US Railroads Near Shutdown As Labor Talks Stall Over Wages

US Railroads Near Shutdown As Labor Talks Stall Over Wages

A tentative agreement was reached between three major US railway unions and freight rail companies, averting the risk of a crippling railway shutdown. The agreement includes wage increases and lump-sum payments, but requires ratification by all union members. Failure to reach a deal could have resulted in strikes and significant economic disruption. All parties must continue negotiations to ensure the smooth operation of this vital railway artery.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Global Supply Chains Face Bottlenecks Amid Port Delays Labor Gaps

Global Supply Chains Face Bottlenecks Amid Port Delays Labor Gaps

This Logistics Management podcast features JLL expert Rich Thompson discussing global supply chain challenges like port congestion and labor shortages, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thompson advises businesses to diversify sourcing, improve inventory management, and optimize logistics distribution to build more resilient supply chains. He emphasizes proactive strategies to mitigate disruptions and enhance operational efficiency in the face of ongoing uncertainties. The interview provides valuable insights for navigating the complexities of the current global logistics landscape and building a more robust supply chain network.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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California Port Truck Drivers Accuse NFI Subsidiary of Labor Violations

California Port Truck Drivers Accuse NFI Subsidiary of Labor Violations

A class-action lawsuit has been filed against California Cartage Express by port truck drivers in Los Angeles, alleging systemic labor rights violations. The lawsuit accuses the company of misclassifying employees as independent contractors and withholding wages. California Cartage Express has a history of labor-related lawsuits and penalties. Government intervention and a finding of violations could reshape employment practices across the port trucking industry. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for worker rights and the overall labor model within the sector.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Port Labor Dispute Shifts Imports to West Coast

East Coast Port Labor Dispute Shifts Imports to West Coast

The rising risk of port strikes on the US East and Gulf Coasts may drive a surge in US import volume in August. Retailers are proactively taking measures such as front-loading shipments and diverting cargo to West Coast ports. The report forecasts a 12.1% year-over-year increase in import volume for the full year 2024. Retailers need to closely monitor the situation and take proactive steps to ensure supply chain stability.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Foxconn Faces Scrutiny Over Student Labor in Iphone X Production

Foxconn Faces Scrutiny Over Student Labor in Iphone X Production

Foxconn's reliance on student workers to assemble iPhone X, with reports of excessive overtime, exposes long-standing labor issues within Apple's supply chain. This analysis examines the collaboration between Foxconn and Apple, historical labor problems, the silence surrounding these issues, and the responsibilities of both Apple and government entities. It calls for the construction of a sustainable supply chain that respects labor rights, fostering a win-win situation for businesses, workers, consumers, and society as a whole.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Labor Talks Halt After Signal Workers Reject Deal

US Rail Labor Talks Halt After Signal Workers Reject Deal

The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) rejected a tentative labor agreement with railway companies, pushing labor negotiations back into stalemate. This rejection reflects union discontent with wages, benefits, and working conditions, potentially impacting the US logistics industry. This article analyzes the background of the event, voting results, industry perspectives, and possible response strategies, exploring industry challenges under labor-management games. The deadlock raises concerns about potential disruptions to freight transport and the broader economy, highlighting the complexities of balancing worker demands with industry needs.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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APICS Launches STEM Program to Address Supply Chain Labor Gap

APICS Launches STEM Program to Address Supply Chain Labor Gap

APICS is addressing the global supply chain talent shortage by expanding its Supply Chain STEM Educational Outreach Program. This initiative aims to cultivate an early interest in supply chain management among K-12 students through interactive activities designed to lay the foundation for the industry's future. The goal is to reach 100,000 students by 2020, contributing to the solution of the global supply chain talent gap. By fostering interest in STEM fields and highlighting their relevance to supply chain, APICS hopes to inspire the next generation of supply chain professionals.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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APICS Enhances STEM Programs to Address Supply Chain Labor Shortage

APICS Enhances STEM Programs to Address Supply Chain Labor Shortage

APICS promotes STEM education in supply chain to address the industry's talent shortage. It cultivates interest in K-12 students through interactive activities, encouraging more young people and women to pursue careers in the field. This initiative aims to build a future workforce equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in supply chain management, ensuring a sustainable talent pipeline and promoting diversity within the industry.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Brands Urged to Address Child Labor in Supply Chains

Global Brands Urged to Address Child Labor in Supply Chains

A Standard Bank Economist Intelligence Unit report reveals that only 22% of companies address child labor in their supply chains, highlighting a lack of corporate social responsibility. The report identifies key priorities and blind spots in corporate action, emphasizing that poverty, lack of education, and weak regulation are the root causes of child labor. It recommends that companies strengthen supply chain due diligence, establish transparent systems, and support educational development. The report calls for collaborative efforts to build a fair and sustainable global economy.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Avoid Strikes

East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Avoid Strikes

The United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) and the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) have reached a tentative labor agreement, bringing six years of stability to the US East and Gulf Coast ports. The agreement includes details on wage increases and contract duration, subject to member ratification. This development is expected to avert potential labor disruptions, alleviating shippers' concerns about the supply chain and shifting focus to labor negotiations on the West Coast. The deal provides much-needed certainty for businesses relying on these vital trade gateways.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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