Supply Chain Now

Latest Episodes:

The Buzz: Women in Supply Chain Awards Sep 12, 2025

Show notes

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we present an incisive exploration of the current landscape within the global supply chain sector, focusing particularly on the essential role of leadership in navigating prevailing challenges. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost!

Today, hosts Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy welcome special guest Marina Mayer, Editor-in-Chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive, to discuss the Women in Supply Chain Awards and the upcoming Women in Supply Chain Forum. Listen as they cover:

The rising demand for foreign trade zone access
The state of the industry report by Colliers
Insights from chief people officers on talent strategies
The 2025 Women in Supply Chain Awards and the upcoming Women in Supply Chain Forum
The importance of communication, strategic thinking, and inclusivity in navigating the complexities of the supply chain industry

Join us as we collectively seek to understand the implications of these developments on future supply chain operations.

Additional Links & Resources:

With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-7SEP2025
Colliers State of Industry Report: https://bit.ly/ColliersStateoftheIndustryReport
Chief People Officers Outlook 2025: Talent strategy amid global disruption: https://bit.ly/CPOviews
U.S. Foreign Trade Zones Draw New Demand as De Minimis Ends: https://on.wsj.com/4nrwm53
Why AI Is the Conversation at Parcel Forum: http://bit.ly/4m7Q8kT
Connect with Marina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinamayer/
Learn more about EasyPost: https://supplychainnow.com/easypost
Check out the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: bit.ly/scn-us-bank
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
WEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW
WEBINAR- Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUm
WEBINAR- From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKo
WEBINAR- The Power of Partnership: Building Long-Term Success with Automation Integrators: https://bit.ly/3Ie1WUO
WEBINAR- Reengineering supply chain planning: How to get more bang for your buck in 2026- https://bit.ly/3VahMCQ

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Tandreia Bellamy and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-women-in-supply-chain-awards-1479

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Toys, Tech & TMS: How A & A Global Plays to Win Sep 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton talks with Brett Johnson, IT Director at A&A Global, and Shannon Vaillancourt, President and Founder of RateLinx, about A&A Global’s journey to transform their shipping operations. Brett details how they addressed inefficiencies in their old TMS, implementing RateLinx’s flexible toolkit to streamline processes, reduce costs, and scale operations without adding staff.

The conversation explores how A&A Global overcame challenges like manual data entry, slow carrier onboarding, and inaccurate rate quoting through powerful integrations like ScanForce, Cubiscan, and mobile printing. Brett and Shannon also highlight the role of Lean Six Sigma practices in driving continuous improvement and achieving significant cost savings, faster shipping, and enhanced efficiency.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:39) Meet the industry leaders

(02:46) Challenges faced by A&A Global

(05:56) Issues with previous TMS

(08:30) The need for speed and efficiency

(13:42) Selection process for a new TMS

(18:03) Integration and implementation

(27:55) The new car vs. new software analogy

(29:42) Challenges with previous TMS

(30:44) Choosing RateLinx and ShipLinx TMS

(32:29) Implementation philosophy

(37:29) Automation and labor cost savings

(45:42) Advice for IT and operations leaders

Resources:

Learn more about A&A Global: http://www.aaglobal.com
Connect with Shannon Vaillancourt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-vaillancourt/
INSIGHT 2025 Conference: https://www.ratelinx.com/ratelinx-insight-conference/
Learn more about RateLinx: https://www.ratelinx.com/
Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
WEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW
WEBINAR- Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUm
WEBINAR- From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKo
WEBINAR- Reengineering supply chain planning: How to get more bang for your buck in 2026- https://bit.ly/3VahMCQ

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/toys-tech-tms-1478

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Brownfield to Breakthrough: Evolving Your Operations with Retrofits Sep 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott W. Luton and Deborah Dull welcome Will Mansard and Ahmed Arif of Bastian Solutions for a practical, field-tested conversation on retrofitting brownfield warehouses and the real cost of doing nothing. They frame retrofits as logistical projects first, unpack why so much existing space goes underutilized, and share how to minimize disruption while upgrading live operations.

