Air Canada Launches New Winter Route to Sapporo

Air Canada Launches New Winter Route to Sapporo

Air Canada plans to expand its international routes in winter, including new direct flights from Toronto to Sapporo, aiming to capture the premium business travel market. This move faces challenges such as labor negotiations, and its future development is worth watching. The expansion signifies Air Canada's strategic focus on attracting high-value customers through enhanced international connectivity and premium services. The success of this initiative will depend on navigating the complexities of labor relations and effectively competing in the global aviation landscape.

02/05/2026 Airlines
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DHL Canada Workers Ratify Contract Ending Strike After Antiscab Law Test

DHL Canada Workers Ratify Contract Ending Strike After Antiscab Law Test

Canadian DHL workers have ended their nearly three-week strike, ratifying a new four-year contract with a 72% approval rate. This agreement marks the first test of new anti-scab legislation. The collective bargaining agreement addresses key issues such as wages and benefits. The strike and subsequent agreement highlight the ongoing negotiations and power dynamics within the supply chain and the impact of labor relations on logistics operations. The ratification brings an end to the disruption caused by the labor dispute.

01/07/2026 Logistics
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Global Supply Chain Disruptions Prolong Lead Times for Businesses

Global Supply Chain Disruptions Prolong Lead Times for Businesses

The global supply chain faces severe challenges, with lead times reaching record highs and accelerating due to port congestion, raw material shortages, and labor shortages. Companies are actively responding by exploring alternative ports, using air freight instead of sea freight, and planning ahead. Labor shortage is the most significant challenge, with unsustainable price levels. It is recommended that companies strengthen risk management, diversify suppliers, optimize inventory, and embrace digital transformation to mitigate these disruptions and build resilience in the face of ongoing uncertainty.

Ecommerce Warehouses Adopt Flexible Forklifts and Automation

Ecommerce Warehouses Adopt Flexible Forklifts and Automation

In the e-commerce era, warehouse operations face challenges including space constraints, labor shortages, and fluctuating order volumes. Innovative technologies like narrow aisle forklifts optimize space utilization, while flexible automation enhances picking speed and caters to personalized demands. Companies should carefully select automation solutions tailored to their specific business needs to achieve efficiency gains and cost optimization. The key is to find the right balance between automation and human labor to maximize productivity and adapt to the dynamic demands of e-commerce fulfillment.

01/19/2026 Warehousing
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UPS Pilots Strike Threatens Global Supply Chains

UPS Pilots Strike Threatens Global Supply Chains

UPS pilots are considering a strike vote due to stalled four-year contract negotiations, potentially creating supply chain risks. The labor agreement of competitor FedEx is being used as a benchmark. Experts suggest a strike is unlikely, but the risk of a 'work-to-rule' campaign remains. Businesses and consumers should proactively plan for alternative shipping options and closely monitor developments. The ongoing labor dispute highlights the fragility of global logistics and the need for contingency planning in the face of potential disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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New Ecommerce Rules Speed Up Parcel Clearance With Edata

New Ecommerce Rules Speed Up Parcel Clearance With Edata

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Universal Postal Union (UPU) jointly released guidelines on Electronic Advance Data (EAD) exchange between postal operators and customs, aiming to improve customs clearance efficiency for cross-border e-commerce parcels. The guidelines clarify process standards, provide technical support, and emphasize cooperation and communication. This initiative helps businesses enhance their operational efficiency in international trade.

CN Rail Resumes Operations As CPKC Faces Arbitration Amid Economic Worries

CN Rail Resumes Operations As CPKC Faces Arbitration Amid Economic Worries

Canadian National Railway (CN) has resumed operations, while the Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) strike continues. The government has intervened with arbitration to prevent further economic damage. Rail transport is crucial to the Canadian economy and requires stable development. The ongoing labor dispute highlights the importance of fair labor practices within the railway industry and the potential for significant disruption to supply chains and economic activity when these issues are not resolved promptly. Government intervention underscores the critical role of rail in the nation's infrastructure.

01/07/2026 Logistics
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Global Supply Chains Face Persistent Disruptions ASCMKPMG Report

Global Supply Chains Face Persistent Disruptions ASCMKPMG Report

A joint report by ASCM and KPMG reveals that while some areas of global supply chains have improved, overall stability remains affected by factors like labor and geopolitics. The report highlights the increasing North American imports driven by the “China+1” strategy, potentially creating new challenges for the labor market. Businesses need to monitor market dynamics, adapt strategies flexibly, strengthen risk management, and embrace digital transformation to navigate uncertainties. Proactive adaptation and resilience are key to maintaining a competitive edge in the evolving global landscape.

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Retail Supply Chains

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Retail Supply Chains

The National Retail Federation (NRF), along with 177 industry associations, is urging the White House to intervene in labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential strike on October 1st. The analysis highlights the potential impact of a strike on various sectors including retail, manufacturing, agriculture, and the overall economy. Possible solutions discussed include government mediation, labor-management compromise, and extending the negotiation period to prevent significant supply chain disruptions and economic fallout.

Biden Acts to Prevent Rail Strike Avoid Supply Chain Disruption

Biden Acts to Prevent Rail Strike Avoid Supply Chain Disruption

US President Biden signed an executive order establishing a Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) to intervene in the railroad labor dispute, aiming to avert a nationwide strike that could trigger a supply chain crisis. The article analyzes the demands of both labor and management, retail industry concerns, and expert opinions. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining supply chain stability and looks ahead to the possibility of a consensus between the two parties in the future. The intervention highlights the Biden administration's commitment to preventing economic disruption.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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