Square One Supply Chain Podcast

In this episode, we discuss when is the best time to use air cargo when moving products. We also talk about the challenges of complex multi-national supply chains and will there ever be a supply chain movie?   Featured article: Managing the risks of multinational supply chains http://www.supplychain247.com/article/managing_the_risks_of_multinational_supply_chains We talk about the depth of multinational supply chains and their risk management strategy.  Accompanying white paper: State of the Global Supply Chain http://www.supplychain247.com/paper/state_of_the_global_supply_chain/gt_nexus     Featured topic: Air Cargo and supply chain optimization http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/massively-boost-supply-chain-network-optimization-with-air-cargo   We discuss the following questions: How to know air is the best solution? Different air speeds? Use of  commercial airlines? Costs? Cost comparison between air vs. truck, vs. ocean, rail? Effect of oil prices? When it i

In this episode, we discuss how supply chains can effectively manage currency fluctuations and how Amazon is getting closer to becoming a logistics service provider. We also recap the Superbowl, Hall of Fame inductees and why Reg thinks Karl is leaving out excellent material when editing the podcast.    Featured article: What does Amazon’s e-commerce dominance mean for logistics service providers? http://www.supplychain247.com/article/what_does_amazons_e_commerce_dominance_mean_for_logistics_service_providers We look at how Amazon's e-commerce business is impacting logistics service providers. Is Amazon one step from owning their own parcel delivery fleet. Is being an LSP just part of the natural evolution?   Additional article:  Trucking companies confront amazon threat http://www.wsj.com/articles/trucking-companies-confront-amazon-threat-1453842572     Featured topic: Managing currency fluctuations in your supply chain http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/9-ways-manage-

In this episode, we discuss the benefits of foreign trade zones and custom bonded warehouses. We also review some new years resolutions for supply chain optimization. Finally, we give our thoughts on this year's football hall of fame finalists.  http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2016/01/pro_football_hof_class_of_2016.html   Featured article: New Supply Chain Optimization Opportunities http://www.supplychain247.com/article/new_supply_chain_optimization_opportunities We look at some resolutions for optimization but are these new opportunities or just ones restated year after year?     Featured topic: Foreign trade zones http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/foreign-trade-zone-how-your-business-can-benefit   We discuss the following questions: What are foreign trade zones? Why use a foreign trade zone? Benefits to businesses? How to use them? Foreign trade zone vs. free trade zone? Foreign trade zones in Canada? What are custom bonded warehouses? http://www.investcal

In this episode, we look at what business and supply chains need to know about reverse logistics. We discuss why bar code reader upgrades are just the tip of warehousing changes because of new consumer consumption habits. And how Terrell Owens and Tim Raines figure into this podcast.   Featured article: Bar-Code readers get makeover to spur bustling warehouse http://www.wsj.com/articles/bar-code-readers-get-makeover-to-spur-bustling-warehouses-1452162601 We discuss how rising e-commerce and digital consumption is changing the supply chain.    Featured topic: Improving reverse logistics management http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/5-improvements-reverse-logistics-management-to-increase-supply-chain-profits   We discuss the following questions: What is reverse logistics? Why is it important part of your supply chain? What are key factors to know about reverse logistics? Measures to improve them? Regional distribution centre effect? What is remanufacturing and how does i

Happy New Year! In our first episode of 2016, we look at counterfeits in the supply chain and how to protect your business. We discuss the impact of today's digital consumer on parcel deliveries. Finally, Reg gives his perspective on the NFL's Black Monday.    Featured article: Parcel delivery companies must adjust to empowered digital consumers http://www.supplychain247.com/article/parcel_delivery_companies_must_adjust_to_empowered_digital_consumers "As postal organizations around the world continue to face revenue challenges created by dramatically reduced mail volumes, focusing on competitive parcel delivery products, services and supply chains will help close the revenue gap." We discuss how rising digital purchasing is creating higher B2C parcel delivery volume than B2B.      Featured topic: Counterfeits in the supply chain http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/stop-fakes-what-you-need-to-know-about-counterfeit-products-in-supply-chain   We discuss the following questions:

