Supply Chain Now

We’re continuing our series on leadership within the booming supply chains of Africa and delving deep into the dynamic and challenging world of the African supply chain ecosystem.In this episode, hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love, we’re thrilled to have two exceptional guests with us - Jacques de Villiers, Head of Supply Chain for the Omnia Group, an influential heavyweight in the mining and agriculture sectors, and MJ Schoemaker, President of the Board at SAPICS, where she's leading from the front to uplift and transform supply chain professionalism through educational initiatives and community engagement.Listen in as we discuss the hurdles and prospects of supply chain operations, touching upon critical issues like infrastructure, education, and the shifting paradigms from efficiency to reliability in a world where environmental and social considerations are paramount. MJ brings us insights from the upcoming 46th SAPICS conference, focusing on global healthcare, sustainability, and the importance of networking in our era of significant change.From the fine after-notes of South African wines to the empowering stories of local solutions like WhatsApp-enabled supply networks, we'll explore how agility, diversity of thought, and mentorship shape future supply chain leaders. Stay tuned for actionable insights and an insider's look into the continent primed for immense economic growth and supply chain development. Additional Links & Resources:Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWEBINAR- From Data to Delivery: Transforming Logistics for Maximum Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3PODrOpWEBINAR- Achieving Excellence in External Supply Chain Planning and Synchronization: https://bit.ly/3JzDoT6This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/supply-chain-leadership-across-africa-power-local-solutions-global-connections-1268

“When you're looking at budgeting for the next two, three, four years, know that the parcel market right now is ripe. So go for it hard right now. Plan for volumes to stay pretty steady.”In this episode of Supply Chain Now, we’re joined by Robin Meyer, Senior Vice President of Parcel Strategy and Solutions at Transportation Insight.Sharing a captivating reel of anecdotes and a truckload of insightful advice, Robin, along with hosts Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love, offers several key parcel market forecasts, signposting a clear message: In what has become a shippers’ market, the opportunities for large and small players alike are immense.Discussions include a focus on the priorities of industry leaders, from the need to cut costs to mitigating risks and meeting heightening consumer expectations. Later, conversations then turn to the hangover from the pandemic and importance for shippers to diversify and take advantage of favorable market conditions.From considering how to find the right partner for your business as it grows and changes to the importance of understanding key operational data, listeners can expect a true masterclass from one of the industry’s brightest talents.Listen to the full episode for a complete rundown on what’s needed to capitalize on current and future opportunities, with Robin offering advice on:· The importance of embracing technology· Becoming more adaptive and responsive in a fast-moving market· The need to analyze carrier contracts· Exploring market share opportunities· Evaluating your distribution model and networkAdditional Links & Resources:Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comLearn more about National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscdWEBINAR- From Data to Delivery: Transforming Logistics for Maximum Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3PODrOpWEBINAR- Achieving Excellence in External Supply Chain Planning and Synchronization: https://bit.ly/3JzDoT6This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/small-parcel-2024-leaving-table-1267

Vin Vashishta, Founder of vSquared, joins Scott Luton to dive into the latest in AI and technology. They discuss the innovative Logitech mouse that launches ChatGPT with a click. The duo unpacks 'AI washing'—what it is and how to spot it. They also explore IBM's release of Meta Llama 3 and its implications. Additionally, they touch on the integration of AI in everyday tech and the evolving trust issues in supply chains. This conversation emphasizes the importance of upskilling for professionals in the data and AI landscape.

Join us for an insightful journey into the heart of the beauty industry's retail supply chain. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, sponsored by Microsoft, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson delve into the intricate world of beauty retail with special guest Caroline Troit, Senior Vice President, Salon Centric, for L'Oreal. Listen in and discover why the retail supply chain is the lifeblood of the beauty industry, powering the seamless delivery of products to millions of independent stylists and salon owners and explore how innovation, sustainability, and the relentless pursuit of efficiency are shaping the future of beauty retail supply chains. Get ready to uncover the strategies and insights driving retail success in the dynamic world of beauty, in this episode, as we hear directly from a leader at the forefront of the industry, Caroline Troit.Additional Links & Resources:Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comLearn more about National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscdWEBINAR- From Data to Delivery: Transforming Logistics for Maximum Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3PODrOpWEBINAR- Achieving Excellence in External Supply Chain Planning and Synchronization: https://bit.ly/3JzDoT6This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/retail-resilience-optimizing-beauty-supply-chains-loreal-1265

