Supply Chain Now

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Marty Parker welcome Justin Sears, Head of Product Marketing for SaaS at Altium, to explore how manufacturers can stay resilient amid rising tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and evolving global risks. Justin shares how his career journey—from early SaaS solutions to leading cloud-based collaboration tools for electronics design—has shaped his approach to visibility, agility, and innovation.Together, they unpack the complex impact of new tariffs on electronic components, why just-in-time is being replaced by just-in-case, and how companies are shifting procurement strategies to adapt. Justin also talks about the role of cloud platforms like Altium 365 in improving real-time collaboration across design, procurement, and manufacturing—bridging gaps, reducing errors, and increasing speed to market.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(01:14) Electronics industry and trade landscape(02:21) Altium's history(07:24) Impact of US tariffs on electronics(14:46) Challenges in product development(18:13) Cloud-based collaboration and workflow automation(24:44) Shifting from single to multi-source models(25:09) The challenges of coordination(25:33) Eliminating email chaos(26:12) The importance of supply chain visibility(26:44) Analog vs. digital supply chain management(27:41) Benefits of cloud platforms(29:37) Real-world examples of digitalization(32:34) Geopolitical and cyber threats(38:46) Collaboration in supply chain management(43:27) The crystal ball of global sourcingAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Justin Sears: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinsears/Read more on the Altium 365 Supply Chain Management webpage: https://www.altium365.com/Check out the Altium BOM Portal: https://www.altium365.com/capabilities/supply-chain/bom-portalCheck out Altium Stories on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AltiumStoriesLearn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROxWEBINAR- Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2DWEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0ZWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: <a href="https://bit.ly/4bWSLma" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

9 Apr 50min

In this new episode of the NOW Generation series on Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and guest host Deborah Dull welcome Dr. Peter Haug, Sam Nocera, and Joshua Young from Western Washington University to explore how the NOW generation is shaping the future of supply chain management.They discuss a first-of-its-kind case competition hosted by the university, where student teams tackled the challenge of creating a circular supply chain model for industrial pumps—an ambitious problem grounded in real-world complexity. Sam and Joshua, both first-year students, share how their team designed an innovative and decentralized repair hub strategy that leveraged predictive maintenance, digital passports, and augmented reality tools.Deborah and Dr. Haug offer context about the program’s industry-partnered education model and share how mentorship, internships, and case-based learning are preparing students to solve tomorrow’s challenges today.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(01:16) Getting to know the “now generation”(12:20) Dr. Haug's passion for military logistics(25:04) The case competition experience(30:41) Deborah's scholarship initiative(32:40) Exciting case competition results(33:19) Philanthropy and scholarships in supply chain(34:28) Innovative solutions for a sustainable future(38:32) Benefits of participating in case competitions(42:45) Mentorship in supply chain education(46:56) Overview of Western's Supply Chain program(54:54) Empowering tomorrow's leadersAdditional Links & ResourcesConnect with Deborah Dull: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahdull/Connect with Dr. Peter Haug: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-haug-mscm/Connect with Sam Nocera: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samnocera/Connect with Joshua Young: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-young-9b19b3331/ Learn more about Western Washington University: https://www.wwu.edu/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/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROxWEBINAR- Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2DWEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0ZWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: <a...

7 Apr 1h 11min

Join us as we delve into the intricate dynamics of contemporary supply chain challenges, with a particular emphasis on the newly imposed automotive tariffs. Welcome to The Buzz!This week, hosts Scott Luton and Allison Giddens' discussion unfolds a variety of pressing topics, including: The ripple effects these tariffs are anticipated to have on the automotive industry and consumer pricesThe plight of British Steel, which faces potential shutdowns amidst ongoing struggles Significant movements in retail, where companies are racing to enhance delivery capabilities in response to evolving consumer expectationsWhat the US government is doing abroad to ease egg prices at home And more!Listen in for insightful analysis and expert commentary, as we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of these critical developments across the global supply chain landscape.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/426lNuYNational Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscd/How automakers are navigating Trump’s tariffs on imported vehicles and parts: https://bit.ly/42can8WBritish Steel warns of 2,700 job losses from blast furnace closures: https://bit.ly/3XAj4ssTarget and Walmart are investing in supply chain tech to compete on delivery: https://bit.ly/4jaWqyWThe U.S. Is on an Egg Hunt in Europe to Ease Prices at Home: https://bit.ly/3Ya1jjKAllison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisongiddens/The Dave Krache Foundation: https://davekrache.com/ Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Unpacking the Latest Tariff Updates, Best Practices & What to Expect Next: https://bit.ly/4ikvdcSWEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROxWEBINAR- Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2DWEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You’re Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0ZWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: <a href="https://bit.ly/4bWSLma" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

