The Business Buzz for January 18th with Scott W. Luton

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 StatesThe implications of artificial intelligence in enhancing operational efficiencies, as exemplified by Toro's innovative applications to predict consumer behavior and streamline inventory managementThe significant role of sustainability in modern supply chains, underscoring how companies are increasingly investing in environmentally friendly practices to meet consumer demandsThe transformative impact that artificial intelligence is having on supply chain management, particularly in predicting consumer behavior and optimizing inventory levels amidst fluctuating market conditionsThe importance of effective change management, advocating for transparency and collaboration amongst stakeholders to facilitate smoother transitions during periods of organizational changeJoin 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: hhttps://bit.ly/4mDUf8M GE Appliances shifts more production to US as part of a $3 billion investment: https://bit.ly/3JiKEGlJust in time? Manufacturers turn to AI to weather tariff storm: https://bit.ly/4lBeHq2Why Some Companies Are Doubling Down on Climate Action: https://bit.ly/3JkelGWSupply Chain Leadership in the Never Normal: A Power Panel of Women Rewriting the Rules: https://streamyard.com/watch/34KHAvi3NjK8Connect with Christine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbarnhart/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- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1kWEBINAR- Real stories: Fast-tracking value, a pioneering digital transformation with impactful results.: https://bit.ly/4mgp1EWWEBINAR: Real Shipping Stories. Real Money Saved.: <a href="https://bit.ly/45PegUm" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

22 Aug 51min

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 marketsResources:Download the full Q2 2025 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: bit.ly/scn-us-bankRegister 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: <a href="https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

20 Aug 53min

Join Scott Luton from Supply Chain Now at the SAPICS 2025 conference in Cape Town, South Africa, for a high-energy conversation with two powerhouse innovators: Deborah Dull, founder & managing partner of Trillium Digital Services, and Kevin Meredith, “innovation obsessor” with Fourth Sector Innovations and the Circular Supply Chain Network.From Boeing to building innovation systems, Kevin shares how confidence, leadership, and curiosity fuel breakthrough ideas. Deborah dives into the world of circular supply chains, showing how collaboration and sustainable practices can transform industries. Together, they explore:How leaders can create cultures where innovation thrivesThe future of circular supply chains and sustainable impactChallenges and opportunities with emerging tech like quantum computingSneak peeks into their upcoming books—practical guides for innovators and changemakersPacked with insights, inspiration, and actionable takeaways, this conversation is a must-watch for anyone ready to embrace new ideas and tackle global challenges through innovation.Additional Links & Resources: Connect with Deborah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahdull/Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinmeredithii/Learn more about Trillium Digital Services: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trinity-it-services/Learn more about 4th Sector Innovations: https://4thsi.com/Learn more about SAPICS: https://www.sapics.org/ Check out the other Interviews from SAPICS 2025: https://supplychainnow.com/sapics-2025 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- From Framework to Action: Decision Automation in the Agentic Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4nKlkJ6 WEBINAR- From Legacy to Leading Edge, Morgan Foods’ Supply Chain Journey: https://bit.ly/3IcDDGk WEBINAR- Tomorrow’s Factory is Already Here: https://bit.ly/45QMGqo 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.: <a href="https://bit.ly/4mgp1EW" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

18 Aug 43min

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we discuss the paramount significance of accuracy and customer experience within the realm of cold chain logistics, as exemplified by the groundbreaking initiative from ColdTrack, which has introduced an unprecedented 100% accuracy guarantee. Welcome to The Buzz!Hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa welcome ColdTrack COO Luke Vaccaro and Deposco Director of Professional Services, Matt Celani to the show to discuss the top news in global supply chain including: The vital role of customer experience in supply chain operations, especially during uncertain timesThe significant growth of the cold chain industry highlights its projected increase to over $1.2 trillion by 2033The importance of automation and technology in achieving 100% pack accuracyThe essential Internal cultural changes needed for aligning teams around a customer-focused mindset to drive operational excellenceHow partnerships between organizations like ColdTrack and Deposco exemplify how collaboration can lead to innovative solutions in logisticsJoin us as we underscore the necessity of trust within teams as a foundation for navigating challenges in the supply chain.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/4loOtXI U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: http://bit.ly/scn-us-bankSupply Chain Leadership in the Never Normal: A Power Panel of Women Rewriting the Rules: https://streamyard.com/watch/34KHAvi3NjK8Emerging Trends: Boom in Cold Chain Logistics: https://bit.ly/4frRm8IColdTrack Announces 100% Pack Accuracy Guarantee™ Following Team and Tech Investment: https://bit.ly/4mlV8mEDeposco Releases Third Annual DTC Report: Technology Investment and Talent Development Drive Sustainable Growth: https://bit.ly/4mxsQW1ColdTrack Website: https://coldtrack.com/Connect with Luke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-vaccaro-35a799/Deposco Website: www.Deposco.comConnect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcelani/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/3XH6OVkThis episode is 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: <a...

