Procurement Shifts from Cost Center to Growth Driver

Procurement Shifts from Cost Center to Growth Driver

A report indicates that procurement professionals aspire to play a more significant role in corporate innovation, eager to embrace new technologies, drive supply chain upgrades, and even lead product innovation. However, risk aversion and departmental silos are major obstacles. Companies should encourage procurement innovation, elevate its strategic importance, and foster cross-functional collaboration. Suppliers and logistics companies should also proactively offer innovative products and services. By overcoming these hurdles, procurement can become a key driver of growth and competitive advantage, leading to more efficient and resilient supply chains.

Warehouse Shortages Drive Industrial Rent Surge

Warehouse Shortages Drive Industrial Rent Surge

JLL reports that the US industrial real estate market experienced record-low vacancy rates and soaring rents in Q2, driven primarily by the logistics sector. Steel shortages are impacting construction, giving landlords a significant advantage and highlighting supply chain bottlenecks. Businesses should plan ahead, adopt flexible site selection strategies, and optimize their supply chains. Investors need to carefully assess risks. The market presents both challenges and opportunities. The tight market conditions are expected to continue, demanding proactive strategies from both tenants and investors to navigate the evolving landscape.

US Dockworkers Resist Automation in Contract Talks

US Dockworkers Resist Automation in Contract Talks

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed labor negotiations to avert a potential strike that could cripple major ports along the US East and Gulf Coasts. The central point of contention is port automation, with the ILA fearing job losses and the USMX emphasizing its importance for enhancing port competitiveness. Both parties need to find a balance between automation, job security, and port competitiveness to maintain supply chain stability. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the future of port operations and the flow of goods.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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Hangzhou Boosts Crossborder Ecommerce with AI Innovation

Hangzhou Boosts Crossborder Ecommerce with AI Innovation

The Amazon Global Selling Cross-border Summit was held in Hangzhou, launching the "Next Generation Cross-border Chain" strategy, empowering cross-border e-commerce with AI to achieve "list once, sell globally." As a comprehensive cross-border e-commerce pilot zone, Hangzhou has become a "super incubator" for Chinese sellers going global due to its complete ecosystem and innovative policies, helping companies efficiently expand into the global market. The summit enhanced Hangzhou's influence in the global cross-border e-commerce field and demonstrated its open and inclusive business environment.

Air Cargo Industry Adopts New Measures to Reduce Perishable Spoilage

Air Cargo Industry Adopts New Measures to Reduce Perishable Spoilage

Losses in air freight of perishable goods are increasingly prominent, directly impacting product quality and economic benefits. This paper proposes three key strategies to mitigate these losses: strengthening temperature control management, optimizing operational procedures, and emphasizing talent development. These measures aim to help businesses reduce spoilage and ensure safe delivery of goods. Furthermore, the importance of utilizing platforms like TACT Online to stay informed about industry trends and improve service quality is highlighted. Ultimately, these combined efforts will contribute to a more efficient and reliable cold chain for perishable air cargo.

MIT Micromasters Expands Access to Elite Education Addresses Skills Gap

MIT Micromasters Expands Access to Elite Education Addresses Skills Gap

MIT has launched the MicroMaster's online certificate program, offering a new pathway to an MIT master's degree for learners worldwide. With no formal admission requirements, students can earn an MIT master's degree through online learning and a single semester of on-campus study. This initiative aims to lower educational barriers and cultivate global supply chain management talent. It provides flexible and accessible learning opportunities, expanding MIT's reach and impact on global education and workforce development. The program focuses on practical skills and knowledge, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various industries.

COSCO SHIPPING Opens Gulf of Mexico Express Route to Boost Usasia Trade

COSCO SHIPPING Opens Gulf of Mexico Express Route to Boost Usasia Trade

COSCO SHIPPING Americas has launched the Gulf Mexico Express (GME) route, connecting Asia with the US Gulf Coast to meet shippers' demands for diversified sourcing channels. The route travels from major Chinese ports, transits the Panama Canal, and directly reaches Houston, shortening transit times and reducing costs while providing one-stop logistics services. This initiative is expected to promote US-China trade development and optimize the global supply chain layout. The GME offers a faster and more efficient option for cargo movement between Asia and the US Gulf region.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Industrial Real Estate Hits Record Low Availability CBRE

US Industrial Real Estate Hits Record Low Availability CBRE

A CBRE report reveals that the U.S. industrial real estate availability rate continues to decline, reaching a historic low. E-commerce, supply chain modernization, and manufacturing reshoring are key drivers. The market presents both opportunities and challenges for landlords, tenants, and developers. Looking ahead, e-commerce will continue to fuel demand, supply chains will become more complex, and sustainability and technology will play a larger role. The report highlights the ongoing shifts and trends shaping the industrial real estate landscape, emphasizing the need for adaptability and strategic planning in a dynamic market environment.

Tech Innovations Transform Global Supply Chains

Tech Innovations Transform Global Supply Chains

Global supply chains are undergoing a profound transformation driven by technology, becoming a critical artery for the future economy. Experts at the summit emphasized the vital role of technology in enhancing transparency, optimizing efficiency, bolstering security, and fostering collaboration. While traditional industries face transformation challenges and infrastructure/cost constraints, disruptive technologies like Hyperloop and blockchain foreshadow the future of supply chains. Businesses must actively embrace technology to remain competitive. This includes adopting AI, IoT, and data analytics to streamline operations and improve decision-making across the entire supply chain network.

Reverse Logistics Turns Food Waste into Profits

Reverse Logistics Turns Food Waste into Profits

This paper explores how supermarkets can utilize reverse logistics to transform expired food into energy and compost, saving costs and protecting the environment. Through the case study of Stop & Shop's collaboration with Divert, it showcases a reverse logistics strategy that emphasizes multi-party collaboration, a holistic supply chain perspective, and profit optimization. The article also analyzes different channel options and the future trends of reverse logistics, emphasizing that companies should seize opportunities to build efficient reverse logistics systems. This approach minimizes food waste and contributes to a circular economy.