Swift Transportation Faces 22M Legal Battle Over Driver Status

Swift Transportation Faces 22M Legal Battle Over Driver Status

A U.S. federal judge ruled that some owner-operators at Swift Transportation should be classified as employees rather than independent contractors. The case will proceed in federal court and could have implications for the entire trucking industry and the 'gig economy' model. The company has set aside $22 million in reserves to address potential class-action lawsuits related to this classification issue. This ruling highlights the ongoing debate and legal challenges surrounding worker classification in the evolving landscape of the modern workforce.

Target Overhauls Supply Chain for Smallstore Efficiency

Target Overhauls Supply Chain for Smallstore Efficiency

Target is testing new delivery strategies to shorten replenishment cycles and reduce in-store inventory, particularly in its smaller format stores. Through initiatives like piloting “flow centers,” upgrading warehouse management systems, and acquiring Shipt, Target is reshaping its supply chain. This aims to address e-commerce competition and enhance the competitiveness of its small store strategy. The focus is on optimizing the supply chain to ensure efficient and timely delivery of goods to these smaller locations, ultimately improving customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More
CSX Rail Strategy Draws Regulatory Scrutiny Customer Complaints

CSX Rail Strategy Draws Regulatory Scrutiny Customer Complaints

CSX Transportation's implementation of Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR) is facing significant challenges. The Surface Transportation Board (STB) has raised serious concerns, customers are complaining, and employee morale is low. Operational data is deteriorating, and efficiency improvement targets seem unattainable. The future of CSX is uncertain, requiring improved communication, a focus on customer needs, better employee relations, and a potential adjustment of its PSR strategy to overcome current difficulties. The company needs to address these issues to navigate its path forward.

Supply Chains Prioritize Cost Control Amid Labor Shortages

Supply Chains Prioritize Cost Control Amid Labor Shortages

A Gartner report indicates that cost control and decision optimization are primary drivers for supply chain investment, but talent shortages are a significant concern. The report suggests companies adopt a multi-pronged approach to address the talent gap and enhance supply chain competitiveness. This includes strengthening employer branding, optimizing compensation, expanding talent pools, deepening university-industry partnerships, and promoting technological innovation. Addressing the talent shortage is crucial for maximizing the return on supply chain investments and achieving long-term success.

US Services Sector Defies Economic Slowdown ISM

US Services Sector Defies Economic Slowdown ISM

The November US ISM Non-Manufacturing Report indicates continued solid growth, with the NMI index reaching 60.7. While business activity and new orders remained strong, the sector faces challenges including a skills shortage in the labor market and persistent upward pressure on prices. Tariffs and trade friction introduce uncertainty. Experts view the economic outlook as optimistic but emphasize the need to address these challenges. Businesses and policymakers should proactively respond to these factors to sustain growth and mitigate potential risks.

ISM Report Hurricane Harvey Disrupts US Supply Chains

ISM Report Hurricane Harvey Disrupts US Supply Chains

The ISM report provides an in-depth analysis of the impact of Hurricane Harvey on the US manufacturing and non-manufacturing supply chains. It highlights pricing pressures, delivery delays, and the risk of commodity shortages. The report emphasizes the importance of robust risk management and supply chain optimization for businesses to mitigate future challenges and ensure economic stability. Companies need to proactively address vulnerabilities exposed by the hurricane to build resilience and maintain operational efficiency in the face of unforeseen disruptions.

ATA Urges Infrastructure Trade Deals to Boost Trucking Sector

ATA Urges Infrastructure Trade Deals to Boost Trucking Sector

American Trucking Associations President Chris Spear addressed the NASSTRAC conference, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure investment and trade agreements. He highlighted the challenges posed by the current political environment and proposed a gasoline tax solution to address infrastructure funding shortfalls. Spear also warned of the potential risks associated with withdrawing from NAFTA, urging the industry to work together to promote its growth and development. He stressed the need for proactive engagement to ensure the trucking industry's continued success in a rapidly changing landscape.

Korn Ferry Examines Talent Risks in Xshoring Era

Korn Ferry Examines Talent Risks in Xshoring Era

A recent report by Career International reveals key transformations in supply chain functions, focusing on risk management, talent acquisition, and the concept of “X-shoring.” The report emphasizes the need for companies to possess robust data analytics capabilities and flexible supply chain networks. It also highlights the importance of talent development and risk management to address challenges arising from geopolitical shifts, trade policy changes, and demand fluctuations. By prioritizing these areas, businesses can maintain competitiveness in the age of “X-shoring.”

Biden Administration Consults Industry on Supply Chain Fixes

Biden Administration Consults Industry on Supply Chain Fixes

The US supply chain faces significant challenges. The Biden administration issued an executive order and invited stakeholders to propose solutions, aiming to address port congestion, rail delays, and truck driver shortages. The government intends to rebuild supply chain resilience and ensure economic stability by improving port efficiency, enhancing rail capacity, alleviating trucking bottlenecks, accelerating digital transformation, diversifying supply chain networks, and strengthening risk management capabilities. These measures seek to create a more robust and reliable system capable of withstanding future disruptions.

Logistics Firms Tackle Talent Shortage Ahead of Peak Season

Logistics Firms Tackle Talent Shortage Ahead of Peak Season

This article delves into the talent acquisition challenges faced by logistics companies during peak seasons and proposes four key strategies: developing a long-term talent strategy, actively promoting technology application, emphasizing career development, and formulating 'backup plans.' It emphasizes that companies should adopt a proactive, year-round talent strategy, combined with technological innovation and flexible employment mechanisms, to address labor shortages and ensure smooth operations during peak periods. This approach helps mitigate risks associated with increased demand and workforce limitations.