Shifting Gears Archives - Material Handling Wholesaler

Barclay Brand Ferdon Chairman of the Board Robert (Bob) Masucci dies at 89

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:26:56 +0000

Barclay Brand Ferdon has announced the passing of its Chairman of the Board, Robert (Bob) N. Masucci, who died on June 19th, 2026, at age 89. Bob was a devoted father to four children and a proud grandfather to six grandchildren. Throughout his distinguished career, he demonstrated integrity, generosity, and exceptional leadership, leaving an enduring legacy that will be remembered by all who came in contact with him. Prior to Barclay, Bob served as Chief Executive Officer of Drexel Industries until 1990. He also served on a number of boards across several industries, especially high tech. He was a member of the Board of Trustees of La Salle University and Gwynedd Mercy University. A proud graduate of La Salle University’s Class of 1961, Bob remained deeply committed to education, supporting the institutions that helped shape his life and career. A respected business leader, Bob was known for his strong leadership, business acumen, warm personality, and ever-present sense of humor. “Bob was far more than our chairman. He was a mentor, trusted advisor, and dear friend whose wisdom and guidance helped shape both our company and the people within it,” said Bernard E. Saxon, President and CEO of Barclay Brand Ferdon. Memorial services will be held privately at the request of the Masucci family.

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Hellmann celebrates 20 years of operations in Japan and expands focus on APAC growth

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:11:59 +0000

Hellmann Worldwide Logistics marks the 20th anniversary of its operations in Japan, highlighting its continued presence in a strategically important global logistics market. Since opening the first office in Japan in 2006, Hellmann has established a focused local presence and gradually developed its service offering to support customers across selected industries, including automotive, fashion, healthcare, and technology. Today, the company provides core logistics services such as airfreight, seafreight, customs brokerage, and selected specialized solutions. With offices in Tokyo and Osaka, Hellmann Japan supports domestic and international customers through tailored logistics services and integration into its global network. Within its global strategy “Forward2030”, Asia-Pacific (APAC) has been identified as a key growth region, with Japan representing a stable and important market environment. Against this backdrop, Hellmann will continue to develop its activities in Japan in line with customer needs and market opportunities. “APAC is an important region within our global strategy “Forward2030” and Japan contributes to this as a mature and innovative market with strong connections to global supply chains. Going forward, we will continue to invest in the region and expand our capabilities to support our customers’ growth with integrated, sustainable logistics solutions,” said Jens Drewes, CEO, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics. “Over the past years, we have grown our APAC presence by broadening our footprint, strengthening local teams, and building more connected solutions for customers across the region. Japan is part of this development: with our teams in Tokyo and Osaka, we have established a strong local foundation that combines market expertise with the reach of our regional and global network. We will build on this momentum and continue to strengthen Japan’s role within our broader APAC growth journey,” said Sven Raudszus, Regional CEO APAC, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.

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Jungheinrich takes a stake in Navflex and develops an autonomous solution for truck loading and unloading

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:27:44 +0000

AI-based software for navigation and process control at the loading dock Mobile solution for tight, variable environments without additional infrastructure Field tests under real operating conditions with major customers launched Jungheinrich AG is taking a stake in Navflex Inc., a technology company specializing in Physical AI and the automation of truck loading and unloading. The investment strengthens the partnership between the two companies, with the goal of bringing an autonomous solution for one of the last non-automated core processes in intralogistics to market. Development is clearly focused on the requirements of the European and North American markets. Navflex, a technology company established in Germany and the United States, focuses on automating truck loading and unloading – one of the most technically demanding use cases in intralogistics. Different trailer geometries, changing load carriers, and confined space conditions place high demands on technology, safety, and reliability. At the same time, demand for automation at the loading dock is particularly high, as labor-intensive processes meet a shortage of skilled workers and increasing pressure for efficiency. “Loading and unloading trucks is a key bottleneck in the material flow for many of our customers,” says Dr. Tobias Harzer, Chief Automation Officer of Jungheinrich AG. “Together with Navflex, we are developing a solution that specifically addresses this process and reliably automates it. In addition to robustness, compactness, and maneuverability at the loading dock, we place particular emphasis on safety – especially in environments where humans and machines operate side by side.” As part of the collaboration, Jungheinrich combines its expertise in developing industrial trucks and autonomous mobile robots, its broad industry know-how, as well as its systems integration and service capabilities with Navflex’s software and robotics expertise. The joint solution is based on an industrialized vehicle platform from Jungheinrich that is being consistently further developed for automated operation at the loading dock. The result is an autonomous mobile solution tailored to the requirements of variable dock environments, which can be integrated into existing logistics processes without additional infrastructure. Navflex contributes specialized software for autonomous perception, navigation, safety, and process logic in the truck environment. “We deliberately chose to tackle a problem that was long considered hardly automatable,” says Chuck Stovall, CEO of Navflex. “To enter the European market, we need a partner that can deliver industrial execution, scaling, and global service. This is exactly where Navflex and Jungheinrich complement each other. In automation and AI, our partnership is truly 1 plus 1 equals 3.” Both partners are working closely to integrate hardware and software into a robust end-to-end solution that meets the requirements of day-to-day operations. The joint solution is currently undergoing extensive field tests with major customers under real operating conditions. By taking a stake in Navflex, Jungheinrich underscores its ambition to further advance end-to-end automated material flows and to unlock one of the remaining interfaces at the loading dock that has so far been difficult to automate.