In the energy sector, sustainability isn't just a buzzword; it's a necessity. As the world faces urgent environmental challenges, the energy industry plays a critical role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner future. Sustainable practices are not only essential for environmental stewardship but also for ensuring long-term resilience and competitiveness in an evolving market.In this episode of Supply Chain Now, sponsored by Microsoft, Scott Luton and his co-host Kevin L. Jackson are joined by Dwight Jacobs, the Senior Vice President of Supply Chain and Chief Procurement Officer at Duke Energy. They delve into various aspects of the intersection between supply chain procurement, technology, and sustainability within the energy sector.Dwight shares insights from his journey at Duke Energy, emphasizing the importance of a people-centric approach and servant leadership in driving success. He reflects on Duke Energy's mission to power communities and discusses the evolving role of technology in achieving sustainability goals, such as transitioning to net zero carbon emissions.Join us for this conversation that covers a range of topics, from the role of procurement in organizational success to the impact of technology on decision-making processes. Listen in as Dwight highlights Duke Energy's initiatives, including supplier development programs, embracing innovative technologies like drones for methane detection, their commitment to sustainability, and their proactive approach to driving change in the industry.Additional Links & Resources:Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comLearn more about National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscdWEBINAR- Profitable Manufacturing Unveiled: Crafting a Winning S&OP Strategy: https://bit.ly/43zlZ6dWEBINAR- From Data to Delivery: Transforming Logistics for Maximum Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3PODrOpThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/sustainable-energy-transforming-supply-chains-duke-energy-1264

The Buzz is Supply Chain Now’s regular Monday livestream, held at 12 noon ET each week. This show focuses on some of the leading stories from global supply chain and global business, always with special guests – the most important of which is the live audience!In this week's episode of The Buzz, hosts Scott Luton and Billy Taylor welcomed Amit Sinha, Principal, AWS Industry Products, Supply Chain & Operations with Amazon Web Services, and Jorge Morales, Global COO of ISCEA. Together they discussed what to expect from the upcoming 2024 ISCEA SC Tech Show, along with top news including:‘Rosie the Riveters’ being honored by CongressHow factories around the world are slowly cranking into gear againAI tools bringing real gains into supply chains And much more!Additional Links & Resources:Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comLearn more about National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscdWEBINAR- Profitable Manufacturing Unveiled: Crafting a Winning S&OP Strategy: https://bit.ly/43zlZ6dWEBINAR- From Data to Delivery: Transforming Logistics for Maximum Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3PODrOpThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Billy Taylor. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-manufacturing-supply-chain-tech-iscea-aws-1263

What are point solutions? What problems can they solve? Why is it a good approach for companies that are starting out on their automation journeys?In this episode of Supply Chain Now, we have two experts with a combined experience of more than 35 years of experience in materials handling and global supply chain strategy.Both are from Bastian Solutions, a Toyota Advanced Logistics company that specializes in the design and delivery of distribution and production solutions for clients in the United States, Canada, India, the Middle East, Mexico and South America. Alex Haines is the company’s Manager of New Business Development, and he joins hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson alongside VP of Global Sales and Applications, Matt Kuper.During the conversation, Alex and Matt introduce and explain the merits of a point solutions approach to automating supply chain and warehousing processes. With relatively few barriers to entry, they outline how ‘becoming smart’ can be broken down into manageable pieces and projects which can be taken care of one step at a time.Tune in as the duo draws on their vast experience to provide valuable insights on this and a range of other topics. Listen out for…· How organizations can cut through the sea of supply chain automation technologies and make sure they select the right options.· The importance of having smart people around you.· Why aftersales support is critical to making the most out of automation solutionsAdditional Links & Resources:Learn more about Bastian Solutions: https://www.bastiansolutions.com/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comLearn more about National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscdWEBINAR- Building an Antifragile Supply Chain: Dr. Schär’s Climb to Inventory Excellence: https://bit.ly/3Pc7wanWEBINAR- Profitable Manufacturing Unveiled: Crafting a Winning S&OP Strategy: https://bit.ly/43zlZ6dWEBINAR- From Data to Delivery: Transforming Logistics for Maximum Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3PODrOpThis episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/how-provide-simpler-alternatives-complex-material-handling-systems-1262

