Supply Chain Now

Latest Episodes:

Celebrating National Supply Chain Day 2025 May 14, 2025

Show notes

In this special National Supply Chain Day episode, hosts Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love sit down with supply chain leaders Rahmel Wattley, Vic D’Arcy, and Dr. Stephanie Thomas to discuss the vital roles of transportation, reverse logistics, and talent development in today’s supply chain landscape. Rahmel, founder of Truck N’ Hustle, shares insights into the critical role of transportation professionals and how small carriers serve as the backbone of the global economy. He emphasizes the importance of representing these unsung heroes in the industry every day.

Vic D’Arcy, a circular economy strategist, dives into the world of reverse logistics, highlighting the complexities of returns management, refurbishment, and sustainability. She explains how reverse logistics can unlock hidden value in products, from repair to recycling, and its growing significance in the circular economy.

Dr. Stephanie Thomas, a professor at the University of Arkansas, discusses the increasing interest in supply chain careers among students and how universities are preparing the next generation of professionals. She also sheds light on the importance of mentorship and the evolving supply chain industry, where talent development is just as crucial as technical innovation.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:00) Rahmel Wattley’s take on the role of small carriers in the supply chain

(08:00) The backbone of global trade: Transportation and logistics

(15:00) Vic D’Arcy explains reverse logistics and the circular economy

(22:00) The value of reverse logistics in sustainability

(30:00) Dr. Stephanie Thomas on mentorship and developing future supply chain talent

(35:00) Why supply chain careers are gaining attention among students

(40:00) How supply chain innovation and education intersect for future success

(45:00) Celebrating the heroes behind global supply chains

Additional Links & Resources:

Connect with Rahmel Wattley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahmel-wattley-64004a171/
Check out Truck N’ Hustle: https://www.trucknhustle.com/
Connect with Vic D’Arcy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-d-arcy-aa84b51/
Check out All Things Circular: https://allthingscircular.com/
Learn more about Dr. Stephanie Thomas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniethomasuark
Check out WISE: Women Impacting Supply Chain Excellence:
https://walton.uark.edu/departments/supplychain/wise.php
Watch a previous episode with Dr. Stephanie Thomas: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7MjUmplk3VsdP5MMbhL9iS
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- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0Z
WEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLma
WEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4dey
WEBINAR- Supply Chain Orchestration with SAP: https://bit.ly/4jFJn9q

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/celebrating-national-supply-chain-day-2025-1429

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.

Driving Supply Chain Transformation Through Innovation, Sustainability, and Trust May 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor sit down with Agustin Lopez-Diaz, Senior Vice President of Global Supply Chain for North America at Schneider Electric, to explore how the company is leading a transformative shift in supply chain operations. Agustin shares how Schneider Electric is driving efficiency, sustainability, and trust across its operations, focusing on automation, energy management, and manufacturing agility.

Agustin talks about Schneider Electric’s key supply chain strategies, including how they use cutting-edge technologies such as IoT, advanced analytics, and sustainability consulting to optimize their operations. The conversation also highlights Schneider Electric’s approach to empowering employees and collaborators through skill-building programs and innovation, ensuring that people are at the heart of their supply chain transformation.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:00) Agustin’s career and leadership at Schneider Electric

(07:30) Core pillars of Schneider Electric’s supply chain transformation

(12:00) How automation and IoT enhance manufacturing efficiency

(15:30) Sustainability’s role in supply chain strategy

(18:00) Empowering employees through innovation and skills

(22:00) Trust in building supply chain partnerships

(25:00) Leveraging data and analytics for decision-making

(28:00) Regionalization’s impact on North American operations

(32:00) Driving sustainability with Schneider Electric’s initiatives

(35:00) Schneider Electric’s role in smarter energy management

(38:00) Lessons from Schneider Electric’s global supply chain

(42:00) Agustin’s thoughts on the future of supply chain transformation

Additional Links & Resources:

Connect with Agustin Lopez-Diaz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agustin-lopez-diaz-833b585/
Learn more about Schneider Electric: https://www.se.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- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0Z
WEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLma
WEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4dey
WEBINAR- Supply Chain Orchestration with SAP: https://bit.ly/4jFJn9q

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/driving-supply-chain-transformation-through-innovation-sustainability-trust-1428

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: Supply Chain Talent Trends May 09, 2025

Show notes

Join us today as we discuss the necessity for organizations to adopt sustainable supply chain practices to enhance their competitive advantage in the marketplace, and also emerging supply chain talent trends. Welcome to The Buzz!

