Coast distribution center in Savannah puts the company in a prime location to more efficiently reach one of the fastest growing markets in the nation,” said Georgia Ports Authority Executive Director Curtis Foltz.

Dukal will join a growing number of cargo owners who have located in Savannah. The port’s logistics network includes two Class I railroads on terminal and a hub of 4 million square feet of available distribution center space.

“Georgia’s logistics network of road, rail and ocean transport is unsurpassed in the United States,” said GPA Board Chairman Robert Jepson. “Cargo handling at Georgia’s deepwater ports in Brunswick and Savannah sets the industry standard in efficiency and cost effectiveness.”

Dukal has contracted with third party logistics (3PL) provider OHL to run the distribution center. The Dukal location is OHL’s first foray into the Savannah market, although the logistics provider is well established in Atlanta. OHL has a companywide network of 32 million square feet of warehouse space.

“The Savannah operation will serve everything east of Texas and up to Montana,” Torre said. Dukal Corporation provides bandages, surgical supplies and hygiene items for four markets: medical, dental, health spa and veterinary clinics.

About Dukal:

Since 1991, DUKAL Corporation has been a privately held supplier of disposable medical products based in Ronkonkoma, NY. The company produces its products through strategic manufacturing partnerships with a focus on high quality and is dedicated to providing best in class products and supply chain solutions to its customers. DUKAL products are used every day by healthcare professionals in acute care, primary care, long-term care, dental and veterinary settings, and can be found in consumer, industrial and safety outlets throughout North America and Europe. Find more information at www.dukal.com.

About OHL:

OHL is one of the largest 3PLs in the world, providing integrated global supply chain management solutions including transportation, warehousing, customs brokerage, freight forwarding, and import and export consulting services. OHL operates more than 130 value-added distribution centers, offers comprehensive transportation management services, employs nearly 7,000, and has offices worldwide. OHL has expertise in direct-to-consumer fulfillment, serves a wide range of business sectors from specialty retail to manufacturing, and specializes in the apparel, electronics, printing, food and beverage, and consumer packaged goods industries. Find more information www.ohl.com.

Georgia’s deepwater ports and inland barge terminals support more than 352,000 jobs throughout the state annually and contribute $18.5 billion in income, $66.9 billion in revenue and $2.5 billion in state and local taxes to Georgia’s economy. The Port of Savannah was the second busiest U.S. container port for the export of American goods by tonnage in FY2011. It also handled 8.7 percent of the U.S. containerized cargo volume and 12.5 percent of all U.S. containerized exports in FY2011.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

FedEx Rolls Past Vehicle Fleet Fuel Efficiency Goal Years Ahead of Schedule


New Goal Set to Improve Efficiency of FedEx Express Global Vehicle Fleet 30% by 2020

MEMPHIS, Tenn., Mar. 6, 2013—In 2008, FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) set the U.S. transportation industry’s first fuel efficiency goal with a commitment to improve the overall fuel efficiency of the FedEx Express global vehicle fleet 20 percent by 2020, as compared with its 2005 performance. Less than five years later, FedEx Express has surpassed this goal with a more than 22 percent cumulative improvement in fuel economy for its vehicles.

Additionally, FedEx is announcing a revised, more aggressive goal that continues to move the world’s largest express transportation company forward in an environmentally-conscious manner. FedEx Express, a unit of FedEx Corp., has set a new target of 30 percent improvement in fuel efficiency for its global vehicle fleet by 2020, representing a 50 percent increase over the original goal. This revision mirrors the company’s 2012 announcement to increase its aircraft emissions goal from 20 percent to a 30 percent reduction in global aircraft emissions intensity by 2020.

“Today’s announcements are major milestones, not only for FedEx Express and our sustainability efforts, but for the entire transportation industry,” said Mitch Jackson, staff vice president of Environmental Affairs and Sustainability, FedEx Corp. “We are encouraged by the technological improvements, in addition to the commitment demonstrated by FedEx team members around the world, that have allowed us to reduce our impact on the environment and the communities we serve while maintaining excellent customer service.”