In this episode, we make our 2016 supply chain predictions, discuss advantages of omnichannel supply chains and how Reg is the George Lucas of logistics.    2016 Supply Chain Predictions: http://logisticsviewpoints.com/2015/12/15/2016-supply-chain-predictions/ We discuss the following predictions: Parcel power How fleet is back worldwide Increased security Supply chain application security Is the investing party over? Omni-channel 2.0 Business focus on climate change Low Canadian dollar impacts decision making of road equipment   Featured topic: Omnichannel supply chain http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/a-beginners-guide-to-omnichannel-supply-chain    We discuss the following questions:  What is omnichannel supply chain? Benefits? Why use it? Difference between multi-channel vs. omnichannel? is it just perception now? Response to customers needs 24/7? Is it just for retail? How are businesses adapting? Effect on distribution centres?     F

In this episode, we discuss how automated material handling systems can benefit your supply chain and lower warehousing costs. We look at why CP Rail's merger proposal was reject by Norfolk Southern and how Reg feels about the Bears handing the game to the 49ers.    Featured News: Norkfolk Southern rejects CP Rail's merger proposal http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/norfolk-southern-reject-cprail-1.3350374 http://business.financialpost.com/investing/trading-desk/why-cp-rail-has-the-right-approach-for-norfolk-southern We look to answer: Why CP Rail was looking to merge? Benefits to CP? Why did Norfolk Southern reject the proposal? Going forward?   Featured topic: Automated material handling systems http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/what-are-automated-material-handling-systems-and-how-do-they-lower-landed-cost    We discuss the following questions:  What are automated material handling systems? Types of handling systems? Why use them? Benefits? How do they lower total lan

In this episode, we discuss why supply chain occupational standards are important and how they will evolve. We also look at the rising costs of ocean carrier rates and what does Holly Holmes have to do with supply chain.     Featured News: Ocean Cargo Carriers Face Rising Costs http://www.scmr.com/article/ocean_cargo_carriers_face_rising_costs#When:14:12:52Z We look at why the price of operating cargo ships are rising and how the world's energy price slump is having an effect.      Featured topic: Supply Chain Occupational Standards http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/what-everybody-ought-to-know-about-the-new-supply-chain-occupational-standards    We discuss the following questions:  Why are Supply Chain Occupational Standards important? Are supply chain jobs all classified under some sort of supply chain standards? Is all hiring based on these occupational standards? How does this help employers? Job-seekers? Why is there a lack of job standards in

In this episode, we discuss how millennials could solve the labour shortage in supply chain. We interview Brian Fleming, from Mount Royal University, on the labour situation in Canada. Finally, we look at the effects of millennial behaviour on supply chain and the impact on retailers delivering e-commerce goods to customers.     Featured News: 1. Supply Chain: How millennials have changed everything http://www.fastcasual.com/blogs/supply-chain-how-millennials-have-changed-everything/     2. Retailers Struggle Getting E-Commerce Goods to Customers, Study Says http://www.wsj.com/articles/retailers-struggle-getting-e-commerce-goods-to-customers-study-says-1446634802   We look at how millennial behaviours have impacted the supply chain and how that is affecting the ability of retailers to get e-commerce goods to their customers.      Featured topic: The millennial solution to the supply chain labour shortage http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/the-millennial-so

In this episode, we discuss intermodal transportation and why your business would use it. We also review Ferrari's recent IPO and connection to supply chain management. Finally we see if Reg is an agent of change in supply chain.   Topic article: 12 tips to maximize intermodal transportation efficiency http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/12-tips-to-maximize-intermodal-transportation-efficiency   Featured News: Ferrari races ahead on wall street http://www.supplychain247.com/article/ferrari_races_ahead_on_wall_street We look at: Push or pull system in supply chain? Push: stock goods and hope customers buys supply Pull: react to customer orders How sales and marketing tied to the supply chain systems The first 3D printed supercar     Featured topic:  Using intermodal transportation We look to answer the following questions:  What is intermodal transportation? Why/when to use it? Cost benefits? How to maximize intermodal efficiency? Can you share space on intermodal c