This week, Scott Luton and special guests EALgreen CEO Claudia Freed, and Managing Partner of SCM Talent Group, Rodney Apple get into:

The idea that understanding the entirety of natural resource management, including water footprint, is crucial for effective sustainability efforts.
The importance of soft skills, particularly in leadership roles, as essential for navigating the complexities of modern supply chains.
How innovation and sustainability will reshape supply chain talent in 2025
The growing significance of reverse logistics in supply chain management, asserting that its effective implementation can mitigate waste and enhance efficiency.
The idea that active participation in sustainability initiatives is vital for fostering a culture of environmental responsibility within organizations.
The urgent need for educational institutions to adapt their supply chain curricula to better integrate emerging technologies and sustainability practices.
Key lessons from recent environmental initiatives, including Earth Day 2025

Listen in as we illuminate actionable strategies for organizations to enhance their operational efficiency while simultaneously addressing their environmental responsibilities amidst the evolving supply chain talent landscape.

Additional Links & Resources:

Connect with Claudia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiafreed/
Connect with Rodney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scmtalent/
Learn more about the Supply Chain Careers Podcast: https://supplychaincareers.com/
Learn more about SCM Talent: http://www.linkedin/in/scmtalent
Learn more about EALgreen: www.ealgreen.org
How Innovation and Sustainability will Reshape Supply Chain Talent in 2025: https://bit.ly/4d3sWRH
Building a Sustainable Supply Chain for a Competitive Advantage: https://bit.ly/3RRrKr8
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

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/buzz-supply-chain-talent-trends-1427

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.

Amplifying Women’s Voices in Supply Chain: Liz Raman with Supply Chain Gals May 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Scott Luton welcomes Liz Raman, founder and CEO of Supply Chain Gals, to share her dynamic career journey and powerful mission to amplify women’s voices in global supply chain leadership. Liz walks us through her career path—from routing trucks at Home Depot to leading assortment planning at Nike, and now empowering a growing global community of 20,000+ women through Supply Chain Gals. She shares how embracing discomfort, learning new skills like data analytics, and thinking beyond traditional supply chain roles can open up transformative career opportunities.

The conversation explores how technology, mentorship, and storytelling are reshaping the future of supply chain careers. Liz also highlights why building meaningful human connections—and finding your voice—are essential to long-term growth in today’s evolving landscape.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:04) Tennis and personal interests

(04:47) Liz’s professional journey

(09:30) Non-traditional supply chain careers

(14:33) Women in supply chain

(21:58) Supply Chain Gals

(27:24) Career advice and mentorship

(27:41) Staying prepared in tough job markets

Additional Links & Resources

Connect with Liz Raman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethramangrubbs/
Explore Supply Chain Gals: https://supplychaingals.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- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0Z
WEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLma
WEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4dey

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/amplifying-womens-voices-supply-chain-supply-chain-gals-1426

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.

Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa: Increasing Private Sector Engagement for Quality Healthcare May 05, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, we continue our popular series, Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa as host Scott Luton explores how public-private partnerships are reshaping access to healthcare across Africa, particularly when it comes to affordable, quality medicines. Joined by Anderson Ti-Timi of VillageReach and Trip Allport of XS2Meds, we dive into the complex pharma value chain and the urgent need to build up local private distributors through improved procurement systems, working capital access, and internal infrastructure.

Anderson shares insights from the front lines—including a potential new partnership in the Democratic Republic of the Congo—and emphasizes the importance of trust, visibility, and scalable systems. Trip highlights how lessons from 15 years of outsourcing distribution can now be applied across the full value chain to accelerate innovation, integration, and cost reduction. Together, they underscore how collaboration among governments, donors, manufacturers, and distributors is the key to achieving universal health coverage.

Whether you're in global health, supply chain, or looking to make a difference, this conversation is a call to build smarter, stronger, and more connected systems.