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Yale Route Runner direct-store-delivery solution recognized as one of 2026’s most innovative products

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 11:45:08 +0000

TWO-IN-ONE PALLET TRUCK AND MOTORIZED SLED AVOIDS NEED TO HAUL TWO PIECES OF EQUIPMENT FROM TRUCK TO STORE, REDUCES MANUAL HANDLING BY 50 PERCENT Yale Lift Truck Technologies announces that the Yale Route Runner™ direct-store-delivery solution has been recognized as one of the year’s most innovative products by the Business Intelligence Group’s BIG Innovation Awards. The two-in-one solution overhauls traditional direct-store-delivery workflows by allowing drivers to haul just one piece of equipment from truck to store and removing the need to transfer inventory from a pallet truck to a smaller piece of equipment for indoor use. This workflow adjustment greatly reduces the risk of strains and injuries from manual labor throughout the course of a shift, and cuts manual materials handling by up to 50 percent. Typically, direct-store delivery workflows require drivers to manage multiple pieces of equipment: a pallet truck for unloading trailers and a separate handcart or sled for navigating inside tight, indoor retail spaces. Yale Route Runner enables drivers to simply detach the nested sled from the larger pallet truck and take advantage of its small footprint in tight retail spaces – no need for downstacking products from one piece of equipment to another. The motorized sled provides an ergonomic power assist to reduce manual strain when navigating inclines or traversing thresholds, and can raise the load platform approximately 18 inches during restocking to reduce bending and lifting. Avoiding the need to manually transfer product from a pallet truck to a small piece of equipment adds up to a major impact. Over a typical 9-stop route, drivers can lift 27,000 fewer pounds, take nearly 2,000 fewer steps and shorten their route by 63 minutes – possibly enabling drivers to make an additional stop. “Direct-store delivery affects our everyday lives in ways we don’t even think about – stocking convenience stores with soda and other beverages, bringing new supplies to our offices and schools, and more,” said Kevin McWilliams, Director, Major Accounts, Yale Lift Truck Technologies. “With Yale Route Runner, we focused our innovation efforts on re-engineering the process of direct-store delivery and making it easier for drivers to execute and meet the needs of retail customers.” In addition to the two-in-one sled and pallet jack, Yale’s comprehensive approach to direct-store delivery also includes matching pallets to round out the system.

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Position : Global wins two prestigious Awards for Excellence in Supply Chain Marketing

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 18:57:17 +0000

Position : Global was honored with the TMSA Trailblazer Award and Rising Star awards at the 2026 TMSA Elevate Conference in Denver, Colorado. The TMSA Trailblazer Award showcases the best-in-class for marketing and sales initiatives each year in the transportation and logistics industry. Position : Global won the Trailblazer Award for its launch of Tenet, an operating system for cartage, courier, and expedited carriers. With just two weeks until the opening of a major trade show with a planned unveiling of the company and its brand, Position : Global marshaled design and development experts to launch a website, secure a sponsorship that included corporate headshots, develop a marketing plan and materials for the event, craft and issue a press release, and design, make, and deliver a full trade show booth. “Position : Global’s work for Tenet demonstrated the strategic thinking, innovation, and execution that define a Trailblazer,” said Jennifer Karpus-Romain, Executive Director of TMSA. “In a remarkably short timeframe, the team transformed a complex acquisition story into a compelling market launch with measurable results and immediate industry impact.” Sara Sasek, Position : Global’s Managing Editor, AI Voice and Policy Director, was honored as a Rising Star. Sara was recognized for authoring Position : Global’s formal AI policy and for building LLM-based guardrails that protect client voice and messaging integrity across AI-assisted workflows. Her frameworks have been integrated into the agency’s standard new-client onboarding process, reducing revision cycles and strengthening consistency across accounts. She also expanded the agency’s AEO, GEO, and SEO digital footprint assessment capabilities, helping logistics clients become more visible and credible in an era when AI systems — not just search engines — shape how brands are discovered. “Sara Sasek’s leadership in developing responsible AI frameworks and brand voice guardrails has set a new standard for how transportation and logistics marketers can adopt emerging technology without sacrificing authenticity,” said Jennifer Karpus-Romain, Executive Director of TMSA. “By helping organizations navigate AI with both innovation and integrity, Sara has distinguished herself as a true rising star in the industry, and her influence is already shaping the future of marketing.” Winners were selected by a panel of judges comprising industry professionals, who awarded companies and individuals for their outstanding achievements over the last 18 months. “These awards are especially meaningful because they’re recognition from our peers,” said Scott Case, Founder and Chief Storyteller at Position : Global. “The Trailblazer Award underscores our ability to transform complex logistics stories into compelling brands that drive results. Sara’s Rising Star honor is proof that the future of marketing belongs to people who can balance innovation with authenticity. We’re proud of our entire team and look forward to helping logistics companies tell bigger, bolder stories that move their businesses forward.” This is the second time Position : Global has been recognized by the TMSA, having won the Trailblazer Award in 2024 for its content creation work for RDS Capacity Solutions (RDS)

