Is your supply chain ready for the holidays? Today, hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa break down the biggest challenges shaping global supply networks this season — from tariff uncertainty and inflationary pressures to shifting consumer expectations and the ongoing semiconductor shortage. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by OMP! Scott and Karin are joined by Chris Butler, CEO of National Tree Company, to explore how consumer behavior continues to evolve, including the accelerating move toward online shopping and the rising demand for fast, reliable delivery during peak holiday periods. Together, they discuss: The ripple effects of tariffs and inflation on pricing, availability, and inventory management How the semiconductor crisis is reshaping automotive supply chains worldwide The growing role of artificial intelligence in improving supply chain agility and decision-making Strategies for maintaining resilience and responsiveness in a volatile market Listen in as we unpack what’s driving today’s supply chain challenges — and how leaders can stay ahead of the curve this holiday season and beyond. This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during the…

Bobby Holland is a man in the know. Nearing four decades of broad-based data processing, software engineering, and consulting experience, he is now the Vice President/Director of Freight Business Analytics, and in charge of the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index. Published every quarter by U.S. Bank, it has become a go-to source of information for freight shipping trends at a national and regional level. Joining Bobby on this episode of the podcast is the returning Eric Olson, Sales Support Operations Director at Total Quality Logistics (TQL), where he has spent almost 20 years working in a variety of management roles. Listen in as the conversation focuses on the U.S. Bank 2023 Q4 Freight Payment Index, based on billions of dollars worth of spend data. Bobby reveals that one region of the country saw a huge drop in shipments of more than 25% year over year. Insights such as this, underpinned by raw and unquestionable data, are why companies such as TQL and supply chain professionals like Eric turn to it for valuable insights that help to underpin their own strategies. Through the podcast, the duo talk through seven key takeaways from the 2023 Q4 report, explaining some of the trends…