Additional Links & Resources:

Connect with Trip: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trip-allport-65aab3/
Connect with Anderson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anderson-titimi/
Learn more about VillageReach: https://www.villagereach.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- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0Z
WEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLma
WEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4dey

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: Circularity, Returns Management, & Reverse Logistics May 02, 2025

Show notes

Join us today as we discuss the pressing issue of returns management within the realm of global supply chains, emphasizing the necessity for businesses to prioritize this area as we approach 2025. Welcome to The Buzz!

This week, Scott Luton and special guest host Tony Sciarrotta, Executive Director of the Reverse Logistics Association (RLA) welcome Lars Dzedek, the Global Head of Returns & Circularity at DHL Supply Chain to the show, who shares insights on sustainable and circular logistics, including DHL's commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Listen in to learn more about:

The staggering $890 billion in product returns in 2024
The need for improved returns management to enhance customer loyalty and reduce costs
Innovative strategies such as AI-powered return forecasting and shared infrastructure to optimize returns processing and protect product value
And more!

Listen in and discover the critical role of leadership and education in advancing circularity and sustainability in global supply chains.

Additional Links & Resources:

With That Said: https://bit.ly/4jqpYJn
Why Reverse Logistics Needs to Be a Priority in 2025: https://bit.ly/436mRAA
Connect with Lars on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsrdzedek/
Learn more about DHL: www.dhl.com
Connect with Tony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-sciarrotta-235570/
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- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0Z
WEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLma
WEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4dey

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Tony Sciarrotta produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-circularity-returns-management-reverse-logistics-1424

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.

Transforming Warehouse Operations Through Real-Time Orchestration Apr 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Jake Barr welcome Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI, to unpack the logistics problem no one talks about: disjointed technology. Keith shares how a consulting engagement with Procter & Gamble turned into a mission-driven company focused on optimizing warehouse operations through real-time orchestration and AI.

Keith walks through the three critical stages of warehouse intelligence—visibility, predictability, and orchestration—and explains how AutoScheduler is helping organizations move from firefighting to proactive, calm, and coordinated execution. The three explore how disconnected systems create hidden inefficiencies, from margin loss to employee burnout, and how modern tools can harmonize workflows without replacing your existing tech stack.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:00) How Keith got started in supply chain and AI

(07:00) From consulting to launching AutoScheduler

(10:50) The root of disjointed tech in supply chain operations

(13:45) Why standard systems still lead to performance gaps

(16:30) The margin cost of inefficiencies and workarounds

(20:00) The impact of chaos on workers and operational morale

(24:00) Real-world challenges in plant and warehouse coordination

(26:00) The limits of ERP and WMS in dynamic environments

(30:10) Why the most used tools are still Excel and whiteboards

(32:00) The three stages: visibility, predictability, and orchestration

(35:45) What AI is actually doing inside the warehouse

(38:30) Creating calm out of chaos with real-time decision-making

(41:00) What a modern logistics platform looks like in action

(46:00) Tangible and intangible benefits of orchestration

(49:00) Keith’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in logistics

Additional Links & Resources:

Connect with Keith Moore: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithdmoore13/
Learn more about AutoScheduler.AI: https://www.autoscheduler.ai
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- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0Z
WEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLma
WEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4dey

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/transforming-warehouse-opertaions-through-real-time-automation-1423

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.

Inside the Space Economy: Supply Chain, Innovation & Opportunities for All Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome Dr. David Beck of the U.S. Space Force and Richard Donaldson, entrepreneur and circularity advocate, to explore the explosive intersection of space and supply chain.

From launching satellites to building sustainable infrastructure beyond Earth’s atmosphere, the conversation dives deep into what it takes to support the growing space economy—projected to reach over $1.8 trillion by 2035. Dr. Beck, a veteran technologist and branch chief at the Space Force, breaks down space logistics as a system of innovation, sustainability, and national security.