In this episode, we discuss what to know about freight claims law and why time is crucial when dealing with cargo loss or damage. We also talk about the recently signed Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement and its impact on the supply chain industry in Canada. We also discuss what to know about freight claims law.  Topic article: What you ought to know about freight claims law http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/what-you-ought-to-know-about-freight-claims-law   Featured News: What is the TPP: Understanding the new pacific trade deal http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/international-business/what-is-tpp-understanding-the-new-pacific-tradedeal/article26648948/ We discuss these questions:  So what is the TPP? How will it affect supply chain and logistics in Canada? What sectors will be impacted and how it affect their supply chain? What is the supply management system?     Featured topic: Freight Claims Law We look to answer the following questions:  Wh

In this episode, we talk about the reasons why you might want to use freight forwarders and tips on finding the right one for your business.  Topic article: 11 tips when looking for the right freight forwarder   Featured News: Excess inventories could put a damper on shipping What is the impact of a port backlog on a company’s supply chain?  Do the cargo containers stop coming to a port if it is full due to a labour strike?  Is the cargo sent back to the shipper? Does the cargo container try another port?   Featured topic: Freight Forwarders What is a freight forwarder? Why would you need one? benefits? What are the cost savings? How would you choose one?    Featured resource: Export 101: Freight Forwarders role in the export transaction     Have any questions or show suggestions? Contact us: Twitter @CalgaryregionEmail: business@calgaryregion.ca

In this show, we talk about cold storage warehouse technology and how it works with your supply chain activities.    Related article:  http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/automated-cold-storage-warehouse-technology-15-ways-to-save-money     Featured News:  We discuss the rise of the chief supply chain officer and how businesses are bringing supply chain talent in-house. http://fortune.com/2015/09/10/chief-supply-chain-officer/   Council of Supply Chain Management Professions - State of Logistics Report: https://cscmp.org/member-benefits/state-of-logistics   Featured topic: Automated Cold Storage Warehouse We look to answer the following questions: Why would you need one? benefits? What are the cost savings? Build or lease? Disadvantages?     Featured resource:  Research report: Reefers in North American Cold Chain Logistics: http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/reefers-in-north-american-cold-chain-logistics   If you have any questions or have topic

In this show, we discuss how goods-to-person order fulfillment can benefit your supply chain and shipping activities.    Featured News: We talk about technology's impact on supply chain and labour. http://www.supplychain247.com/article/technologys_role_in_improving_the_supply_chain   Featured topic: Goods-to-person order fulfillment We discuss the following questions:  What is goods-to-person order fulfillment?  Why would you use it? Benefits? When would you use it? How does it affect your labour supply? Disadvantages?   Resources: Report: Evolution of Goods-to-Person Order Fulfillment by Tompkins International http://www.mhi.org/media/members/14784/130384426687480852.pdf

In this show, we discuss when is it your best option to ship by rail and the advantages/disadvantages.    Featured news:  International intermodal container volumes rising faster than domestic ones and why it matters.  http://www.canadianshipper.com/transportation-and-logistics/quarterly-canada-us-international-railway-box-volume-up-4-5-iana/1003367922/   Discussion topic: Advantages vs. disadvantages of using rail   Accompanying article:http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/shipping-by-rail-in-canada-when-is-it-your-best-option   Advantages Solution to truck driver shortage Lower costs Safest modes of ground freight routes Dependability Better for environment   Disadvantages Lack of timely transport Inflexibility Unsuitable for short distances Required extensive planning     Featured resource: Whitepaper - Simplifying Logistics: The benefits of rail in a multimodal shipping system. http://www.up.com/customers/prospective/inc_whitepaper.pdf

