The 2025 LTL survey analyzes how businesses cope with challenges associated with collaborating with carriers, including fluctuations in contract rates, capacity issues, and the impact of e-commerce. It also explores strategies for companies to optimize management and leverage spot contracts, providing valuable insights to maintain service levels.
According to a recent Gartner survey, only 23% of supply chain leaders have a formal AI strategy. Most businesses focus on short-term investments while neglecting long-term planning, which may hinder future development. To enhance competitiveness, companies should formulate a systematic strategy that balances short-term benefits with long-term goals.
In 2025, automation technology in the warehousing sector has become a key demand for operators looking to enhance efficiency. The latest survey by Peerless Research Group indicates that despite stable capital spending, businesses have significantly increased their evaluations and pre-approved budgets for automation technology. This highlights a growing focus on productivity and supply chain management amid a backdrop of labor shortages.
A recent Gartner survey reveals that women comprise 41% of the supply chain workforce, with a record high of 26% holding C-level positions. Despite significant progress, women still face challenges in advancing from entry-level management. Overcoming traditional biases, offering flexible work arrangements, and providing career development support are crucial to empowering women in supply chain and achieving gender equality.
In the post-pandemic era, inventory pile-up has become a new challenge for supply chains. A reader survey by *Logistics Management* reveals that companies face the dual dilemma of high and low inventory levels. Diversified procurement, enhanced communication, and accurate forecasting are key to resolving the inventory crisis. Lean inventory management will help companies improve supply chain resilience and embrace the new market normal.
The Conference Board's annual survey reveals that global business leaders are most concerned about talent shortages and the risk of economic recession in 2020. Companies need to strengthen risk management, optimize supply chains, embrace technological innovation, and actively address trade frictions and geopolitical risks to achieve sustainable development. Addressing the talent war and mitigating the impact of a potential recession are critical for business resilience.
A survey reveals that WhatsApp has become the preferred platform for Brazilian suburban consumers seeking Black Friday promotions. Electronics, footwear, and portable devices are the most popular items. Key purchasing factors include low prices, discounts, free shipping, and fast delivery. Merchants should focus on providing detailed product information to reduce shopping cart abandonment. WhatsApp's accessibility and convenience make it a crucial channel for reaching price-sensitive consumers during this major shopping event in Brazil.
A survey by the Korea Consumer Agency reveals issues in cross-border e-commerce returns, including high return shipping fees, opaque information disclosure, and complex return processes. Consumers should carefully review return policies, retain evidence, choose reputable platforms, and file complaints promptly to protect their rights. The investigation highlights the need for increased transparency and clearer regulations in cross-border transactions to ensure fair treatment and accessible solutions for consumers facing return-related problems.
Logistics Management magazine announced its Quest for Quality Awards, recognizing four regional Less-than-Truckload (LTL) carriers, including A. Duie Pyle, for their exceptional service. These awards highlight companies demonstrating excellence in key areas such as on-time performance, customer service, and value. The Quest for Quality Awards are highly regarded within the logistics industry, representing a benchmark for quality and customer satisfaction in LTL freight transportation. The winners are chosen based on a comprehensive survey of logistics professionals.
The Reverse Logistics Association survey indicates a surge in e-commerce returns during peak season. Coupled with the ongoing supply chain crisis, retailers face increasing cost pressures. Strategies to mitigate these challenges include optimizing product information, simplifying return processes, strengthening return management, and leveraging data analytics. Fine-grained operation is crucial for retailers to break through the current situation and improve profitability. Effective reverse logistics management is becoming increasingly important for maintaining customer satisfaction and minimizing financial losses.
