In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton and special guest co-host Maria Villablanca welcome Dr. Dinesh Davè, Professor & Director of Supply Chain Management at Appalachian State University, and Evan Junker, Chief Growth Officer at SPARQ360, to unpack insights from the 2025 Supply Chain Trends and Attitudes Report. The annual study, conducted by Appalachian State and SPARQ360, surveys hundreds of supply chain managers across the U.S. to reveal where leaders are investing, from AI and visibility platforms to sustainability and risk management. Together, the panel discusses how familiarity and adoption of AI are rising, why the “ambition-action gap” still challenges sustainability progress, and what’s driving executives to balance cost efficiency, resilience, and environmental responsibility. They also explore how partnerships, collaboration, and customer-centered priorities are emerging as the new competitive advantage. Packed with practical insights and forward-looking data, this conversation offers a clear snapshot of where supply chain strategy is heading in 2025 and beyond. This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Maria Villablanca, 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 Dr. Dinesh Davè Learn…

Supply Chain gets spooky today as we delve into the Halloween supply chain and holiday toy logistics challenges. Welcome to The Buzz powered by AutoScheduler! Hosts Scott Luton and Marty Parker welcome special guest Don Hicks, Founder & CEO of Optilogic to the show to discuss: The complexities of supply chain leadership Holiday toy logistics and Halloween supply chain dynamics The necessity for businesses to conduct stress tests and scenario modeling, particularly in light of recent disruptions and uncertainties in the global marketplace Valuable insights into the evolution of supply chain design, advocating for a mindset shift among leaders to embrace both planning and design as critical components of effective supply chain management Join us as we underscore the importance of adaptability and forward-thinking in a landscape characterized by rapid change and unpredictability, and reflect on effective supply chain practices and strategies as we go into the holiday season and beyond. This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Marty Parker, 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: Learn more about AutoScheduler With That Said Mattel’s disappointing Q3 Have tariffs…