Selecting the right Transportation Management System (TMS) solution can be crucial for businesses. Finding a solution with the right balance of cost efficiency, visibility, good customer service, scalability, risk management, and analytics can be a difficult decision. Sometimes you get it right- and sometimes you get it wrong!In a recent episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love welcomed Cody Graham, founder and president of Neon Logistics, and Anthony Ceritelli, senior director of Customer Success with Turvo, and discussed their unique business relationship. Neon Logistics initially partnered with Turvo for a TMS implementation but later switched to a different tech platform. However, they found the new platform fell short of their needs and returned to Turvo. The switch to the new platform cost Neon Logistics around $1 million in total costs, including time, additional vendors, and lost revenue from customers. Join us for this conversation, and learn from Graham's unique experience. Find out more about how it's not just about implementing a software solution; it's about choosing a strategic tool and partner that aligns with the organization's goals and values, and facilitates continuous improvement in the supply chain. Additional Links & Resources:5 Ways to Build a Battle-Tested Carrier Network: https://info.turvo.com/5-ways-to-build-carrier-networkLearn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comLearn more about National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscdWEBINAR- Building an Antifragile Supply Chain: Dr. Schär’s Climb to Inventory Excellence: https://bit.ly/3Pc7wanWEBINAR- Profitable Manufacturing Unveiled: Crafting a Winning S&OP Strategy: https://bit.ly/43zlZ6dWEBINAR- From Data to Delivery: Transforming Logistics for Maximum Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3PODrOpThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/why-grass-greener-neon-logistics-tms-selection-story-1261

The Buzz is Supply Chain Now’s regular Monday livestream, held at 12 noon ET each week. This show focuses on some of the leading stories from global supply chain and global business, always with special guests – the most important of which is the live audience!In this week's Digital Transformers edition of The Buzz, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome special guest Anton Karnaukhov, Co-founder, VP of Application Delivery with XpertMinds, to the show. Together they discuss:What generative AI means for supply chain workAs mainframes turn 60, how skill gaps threaten the enterprise workforceHow AI is disrupting the supply chain industryAnton's expert perspective on the implementation of new technologies in supply chainAnd so much more!Additional Links & Resources:Learn more about XpertMinds: https://xpertminds.net/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comLearn more about National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscdWEBINAR- Building an Antifragile Supply Chain: Dr. Schär’s Climb to Inventory Excellence: https://bit.ly/3Pc7wanWEBINAR- Profitable Manufacturing Unveiled: Crafting a Winning S&OP Strategy: https://bit.ly/43zlZ6dWEBINAR- From Data to Delivery: Transforming Logistics for Maximum Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3PODrOpThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-digital-transformers-mainframes-AI-1260

Global supply chains are still grappling with the aftermath of COVID-19 and ongoing disruptions caused by international conflicts and economic instability. So, in an era where destabilization has become the new normal, what can organizations do to improve agility and resiliency?In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love are joined by supply chain transformation experts Christine Barnhart, Chief Marketing and Industry Officer at Nulogy and Jake Barr, CEO of BlueWorld Supply Chain Consulting to discuss the next steps for industry professionals.Offering actionable advice, the pair explain why supply chain leaders must actively embrace change management, adopting modern methodologies and technologies to enhance operational effectiveness. From the importance of bolstering visibility to understand and take a proactive role in managing supply chain networks, to the integration and interoperability of key technologies and value-add solutions, several essential learnings are shared.For a comprehensive rundown on several priority improvement areas, be sure to catch the full episode.Additional Links & Resources:Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comLearn more about National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscdWEBINAR- Building an Antifragile Supply Chain: Dr. Schär’s Climb to Inventory Excellence: https://bit.ly/3Pc7wanWEBINAR- Profitable Manufacturing Unveiled: Crafting a Winning S&OP Strategy: https://bit.ly/43zlZ6dWEBINAR- From Data to Delivery: Transforming Logistics for Maximum Efficiency: https://bit.ly/3PODrOpThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/adapting-supply-chain-networks-continuous-disruption-1259