US Rail Freight Rebounds in Early 2025 Amid Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Rebounds in Early 2025 Amid Economic Recovery

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows significant growth in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume during the third week of January, with gains across various commodities. Coal, chemicals, and nonmetallic minerals led the increase. Cumulative data from early 2025 also indicate continued positive momentum. Key drivers include economic recovery, supply chain easing, increased energy demand, and infrastructure development. The industry faces both opportunities and challenges, requiring continuous innovation to thrive.

01/30/2026 Logistics
Read More
Checkers Rallys Outsources Distribution to Boost Efficiency

Checkers Rallys Outsources Distribution to Boost Efficiency

Checkers & Rally’s outsourced its distribution operations to McLane Company to optimize its supply chain, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency. This strategic move represents a common approach in the competitive QSR industry to achieve sustainable growth and can serve as a valuable example for other businesses. By outsourcing, Checkers & Rally's aims to streamline logistics and focus on core competencies, ultimately enhancing its market position and profitability within the fast-paced quick-service restaurant sector.

01/30/2026 Logistics
Read More
Logistics Firms Use Data and Tech to Overcome Supply Chain Challenges

Logistics Firms Use Data and Tech to Overcome Supply Chain Challenges

In the face of a complex and ever-changing logistics environment, companies need to build on tradition, understand the market, embrace technological innovation, and create an agile and efficient operating system. By continuously investing in technology and talent, and focusing on improving resilience, the logistics industry can find its way forward, overcome difficulties, and achieve sustainable development. The three annual reports from *Logistics Management* magazine will provide companies with valuable information and insights.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Ralph Lauren Adopts Sustainable Practices to Protect Rainforests

Ralph Lauren Adopts Sustainable Practices to Protect Rainforests

Ralph Lauren joins the sustainability movement, pledging to reduce wood fiber sourcing from threatened rainforests. Many brands are following suit, signaling the arrival of a sustainable fashion era. The article emphasizes that sustainability is not only a moral responsibility but also a business opportunity, urging companies to integrate it into their strategies, build sustainable supply chains, and strengthen communication and collaboration. It calls for collective action to drive the sustainable transformation of the fashion industry.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Solar Eclipse to Disrupt Trucking with Heavy Traffic

Solar Eclipse to Disrupt Trucking with Heavy Traffic

An upcoming solar eclipse is expected to cause significant traffic congestion, severely impacting the trucking industry. States have implemented measures to restrict truck traffic. Trucking operators should plan ahead, consider off-peak transportation, flexibly adjust delivery times, and maintain communication with customers to mitigate potential delays and losses. Proactive planning and communication are crucial to navigating the challenges posed by the eclipse-related traffic disruptions and minimizing the impact on supply chains.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Canadian Wildfires Tariffs Drive US Lumber Prices Higher

Canadian Wildfires Tariffs Drive US Lumber Prices Higher

Lumber prices are surging due to the double whammy of Canadian forest fires and potential US tariffs, posing a threat to the American construction industry. This crisis highlights the vulnerability of global supply chains and calls for improved risk management, increased production efficiency, market diversification, and a focus on environmental protection and sustainability to ensure lumber market stability. The combined impact necessitates proactive measures to mitigate future disruptions and safeguard the industry's economic health.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
FMCSA Chief Reinforces ELD Mandate Compliance

FMCSA Chief Reinforces ELD Mandate Compliance

The US ELD Mandate is approaching, with the director emphasizing safety first. Analysis suggests that ELDs may impact accident rates, efficiency, and driver satisfaction. The implementation and enforcement of the mandate are expected to bring significant changes to the trucking industry, potentially leading to improved safety outcomes but also raising concerns about productivity and driver well-being. Further research and data analysis are crucial to fully understand the long-term effects of the ELD Mandate.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More
Meal Kit Firms Struggle with Supply Chain Amid Market Competition

Meal Kit Firms Struggle with Supply Chain Amid Market Competition

Meal kits face significant supply chain challenges. Optimization strategies include collaboration with suppliers, advanced cold chain technology, efficient inventory management, and optimized delivery networks. Future trends point towards increased personalization, a focus on health and wellness, smart technology integration, and a commitment to sustainable practices. Addressing these challenges and embracing these trends is crucial for the continued growth and success of the meal kit industry in the competitive fresh food e-commerce market.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Midwest Grocers Struggle Against Ecommerce Discount Rivals

Midwest Grocers Struggle Against Ecommerce Discount Rivals

Traditional fresh food retailers in the US Midwest are facing decline due to increased competition from e-commerce and the rise of discount stores. To survive, traditional supermarkets need to embrace digitalization, optimize their supply chains, differentiate themselves, and innovate their business models. Learning from the success of discount retailers is crucial for navigating the future of the fresh food retail industry. They must adapt to the changing landscape to remain competitive and relevant.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Congressional Pushback Threatens US Trucking ELD Mandate

Congressional Pushback Threatens US Trucking ELD Mandate

New measures have been proposed in the U.S. House of Representatives regarding the ELD mandate, aiming to study and potentially delay its implementation, drawing attention from industry associations and truck drivers. OOIDA continues its fight, shifting strategies, while drivers express concerns about privacy, costs, and harassment. The ELD mandate is a battleground of safety, cost, and privacy, its future uncertain. This will significantly impact the trucking industry's standardization, operational costs, and drivers' working methods.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More