Supply chains are recalibrating, and the Middle East and Africa are investing aggressively to meet the moment. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton and special guest co-host Yaseen Ahmid welcome Toby Maier, CEO for Middle East and Africa at DHL Global Forwarding, for a wide-ranging conversation on what is changing trade and logistics across the region. Toby breaks down how recent tariffs are redirecting export flows into the Middle East and Africa, why GCC countries are racing to build world-class logistics hubs, and how production is shifting from Turkey toward markets like Egypt and Morocco. They also explore what it will take to build stronger, more reliable supply chains across Africa, from investment in life sciences and healthcare infrastructure to modernized regulation that reduces delays at customs. Toby shares how DHL’s publicly announced $300 million investment through 2030 prioritizes end-to-end capability that helps medicines, vaccines, and other critical products reach communities across a fast-growing population. The conversation also tackles the practical realities of energy access, data centers, and the cost to deliver goods, plus how sustainability efforts like electrified fleets and sustainable aviation fuel can support performance and emissions goals at the same time.   This…

In today’s episode of Supply Chain Now, we discuss the imperative of leveraging innovation within the supply chain sector, particularly as it pertains to advancements in warehouse automation. Welcome to The Buzz! Today, hosts Scott Luton and Allison Giddens welcome special guest Kait Peterson, VP of Marketing for Locus Robotics, to the show. Listen as they discuss: The fascinating intersection of robotics and artificial intelligence, which is profoundly shaping the grocery fulfillment landscape Pressing industry challenges, including labor shortages and the necessity for businesses to adopt flexible operational strategies to navigate the tumultuous market environment The importance of leadership within the supply chain domain, and the necessity of cultivating authentic connections in leadership roles Supply chain sustainability, spotlighting Mars’ innovative approaches to cocoa cultivation through gene editing A holistic view of supply chain management that integrates technological innovation with ethical considerations and environmental stewardship Join us for a wealth of insights into the future of supply chain management, underscoring the criticality of adaptability and technological integration in achieving sustained success.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Allison Giddens, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the…