They discuss the playbook that works in the real world: start with discovery and reverse engineering when documentation is thin, build a phased mechanical plan, sequence electrical with quick-connect, preassembled components, and treat controls and software as the heart of the system using emulation and thorough testing. With rules one and two both being “get orders out the door,” they stress contingency planning, speaking the customer’s language, and orchestrating equipment, controls, and software to avoid faults and bottlenecks.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(09:27) What defines a brownfield warehouse site

(12:19) Addressing customer concerns about cost

(15:53) Viewing retrofits as logistical projects

(20:14) Why orchestration matters in automation

(22:44) Critical considerations for warehouse retrofits

(24:26) Setting realistic project expectations upfront

(25:53) Deborah’s favorite retrofit planning framework

(26:36) Minimizing disruption with new technologies

(29:37) Speaking the customer’s language effectively

(32:40) Examples of successful retrofit projects

(40:35) Enterprise-level considerations for customers

Resources:

Learn more about Bastian Solutions Strategy Guide: Consulting Strategies for Warehouse Distribution Operations: https://info.bastiansolutions.com/warehouse-operations-strategy-guide
Learn more about the Hercules Sealing Products Case Study: https://www.bastiansolutions.com/resources/case-studies/industrial-distribution/hercules/?srsltid=AfmBOoqy12r2gfk64cuMt6Heyoz8Ts5lAJwZ-4qAejswM0oZVEuW5pPK
Connect with Will Mansard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-mansard-b90a2b25/
Connect with Ahmed Arif: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmedarif001/
Connect with Deborah Dull: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahdull/
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
WEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW
WEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUm
WEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKo

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Deborah Dull and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/brownfield-breakthrough-evolving-operations-retrofits-1477

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Breaking News Now: Ready for CHAINge 2025 with ASCM’s Abe Eshkenazi Sep 05, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes special guest Abe Eshkenazi, CEO of the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), to discuss the reinvention of ASCM's annual supply chain event, now rebranded as CHAINge North America 2025.

Scheduled for September 9th and 10th in Columbus, Ohio, CHAINge North America 2025 aims to provide supply chain leaders with opportunities to gather critical market intelligence and learn strategies to tackle both existing and emerging challenges. Listen in as Scott and Abe discuss the importance of collaboration, technology, and talent development in navigating the current dynamic supply chain landscape, key insights from the 2025 ASCM Supply Chain Salary and Career Report, and highlight significant gains in supply chain compensation and the increasing recognition of supply chain professionals' roles.

Tune in for an episode that underscores the value of human interaction and relationship-building in addressing the complex challenges faced by supply chain professionals today.

Additional Links & Resources:

Register now for CHAINge North America 2025: https://na.chainge.events/website/81303/?&utm_source=supplychainnow&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=conf_chainge-north-america_20250801
Connect with Abe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aeshkenazi/
Learn more about ASCM: https://www.ascm.org/
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
WEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1k
WEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW
WEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUm
WEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKo

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/breaking-news-now-ready-chainge-2025-ascm-1476

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Supply Chain Leaders Are Finding Calm & Clarity Amidst the Chaos Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Jorge Morales, Global COO of the International Supply Chain Education Alliance (ISCEA), and Sandeep Chatterjee, Growth Leader, Digital Business Solutions, Supply Chain and Sustainability Pillar at INFOLOB, to explore how organizations can build resilience and clarity in today’s dynamic supply chain landscape. Jorge shares how ISCEA is equipping professionals through global certification programs and education, while Sandeep highlights his outcome-based approach to digital transformation and his insights from his book, The Consulting Way.

They cover key strategies for driving profitability and resilience, including smarter inventory management, bold choices in multimodal transportation, and the adoption of advanced technologies such as 3D printing and supply chain simulation. Jorge and Sandeep also discuss the importance of continuous skill-building, trust among supply chain partners, and the role of upcoming industry events like the Supply Chain Technology Conference & Expo (SCTECH) in helping leaders prepare for the future of supply chain.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(02:35) Climbing Mount Everest and managing family logistics

(06:47) Sandeep's role at INFOLOB

(08:59) Jorge's role at ISCEA

(14:49) Sandeep’s book “The Consulting Way”

(18:08) Optimizing supply chain profitability

(24:38) Eliminating decision-making in supply chains

(25:07) Leveraging data and technology for faster decisions

(26:08) Innovations in transportation

(27:48) Challenging assumptions in leadership

(28:59) The role of technology in decision making

(32:14) Trust in supply chain partnerships

(33:30) The upcoming Supply Chain Technology Conference & Expo (SCTECH)