By pursuing the most promising avenues of advanced technologies, enlisting a variety of experienced manufacturers and optimizing our vehicle operations, FedEx Express has been able to improve the fuel efficiency of its vehicle fleet at a faster rate than expected. FedEx Express has seen the biggest impact on overall fuel efficiency from its strategy of matching the right vehicle to each route. This initiative has not only accelerated progress towards the fuel efficiency goal, but it has yielded substantial economic and environmental returns as well.  FedEx Express expects to save approximately 20 million gallons of fuel this year through these efforts to increase vehicle fuel efficiency.

“FedEx Express follows a three-tiered strategy to improve the fuel efficiency of its fleet: Reduce, Replace and Revolutionize,” said Dennis Beal, vice president of Global Vehicles, FedEx Express. “This holistic approach to fleet management allows us to develop vehicle technologies for the future while maximizing the conventional vehicles we operate today.”

The company’s significant progress towards its fuel efficiency goal is the result of a number of initiatives:
*         By the end of its fiscal year 2013, FedEx Express will have increased the size of its advanced alternative-energy vehicle fleet to include a total of 360 hybrid-electric vehicles and 200 electric vehicles. To date, these vehicles have traveled more than 15 million miles in revenue service.
*         FedEx Express has accelerated its efforts in fuel conservation through the purchase of vehicles with right-sized engines like the Sprinter vans manufactured by Mercedes-Benz. FedEx currently has more than 10,000 such vehicles in service, comprising more than 35 percent of its U.S. pick-up and delivery fleet. Each Sprinter-type van is about 70 to 100 percent more fuel-efficient than the original truck it replaces.
*         Since 2011, FedEx Express has incorporated almost 200 composite-body Reach vehicles into its global fleet; an additional 200 of these vehicles will be added to the fleet by the end of its fiscal year 2013. The lower weight design, along with the engine, allows for a 35 percent reduction in fuel usage over most conventional walk-in vans.

Approximately 35 percent of the FedEx Express diesel vehicle pickup and delivery fleet has already been converted to more efficient and cleaner emission models that comply with 2010 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency diesel emission standards.

FedEx Express is not alone in its efforts to increase its overall vehicle fuel efficiency. FedEx Freight and FedEx Ground are currently testing new technologies, while also implementing vehicle innovations and modifications such as skirts and fairings to its trucks, tractors and trailers to improve the fuel efficiency of its fleet.
*         In November 2012, FedEx Freight launched a beta test of two new tractors powered by cleaner-burning engines that use only liquefied natural gas (LNG). The pre-production engine used in the new tractors is slated for limited release later in 2013 and is currently the only all-natural gas engine that begins to meet the size and power needs of Class 8 trucks.
*         FedEx Ground is currently testing hybrid hydraulic parcel delivery vehicles on local delivery routes across the U.S. These hydraulic hybrid vehicle systems leverage a computer-controlled system that eliminates unnecessary engine operation, which in turn saves fuel and reduces engine wear and tear by up to 50 percent.

About FedEx:

FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and business services. With annual revenues of $43 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 300,000 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.

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

The Future of Standards in the Consumer Goods & Retail Industry


Global study reveals critical need for evolution in standards to address rapidly changing industry trends and user habits
• 100% of executives who participated in the study indicated that changes in consumer behaviour will have the greatest impact on the industry’s supply chain in the coming decade
• 70% called for wider standards adoption across the value chain
• 50% are calling on GS1 to take a global governance role to support implementation and adoption priorities

Paris, Brussels, 5 March 2013 – A report released today by Capgemini Consulting, the global strategy and transformation consulting arm of the Capgemini Group, together with GS1, the global standards organization, and The Consumer Goods Forum, the consumer goods industry platform, concludes that wider adoption of standards is key to both supply chain efficiency and meeting new consumer needs.

