US Retail Sales Rebound Annually Despite Minor Monthly Decline

US Retail Sales Rebound Annually Despite Minor Monthly Decline

US retail sales in May showed a significant year-over-year increase, with a slight month-over-month decrease, but the long-term growth trend remains solid. The apparel sector rebounded strongly, and the restaurant industry continued its recovery. The NRF revised its full-year retail sales growth forecast upwards. Experts emphasize the importance of long-term trends over short-term fluctuations. Data analysts should delve deeper into the data to uncover valuable insights and provide retailers with actionable recommendations. This analysis is crucial for understanding the ongoing economic recovery and its impact on the retail landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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BNSF Acquisition Sparks Shippers Concerns Over Rising Freight Costs

BNSF Acquisition Sparks Shippers Concerns Over Rising Freight Costs

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) of the U.S. Department of Transportation held hearings on Berkshire Hathaway's acquisition of BNSF Railway, focusing on whether the $8.1 billion acquisition premium should be included in BNSF's cost base, thus impacting freight pricing. Shippers expressed concerns about potential freight rate increases and urged the STB to protect their interests. Experts suggested breaking the regulatory cycle. This case concerns fair competition and efficiency improvement in rail transport, and the outcome will have a profound impact on the industry. The core issue is whether the premium should be considered when calculating BNSF's costs.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Supply Chain Education Tackles Skills Gap to Boost Business Growth

Supply Chain Education Tackles Skills Gap to Boost Business Growth

This article delves into the significance of supply chain education and how investing in education can bridge the skills gap and drive business growth. It analyzes the current state of the supply chain talent market, highlighting the existing skills gap and its impact on both companies and individuals. Furthermore, the article introduces diverse educational models and explores how companies can enhance team capabilities and cultivate a learning organization through skills gap assessments and on-the-job training. Ultimately, it emphasizes the crucial role of continuous learning in addressing the evolving demands of the supply chain industry.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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CMA CGM Sells APL Terminals to Cut Debt Focus on Core Routes

CMA CGM Sells APL Terminals to Cut Debt Focus on Core Routes

CMA CGM's sale of APL Terminals aims to optimize its debt structure, focus on core business, and synergize with the Ocean Alliance to reduce route redundancy. This move will impact the competitive landscape of the shipping market, trigger a battle for terminal assets, and potentially accelerate industry consolidation. While CMA CGM remains a significant port operator, it will continue to adjust its strategy to address market challenges. The sale represents a significant strategic shift for the company, impacting its port operations and financial standing. The long-term effects on the shipping industry remain to be seen.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Ecommerce Leaders Meet in Kansas City on Retail Evolution

Ecommerce Leaders Meet in Kansas City on Retail Evolution

E-commerce experts gathered in Kansas City for the KC SmartPort's "KC Delivers" forum, discussing the impact of e-commerce on the retail industry. The forum focused on e-commerce strategies, brick-and-mortar transformation, workforce needs, and logistics site selection. Experts shared insights on navigating e-commerce challenges and seizing growth opportunities. Key takeaways included strategies for retailers to adapt to the changing landscape, the importance of efficient supply chains, and the growing demand for skilled labor in the e-commerce sector. The forum also provided a glimpse into the future trends shaping the e-commerce industry.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Port Strike Threatens Supply Chains Retailers Seek White House Aid

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Supply Chains Retailers Seek White House Aid

The National Retail Federation (NRF), along with 177 industry associations, has sent a letter to the White House urging government intervention in the labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX). They are seeking to avert a potential port strike on October 1st, emphasizing the devastating economic impact it would have. The letter highlights the urgency of the situation and implores retailers to proactively address supply chain risks in anticipation of potential disruptions. The NRF underscores the need for a swift resolution to avoid further exacerbating existing supply chain vulnerabilities.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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NZ Dollar Faces Ecommerce Crossborder Challenges

NZ Dollar Faces Ecommerce Crossborder Challenges

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the New Zealand Dollar's role in cross-border e-commerce, including its history, circulation, and the impact of exchange rate fluctuations on transaction costs. It highlights the NZD's convenience in cross-border payments and international trade cooperation. The study emphasizes the influence of the New Zealand Dollar's stability on consumer confidence and proposes strategies for cross-border e-commerce businesses to better seize opportunities in the New Zealand market. The aim is to help businesses navigate the exchange rate risks and optimize their operations within the New Zealand e-commerce landscape.

01/30/2026 Exchange Rate Query
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Prologis Summit Explores AI Energy in Future Supply Chains

Prologis Summit Explores AI Energy in Future Supply Chains

The Prologis Summit focused on the impact of energy and AI on supply chains. The U.S. Secretary of the Interior emphasized the importance of energy security, while the Prologis CEO outlined their energy transition strategy, highlighting the utilization of all energy sources and exploring new opportunities in data centers and edge computing. Both parties envisioned the synergistic development of AI factories and energy production, as well as the crucial role of logistics real estate in the future digital economy. The summit underscored the convergence of energy, AI, and logistics in shaping the next generation of supply chains.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shipping Costs and Customs Guide for Malaysiachina Trade

Shipping Costs and Customs Guide for Malaysiachina Trade

This article provides a detailed analysis of the cost structure, service provider selection, shipping time, and customs duties associated with sea freight from Malaysia to China. It aims to offer a comprehensive and practical reference guide for users with relevant needs, helping them make more informed shipping decisions. It covers key factors influencing the overall cost and provides insights into navigating the customs process. The guide is designed to empower users to optimize their shipping strategies and minimize potential complications.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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US Ends De Minimis Rule Imposes Tariffs on Ecommerce Imports

US Ends De Minimis Rule Imposes Tariffs on Ecommerce Imports

The US is set to eliminate the de minimis exemption in 2027, significantly impacting cross-border e-commerce businesses, especially those relying on low-price strategies like Shein and Temu. Companies will need to adjust supply chains, improve product quality, and expand markets to cope with increased tariffs and a changing competitive landscape. This policy change will also affect US domestic manufacturing, consumers, and customs enforcement, potentially leading to increased costs and scrutiny for imported goods. Businesses need to proactively adapt to mitigate the negative consequences.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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