4 Apr 42min

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter are joined by Jeffrey Shih, CEO of Taiwan-based Dimerco Express Group, who brings over 35 years of logistics industry experience. The conversation covers a range of topics including the impact of tariffs, trade compliance, and the shifting dynamics of global sourcing strategies. Jeffrey shares invaluable tips on managing global relationships, the importance of technology in logistics, and the significance of understanding local cultures and practices. Whether you're a supply chain professional or simply interested in the field, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Jeffrey Shih: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-shih-b96b7b6/Learn more about Dimerco Express: https://dimerco.com/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Unpacking the Latest Tariff Updates, Best Practices & What to Expect Next: https://bit.ly/4ikvdcSWEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROxWEBINAR- Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2DWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLmaThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter, and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/navigating-global-logistics-supply-chain-strategies-leadership-lessons-1411

2 Apr 43min

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Marty Parker welcome back Wiley Jones, Co-Founder and CEO of Doss, to discuss the evolving world of demand planning and supply chain optimization. Wiley shares his journey, from designing toys in factories in Asia to leading hardware projects in Silicon Valley, and how his diverse experiences shaped his mission to increase the agility of the global value chain.They talk about the timeless truths in demand planning, such as the importance of aligning business inputs and outputs, and the transformative role of data integration in modern demand forecasting. Wiley also delves into the impact of AI and machine learning in enhancing decision-making processes, helping organizations plan more effectively in an unpredictable market.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(03:30) From toys to hardware projects(06:00) How Wiley shaped his supply chain agility approach(09:15) The importance of demand planning(12:40) Timeless truths in demand planning(16:00) How AI and machine learning change demand planning(19:20) The role of data integration in demand planning(22:30) The challenges of forecasting in an unpredictable market(25:00) Innovating and embracing change in supply chain management(28:15) The impact of new technology on demand planning models(31:40) How Doss is modernizing supply chain operations(34:00) Fostering innovation within supply chain teams(37:15) The future of demand planning(40:00) Embracing disruption and leveraging technology for growthAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Wiley Jones: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wileycwjones/Learn more about Doss: https://www.doss.com/WEBINAR: E2E Demand Planning – Tactics for Driving Value at Scale: https://supplychainnow.com/e2e-demand-planning-tactics-driving-value-scale-webinar/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/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Unpacking the Latest Tariff Updates, Best Practices & What to Expect Next: https://bit.ly/4ikvdcSWEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROxWEBINAR- Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2DWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLmaThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Marty Parker and produced by Amanda Luton, Trisha Cordes, and Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show...

31 Mar 49min

Join us as we discuss the paramount importance of nurturing relationships within the intricate tapestry of global supply chains, today on The Buzz!This week, hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr explore critical topics, alongside special guest Mark Gorlin, founder and CEO of Roadie. Listen in as they emphasize that successful leadership hinges upon the ability to cultivate rapport, and so much more. Listen in for:Insightful perspectives on the current dynamics of tariffs and their profound implications for retail leadersInnovative strategies employed by leading brands to enhance customer experiences amidst challenging environmentsInvaluable lessons gleaned from the peak season of 2024, highlighting the necessity of adapting to soaring customer expectations and cost pressuresAnd much more!Listen in as we navigate these multifaceted topics, and invite the audience to engage proactively with the ever-evolving supply chain landscape. Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Marc Gorlin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcgorlin/Learn more about Roadie: https://www.roadie.com/With That Said: https://bit.ly/4hBZIKCNational Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscd/What 25 retail leaders are saying about tariffs: https://bit.ly/4iYzFhHStarbucks CEO Targets Customer Experience and Speed: ‘We Can Do Both:' https://bit.ly/4iWIrgdGartner Supply Chain Symposium: https://gtnr.it/4iVA8RP SAPICS Conference: https://conference.sapics.org/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Bridging the Gap: Investigating the Disconnect Between Supply Chains and the People Who Run Them: https://bit.ly/3F1iZr2WEBINAR- Unpacking the Latest Tariff Updates, Best Practices & What to Expect Next: https://bit.ly/4ikvdcSWEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROxWEBINAR- Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2DWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: <a href="https://bit.ly/4bWSLma" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