(37:37) Examples of supply chain innovations

(40:48) Sandeep’s keynote on quick commerce

Resources:

Learn more about the Supply Chain Technology Conference & Expo (SCTECH): https://www.sctechshow.com/
Connect with Jorge Morales: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorgeamorales/
Learn more about the International Supply Chain Education Alliance (ISCEA): https://www.iscea.org/
Connect with Sandeep Chatterjee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-chatterjee-4302271/
Check out Sandeep’s book, The Consulting Way: https://in.zebralearn.com/the-consulting-way.html
Learn more about INFOLOB: https://www.infolob.com
Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
WEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1k
WEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW
WEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUm
WEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKo

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Buzz: Innovations in Warehouse Automation Aug 29, 2025

Show notes

Additional Links & Resources:

With That Said: http://bit.ly/4lGixyl
EasyPost Guide: https://bit.ly/45PpFCC
EasyPost Website: https://www.easypost.com/
Inside the automated warehouse where robots are packing your groceries: http://bit.ly/3Juj213
Beauty brands blend AI into operations: http://bit.ly/4oRsVWJ
Snickers maker Mars pursues stable chocolate supply with gene-editing: http://bit.ly/4mIWHeA
Kait on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitvinson/
Learn more about Locus Robotics: https://locusrobotics.com/
Allison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisongiddens/
Dave Krache Foundation: https://davekrache.com/
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
WEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1k
WEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW
WEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUm
WEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKo

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Allison GIddens and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-innovations-warehouse-automation-1474

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Honoring Kathy Purtill’s Legacy: Moving (and Climbing) Mountains Aug 27, 2025

Show notes

In this moving episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton sits down with Kristi Porter, Adrian Purtill, and Enrique Alvarez of Vector Global Logistics to explore a powerful story of purpose and community. Adrian shares a deeply personal initiative in honor of his late ex-wife, Kathy Purtill, who bravely battled leukemia. To carry her legacy forward, their son Kieran is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

This conversation goes beyond logistics, shining a light on the value of giving forward, building community, and leading with purpose. The Vector Global Logistics team reflects on how purpose-driven action can change lives—both in the global supply chain and beyond.

Learn how you can support Kieran’s mission, and be inspired to embrace the power of relationships, resilience, and purpose.

Additional Links & Resources:

Kathy Purtill's fundraising page for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society: https://diy.lls.org/fundraiser/6467059
Connect with Enrique: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enrique-alvarez-64332a2/
Connect with Kristi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kporter9876/
Connect with Adrian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-purtill-947a2b5/
Learn more about Vector Global Logistics: https://vectorgl.com/
Learn more about Logistics with Purpose: https://logisticswithpurpose.co/
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
WEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1k
WEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW
WEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUm
WEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKo

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Theory of Constraints Can Drive Enterprise Impact Aug 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and special guest host Kim Humphrey, President & CEO of AME (Association for Manufacturing Excellence), welcome retired Air Force Lieutenant General Andy Busch, Strategic Advisor at Goldratt Consulting, for a high-impact conversation on the Theory of Constraints (TOC) and its ability to transform complex operations. Drawing from a 38-year military career, Andy shares how TOC’s five focusing steps helped him cut C-5 aircraft maintenance timelines from 340 days to 110, save hundreds of millions through inventory discipline, and reduce a 15-month procurement backlog to just three months. He also highlights the leadership skills required to drive these changes, including clear communication, organizational alignment, and active workforce engagement.

They also discuss the universal applicability of TOC across industries and geographies, with Andy recounting implementations at the Defense Logistics Agency, large-scale MRO depots, and in international settings such as Japan and India. From managing high-variability environments to avoiding the trap of local optimization, the conversation delivers actionable insights for supply chain and manufacturing leaders seeking breakthrough results, stronger team alignment, and sustained performance improvement in today’s volatile business climate.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(02:47) Meet Andy Busch

(05:29) From Utah trails to global supply chain insights

(13:32) The impact of the Theory of Constraints

(25:28) Implementing consumption pull systems

(29:29) Five focusing steps vs. five whys

(30:42) Work in process discipline

(32:44) Overcoming supply chain hurdles

(37:05) International experiences with TOC

(43:07) How to navigate industry volatility

(45:45) Why focus is key to organization's success

Resources:

