digital intelligent foreign trade News

Gates Backs Convoys 62M Funding to Rival Uber Freight

Freight software company Convoy secured $62 million in funding led by Bill Gates, positioning itself as a challenger to Uber Freight. Convoy leverages technology to optimize freight processes and reduce empty miles, attracting clients like Unilever. The U.S. freight market is vast but inefficient, and companies like Convoy are driving digital transformation within the industry, aiming for more efficient, transparent, and sustainable transportation. This investment highlights the growing interest in tech-driven solutions to modernize the logistics sector and address its inherent inefficiencies.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights

Seattle Port Names Manufacturing Veteran Ted J Fick As New CEO

The Port of Seattle Commission appointed Ted J. Fick, with a manufacturing background, as its new CEO, drawing industry attention. This analysis explores how Fick's manufacturing expertise can bring fresh perspectives to the port. It examines the challenges and opportunities facing the Port of Seattle, and envisions its future development in areas such as digital transformation and the construction of a green port. Fick's leadership is expected to guide the port through a strategic transformation, leveraging his experience to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

01/29/2026 Port Encyclopedia

US Rail Freight Sees Winter Carload Drop Amid Intermodal Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight in February presented a mixed picture. Carload volume plummeted 11.1% year-over-year, dragged down by declining demand for coal, building materials, and automobiles. However, container traffic bucked the trend, growing by 1.8%, demonstrating the resilience of intermodal transportation. Severe weather exacerbated the challenges for traditional freight, highlighting the impact of economic restructuring and supply chain bottlenecks. Rail freight needs to actively transform, embracing intermodal solutions and digital technologies, to achieve a resurgence.

01/29/2026 Logistics

Kenco Lab Tests Nextgen Supply Chain Innovations

Kenco Logistics has launched a 10,000-square-foot Innovation Lab designed to simulate real-world warehouse environments. This lab allows for testing and validating emerging logistics technologies, reducing investment risk for clients and accelerating their digital transformation. Collaborating with companies like NextShift Robotics, Stocked Robotics, and LogistiVIEW, the lab aims to build a future-ready supply chain ecosystem and lead innovation within the industry. The focus is on practical application and de-risking the adoption of new technologies in warehousing and logistics operations.

01/29/2026 Logistics

Businesses Adapt to Persistent Supply Chain Disruptions

SEKO Logistics experts point out that the e-commerce surge and port congestion have led to a global supply chain facing a 'never-ending peak season.' Businesses should plan ahead, optimize inventory, diversify their supply chains, strengthen collaboration, and adopt digital technologies to address the challenges and embrace the new normal of supply chains. Proactive planning and strategic adjustments are crucial for navigating the complexities of the current logistics landscape and ensuring business continuity during periods of high demand and potential disruptions.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights

Meta Rolls Out Global Ads on Threads to Rival X

Meta's Threads has opened its advertising platform to advertisers globally, marking its official entry into the competitive social advertising market. Leveraging its connection with Instagram and incorporating innovative features from other platforms, Threads has rapidly amassed a significant user base. This launch of advertising opportunities provides advertisers with new options and signals an intensification of competition within the social media landscape. The move is expected to further fuel the growth of Threads and challenge established players in the digital advertising space.