15 Aug 52min

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton sits down with Bryan Wright, CTO and COO at G10 Fulfillment, and Cody Upp, Head of Marketing, Sales and Solutions at Zebra Robotics Automation, to explore how next-generation automation is reshaping third-party logistics.Bryan shares G10's journey to finding the right automation partner to boost labor efficiency, accuracy, and growth while maintaining cost control and training flexibility. Cody explains Zebra's modular AMR (autonomous mobile robot) system—designed with operators in mind—that reduces variable cost per unit, maximizes utilization, and supports multiple workflows from picking to replenishment. Together, they break down why decoupling carts from robots isn’t just innovative, it’s transformative.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(01:54) Meet Bryan and Cody(04:36) Diving into G10 Fulfillment and Zebra Robotics(07:46) Operational challenges and automation solutions(12:23) The power of detaching carts from robots(21:49) Future prospects and continuous improvement(25:41) Commitment to success and incentive structures(26:27) Continuous improvement and utilization goals(27:30) Entrepreneurial mindset at Zebra(28:28) Strategic differentiation with technology(31:30) Client feedback and future roadmap(35:13) The role of automation in the future(40:10) Advice for 3PL executivesResources:Connect with Cody Upp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-upp/ Connect with Bryan Wright: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-wright-7622499/ Learn more about Zebra Technologies: https://www.zebra.com/ Learn more about G10 Fulfillment: https://g10fulfillment.com/ Check out Zebra Order Fulfillment Solutions:   https://www.zebra.com/fulfillment Check out Automation: Your Strategic Advantage: https://bit.ly/4fdKrA6 Check out Zebra on The New Warehouse Podcast: https://bit.ly/4lOofPf 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: <a href="https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

13 Aug 50min

Live from SAPICS 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa, Scott Luton sits down with Thato Moloi, President of SAPICS, for a powerful conversation on the future of African supply chains. Thato shares his inspiring journey from warehousing and distribution to leading one of the most influential supply chain organizations on the continent. He discusses the urgent need for collaboration, education, and professional development to close infrastructure and skills gaps—and why Africa is more than ready to lead on the global stage. Key topics include: The role of SAPICS as an integrator across sectors and generations Financial discipline as a cornerstone of effective supply chain management Breaking stereotypes and showcasing Africa’s readiness for innovation and investment How engaging youth early with supply chain language can drive future success Encouraging experimentation, connection, and conversation across the ecosystem Whether you're a student, practitioner, policymaker, or investor, this episode offers fresh insight into Africa’s growing influence in the global supply chain. Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Thato on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thato-moloi-mba-5132b7122/ Learn more about SAPICS: https://www.sapics.org/ Check out the other Interviews from SAPICS 2025: https://supplychainnow.com/sapics-2025 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- From Framework to Action: Decision Automation in the Agentic Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4nKlkJ6 WEBINAR- From Legacy to Leading Edge, Morgan Foods’ Supply Chain Journey: https://bit.ly/3IcDDGk WEBINAR- Tomorrow’s Factory is Already Here: https://bit.ly/45QMGqo WEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1k 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/africa-ready-business-sapics-president-elevating-supply-chain-1466

11 Aug 27min

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we discuss evolving dynamics within the supply chain job market, particularly in light of recent tariff implications and the pressing need for skilled professionals. Welcome to The Buzz!Hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter also welcome special guest Katie Date, SVP of Industry Relations & Strategic Initiatives at Manifest, to discuss the upcoming Manifest 2026 conference and all the top news and recent developments in supply chain and logistics, including: The evolving job market within the supply chain sectorThe health of the manufacturing industryThe increasing integration of artificial intelligence in operational processesHow businesses are adapting to tariffs and market fluctuations, with insights drawn from a recent survey that highlights the creation of new job roles in response to these changesThe importance of sharing knowledge and best practicesJoin us for invaluable insights and actionable strategies to navigate the current and future landscape of supply chain leadership.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/45yieR9 EasyPost Guide: Why Peak 2025 Is Not Business as Usual: https://bit.ly/4m5Q85QSurvey shows tariffs impacting U.S. job market: https://bit.ly/4fjJXIN‘We’re going to have to live with tariffs’: PMI: https://bit.ly/45nSjupLogistics Marketplace: https://bit.ly/3GVy7YD5 questions I frequently get asked about automating operations with AI: https://bit.ly/4m17MrmManifest 2026: ManifestVegas.com/SupplyChainNow Connect with Katie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-date-89573215/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- Real Stories: How an Australian Powerhouse Unlocked Millions in Capex Using Advanced Supply Chain Planning: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUFWEBINAR- From Framework to Action: Decision Automation in the Agentic Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4nKlkJ6WEBINAR- From Legacy to Leading Edge, Morgan Foods’ Supply Chain Journey: https://bit.ly/3IcDDGkWEBINAR- Tomorrow’s Factory is Already Here: https://bit.ly/45QMGqoWEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That

8 Aug 51min

In this powerful interview from the SAPICS 2025 Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, Scott Luton of Supply Chain Now sits down with Esther Ndichu—global supply chain leader, advocate, and changemaker.Esther shares her incredible journey from corporate America to becoming a farmer in Kenya, driven by a passion for food security and sustainable agriculture, and opens up about breaking barriers, championing diversity, and nurturing talent across the continent.Now serving as the Step 2.0 Coordinator for People That Deliver, Esther shares how she helps to transform public health supply chains in low- and middle-income countries—empowering local professionals to strengthen healthcare access through logistics.Tune in to hear Esther reflect on her impactful career, her belief in logistics as a force for good, and why Africa’s supply chain ecosystem is primed for innovation, investment, and homegrown solutions.Additional Links & Resources:Connect with Esther on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/esther-ndichuLearn more about People That Deliver: www.peoplethatdeliver.orgCheck out the other Interviews from SAPICS 2025: https://supplychainnow.com/sapics-2025Learn 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- Real Stories: How an Australian Powerhouse Unlocked Millions in Capex Using Advanced Supply Chain Planning: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUFWEBINAR- From Framework to Action: Decision Automation in the Agentic Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4nKlkJ6WEBINAR- From Legacy to Leading Edge, Morgan Foods’ Supply Chain Journey: https://bit.ly/3IcDDGkWEBINAR- Tomorrow’s Factory is Already Here: https://bit.ly/45QMGqoWEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That Powers Innovation: https://bit.ly/4ogPN1kThis 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/people-that-deliver-purpose-logistics-african-innovation-sapics-2025-1464

6 Aug 28min