The Buzz: Transformation in the Trucking Industry

  Join us for this week’s episode of The Buzz, as we take a deep dive into the critical topic of returns management during the peak returns season, aptly dubbed “Returnuary.” As retailers brace for an anticipated 17% return rate of all sales in 2024, equating to a staggering $890 billion in returns, the conversation highlights the operational, logistical, and financial challenges that come with managing these returns. In this episode, hosts Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas explore: The implications of stricter return policies, the rising trend of fraudulent returns, and the environmental impact of returns-related waste The current state of the manufacturing industry, which shows signs of growth despite concerns over tariffs and trade policies. Tech trends that could shape 2025 Upcoming supply chain events in the new year And much more! Join the conversation as we welcome the new year with a clean slate, even in the world of global supply chain.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas and produced by Amanda Luton and Triha Cordes.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during the show: Watch on YouTube With That Said The State of Freight…

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, we continue our popular series, Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa as host Scott Luton explores how public-private partnerships are reshaping access to healthcare across Africa, particularly when it comes to affordable, quality medicines. Joined by Anderson Ti-Timi of VillageReach and Trip Allport of XS2Meds, we dive into the complex pharma value chain and the urgent need to build up local private distributors through improved procurement systems, working capital access, and internal infrastructure. Anderson shares insights from the front lines—including a potential new partnership in the Democratic Republic of the Congo—and emphasizes the importance of trust, visibility, and scalable systems. Trip highlights how lessons from 15 years of outsourcing distribution can now be applied across the full value chain to accelerate innovation, integration, and cost reduction. Together, they underscore how collaboration among governments, donors, manufacturers, and distributors is the key to achieving universal health coverage. Whether you’re in global health, supply chain, or looking to make a difference, this conversation is a call to build smarter, stronger, and more connected systems.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources…