CPG and Retail Firms Adapt SOP for Market Volatility

CPG and Retail Firms Adapt SOP for Market Volatility

This paper explores the importance of optimizing Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) within the Consumer Packaged Goods and Retail (CPG&R) industry. By integrating S&OP processes and leveraging advanced modeling optimization techniques, companies can improve demand forecast accuracy, optimize supply chain costs, enhance customer service levels, and boost profitability. Dassault Systèmes experts will share practical guidance on how to leverage S&OP to enhance enterprise competitiveness.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Meijer Summit Boosts Midwest Suppliers Retail Innovation

Meijer Summit Boosts Midwest Suppliers Retail Innovation

Meijer is hosting a virtual summit on April 1st to seek out local suppliers in the Midwest. The summit will focus on categories including food, baby products, beauty, and health & wellness. This initiative aims to meet the growing demand for localized products and establish long-term partnerships with regional businesses. Meijer is committed to supporting local economies and providing customers with unique, locally sourced items.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Furniture Market Expands for Crossborder Sellers

Global Furniture Market Expands for Crossborder Sellers

The global furniture market is large and growing, with Europe and the the US being key markets, driven by demand for living room and bedroom furniture. Online channels are gaining prominence, and ergonomics, customization, and sustainability are emerging trends. China boasts a strong furniture industry cluster. Cross-border sellers should pay close attention to shipping costs and after-sales service to succeed in the market.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US rail freight saw a slight increase overall, but intermodal volume experienced a significant drop. This internal divergence suggests a potential weakening in consumer demand. The overall performance of North American rail transport remains lackluster. Monitoring these data points is crucial for understanding underlying economic trends. The decline in intermodal volume, in particular, warrants close attention as it can be a leading indicator of broader economic slowdown.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Further Amid Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Further Amid Economic Slowdown

US rail freight and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in late April. Gains in motor vehicles and farm products were offset by declines in commodities such as coal. Overall North American rail freight volume also decreased. The dip highlights ongoing shifts in commodity demand and transportation patterns across the region. Further analysis is needed to determine the long-term implications for the rail freight industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

In August 2022, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 2.9%, while intermodal volume decreased by 2.4%. For the full year, carload traffic remained flat, and intermodal volume declined by 5.5%. North American rail freight is facing pressure. This data reflects key economic trends impacting the transportation sector and broader supply chains. The contrasting performance of carload and intermodal shipments suggests shifts in freight demand and transportation strategies.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Ecommerce Growth Reshapes Parcel Delivery Challenges

Ecommerce Growth Reshapes Parcel Delivery Challenges

E-commerce logistics expert Rick Watson analyzes issues such as peak season, express delivery price increases, and Amazon's competition. He emphasizes the industry's intelligent and green development, as well as collaborative cooperation. The analysis points towards a need for smarter, more sustainable, and interconnected logistics solutions to navigate the evolving e-commerce landscape and address the challenges posed by increasing demand and competitive pressures.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Top Trends Transforming Transportation Management Systems

Top Trends Transforming Transportation Management Systems

The Transportation Management System (TMS) market is booming, and businesses need to understand its trends to optimize logistics and reduce costs. This article delves into eight key trends: omnichannel retail demand, globalization expansion, tactical planning capabilities, freight forecasting, embedded analytics, big data management, backhaul utilization, and planning and execution integration. It provides a reference for businesses to grasp the development direction of TMS and enhance competitiveness.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Jump in February Easing Supply Chain Strains

US Container Imports Jump in February Easing Supply Chain Strains

A Panjiva report indicates a 6.9% year-over-year increase in U.S. container imports for February, but a 5.5% decrease compared to January. Energy imports surged while IT imports declined. Experts note a record high for a single day in February, but the full-year trend remains uncertain. Inflation, geopolitical factors, and changing consumer behavior could influence future demand, requiring flexibility from the shipping industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Cass Freight Index Drop Signals Economic Slowdown

Cass Freight Index Drop Signals Economic Slowdown

The Cass Freight Index indicates a year-over-year decline in both freight volumes and expenditures for December, reflecting weak market demand and excess capacity. Companies should address these challenges through supply chain optimization, lean inventory management, and digital transformation. Despite the current market headwinds, factors such as economic recovery and infrastructure development hold the potential to drive a turnaround in the freight market.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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