East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact on Wages Automation

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact on Wages Automation

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have signed a new six-year contract covering 36 ports on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts. The agreement guarantees record wage increases for dockworkers and provides effective protections against automation, averting potential supply chain disruptions and laying the groundwork for port modernization. The contract was overwhelmingly approved by ILA members and welcomed by the National Retail Federation (NRF).

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Anker Opens First North American Store in Times Square

Anker Opens First North American Store in Times Square

Anker's first North American offline store has opened in Times Square, New York. It focuses on flagship technology and immersive experiences, expanding its offline presence and conveying the message of 'Full Power'. The store aims to provide customers with a hands-on experience of Anker's innovative charging solutions and other tech products. This move signifies Anker's commitment to reaching a wider audience and strengthening its brand recognition through physical retail.

01/23/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Market Faces Challenges As Cass Index Declines

US Freight Market Faces Challenges As Cass Index Declines

The Cass Freight Index reveals declines in North American freight volume and expenditures year-over-year and month-over-month in November, indicating challenges to economic recovery. The report analyzes key factors impacting the freight market, including macroeconomics, inventory levels, retail activity, and energy prices, and provides an outlook on future opportunities and challenges. It recommends that freight companies optimize operations, diversify services, and strengthen customer relationships to navigate market fluctuations.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Robotics Transform Ecommerce Fulfillment in Industry Shift

Robotics Transform Ecommerce Fulfillment in Industry Shift

Project Verte partnered with 6 River Systems to deploy Chucks robots in Atlanta, aiming to improve fulfillment efficiency and handle peak order volumes. This deployment also serves as a showcase center in the Southeast region, demonstrating the capabilities of robotic automation in e-commerce warehousing and fulfillment. The collaboration highlights the growing trend of leveraging robotics to optimize warehouse operations and meet the increasing demands of online retail.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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US Retailers Rush Imports Before Tariff Deadline Hitting Record Highs

US Retailers Rush Imports Before Tariff Deadline Hitting Record Highs

US retailers, anticipating new tariffs amid US-China trade friction, ramped up imports before the tariffs took effect, leading to record cargo volumes at US ports. While retail sales continue to grow, the tariffs could ultimately be passed on to consumers, negatively impacting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the job market. Resolving trade disputes and upholding free trade is crucial for long-term stability and prosperity.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Industrial Real Estate Vacancy Rates Hit Record Lows

US Industrial Real Estate Vacancy Rates Hit Record Lows

The US industrial real estate market remains hot, with vacancy rates hitting record lows, primarily driven by e-commerce demand. CBRE anticipates a slowdown in growth in the future, but long-term demand is expected to remain strong. Regional market performance varies significantly, with cities like New Haven and Tucson attracting particular attention. The sustained demand reflects the ongoing shift towards online retail and the need for efficient distribution networks.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Usmexico Border Shutdown Threatens Supply Chains Businesses Warn

Usmexico Border Shutdown Threatens Supply Chains Businesses Warn

Closing the US-Mexico border would severely impact supply chains, particularly affecting the automotive, railway, and retail sectors. Businesses should conduct risk assessments, diversify their supply chains, optimize inventory management, strengthen communication with government and partners, and leverage technology to mitigate potential economic losses. These proactive measures are crucial for navigating the uncertainties and ensuring business continuity in the face of potential border closures and related trade disruptions.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Retailers Face Holiday Season Challenges Amid Import Boom Port Strikes

US Retailers Face Holiday Season Challenges Amid Import Boom Port Strikes

Despite potential strike risks at East and Gulf Coast ports, U.S. import volume has surged, driven by retailers preparing for the holiday season. The increase is attributed to concerns about strikes, anticipation of tariff hikes, and proactive retail inventory strategies. Retailers should be aware of potential port congestion and warehousing pressures. Diversifying port choices and planning transportation in advance are crucial strategies to ensure supply chain stability and mitigate potential disruptions.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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October Freight Market Faces Uncertainty and Opportunity ATA

October Freight Market Faces Uncertainty and Opportunity ATA

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) October report indicates that freight volume was temporarily pressured by Hurricane Sandy, but may benefit from post-disaster reconstruction in the long term. The economic environment is complex, with weak retail sales coexisting with a manufacturing rebound. Experts advise caution and flexibility, emphasizing risk management, technology adoption, and sustainable development. Companies should focus on these areas to seize opportunities and meet challenges ahead.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Consumer Goods Firms Optimize Sales and Operations Planning

Consumer Goods Firms Optimize Sales and Operations Planning

This paper delves into the critical role of Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) within the Consumer Packaged Goods & Retail (CPG&R) industry. In the face of rapidly changing markets, companies need to optimize their S&OP processes to improve demand forecast accuracy, optimize supply chain and production planning, and foster cross-functional collaboration. Dassault Systèmes' S&OP solution can help companies achieve these goals, thereby improving operational efficiency and profitability.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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