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ORBIS hosts Sixth Annual Golf Outing to Benefit Children’s Wisconsin

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 13:36:10 +0000

2026 event raises nearly $440,000 to support mission of care, advocacy, research and education ORBIS® Corporation hosted its sixth annual ORBIS Good Days for Kids golf outing that raised nearly $440,000 for Children’s Wisconsin, the region’s only independent health care system dedicated solely to the health and well-being of children. The event, which this year included new activities such as a Live Auction, Paddle Raise and Short Course Showdown, was held at the Grand Geneva golf course in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. Attendees, comprising of 228 golfers, were able to meet the family of a patient served by Children’s Wisconsin and hear their incredibly heartwarming story. Since its inception, this event has raised a staggering $1.9 million dollars. “The Good Day for Kids golf outing has always combined the joy of golf with the spirit of giving back and at ORBIS, we’re immensely proud to continue supporting the communities in which we work,” said Jenny Engelfried, vice president of strategic sourcing, ORBIS Corporation. “This year we were able to see and hear firsthand the tremendous impact Children’s Wisconsin has had on our ORBIS family and the broader community. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated suppliers for joining forces with us to raise these crucial funds that cumulatively have resulted in $1.9 million in donations. I appreciate the work everyone did to make it an outstanding day for us!” The partnership between ORBIS and Children’s Wisconsin benefits children experiencing a life-threatening injury or illness. Funds raised during the Good Days for Kids golf outing go to work immediately, fueling the most pressing needs of the Children’s Wisconsin mission of care, advocacy, research and education. “Through our ongoing partnership with ORBIS, more kids cared for by Children’s Wisconsin can continually have good — and even great — days,” said Meg Brzyski Nelson, President of the Children’s Wisconsin Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to the ORBIS team, as well as for the sustained generosity of all those who have participated in this event for the past six years, especially their suppliers. Thanks for helping continually fuel our work to build brighter futures than ever for kids and families.”

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PepsiCo Fleet Executive Joins YMX Logistics

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 13:19:31 +0000

Adam Buttgenbach joins the leading national yard logistics provider as Vice President of Fleet Strategy & Loss Prevention. YMX Logistics has announced that Adam Buttgenbach has joined the company as Vice President of Fleet Strategy & Loss Prevention. Buttgenbach brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in logistics, procurement, maintenance, and operational transformation to YMX. Throughout his career, Adam has led large-scale fleet and equipment organizations with responsibility for more than 110,000 assets globally and billion-dollar capital investment portfolios. His expertise spans fleet strategy, asset lifecycle management, procurement, supplier partnerships, sustainability, electrification, alternative fuels, connected vehicle technologies, and operational excellence. Prior to joining YMX Logistics, Adam served as Global Procurement Director, Fleet Transformation at PepsiCo, where he led enterprise fleet transformation initiatives across one of the world’s largest commercial fleets. He previously held leadership roles with Custom Truck One Source and Brink’s, driving fleet modernization, acquisition integrations, and operational improvements. “Adam brings an exceptional combination of fleet expertise, procurement discipline, operational leadership, and transformation experience,” said Erin Mitchell, COO of YMX Logistics. “As YMX continues to expand nationwide, fleet strategy and asset performance are critical to delivering safer, more efficient, and more sustainable operations for our customers. Adam’s experience leading complex fleet organizations at enterprise scale, combined with his deep commitment to safety and operational excellence, makes him a tremendous addition to our leadership team.” “YMX Logistics is redefining what enterprise yard operations can become,” said Buttgenbach. “The yard is a critical part of the supply chain, and the ability to align fleet strategy, technology, maintenance, safety, sustainability, and execution at scale creates a powerful opportunity for enterprise shippers across the country. I am excited to join YMX at such an important stage of growth and help advance the company’s fleet strategy and loss prevention capabilities.” Adam holds a Master of Applied Science in Supply Chain Management from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business from California Polytechnic State University.