The report, titled: “The Future of Standards in the Consumer Goods & Retail Industry: Cut costs and meet new consumer needs,” calls on the industry to introduce simplified programs to help users embrace and deploy standards while enabling provision of standardized product data to consumers.

Since the first barcode was scanned in 1974 standards have led to huge savings for the consumer goods industry allowing more efficient flows of goods and information. As consumers today become empowered through social and mobile technologies, they increasingly require real-time product updates and the ability to scan barcodes to obtain “beyond the label” data such as product origin, ingredients and manufacturing working conditions.
* According to research by GS1 UK and Cranfield School of Management, barcode adoption saved the UK retail industry £10.5 billion in 2011 alone[1].

Elsewhere, electronic standards have allowed companies to move from manual paper-based processes, with benefits including shortening delivery times by 61 hours on average[2] , cost savings of €12-18 per transaction[3] and 5% fewer out-of-stock situations [4]. Nonetheless, with increasing industry challenges, more is needed to be done to ensure standards can be more widely adopted to help drive progress in the consumer goods and retail industry.

The results of the study showed that there are numerous challenges regarding standards faced by the industry including:
1. Underuse of standards – Compared to large companies, small and medium enterprises have significantly lower rates of standards use, with manual processing frequently the norm. Standards need to be extended to new channels such as e-commerce and affiliated transportation and logistics parties.
2. Data available through product barcodes is often missing or inaccurate and not provided in a standardized way across multiple channels.
3. Promotions are problematic as they are necessary for sales growth but difficult to forecast demand as retailers are often unwilling to share promotional strategies.
4. With the challenge of Big Data, retailers and manufacturers find it difficult to respect standards that require barcode numbers to change every time a product is slightly altered.
5. There is increasing scarcity of natural resources but also rising consumer interest in sustainable business - creating the demand for more accurate and consistent information on carbon footprint, water usage, recycling and energy consumption.

Key recommendations of the report are:
• Develop marketing programs targeted toward companies not making full use of standards
• Introduce simplified standards programs for ease of adoption
• Use existing standards to communicate product information to consumers
• Collect sufficient information about product origin and route to market to minimize risk.
• Develop solutions to ensure data quality
The Capgemini research sheds light on an important issue: as an industry we need to put more work into making sure standards are well-adopted throughout our business networks. We’re fortunate to have dynamic organizations like GS1 and The Consumer Goods Forum to help us with that,” explained José Lopez, Executive Vice President, Operations & GLOBE, Nestlé.

“Standards have a fascinating past and an exciting future. On the one hand, they are foundational to the way we do business, driving down the cost of our operations. On the other hand they are helping us to get closer to our consumers and meet their ever-changing needs, particularly in the digital world.” commented Mike McNamara, Chief Information Officer, Tesco.

Susan Wood, Principal, Capgemini Consulting North America, said, “Our report shows the urgent need for not only the greater adoption of standards and more consistency in standards implementation, but also improved data, guidelines and governance across the consumer goods and retail sector. This is particularly important due to increasing consumer demands, which are driving the digital transformation needed to improve the shopper all-channel experience.”

The latest study was based on in-depth interviews with leaders in supply chain and IT functions of 20 global consumer goods manufacturers and retailers worldwide, across Europe, Asia and North America, including Johnson & Johnson, Nestlé, Tesco, Unilever and Walmart.

