CPG and Retail Firms Adapt SOP for Market Volatility

CPG and Retail Firms Adapt SOP for Market Volatility

In the highly competitive consumer goods and retail industry, integrated and optimized Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) is crucial. This paper explores how companies can improve visibility, agility, and profitability to gain a competitive edge in a rapidly changing market. We examine the role of more accurate demand forecasting, optimized supply and capacity planning, efficient production and delivery coordination, consensus plan development, and advanced optimization and automation in achieving S&OP excellence. Ultimately, these strategies enable businesses to better navigate market volatility and improve overall supply chain performance.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Deloitte ASCM Launch Digital Model to Strengthen Supply Chains

Deloitte ASCM Launch Digital Model to Strengthen Supply Chains

Deloitte and ASCM jointly released the Digital Capabilities Model (DCM) for supply chain networks, aiming to help companies address challenges such as market volatility, technological innovation, and changing consumer demands, and build more resilient and adaptable supply chain networks. Seamlessly integrated with the SCOR Digital Standard, DCM views the supply chain as a dynamic and interconnected system. It offers application scenarios such as investment strategies, transformation plans, and objective assessments, helping companies achieve digital transformation. This model provides a framework for assessing and improving digital capabilities across the entire supply chain.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Customs Forum Sets Future Work Priorities

Global Customs Forum Sets Future Work Priorities

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held the inaugural meeting of the Customs Working Organization Forum (CWOF), bringing together global experts to discuss innovative customs working methods in the “new normal.” The meeting approved the CWOF's terms of reference and outlined future work directions, including the collection of case studies and the development of best practice guidelines. The aim is to build a more resilient and efficient customs working system, adapting to the evolving challenges of international trade and ensuring effective border management in a rapidly changing world.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Luxury Retailer Saks Global Struggles With Mounting Debt

Luxury Retailer Saks Global Struggles With Mounting Debt

Saks Fifth Avenue's parent company, Saks Global Group, is facing a potential bankruptcy crisis after failing to make bond interest payments. The company is burdened by debt, declining performance, and executive departures. This situation reflects the broader challenges facing traditional department stores, including competition from e-commerce, inflationary pressures, and changing consumer habits. Digital transformation is now critical. The future of the group is uncertain, and the path to restructuring will be challenging. The crisis highlights the vulnerability of even established luxury retailers in the current economic climate.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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CPG Retailers Boost Competitiveness with Streamlined SOP

CPG Retailers Boost Competitiveness with Streamlined SOP

This paper explores the importance of Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) in the Consumer Packaged Goods and Retail (CPG&R) industry. It highlights the critical role of optimizing S&OP processes through integrated approaches and advanced technologies to improve profitability, enhance market competitiveness, improve supply chain efficiency, and enhance decision-making quality in a rapidly changing market. A webinar by Dassault Systèmes provides valuable guidance on this topic, underscoring the need for robust S&OP strategies to navigate the complexities of the CPG&R landscape and achieve sustainable growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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AI Yard Systems Boost Logistics Efficiency

AI Yard Systems Boost Logistics Efficiency

Modern YMS significantly improves supply chain efficiency through optimized trailer flow, real-time visibility, and efficient scheduling. Loadsmart's $200 million funding accelerates logistics technology innovation. YMS helps companies reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction, and enhance competitive advantages, creating an efficient and intelligent logistics future. It streamlines operations within the yard, minimizing delays and maximizing resource utilization. This results in improved throughput and a more agile supply chain, enabling businesses to respond quickly to changing market demands and customer needs. The focus is on creating a seamless and optimized logistics ecosystem.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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AI Transforms Supply Chains with Realtime Visibility

AI Transforms Supply Chains with Realtime Visibility

Supply chain management software is undergoing a profound transformation, with real-time visibility, AI integration, and seamless ERP integration reshaping logistics management. WMS, TMS, YMS, and ERP form the digital foundation. AI empowers intraday planning, improving decision-making efficiency. AI applications are widespread in areas such as exception handling and supplier management. SCM and ERP integration is crucial, with cloud technology and APIs simplifying external connections. Modular applications offer flexible deployment and scalability. This allows businesses to adapt quickly to changing market demands and optimize their supply chain operations.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Logistics MA Activity Slows As Pwc Reports Q3 Shift

Logistics MA Activity Slows As Pwc Reports Q3 Shift

PwC's Q3 report indicates a slight increase in transportation and logistics M&A deal volume, but a decrease in deal value, with smaller, local transactions becoming dominant. The global economic slowdown is a major factor, but large infrastructure projects may become new growth drivers. Strategic investors are dominant, with Asia and Oceania leading the way. Companies should focus on high-quality assets, carefully assess risks, and flexibly adjust their strategies. The report highlights the need for adaptability in a changing global landscape for logistics companies considering mergers and acquisitions.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in November YTD Up

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in November YTD Up

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending November 1st, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year, but cumulative volumes for the year remain positive. Increased shipments of grain and metallic ores were observed, while coal and motor vehicle shipments declined, reflecting economic restructuring and changing market demands. Railroad companies need to pay attention to these structural shifts and proactively address the challenges they present. This data provides insights into the current economic landscape and the evolving role of rail freight.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Industry Shifts

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Industry Shifts

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight volume for November, with both carload and intermodal traffic experiencing decreases. Experts attribute this downturn to factors such as the Thanksgiving holiday impact and structural challenges within the industry. The rail industry needs to proactively address these challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and innovate to compete effectively in the market and achieve sustainable growth. It must adapt to changing demands and explore new strategies to maintain its position in the transportation sector.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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