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Equipment Finance Industry Confidence Rises Again in June

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 14:03:30 +0000

The Equipment Leasing & Finance Association (ELFA)has released its June 2026 Monthly Confidence Index for the Equipment Finance Industry (MCI), revealing confidence in the equipment finance market is 63.7, an increase from the May index of 59.9, and the second consecutive increase since the start of the war in Iran. The index provides a qualitative assessment from key executives in the $1.3 trillion equipment finance industry. June 2026 Survey Results: Business Conditions – When assessing the next four months, 30.4% of responding executives believe business conditions will improve, up from 27.3% in May. Those who believe business conditions will remain the same increased to 65.2% from 63.6% the previous month. The percentage of executives who believe business conditions will worsen decreased to 4.4% from 9.1% in May. Capex Demand – For the next four months, 31.8% of the survey respondents believe demand for leases and loans to fund capital expenditures (capex) will increase (up from 26.1% in May). Additionally, 59.1% expect demand to remain the same (down from 73.9% last month), and 9.1% believe demand will decline (up from none in May). Access to Capital – Over the next four months, 27.3% of respondents expect greater access to capital to fund equipment acquisitions, an increase from 17.4% in May. The majority (72.7%) anticipate the “same” access to capital to fund business, a decrease from 78.3% the previous month. None expect “less” access to capital, down from 4.4% in May. Employment – Regarding employment over the next four months, 50% of executives expect to hire more employees, an increase from 40.9% in May. Also, 50% foresee no change in headcount (unchanged from last month), and none expect to hire fewer employees, down from 9.1% in May. U.S. Economy – Of the respondents, 8.3% evaluate the current U.S. economy as “excellent,” down slightly from 9.1% in May; 87.5% assess it as “fair,” down from 90.9% last month; and 4.2% evaluate it as “poor,” up from none in May. Economic Outlook – Over the next six months, 25% of respondents believe that U.S. economic conditions will “get better,” a decrease from 30.4% in May. Another 50% expect the U.S. economy to “stay the same,” up from 47.8% last month; and 25% believe economic conditions will worsen, an increase from 21.7% in May. Business Development Spending – Over the next six months, 45.8% of respondents believe their company will increase spending on business development activities, an increase from 27.3% in May. Those who believe there will be “no change” in business development spending decreased to 54.2% (from 68.2% in May), and none believe there will be a decrease in spending, down from 4.6% last month. June 2026 MCI-EFI Survey Comments from Industry Executive Leadership: Bank, Small Ticket “As we approach the first half of 2026, the year continues to have many twists and turns that require diligent and consistent discipline to perform through. Specifically, new business volume continues to be good in some markets and not in others. Additionally, the volatile SWAP market is a challenge to manage expectations and retain margins while the Fed is likely to increase rates rather than reduce rates in 2026. The material increase in Chapter 11 bankruptcy year over year is also valuable to pay attention to and consider if there are lessons to be learned in your organization that would protect your portfolio in the future. With that said, Wintrust Specialty Finance continues to have a solid year, and I am confident that we will continue to find the opportunities to succeed in the remainder of 2026.” David Normandin, CLFP, President and Chief Executive Officer, Wintrust Specialty Finance Captive, Small Ticket “I feel more positive about the U.S. economy over the next six months. Recent data shows a strong job market, and steady consumer spending, which suggest a solid base for growth. There are still some risks, especially from global events and policy changes, but overall, the outlook seems encouraging, with more reasons to feel confident than worried in the near term.” Jim DeFrank, EVP and Chief Operating Officer, Isuzu Finance of America, Inc. Independent, Middle Ticket “I’m currently concerned about inflation and supply chain risks with global economic uncertainty beginning to weigh on U.S. markets.” Jeffry Elliott, CLFP, CEO, Elevex Capital Independent, Small Ticket “When the Iran war is settled, the U.S. economy should pick up considerably.” James D. Jenks, CEO, Global Finance and Leasing Services, LLC

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Fairchild Equipment earns prestigious 2025 Hyster Dealer of Distinction Award

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:54:50 +0000

Fairchild Equipment has been recognized by Hyster® with the prestigious 2025 Dealer of Distinction award, an honor bestowed upon a select group of dealers who exemplify the highest standards in the materials handling industry. The Dealer of Distinction program recognizes top-performing Hyster dealers nationwide who consistently drive sales leadership and service excellence. To achieve Hyster Dealer of Distinction status, dealers must adhere to defined business practices and meet rigorous performance standards that are updated annually to align with evolving customer expectations and industry dynamics. The award underscores Fairchild Equipment’s commitment to providing exceptional service, trusted expertise, and measurable value to customers across its territory. “Each year, our Dealers of Distinction set the standard for performance excellence and continuous improvement. With deep expertise in materials handling, this elite group of dealers help customers enhance productivity and unlock smarter, more efficient operations,” said Bob Sattler, Vice President, Dealer Business Development. “From safety, operator training, rental and innovative motive power solutions to comprehensive maintenance and fleet management, they consistently demonstrate their capabilities in helping customers achieve peak performance as their trusted partner.” “Earning the prestigious Hyster Dealer of Distinction award, especially during our 40th anniversary year, is an incredible honor,” said Van Clarkson, President of Fairchild Equipment. “This recognition marks the 29th year Fairchild Equipment has received an award from Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, earning our tenth in twelve years total in the southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois market, reflecting the remarkable consistency of our teams. What matters most about this is what it represents for our customers: a partner they can rely on. Our team is focused on delivering the expertise, responsiveness, and innovative solutions that help our customers operate more efficiently and succeed for the long term.”

