Supply Chain Now

In this episode, we break down the latest retail sales signals, explore the growing importance of supply chain storytelling, and spotlight the powerful role Georgia plays in global logistics. From shifting consumer behavior to automation trends and industry events, this episode is packed with insights that matter right now. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by DOSS! Hosts Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love dive into early March retail data, highlighting cautious consumer spending patterns and what they signal for the months ahead. The conversation also explores the newly released documentary The Chain: How the World Works, which brings supply chain complexity to life for a broader audience. Plus, special guest Sandy Lake from the Georgia Center of Innovation shares key trends driving logistics growth, including automation, trade policy shifts, and infrastructure investments across the state. Key Learnings & Takeaways: Retail trends show resilience—but with more selective, value-driven spending Rising energy costs and uncertainty continue to shape supply chain strategy Automation and AI are accelerating transformation across logistics networks Georgia continues to emerge as a critical U.S. logistics and supply chain hub The Chain documentary highlights the real-world impact of supply chains Resilience and predictability are becoming essential—not optional—for leaders As…

What are future supply chain leaders paying attention to right now? In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Julie Niederhoff, Associate Professor of Supply Chain Management and Department Chair of Marketing, Retail and Supply Chain Management at Syracuse University, alongside standout students Odette Sherk, Katherine Foley, Makayla Amatuegwu, and David Patterson. Together, they explore how today’s students are discovering supply chain as a dynamic career path that blends strategy, sustainability, and real-world problem solving. The conversation highlights how hands-on experiences, from study abroad programs to industry internships, are helping students connect classroom learning to global challenges. Topics like sustainability transparency, rail transportation, globalization shifts, and ethical sourcing take center stage as each student shares what excites them most about the industry. Their perspectives reveal a generation that is not only career-focused but deeply motivated to create meaningful change. Julie also shares insights into how Syracuse’s program develops well-rounded leaders by combining academic rigor with experiential learning. This episode offers a glimpse of how the next generation is approaching the field of supply chain with curiosity, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton, and produced by Trisha Cordes,…

Disruption isn’t an occasional challenge anymore. And that’s forcing supply chain leaders to think differently about how they operate. In this episode, Scott Luton is joined by Thato Moloi, President of SAPICS and an expert in African supply chains, to discuss the trends impacting the industry. Thato shares insights on how global supply chain disruptions have become the norm and explains why resilience and adaptability are crucial for leaders in 2026. He also delves into the transformative role of AI and technology in driving efficiency, especially in logistics and warehouse management across the continent. They explore how African supply chains are evolving through innovation, regionalization, and the increasing importance of workforce development. You’ll hear practical examples of how companies are leveraging AI for better decision-making and optimizing their supply chains to meet growing demands in today’s fast-paced world.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during the show: Connect with Thato Moloi Learn more about SAPICS Learn more about Hytrol Supply Chain Now Resource Hub Learn more about our hosts Want more Supply Chain Now?…

The global supply chain is shifting fast—from rising compliance demands to major reshoring investments—welcome to The Buzz, powered by project44! In this episode, hosts Scott Luton and Allison Giddens break down the forces reshaping the electronics supply chain, from Apple’s massive U.S. manufacturing expansion to the growing impact of geopolitical tensions on critical materials like helium. Joined by Justin Sears of Altium, the conversation dives into how data, design, and visibility are becoming essential to navigating complexity and staying competitive. Join us and learn: Why strategic data intelligence is now critical for compliance and decision-making How fragmented data and manual processes are slowing down modern supply chains The ripple effects of helium shortages on chips and electronics production What Apple’s $600B U.S. manufacturing push signals for reshoring trends How modern tech stacks and cloud adoption are helping companies leapfrog competitors Why security, visibility, and control are essential in electronics design and sourcing From regulatory complexity to global disruptions and bold reshoring moves, the electronics supply chain is entering a new era—one defined by data, agility, and smarter decision-making.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Allison Giddens, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.  …