Learn more about the AME St. Louis International Conference: https://www.ame.org/ame-st-louis-2025-international-conference
Connect with Andy Busch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-e-busch/
Learn more about Goldratt Group: https://goldrattgroup.com/
Connect with Kim Humphrey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlee-kim-h-5977474/
Learn more about AME: https://www.ame.org
Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
WEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1k
WEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW
WEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUm
WEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKo

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Humphrey and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/how-theory-constraints-drive-enterprise-impact-1472

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Buzz: Reshoring Revolution Aug 22, 2025

Show notes

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we present a profound exploration of contemporary developments within the realm of supply chain management, with a particular emphasis on the resurgence of reshoring initiatives. Welcome to The Buzz!

Host Scott Luton and special guest host Christine Barnhart, aka The Supply Chain Whisperer, discuss the top news in global supply chain including:

The significant investment by GE Appliances to transition production facilities from overseas back to the United States
The implications of artificial intelligence in enhancing operational efficiencies, as exemplified by Toro's innovative applications to predict consumer behavior and streamline inventory management
The significant role of sustainability in modern supply chains, underscoring how companies are increasingly investing in environmentally friendly practices to meet consumer demands
The transformative impact that artificial intelligence is having on supply chain management, particularly in predicting consumer behavior and optimizing inventory levels amidst fluctuating market conditions
The importance of effective change management, advocating for transparency and collaboration amongst stakeholders to facilitate smoother transitions during periods of organizational change

Join us as we dissect these pivotal topics and provide actionable insights for supply chain leaders navigating this dynamic landscape.

Additional Links & Resources:

With That Said: h https://bit.ly/4mDUf8M
GE Appliances shifts more production to US as part of a $3 billion investment: https://bit.ly/3JiKEGl
Just in time? Manufacturers turn to AI to weather tariff storm: https://bit.ly/4lBeHq2
Why Some Companies Are Doubling Down on Climate Action: https://bit.ly/3JkelGW
Supply Chain Leadership in the Never Normal: A Power Panel of Women Rewriting the Rules: https://streamyard.com/watch/34KHAvi3NjK8
Connect with Christine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbarnhart/
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
WEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1k
WEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW
WEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUm
WEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKo

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Christine Barnhart, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-reshoring-revolution-1471

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Analysis of the Q2 2025 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index Aug 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Karin Bursa welcome Bobby Holland of U.S. Bank and Bob Costello of the American Trucking Associations (ATA) for a timely and data-rich discussion on the Q2 2025 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index—and what the latest shifts in the freight economy mean for shippers, carriers, and supply chain leaders.

They discuss the first quarter in over two years where all five U.S. regions saw increases in shipment volume, signaling a potential turning point after a prolonged slowdown. Bobby shares fresh Index data on spend and shipment velocity, while Bob brings broader economic context, including consumer spending patterns, inflationary pressure, and the uneven pace of recovery. From driver shortages and regional capacity gaps to policy impacts and shifting inventory strategies, the panel examines how these macroeconomic forces are playing out in freight and what they could mean for the rest of 2025, offering insights for supply chain professionals preparing for continued volatility, opportunities in cross-border trade, and early signs of renewed activity.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(00:51) Overview of the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index

(06:15) National freight trends and insights

(22:26) Midwest region analysis

(25:59) Rebalancing supply chains

(26:57) Consumer spending trends

(27:33) Goods vs. services spending

(29:30) Northeast region insights

(36:31) Southeast region insights

(44:56) Future of freight markets

Resources:

Download the full Q2 2025 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: bit.ly/scn-us-bank
Register for the ATA Management Conference on October 2025 in San Diego: https://www.trucking.org/news-insights/registration-now-open-ata-management-conference-exhibition-0
Learn more about U.S. Bank: https://www.usbank.com
Learn more about the American Trucking Associations (ATA): https://www.trucking.org
Connect with Bobby Holland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-holland-4a9355/
Connect with Bob Costello: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-costello-444bb670/
Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
WEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1k
WEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW
WEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: https://bit.ly/45PegUm
WEBINAR: From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/47uXKKo

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/analysis-q2-2025-us-bank-freight-payment-index-1470

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com

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