STB Chair Urges Railroads to Focus on Service Not Profits

STB Chair Urges Railroads to Focus on Service Not Profits

U.S. Surface Transportation Board Member Robert Primus, at the NEARS conference, emphasized the urgent need to improve rail service levels. He pointed to prioritizing operating ratio (PSR), problems with PSR implementation, labor shortages, and insufficient investment benefit assessments as key contributing factors. From a data analyst's perspective, this article proposes solutions including quantitative assessment, PSR optimization, addressing labor issues, and evaluating investment benefits. The aim is to reshape rail service and enhance its competitiveness by focusing on service quality and long-term sustainability rather than solely on short-term cost reduction.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Swedish Startup Bootski Gains Traction with Short Skis on Tiktok

Swedish Startup Bootski Gains Traction with Short Skis on Tiktok

Stolt of Sweden's BootSki, a pair of ultra-short skis, has gone viral on TikTok due to its lightweight and easy-to-learn nature. The product achieved over 140 million impressions within three weeks, successfully penetrating the Nordic and North American markets. This case demonstrates that differentiated products combined with targeted short-video marketing are crucial for small to medium-sized brands to break through in the mass market.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Middle East North Africa Customs Crack Down on Artifact Smuggling

Middle East North Africa Customs Crack Down on Artifact Smuggling

The World Customs Organization held a seminar in Tunisia, focusing on combating cultural heritage smuggling in the Middle East and North Africa region. Participants suggested strengthening regional cooperation, enhancing the capacity of customs officers, utilizing technological tools, and improving laws and regulations. The aim is to more effectively protect invaluable cultural heritage. The discussions emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts and modern approaches to counter the illicit trafficking of cultural artifacts, ensuring the preservation of these treasures for future generations.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Middle East and North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

Middle East and North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

A regional workshop in Amman, Jordan, focused on customs valuation and anti-fraud, aiming to enhance the capabilities of customs officials in the Middle East and North Africa. The workshop covered the WTO Valuation Agreement, WCO's Revenue Package tools, and anti-fraud strategies. Key discussions centered on Decision 6.1 and valuation risk management. Emphasis was placed on international cooperation, capacity building, legal improvements, and technological innovation. The goal was to foster a fairer trade environment by strengthening customs practices and combating fraudulent activities in the region.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Fire on Bulk Carrier in Germanys Emden Port Quickly Extinguished

Fire on Bulk Carrier in Germanys Emden Port Quickly Extinguished

On January 19th, a fire broke out in the generator unit of a bulk carrier at the Port of Emden, Germany. The ship's fire suppression system and port firefighters responded quickly and successfully contained the fire. There were no casualties or environmental pollution. The cause of the incident is currently under investigation, and the ship remains docked at the port.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Logistics Firms Focus on Talent Supply Chains for Peak Season

Logistics Firms Focus on Talent Supply Chains for Peak Season

This paper addresses the challenges logistics companies face in peak season hiring and proposes four key strategies: developing a long-term talent strategy, highlighting technological advantages, focusing on career development, and creating a “Plan B.” It emphasizes that companies should focus on talent acquisition and retention year-round. By leveraging technology, offering career development opportunities, and building a stable and efficient talent supply chain, companies can successfully navigate the challenges of peak season and ensure sufficient staffing levels to meet increased demand.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Service Sector Growth Slows on Supply Chain Policy Woes

US Service Sector Growth Slows on Supply Chain Policy Woes

The US Services PMI has grown for five consecutive months, but the growth rate is slowing, and industry divergence is evident. Supply chain challenges, policy uncertainty, and corporate risk management strategies have a significant impact. Experts predict continued moderate growth in the future, and businesses need to respond cautiously. The slowdown suggests a cooling in the services sector, requiring businesses to carefully navigate evolving economic conditions and proactively manage risks related to supply chains and policy changes. Focus on resilience and adaptability will be crucial for sustained success.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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American Eagle Shuts Quiet Logistics to Focus on Core Brands

American Eagle Shuts Quiet Logistics to Focus on Core Brands

American Eagle is shutting down Quiet Logistics to focus on its core brands. The company had initially aimed to build an 'anti-Amazon' logistics network through this acquisition. However, its third-party business faced challenges, leading to a strategic adjustment. This decision reflects a shift in focus towards strengthening its primary retail operations and streamlining its overall business strategy. The move signals a reassessment of its broader logistics ambitions and a prioritization of its core brand performance.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Canada Post Union Agree on Deal Halting Dynamic Routing Plan

Canada Post Union Agree on Deal Halting Dynamic Routing Plan

Canada Post and its union have reached a tentative agreement, which includes the cancellation of the dynamic routing plan and adjustments to weekend delivery models. This new contract aims to resolve labor disputes, stabilize operations, and provide shippers with a more stable partnership environment and a wider range of service options. The agreement's effectiveness hinges on the outcome of a vote by union members.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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South Korea Warns on Won Weakness May Limit Dollar Investments

South Korea Warns on Won Weakness May Limit Dollar Investments

The Bank of Korea's governor warned that the Korean won's depreciation could exacerbate inflation, hinting at potential restrictions on US investments to stabilize the exchange rate. While the central bank held interest rates steady, internal divisions regarding rate cuts exist. The government is set to announce policies related to the US trade agreement and the foreign exchange market, drawing market attention. South Korea's ample dollar reserves provide a buffer against exchange rate risks. The market is closely watching the government's upcoming policy announcements and the central bank's future actions.

02/04/2026 Exchange Rate Query
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