US Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Automation Dispute

US Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Automation Dispute

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed negotiations to avert a potential port strike on January 15th. Automation remains a central point of contention in the talks. Failure to reach an agreement could significantly disrupt global supply chains, impacting trade and potentially leading to economic consequences. The outcome of these labor negotiations is crucial for maintaining the stability and efficiency of port operations across the United States.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Dockworkers Employers Negotiate to Prevent Automation Strike

US Dockworkers Employers Negotiate to Prevent Automation Strike

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed labor negotiations to avert a potential strike stemming from disputes over automation. Automation is crucial for improving efficiency but poses a threat to worker employment. Both parties need to find a balance that meets the demands of port development while safeguarding worker interests. A resolution is needed to avoid significant disruptions to the supply chain and the broader economy. The negotiations aim to find a mutually acceptable path forward regarding the implementation of automation technologies.

01/18/2026 Logistics
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AI and Automation Transform Logistics Amid Market Pressures

AI and Automation Transform Logistics Amid Market Pressures

AI and automation are reshaping the logistics industry. AI-powered digital freight matching platforms enhance efficiency, while KICKER optimizes supply chains for growth. C.H. Robinson's reports offer valuable industry insights. Experts emphasize a technology-driven logistics revolution, highlighting the need for warehouse management to address labor shortages. To thrive in the future, businesses must embrace these transformative changes and leverage technology for competitive advantage in the evolving logistics landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Fedex Expands Automation in Logistics for Efficiency Boost

Fedex Expands Automation in Logistics for Efficiency Boost

Facing e-commerce growth and labor challenges, FedEx is accelerating its automation transformation to improve logistics efficiency. By implementing technologies like robotic sorting and mobile robots, they are addressing the challenges of diverse packages. Looking ahead, FedEx plans to explore trailer loading and unloading automation, aiming to build a more intelligent logistics network. This strategic shift aims to optimize operations, reduce reliance on manual labor, and enhance overall service capabilities in a rapidly evolving market.

Chewy Expands Automation to Address Supply Chain Challenges

Chewy Expands Automation to Address Supply Chain Challenges

Chewy is aggressively pursuing an automated warehousing strategy, planning to open three automated fulfillment centers in the next 14 months to address supply chain challenges like labor shortages, transportation pressures, and inflation. Through automation upgrades and customized packaging innovations, Chewy aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and provide superior service to its over 19 million active customers, solidifying its leading position in the pet e-commerce market. The company is focused on streamlining its processes to better serve its growing customer base.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Warehouse Automation Trends Highlighted at MMH Virtual Summit

Warehouse Automation Trends Highlighted at MMH Virtual Summit

A virtual summit hosted by Modern Materials Handling magazine focused on order fulfillment trends such as warehouse automation and robotics, aiming to help companies address the challenges posed by e-commerce growth. The summit brought together industry experts to discuss key areas including automation, software, and mobile technologies. The goal was to empower businesses to build core competencies and achieve sustainable development in the face of evolving market demands.

Packaging Industry Boosts Automation Amid Pandemic Ecommerce Demand

Packaging Industry Boosts Automation Amid Pandemic Ecommerce Demand

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the automation transformation in the packaging industry, with companies facing labor shortages and surging e-commerce demands. Secondary packaging is becoming a key area for automation, and technologies such as collaborative robots and remote maintenance are increasingly prevalent. Human-machine collaboration will be a major trend in the future of the packaging industry. This shift aims to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance resilience in the face of evolving market dynamics.

Locus Robotics Raises 150M for Warehouse Automation Expansion

Locus Robotics Raises 150M for Warehouse Automation Expansion

Locus Robotics closed a $150 million Series E funding round to accelerate global expansion and technological innovation, solidifying its leading position in warehouse logistics robotics. The company lowers the barrier to automation through its RaaS (Robotics-as-a-Service) model, helping businesses increase productivity, reduce costs, and improve employee morale, leading the intelligent transformation of the warehouse logistics industry. The funding will further support the development of new robotic solutions and expansion into new markets.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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IATA Enhances Travel Industry Automation with Global Database

IATA Enhances Travel Industry Automation with Global Database

GSS offers IATA agency database subscription services, including codes, accreditations, and other key information. This enables businesses to automate processes and expand their distribution reach. Various update frequencies are available to suit different needs. Comprehensive technical support is also provided to ensure a smooth integration and optimal utilization of the database.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Lastmile Logistics Firms Weigh Automation Against Human Roles

Lastmile Logistics Firms Weigh Automation Against Human Roles

This paper delves into the future trends of last-mile logistics, focusing on the roles of automation, intelligent dispatch, and digital transformation in improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing customer experience. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining human expertise while pursuing technological advancements. The paper envisions a future for last-mile logistics that is more intelligent, greener, and personalized, driven by these key factors and a balanced approach between technology and human capabilities. The analysis highlights the transformative potential and the need for strategic implementation.