Hershey Boosts Output for Halloween Candy Surge

Hershey Boosts Output for Halloween Candy Surge

Candy giant Hershey is taking several steps to boost production capacity in preparation for Halloween. These measures include adding three new distribution centers, expanding production lines, and introducing automation technology. The company is focusing on its Reese's brand and expanding the Dot's brand to meet market demand during the Halloween season and solidify its market leadership. Hershey aims to ensure sufficient supply and capitalize on the peak demand associated with the holiday.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Pandemic Panic Buying Boosts Trucking Rates

Pandemic Panic Buying Boosts Trucking Rates

A DAT report indicates that emergency restocking driven by the COVID-19 pandemic pushed up spot market truckload rates and volumes in the US during mid-to-late March. Demand for van and refrigerated trucks surged, leading to tight capacity. Experts believe the market's trajectory in the coming weeks is crucial, emphasizing the importance of the agricultural shipping season and the pandemic's impact on consumer demand. Logistics companies should adapt flexibly to capitalize on opportunities.

Supply Chains Adopt New SOP Metrics for Resilience

Supply Chains Adopt New SOP Metrics for Resilience

Facing delivery challenges, companies need to re-evaluate S&OP metrics, shifting focus from capacity to enhancing supply chain agility. By optimizing key indicators such as demand forecasting, shortening production cycles, and improving inventory turnover, and by strengthening cross-departmental collaboration, businesses can effectively respond to demand fluctuations and achieve sustainable growth. This involves a more responsive and flexible approach to planning and execution, allowing for quicker adaptation to market changes and improved customer service.

Dry Bulk and Tankers Thrive As Container Shipping Slows

Dry Bulk and Tankers Thrive As Container Shipping Slows

Goldman Sachs predicts a "two highs, one low" scenario for the shipping industry in the coming years. Dry bulk and tanker freight rates are expected to remain high, benefiting from demand growth and capacity constraints. However, container liner freight rates face the risk of decline due to overcapacity and increased competition. The report analyzes the supply and demand dynamics and investment opportunities in each segment, providing a reference for investors. It highlights the diverging trends within the shipping sector.

US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Slowdown

US rail freight data presents a mixed picture. Overall decline suggests weakening demand, while growth in specific categories hints at opportunities. Businesses should be wary of economic uncertainty, optimize their supply chains, adjust inventory levels, and embrace digital transformation. By doing so, they can overcome challenges and achieve business growth. The data serves as an important economic signal, requiring careful analysis to navigate the current market conditions and proactively adapt to potential shifts in demand and supply dynamics.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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Flow Management Tech Enhances Strategic Transportation Efficiency

Flow Management Tech Enhances Strategic Transportation Efficiency

This paper explores how Demand Flow Management (DFM) transcends individual freight optimization to enable strategic transportation management within the context of freight industry efficiency improvements. By integrating data, streamlining processes, and implementing automation, DFM helps companies optimize transportation routes, select carriers, manage inventory, and forecast demand. This leads to reduced costs, improved efficiency, and enhanced customer satisfaction. The focus shifts from tactical execution to a more holistic and proactive approach to managing the flow of goods.

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

The latest US rail freight data reveals a year-over-year increase in carload traffic, driven by strong demand for nonmetallic minerals, coal, and motor vehicle parts. However, intermodal container and trailer volumes declined year-over-year, reflecting easing supply chain bottlenecks and cooling consumer demand. Overall North American rail freight volumes show a similar diverging trend. Moving forward, railway companies need to improve operational efficiency and expand their business areas to address challenges and seize opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Industrial Real Estate Faces Low Vacancy Rising Rents

Industrial Real Estate Faces Low Vacancy Rising Rents

A CBRE report reveals the US industrial real estate market faces a situation of low vacancy rates and high rents, driven by strong consumer demand and e-commerce growth. Despite record-high construction, the supply-demand imbalance is expected to persist. Businesses need to pay close attention to market dynamics, and investors should carefully assess risks to seize opportunities. The persistent imbalance suggests that strategic planning and informed decision-making are crucial for navigating this complex market environment.

DHL Exec Shares Ecommerce Peak Season Logistics Strategy

DHL Exec Shares Ecommerce Peak Season Logistics Strategy

DHL's president shares strategies for e-commerce peak season preparation, focusing on demand forecasting, capacity assurance, and warehouse optimization under the influence of the pandemic. The strategies emphasize flexibility and risk management to navigate the challenges of fluctuating demand and potential disruptions. Key areas include leveraging data analytics for accurate predictions, securing diverse transportation options, and optimizing warehouse layouts for efficient order fulfillment. The overall goal is to ensure smooth and reliable delivery services during the high-volume period.

Trucking Shortage Spurs Rising Spot Rates Strains Supply Chains

Trucking Shortage Spurs Rising Spot Rates Strains Supply Chains

The trucking market faces persistent capacity constraints, leading to soaring spot rates. Strong demand growth clashes with limited truck availability, exacerbated by component shortages. Retail and capital goods spending drive the demand surge, while rail transportation emerges as a potential alternative. Businesses need to adapt flexibly, and government and industry associations should actively work to alleviate capacity pressures. The shortage impacts the entire supply chain, requiring innovative solutions and proactive measures to mitigate disruptions and maintain efficient freight movement.