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GEODIS announced Management Board Appointment

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 13:04:07 +0000

GEODIS has announced the appointment of Eric Gerbi as Executive Vice President of GEODIS’ Global Freight Forwarding line of business. Eric Gerbi will also serve as a member of the Group’s Executive Board, which is chaired by Marie-Christine Lombard, Chief Executive Officer of GEODIS. Eric Gerbi began his career in the banking sector at BNP Paribas before joining Deloitte in 2006 as a financial auditor. In 2008, he joined Saint-Gobain as a management controller. He joined GEODIS in 2011 as Financial Controller for the Americas region. In 2014, he was appointed Chief Financial Officer for the Supply Chain Optimization (SCO) line of business. In 2018, in addition to his role as CFO, he expanded his responsibilities by becoming Deputy EVP of SCO. In this role, he oversaw human resources, IT, customer solutions, and key account management. In October 2021, he was appointed EVP of the SCO division at GEODIS. Since 2024, he has served as Chief Financial Officer of the Global Freight Forwarding line of business. Eric Gerbi holds an engineering degree from École des Mines de Nancy and a specialized master’s degree in international finance from HEC business school.

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ALAN Opens Nominations For 2026 Humanitarian Logistics Awards

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 19:55:09 +0000

Awards Honor Extraordinary Supply Chain Relief Efforts From social media shout-outs to heartfelt thank you messages, there are many ways to honor supply chain heroes. But one of the most prestigious went live earlier today. The American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) has officially opened nominations for its tenth annual Humanitarian Logistics Awards. “Our industry is full of selfless people who go above and beyond to help before, during and after disasters – and thankfully so, because humanitarian relief couldn’t happen without the facilitation and support of the supply chain community,” said ALAN Executive Director Kathy Fulton. “These awards were created to shine a light on that generosity.” Presented each fall, ALAN’s Humanitarian Logistics Awards are open to any logistics professional, academic, organization or department. They are awarded in four key categories, each of which can have multiple honorees. Outstanding Contribution To Disaster Relief Employee Engagement Research/Academic Achievement Lifetime Achievement Nominations (including self-nominations) can be made via ALAN’s web site (https://www.alanaid.org/humanitarian-awards-nomination/) between now and June 30. “While we at ALAN know what many organizations and individuals are doing to support disaster relief, there are many others whose life-changing work we won’t be aware of – or be able to honor – unless someone lets us know about them,” said Fulton. “So we encourage everyone to nominate the best examples of our industry’s service to others.”

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Partnerships, Perspectives and Possibilities Take Center Stage at PTDA Canadian Conference

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 19:38:06 +0000

More than 160 power transmission and motion control (PT/MC) industry professionals gathered in Montréal, Québec, June 2–4, for the 2026 PTDA Canadian Conference. The event brought together manufacturers, distributors and associates from across Canada and the United States to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas and explore the trends shaping the future of the industry. A highlight of the conference was the Distributor-Manufacturer Idea Exchange (DM-IDEX). Over two days, participants met face-to-face in for conversations designed to help channel partners reconnect, explore opportunities and build new relationships. Combined with networking receptions, meals, and informal discussions throughout the conference, attendees had ample opportunity to connect with the people who help drive business success across the PT/MC channel. This year’s educational program offered a mix of practical business insights and big-picture perspectives. Sales strategist Fergal O’Carroll shared how artificial intelligence (AI) is helping organizations improve sales effectiveness and create more time for customer-facing activities. His session focused on practical applications for AI, including customer communications, proposal development, objection handling and knowledge sharing. Political commentator Chantal Hébert examined the political and economic forces influencing Canadian businesses today. Her presentation explored Canada’s evolving relationship with the United States, the importance of competitiveness and productivity and how businesses can navigate uncertainty while continuing to invest for the future. Jeremy Leonard, managing director of global industry services at Oxford Economics, provided an economic outlook shaped by global conflict, trade policy and technological investment. While acknowledging ongoing uncertainty, Leonard highlighted Canada’s relative resilience and pointed to opportunities tied to energy production, infrastructure development and growing investment in artificial intelligence and data centers. Attendees also heard from a panel of emerging industry leaders who discussed how communication expectations are evolving within manufacturer-distributor relationships. The conversation explored topics including responsiveness, transparency, technology and the importance of maintaining trust as business practices continue to change. PTDA’s next Canadian Conference will take place June 8-10, 2027, in Québec City, Québec. The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) is the leading global association for the industrial power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distribution channel. Headquartered in Chicago, PTDA represents power transmission/motion control distribution firms that generate more than $20 billion in sales and span over 2,700 locations. PTDA members also include manufacturers that supply the PT/MC industry.