The panel discusses the rise of CubeSats, the critical need for space debris cleanup, how SpaceX’s rideshare model is revolutionizing orbital logistics, and why we’re no longer preparing for the future—we’re living it.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(00:39) Excitement about space

(04:28) Early inspirations for space

(12:05) Panelists' backgrounds and journeys

(24:19) Space logistics and its importance

(39:56) Decoding space acronyms

(40:50) Impact of the space economy

(42:37) Military and private sector collaboration

(44:13) Global space race and competitors

(48:22) Opportunities in the space economy

(55:47) Innovations and developments in space

Additional Links & Resources

Connect with Dr. David Beck: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbeckmba/
Connect with Richard Donaldson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richarddonaldson/
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- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0Z
WEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLma
WEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4dey

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin Jackson and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/inside-space-economy-supply-chain-innovation-opportunities-1422

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: The Evolving Dynamics of Delivery Services Apr 25, 2025

Show notes

Join us today as we discuss significant developments in the global supply chain landscape, particularly focusing on the evolving dynamics of delivery services and the implications of recent changes in the United States Postal Service (USPS). Welcome to The Buzz!

This week, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome Max Garland, Senior Reporter With Supply Chain Dive to the show, who elucidates the intricacies of these developments and their impact on stakeholders across the supply chain spectrum. Listen in to learn more about:

Walmart's innovative adoption of geospatial technology to enhance delivery efficiency
The competitive delivery landscape, as alternatives to traditional carriers like FedEx and UPS gain traction
USPS's recent operational adjustments and the potential ramifications of privatization
De minimis shipping changes and implications
How China is finding ways to replace American farmers
And more!

Listen in as we embark on this exploration of pressing topics, one conversation at a time, and invite you to engage with us in this multifaceted discourse.

Additional Links & Resources:

Connect With Max on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxgarland/
Learn more about Supply Chain Dive: https://www.supplychaindive.com/
USPS begins implementing new service standards: https://bit.ly/42zXo1a
What privatizing the US Postal Service could mean for prices, coverage: https://bit.ly/4cKP0R9
Walmart expands same-day delivery reach with geospatial technology: https://bit.ly/4jkQiVy
De minimis shipping from China ending in May, other countries at risk: https://bit.ly/44yF8rp
De minimis’ future: 4 questions shippers should consider: https://bit.ly/4lKsADK
Supply Chain Dive Newsletter: https://bit.ly/443Lwa3
The State of E-commerce Delivery Event: https://bit.ly/42AY46j
China is Finding Ways to Replace American Farmers: https://bit.ly/4d0oOlP
FedEx, UPS alternatives grew market share in 2024: ShipMatrix: https://bit.ly/42TYTIM
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- Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2D
WEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0Z
WEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLma
WEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4dey

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-evolving-dynamics-delivery-servicces-1421

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.

Zero Waste, Clean Water & Millions Fed: A Look at CHEP's Impact Across Africa Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and special co-host Claire Fincham with SAPICS continue the “Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa” series with guest Marietjie Brown, Sustainability and Government Affairs Lead at CHEP for Africa, the Middle East, and Turkeiye. Marietjie shares how CHEP is leading the charge in regenerative supply chain initiatives—from ensuring zero waste to landfills to bringing clean running water to communities that have never had it.

She also explains how CHEP’s closed-loop model is rooted in circular economy principles, and why feeding the world’s most vulnerable people isn’t a corporate goal—it’s part of the company’s DNA. The conversation highlights the power of connecting global multinationals with local SMEs, overcoming infrastructure and economic hurdles in Africa, and using supply chains as engines for social, environmental, and business transformation.

Plus, with the SAPICS Conference just around the corner, the episode spotlights the role of community, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration in shaping the future of supply chain on the continent.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:52) Marietjie Brown and her passion for sustainability

(11:58) Regenerative supply chain initiatives in Africa

(16:06) Bringing running water to underserved communities

(18:28) Inside CHEP’s circular economy model

(27:23) Sustainability goals: planting trees and feeding millions

(32:48) Challenges and solutions in African supply chains

(37:41) Supporting small enterprises and unlocking growth

(41:21) Looking ahead to the SAPICS Conference

(46:03) What’s next for CHEP and the global supply chain

Additional Links & Resources

Connect with Marietjie Brown: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marietjie-coertzen-brown-543a1327/?originalSubdomain=za
Learn more about CHEP: https://www.chep.com/
Learn more about SAPICS: https://www.sapics.org/
Check out the 47th Annual SAPICS 2025 Conference: https://conference.sapics.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- Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2D
WEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0Z
WEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLma
WEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4dey

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Claire Fincham and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/zero-waste-clean-water-millions-fed-look-CHEP-impact-across-africa-1420

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.

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