28 Mar 43min

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director of The Manufacturing Institute, to discuss the critical issues shaping the future of the manufacturing workforce. Carolyn shares her journey, from growing up in a manufacturing family to her leadership role at The Manufacturing Institute, where she works to bridge the skills gap and build the workforce of tomorrow.They talk about the challenges of attracting and retaining talent, the importance of education and training programs like Heroes MAKE America and the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME), and how the manufacturing sector is evolving in response to technology and automation. Carolyn also discusses the power of storytelling to change perceptions of manufacturing careers and the impact of initiatives that support military veterans and their families in transitioning to high-demand manufacturing roles.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Bridging talent and manufacturing(01:03)  Carolyn Lee: A Leader in Manufac(07:32) The Manufacturing Institute's mission(12:44) Empowering veterans with manufacturing career(17:49) FAME: Advanced maintenance training(21:42) The importance of core skills in manufacturing(23:51) The role of AI and automation in manufacturing(25:46) The future of manufacturing jobs(29:33) Heroes MAKE America: Success stories(30:44) Changing perceptions of manufacturing careers(36:16) The power of Manufacturing DayAdditional Links and Resources:Connect with Carolyn Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynlee-mi/Learn more about The Manufacturing Institute: https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/Check out Heroes MAKE America: https://themanufacturinginstitute.org/heroes-make-america/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/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Bridging the Gap: Investigating the Disconnect Between Supply Chains and the People Who Run Them: https://bit.ly/3F1iZr2WEBINAR- Unpacking the Latest Tariff Updates, Best Practices & What to Expect Next: https://bit.ly/4ikvdcSWEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROxWEBINAR- Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2DWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLmaThis episode was hosted by Scott...

26 Mar 42min

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Bill Thorne, Senior Vice President of Communications, Research, and Marketing at the National Retail Federation (NRF) and host of the Retail Gets Real podcast. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of retail, from how customer insights drive innovation to the power of storytelling in shaping brand loyalty.This engaging conversation covers the impact of COVID-19 on retail operations, how agility and speed became key to survival, and why retailers must embrace change to stay competitive. Bill also shares insights from his time at Walmart, lessons from Savannah’s booming port economy, and why successful retailers prioritize community and connection.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) The pace of change in retail(01:22) The power of customer insights(05:15) Retail storytelling and brand loyalty(10:05) Savannah’s role in global supply chains(14:26) The future of retail logistics(18:03) Walmart’s digital transformation(22:50) Retail’s pandemic response and lessons learned(27:36) The importance of personalization in shopping(31:11) Why agility is key in modern retail(38:29) How data drives retail successAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Bill Thorne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-thorne-b82a146/Learn more about the National Retail Federation: https://nrf.com/Check out Retail Gets Real: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mpqKwH4QSDwFS8ukDbSIe?si=cdc84c550d034763Learn 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/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Bridging the Gap: Investigating the Disconnect Between Supply Chains and the People Who Run Them: https://bit.ly/3F1iZr2WEBINAR- Unpacking the Latest Tariff Updates, Best Practices & What to Expect Next: https://bit.ly/4ikvdcSWEBINAR- Lessons Learned from the Trenches: How AI Will Impact the Future of Work: https://bit.ly/3DUnROxWEBINAR: Adapting to Volatility: Navigating Trade Wars, Supply Chain Disruptions & AI: https://bit.ly/4kqSv2DThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/keeping-real-retail-leadership-1407

24 Mar 58min