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ORBIS named Toyota North America’s 2026 Returnable Packaging Fabricator of the Year

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 12:39:54 +0000

Annual recognition honors ORBIS for strong collaboration, support and continuous improvement across multiple vehicle launches, as well as contributions to Toyota’s newest electric battery plant in North Carolina ORBIS® Corporation has once again been named Toyota North America’s “Returnable Packaging Fabricator of the Year.” This marks ORBIS’ fourth recognition in six years since Toyota began honoring packaging fabricators. The award recognizes ORBIS for its partnership, responsiveness and commitment to continuous improvement across multiple vehicle launches, with key contributions to Toyota’s newest electric battery plant in North Carolina. The award was presented on May 12 at Toyota’s Purchasing Supplier Development (PSD) – Accessories, Logistics & Packaging Annual Business Meeting in Plano, Texas. This recognition highlights ORBIS’ role in enabling more efficient and sustainable supply chains across Toyota’s operations. Each year, Toyota evaluates suppliers against key performance indicators (KPIs) using a comprehensive internal scoring system. Awards are presented to organizations that meet or exceed these performance standards

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Caldwell welcomes three hires at Stateline Manufacturing Alliance Signing Day

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:11:00 +0000

The Caldwell Group Inc. welcomed three new employees at its first Stateline Manufacturing Alliance (SMA) Signing Day, held in the Conference Center at Blackhawk Technical College’s Beloit-Janesville campus. Caldwell is a member of SMA, a group of manufacturing employers focused on increasing exposure to, engagement with, and interest in manufacturing jobs and careers for youth and adults alike. This was the fifth year it had held a ceremonial signing day, similar to those more commonly associated with sport, where the occasion celebrates previously unsigned players committing to teams. Having walked the red carpet, Emerson Gantz, welder; Drew Shockley, grinder operator/material handler; and Jesus Arrieta, grinder operator, from Hononegah Community High School in Rockton, Illinois, signed full-time employment contracts alongside representatives from Caldwell, in the presence of school officials and family members. They were part of a wider cohort of 33 students representing 11 different employers. Caldwell continues to recognize that connectivity with the education sector is central to attracting the next generation of welders and other workers in the U.S. Fabrication is fundamental to the production of the company’s Rockford-made line of Caldwell-brand below-the-hook lifters, construction lifters, mill duty lifters, and Renfroe-brand clamps. Shockley and Arrieta’s roles largely center on the removal of surface defects, scale, and imperfections from steel products (bars, plates, billets, slabs, or coils) using grinding equipment, either large stationary machines or handheld grinders, depending on the piece. They prepare the steel to meet customer specifications before it ships out. Day-to-day, that typically involves inspecting incoming steel, operating grinding equipment, conditioning the surface, measuring and checking, and changing grinding wheels or belts. It is physical, hands-on work that requires a good eye for detail, since over-grinding wastes material and under-grinding results in the piece being rejected. Many grinder operators move into welding, machining, or quality inspection positions, and the role often serves as a starting point in manufacturing. Colleen Koerth, manager — workforce development at Blackhawk Technical College, said: “It was an incredible day, celebrating 33 students and their employer sponsors as they enter careers in manufacturing. This was our biggest Signing Day to date; we had a packed house at Blackhawk with more than 250 attendees. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make this event such a success. The SMA’s commitment to growing the manufacturing talent pipeline is evident through the momentum and initiatives shaping our future workforce.” Talent in plain sight Gantz’s journey into the welding job is particularly noteworthy because Doug Stitt, president and CEO at Caldwell, first heard him speaking about his skills on a radio station. Intrigued, Stitt sought him out in person, even as Gantz himself was searching for an entry point into industry. The story highlights a broader truth about workforce development: talent often exists in plain sight, but identifying and connecting it to opportunity can require proactive, human, and sometimes unconventional approaches. Amy Garris, who oversees education outreach at Caldwell, said: “We continue to make strides in community outreach to bring on the best talent in the Stateline area. We work with high schools and technical schools to identify great prospects and assist educators. The Caldwell name is much more well-known in the college and high school world this year than it was before we started this; we’ve formed relationships with students, and they know who we are and what we do.” She added, “Reality is, we can’t do what we do without the very best team in place. Every role matters, and strength across every department is essential to serving customers at the highest level. Skilled trades roles — especially welding positions — remain difficult to fill, with demand for qualified people continuing to outpace supply. However, once prospective employees learn what it is like to work at Caldwell, the opportunity becomes far more compelling.” Further to the SMA Signing Day, Caldwell also participated in a recent Junkyard Wars-inspired welding competition at Blackhawk Technical College.

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Industry mourns loss of California Rental Association leader Victoria Blackwell

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 19:54:08 +0000

Victoria Blackwell, a longtime leader of the California Rental Association and former co-owner of Aba Daba Rentals in Sacramento, has died after a battle with pancreatic cancer. She played a key role in shaping the association and was widely respected as a leader, mentor, and friend. She was 68. Born Sept. 2, 1957, in Detroit, she moved to California in 1979 and joined Aba Daba Rents in 1982, where she met her husband, Dale. Married in 1984, they built both a successful business and a large blended family while supporting the rental industry for decades. After Dale’s passing in 2020, Blackwell continued running the business until its sale in 2024. She was known for her warmth, resilience, love of travel, and devotion to family. She is survived by her children and 11 grandchildren. The CRA and her family remember her lasting impact, kindness, and dedication, extending condolences to all who knew her.

