Potential high-growth categories on Ozon in 2026: Dacha supplies, local health products, small appliances, winter outdoor gear, and stress-relief DIY items. When selecting products, prioritize compliance and avoid common pitfalls. Start with small batch testing to validate market demand. Focus on identifying niche markets with less competition within the broader Russian e-commerce landscape to maximize success on the Ozon platform.
Digital printing is undergoing a cost revolution. Breakthroughs in domestic ink technology have significantly reduced consumable prices, breaking down traditional printing cost barriers. Technological advancements have improved printing precision and speed, while print-on-demand models reduce inventory pressure. Digital printing is rapidly penetrating packaging, publishing, and other fields. It is projected that 2026 will mark the first year of large-scale application.
Fitch Ratings analysts point out that even during periods of weak demand early in the pandemic, major shipping companies effectively controlled the supply of containers in the market by flexibly adjusting capacity. This supported stable freight rates and ultimately drove prices higher. The self-discipline of shipping companies in terms of capacity supply is reshaping the pricing mechanism of the maritime market.
nVision Global delivers comprehensive freight management solutions, including freight audit & payment, order management, vendor management, visibility, TMS, and freight spend analysis. Driven by data, they help businesses optimize freight networks, forecast freight demand, evaluate carrier performance, and identify cost-saving opportunities. Their expert team provides professional consulting, implementation, and support services, empowering companies to enhance supply chain agility and improve profit margins.
Breakthrough Chief Economist Matt Muenster provides an in-depth analysis of the current complex freight economy, covering key elements such as tariffs, manufacturing, capacity, inflation, demand, and pricing. He emphasizes the integration of macroeconomics with micro-level practices, leveraging data-driven decision-making to build resilient freight systems. This approach helps businesses navigate uncertainty and capitalize on opportunities within the ever-evolving landscape.
North American Class 8 truck orders remain robust, signaling strong market demand. However, supply chain bottlenecks, particularly the semiconductor shortage, significantly constrain production capacity. Fleets are proactively placing orders to secure freight capacity, but should be wary of potential risks. The industry faces both opportunities and challenges. Enhanced collaboration and embracing electrification and intelligent transformation are crucial for achieving sustainable growth.
The US Manufacturing PMI for February remained below 50, indicating contraction, but showed improvement compared to the previous month. New orders were flat, while the production index increased, and the rate of job contraction slowed. Most companies reported positive sentiment, and low inventory levels suggest potential restocking demand. Experts believe that the manufacturing sector may be poised for a recovery.
AI logistics platform Augment raised $85 million in Series A funding, bringing its total funding to over $110 million, led by Redpoint Ventures. Augment's AI platform helps logistics companies optimize demand forecasting, routing, warehouse management, and customer service. Meanwhile, major US ports are addressing trade shifts through data and investment. Digitalization and intelligentization are becoming key to the development of the logistics industry.
The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index reveals mixed trends in the US freight market for Q3. Unprecedented discounts in parcel shipping offset rising fuel surcharges. LTL pricing remains stable, but per-shipment weight is declining. Truckload faces continued headwinds from weak demand and excess capacity, with limited near-term improvement expected. This index provides valuable insights for businesses developing their freight strategies.
Corvus Robotics has launched its next-generation Corvus One drone system, enabling automated warehouse inventory checks without requiring additional infrastructure. Leveraging computer vision and generative AI technologies, the system enhances operational efficiency, reduces costs, and optimizes inventory management. A newly secured $18 million funding round will help Corvus meet rapidly growing customer demand and lead a new era of warehouse automation.