Supply chain leadership is being tested like never before, and the expectations keep rising. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by special guest host Wiley Jones to kick off another episode of Enterprise Unleashed, powered by the DOSS team. Together, they sit down with Rick McDonald, CEO at Rick McDonald Supply Chain Advisory, LLC, and retired SVP, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Clorox, to talk about the evolving role of leaders in today’s fast-changing environment. Rick discusses the importance of digital fluency for leaders, particularly in integrating AI, and emphasizes that AI should be viewed as decision support, not a replacement. He highlights key strategies for leaders navigating disruptive technologies, such as investing in reskilling and upskilling, and underscores the critical role of change management. With extensive experience in managing crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and a five-month-long cyberattack, Rick shares insights into leadership during times of transformation and how companies can leverage technology for better decision-making.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Wiley Jones, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during the show:…

Supply chain disruption isn’t slowing down, it’s becoming the baseline. So what separates leaders who keep up from those who fall behind? In this episode, Scott Luton sits down with Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, to break down what it takes to lead in 2026. Mike revisits key lessons from the pandemic, including why top organizations “handle hard better,” and explains why “winning in the turns” still applies in today’s environment of constant disruption. They also unpack where many leaders are misreading AI, especially as supply chain and IT continue to converge, and what that means for CSCOs. You’ll hear Gartner’s top three priorities for supply chain leaders, plus practical examples of how AI is already improving decision-making, from vendor selection to faster insights.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during the show: Connect with Mike Griswold Connect with Mike through email Learn more about Gartner Learn more about the Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo 2026 conference Learn more about Hytrol Supply Chain Now Resource Hub Learn more about our hosts Want more Supply…

From geopolitical tensions impacting global energy markets to rising food costs and shifting delivery networks, today’s supply chains are navigating a perfect storm of disruption and transformation. At the same time, innovation is accelerating—from AI-powered logistics to tech-enabled food platforms redefining how we eat at home. The stakes are high, and the pace of change is only increasing… welcome to The Buzz, powered by project44! In this episode, hosts Scott Luton and Marty Parker explore how global conflict is impacting energy and supply chains, how rising cocoa prices are reshaping the food industry, and what Amazon’s shift away from USPS means for last-mile delivery. Plus, HelloFresh COO Dan Seidel joins us to share how AI, robotics, and supply chain innovation are transforming the home cooking experience. Key Learnings & Takeaways: Geopolitical conflict continues to disrupt global supply chains Oil price volatility impacts nearly every industry Cocoa shortages are driving product and pricing innovation Amazon’s delivery strategy shift could reshape last-mile logistics Strategy is evolving toward speed, flexibility, and resilience AI and robotics are enabling more responsive supply chains HelloFresh is redefining convenience, personalization, and freshness Disruption isn’t slowing down—but neither is innovation. The organizations that stay agile, customer-focused, and ready…

What if the next big supply chain breakthrough also creates one of its biggest security risks? In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Akhilesh Agarwal, President of P2P Solutions and Technology at apexanalytix, and William McNeill, Vice President of Market Intelligence at apexanalytix, for an in-depth discussion on quantum computing’s role in supply chains. They examine how it can improve visibility, risk management, and decision-making. Akhilesh and William stress the importance of preparing now, as waiting could expose companies to risks. The conversation also covers the convergence of quantum computing and AI, enhancing predictive analytics, supply chain modeling, and risk management. The episode concludes with practical steps leaders can take to prepare for quantum disruptions and stay ahead as the technology evolves.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during the show: Connect with Akhilesh Agarwal Connect with William McNeill Learn more about apexanalytix Supply Chain Now Resource Hub Learn more about our hosts Want more Supply Chain Now? We know you can’t get enough Supply Chain Now! Don’t miss…

Asia is playing a bigger role in global supply chains as trade shifts, regional demand grows, and companies focus on execution over noise. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Raymon Krishnan, President of The Logistics & Supply Chain Management Society, and Brett Marshall, Editor-in-Chief of LogiSYM Magazine, for a grounded conversation on what’s happening across Asia and Southeast Asia. From Singapore’s role as a logistics and coordination hub to the rise of domestic markets across the region, they walk through the changes influencing how supply chains operate today. Scott, Raymon, and Brett discuss how companies are adjusting to new trade patterns, building stronger regional capabilities, and managing ongoing disruption while keeping day-to-day operations on track. They share practical examples of how AI is being used in procurement and freight, while emphasizing the need to focus on what delivers results. The conversation also covers the growing importance of risk management, the need for continuous learning, and the role of relationships in keeping supply chains running. The episode closes with insights on Singapore’s next phase of growth, the rise of reverse logistics innovation, and the people-first mindset that continues to drive the industry forward.   This…