In this episode, we discuss how to choose the best option when deciding to ship by air or sea.    Featured News:  Our featured news looks at the risks involved when shipping products and how to reduce and/or mitigate these risks.   http://multichannelmerchant.com/opsandfulfillment/bad-things-happen-good-cargo-28072015/#_   In our main topic, we look at the five factors to consider when choosing between air or ocean shipping.  1. Total Cost 2. Reliability 3. Speed: fast or slow 4. Accessibility 5. Sustainability   Accompanying article: http://www.investcalgaryregion.ca/blog/shipping-by-sea-or-air-%E2%80%93-which-ones-best-for-you   Featured Resource: Great whitepaper on calculating the cost of shipping by air or sea: http://power-cast-conform.com/pdf/shipping%20Cost%20Comparaison.pdf

In this episode, we discuss the rising and significant labour shortage in the supply chain and logistics sector. We answer the following questions:   What is the labour shortage in supply chain? Why is there a labour shortage? What are the impacts? Potential solutions? The need to  attract more women into the sector and better promotions of the sector, especially to post-secondary students as a career choice.    Our featured story is the reverse impact of low oil prices and decreasing Canadian dollar on industrial/commercial vacancy rates in Western and Eastern Canada.  http://business.financialpost.com/news/property-post/property-boom-goes-industrial-commercial-real-estate-strength-moves-east-as-oil-and-dollar-drop   Resources:   1. Canadian Centre for Advanced Supply Chain Management and Logistics http://haskayne.ucalgary.ca/research-centres/c-asl   2. Women in Supply Chain – Stories and Advice http://www.womeninsupplychain.org/stories-advice/   Canadian Su

In this episode we have a guest co-host join the show:Corrie Banks from Triskele Logistics: http://www.triskelelogisticsltd.com/   We talk about ways to improving your warehousing operations and efficiency. We answer the following questions: When do you need warehousing? Reasons for? Why do you need to make warehousing more efficient?  How important is information to warehousing?  Where does technology play a role in improving efficiency?  Where does 3PLs come into the picture? Where do labour costs come in?   Featured news: We discuss the reasons for rising in freight costs http://www.wsj.com/articles/freight-costs-bedevil-consumer-goods-companies-report-1435697394   Featured resources: 1.  Warehouse cost saving ideas and warehouse strategy http://www.fcbco.com/services/warehouse-strategies   2. Lean Thinking: 2nd edition http://goo.gl/gK8obe    

In this show we discuss 3PLs or third party logistics providers. We answer the questions: What are 3PLs? How do they help reduce your supply chain costs? What are the benefits and advantages of using 3PLs? What should they know to help your business? How to choose the right one?   Featured news: We look at the declining stocks of CN and CP Rail http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-06-09/canada-s-railroads-confront-market-gravity-stocks-go-down-too?cmpid=yhoo   Featured resources: 1. How to evaluate a 3PL for your business http://www.inboundlogistics.com/cms/article/how-to-evaluate-a-3pl-partner/   2. 2015-2019 3PL Research Report: Size, share, trends and analysis of 3PLs in Europe http://www.whatech.com/market-research/transport/68188-3pl-third-party-logistics-market-in-europe-2015-2019-worldwide-industry-size-share-trend-analysis-research-report-and-forecasts-shared-in-new-research-report

In this episode we discuss the benefits and challenges of low oil prices to shippers. From savings on fuel costs to the impacts of industry-related cutbacks. We also look at how the job losses in the resource sector may help truck driving recruiters. Finally, we see how lower Canadian dollar helps exporters, especially those shipping to the United States.    Featured news story: No Achilles heel, resource sector has super-sized impact on economy http://business.financialpost.com/news/energy/no-achilles-heel-resource-sector-has-super-sized-impact-on-economy   Featured resource:  Four things you need to know to control fuel costs http://www.logisticsmgmt.com/article/as_fuel_costs_rise_with_no_end_in_sight_learn_how_you_can_start_controlling