To download ‘The Future of Standards in the Consumer Goods & Retail Industry’ please log onto:?www.capgemini.com/the-future-of-standards

[1] GS1 and Cranfield School of Management, 2012 [2] Make your supply chain more efficient by using GS1 standards,’ IBM and The Consumer Goods Forum, 2011 [3] GS1 France, GS1 Germany/PROZEUS project [4] Make your supply chain more efficient by using GS1 standards,’ IBM and The Consumer Goods Forum, 2011


About Capgemini Consulting:

Capgemini Consulting is the global strategy and transformation consulting organization of the Capgemini Group, specializing in advising and supporting enterprises in significant transformation, from innovative strategy to execution and with an unstinting focus on results. With the new digital economy creating significant disruptions and opportunities, our global team of over 3,600 talented individuals work with leading companies and governments to master Digital Transformation, drawing on our understanding of the digital economy and our leadership in business transformation and organizational change.
Find out more at www.capgemini-consulting.com

About Capgemini:

With more than 125,000 people in 44 countries, Capgemini is one of the world's foremost providers of consulting, technology and outsourcing services. The Group reported 2012 global revenues of EUR 10.3 billion. Together with its clients, Capgemini creates and delivers business and technology solutions that fit their needs and drive the results they want. A deeply multicultural organization, Capgemini has developed its own way of working, the Collaborative Business ExperienceTM, and draws on Rightshore®, its worldwide delivery model.

Learn more about us at www.capgemini.com.

About The Consumer Goods Forum:

The Consumer Goods Forum (CGF) is a global, parity-based industry network, driven by its members. It brings together the CEOs and senior management of over 650 retailers, manufacturers, service providers and other stakeholders across 70 countries and reflects the diversity of the industry in geography, size, product category and format . Forum member companies have combined sales of EUR 2.1 trillion.

The Forum’s vision is: “Better lives through better business”. To fulfil this, its members have given the Forum a mandate to develop common positions on key strategic and operational issues affecting the consumer goods business, with a strong focus on non-competitive process improvement. The Forum’s success is driven by the active participation of the key players in the sector, who together develop and lead the implementation of best practices along the value chain.

Find out more at www.theconsumergoodsforum.com.

About GS1:

GS1 is a not-for-profit, neutral organisation that is driven and governed by its members. It manages and develops the most widely used system of supply chain standards in the world - used by over 1 million organisations in multiple sectors and in close to 150 countries.

GS1 is most well-known for the bar codes that companies put on their products and that are scanned by retailers at point-of-sale. However, GS1 standards are much more than the barcodes. They provide a framework for companies to identify, capture and share information which drives supply chain visibility. This allows companies to improve effi ciency, safety and sustainability and to better collaborate with suppliers, customers and end-consumers.

Monday, March 4, 2013

ANDREY NAMED VICE PRESIDENT OF UPS OCEAN FREIGHT SERVICES


Industry Veteran Andy Huckbody Retires From UPS after 34 Years

March 4, 2013, Atlanta, GA - Keith Andrey, has been named vice president of UPS global ocean freight transportation services at UPS (NYSE: UPS).

Andrey will succeed Andy Huckbody, who is retiring with 34 years of transportation and logistics experience and played a key leadership role in the successful integration of Fritz Companies after UPS acquired the company in 2001.

Starting his UPS career in 2001 through the acquisition of Fritz Companies, Andrey, who had more than 11 years of prior logistics experience, quickly advanced into key roles in ocean, brokerage, air freight and gateway operations in the U.S. and the Americas Region. Before his current role as vice president of U.S. brokerage, Andrey had responsibility for UPS’s U.S. East ocean operations.

Huckbody also began his UPS career in 2001 with Fritz Companies, Inc., becoming part of the UPS Freight/Fritz integration team at UPS. He held several senior operations management positions in both the U.S. and Asia within the global freight forwarding and logistics and distribution business units. Huckbody was instrumental in the restructuring of the U.S. ocean operations in Asia and the U.S.

Huckbody later led the UPS Freight Forwarding global ocean business as vice president of UPS ocean freight transportation services.

As a global freight forwarder and one of the world's Top 10 U.S. Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs), UPS provides a complete portfolio of ocean and air freight services including transportation, supplier management, customs brokerage and visibility technology solutions. Air freight services include North American and international air freight as well as UPS Express Critical services for time-critical freight shipment needs across all modes of transportation. To learn more about UPS's ocean and air freight offerings, visit ups.com/globalfreight.