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Jim McDonald named General Manager of Northern Lines Railway

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 19:20:12 +0000

Anacostia Rail Holdings has announced the appointment of Jim McDonald as General Manager of Northern Lines Railway (NLR). McDonald assumes the role effective immediately, succeeding Quentin Schulte, who previously served as NLR President. “The appointment of Jim to the GM role reflects both the evolving needs of NLR and our confidence in his ability to meet them,” said Mike Naatz, Chief Operating Officer, Anacostia Rail Holdings. “His leadership will be instrumental in driving the railroad’s continued growth and long-term success.” McDonald joined Anacostia in March 2024 as Trainmaster for the Louisville & Indiana Railroad. He began his railroad career in 2011 with The Indiana Rail Road Company, where he advanced through roles including Trainmaster for the Senate Avenue Terminal in Indianapolis and Manager of Train Operations. “I am excited to take on this new challenge and look forward to building on the strong foundation NLR has established,” said McDonald. “My focus will be on growing the business while maintaining our commitment to safe, efficient, and reliable operations.” McDonald also brings a spirit of community service to his work, having served as a board member of Brown County Water Utility, Inc. for the past 30 years. The non-profit, member-owned regional utility serves south-central Indiana with a mission to improve the quality of life in rural communities by delivering high-quality water at a reasonable cost. McDonald holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree in Business, Management, and Marketing from Franklin College and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Business Administration and Management from Union Commonwealth University.

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NY/NJ Foreign Freight Forwarders & Brokers Association announces Jeanette Gioia as Recipient of the 2026 Captain of Industry Award

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 19:06:19 +0000

The NY/NJ Foreign Freight Forwarders & Brokers Association, Inc. (NYNJFFF&BA) has announced that Jeanette Gioia, President of Serra International, Inc., has been selected as the recipient of the Association’s prestigious 2026 Captain of Industry Award, recognizing her outstanding leadership and contributions to the freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and international transportation industry. Ms. Gioia will be honored on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, during the Association’s annual Dinner Cruise co-hosted with the Traffic Club of New York As President of Serra International, Inc., a family-owned freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and third-party logistics company founded in 1919, Ms. Gioia has dedicated more than four decades to advancing international trade and transportation. Throughout her career, she has earned a reputation as a respected industry advocate, combining operational expertise with a deep understanding of the economic and policy issues affecting global supply chains. Her commitment to the industry is reflected in her extensive service to NYNJFFF&BA, where she served as President from 2021 through 2025 and previously as Vice President of Exports/Transportation from 2007 through 2021. During a period marked by unprecedented supply chain disruptions and significant regulatory and operational change, she helped guide the Association and its members while promoting constructive engagement between industry stakeholders and government agencies. “Jeanette Gioia represents the very best of our industry,” said Al Raffa, association president. “Her leadership, knowledge, and unwavering commitment to the freight forwarding and customs brokerage community have made a lasting impact on our Association, our port, and the broader international trade community. She has consistently worked to ensure that the voices of transportation professionals are heard, and we are honored to recognize her as the recipient of the 2026 Captain of Industry Award.” Beyond her leadership within the Association, Ms. Gioia represents NYNJFFF&BA on the Council on Port Performance under the leadership of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and The Shipping Association of New York and New Jersey. She has also been an active participant in the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), serving on its Transportation Committee and NVOCC Sub-Committee. Her advocacy and expertise have helped shape discussions on transportation policy, port performance, and supply chain efficiency at both the regional and national levels. Guests attending the Captain of Industry Award Dinner Cruise aboard the Cornucopia Destiny will enjoy a memorable evening celebrating industry excellence while taking in the views of New York Harbor. The cruise departs from Liberty Harbor Marina, 11 Marin Boulevard, Jersey City, New Jersey, with boarding beginning promptly at 6:00 p.m. and return scheduled between 9:30 and 10:00 p.m. The evening includes an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, dessert, music, dancing, and ample opportunities for networking with colleagues and industry leaders. Business casual attire is requested. Tickets are $225 per person, and sponsorships are available. Visit the association’s website for Online reservations or call for additional information (732) 741-1936.

