I recently read a joint announcement that the largest ocean carriers confirmed formation of a global industry association of ocean shipping lines. The intent is to create free, open-source information technology to decrease friction in the industry and increase transparency, according to the announcement. The first step is to write common data standards to increase... Continue Reading →
Taking your supply chain to the cloud
There used to be a time when supply chains were simple, focused on planning, local manufacturing and delivering product to market. Then came outsourced manufacturing and globalization. Cost savings was the primary driver and lean principles became key. Supply chains developed a value stream that eliminated waste, time, and ensured a smooth and predictable output.... Continue Reading →
The 3 Essential Elements for Today’s Supply Chain
In today's global digitally disruptive economy, where the basics of business are being turned on their heads (the world’s largest taxi company owns no taxis, the world’s most valuable retailer owns no inventory, the folks who are crushing the eye wear industry, and the list goes on...) the one thing that stands tall is a... Continue Reading →
The return of retail?
In 2017, it was all doom and gloom. Retail bankruptcies, store closures, and the decline of the department stores all contributed to this term 'retail apolcalyse' and numerous discussions among analysts about the death of retail as we have known it to be. However, most retail executives sat tight, focused on the fundamentals and amped... Continue Reading →
Happy Fourth of July
Happy Fourth of July
When competitors become collaborators
Last week, I had the opportunity to invite 68 of our strategic partner organizations (Suppliers, Factories, 3PLs, Freight Forwarders, Ocean Carriers, Domestic Trucking Carriers, Drayage Providers, Inspection Companies, and Ports Officers) at Havertys Global Supply Chain Summit - with the sole purpose of (1) reiterating importance of our partners to the success of Havertys, (2)... Continue Reading →
What’s in Store for 2018
Retail Predictions for 2018 The business of predicting trends and outcomes is not for the faint-heart and often enough we find that when service providers and consultants try them as a part of their marketing blitz, they end up jumping on the latest bandwagon or buzz in the market. Do you remember, how everyone was... Continue Reading →