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SupplyOne acquires compass packaging solutions to continue New England Expansion

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 15:46:21 +0000

The Massachusetts-based supplier’s comprehensive range of protective packaging solutions, along with warehouse and fulfillment services supports SupplyOne’s strategic growth initiatives. Compass Packaging Solutions is SupplyOne’s 48th acquisition since its founding in 1998. SupplyOne, Inc. has announced the acquisition of Compass Packaging Solutions, Inc., a packaging solutions provider based in North Billerica, Massachusetts. Founded in 2011, Compass Packaging Solutions will continue under the leadership of owner Rick Meissner post-closing. In addition to being a comprehensive provider of custom protective packaging, Compass also provides warehousing, distribution, fulfillment, and kitting services to a wide array of customers in the life sciences, semiconductor, technology, and defense industries. “The addition of Compass Packaging Solutions strengthens our presence in New England while adding meaningful capabilities in protective packaging, a key strategic priority for SupplyOne,” said Todd Renehan, President and CEO of SupplyOne. “In servicing our growing New England business, we have been impressed with Compass’s strategic customer approach. The ability to understand customers’ business needs is a key differentiating factor of SupplyOne, and Compass has also approached their business with this innovative mindset,” added Mr. Renehan. “Joining forces with SupplyOne enables us to continue delivering on our mission while expanding the resources and capabilities we offer our customers. We are excited to begin this new chapter with a partner who shares our customer-first values.” said Rick Meissner, President of Compass Packaging Solutions. This transaction represents SupplyOne’s 48th acquisition and its 3rd in the past three years with a significant protective packaging portfolio, further expanding the company’s geographic footprint and strengthening its value-added packaging solutions across North America.

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Nano One announces retirement of Founder and CEO and appoints new CEO

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 14:19:33 +0000

Dan Blondal, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, is to retire as of June 12, 2026, and will continue to support the Company in an advisory capacity Alex Holmes, President and Chief Strategy Officer, is now appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective June 12, 2026 Planned senior leadership succession reflects the Company’s transition into its next phase of growth and commercialization Nano One® Materials Corp., a process technology company specializing in lithium-ion battery cathode active materials, has announced that Dan Blondal, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, will retire from his executive management and Board Director role effective June 12, 2026. Alex Holmes, currently President and Chief Strategy Officer, will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer on the same date and join the Board as a Director. Mr. Blondal will continue to support the Company in an advisory capacity following his retirement. The transition reflects a planned succession process developed in concert with the Board of Directors and supports continuity as Nano One advances toward commercialization of its cathode active materials technology. “On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Dan for his vision, leadership, and dedication in founding and building Nano One into the company it is today,” said Anthony Tse, Chair of Nano One. “Dan’s technical insight and persistence have shaped Nano One’s technology platform, partnerships, and strategic direction over more than a decade. The Board is grateful for his contributions and pleased that he will remain involved in an advisory capacity. We are equally pleased with Alex Holmes moving from President to Chief Executive Officer. Alex has demonstrated the strategic, operational, and capital markets leadership needed to guide the Company through its next phase of growth and commercialization. The Board remains focused on supporting management in meeting its objectives and creating value for shareholders.” “It has been the honor of my career to lead Nano One from its earliest days through to where the Company stands today,” said Dan Blondal, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Nano One. “I am proud of what this team has built—every person, past and present, who has contributed to advancing our technology offering, our shareholder base, our partnerships, and our path toward commercialization. I have worked closely with Alex and the rest of the leadership team and have full confidence in their ability to carry Nano One into its next stage of development and their commitment to creating long-term shareholder value. The Company is in capable hands, and I look forward to supporting Alex and the team in an advisory capacity as they continue this important work.” “Dan’s vision and conviction are the reason Nano One exists. I appreciate his mentorship and how he helped shape my thinking about the business and this industry,” said Alex Holmes, incoming Chief Executive Officer of Nano One. “I am honored to take on this role and to build on the foundation Dan and the team have established. Our focus remains on disciplined execution—advancing our technology, our customer engagements, and our path to commercialization—alongside the talented team Dan has assembled and continues to support. Our commitment to valued shareholders who have been with us—for a decade or a few months—is to drive opportunity and meet our collective desire for success.”

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GEODIS announces strategic leadership appointments to drive growth in the Americas

Thu, 28 May 2026 16:36:38 +0000

GEODIS has announced a series of executive leadership appointments and the formation of a new client experience organization within its Americas region. These strategic investments in talent and our clients are designed to enhance the tailored solutions provided by GEODIS’ core business units: Contract Logistics, Transportation and Freight Forwarding. By adding more dedicated expertise in areas such as sustainability and refocusing our efforts on continuous improvement and technology, GEODIS aims to accelerate growth and simplify the supply chain for its customers across the Americas. “We are making deliberate, structural investments in how we serve our customers and how we grow,” said Laura Ritchey, President and CEO of GEODIS in Americas. “Creating a dedicated Client Experience organization, combined with bringing in exceptional leaders, sends a clear message: we are a business that is close to its customers, agile and proactive.” Executive Leadership Appointments Quadiru (Quad) Kent joins GEODIS in Americas as Chief Human Resources Officer. Kent most recently served as Vice President of Global People Support at American Airlines, where he managed HR strategy to enhance the teammate experience for more than 130,000 team members. With additional HR and leadership experience at Walmart and Tenet Healthcare, and his legal background, Kent brings a unique perspective and experience to grow talents and culture across the region. Ganesh Nayakwadi has been appointed Chief Financial Officer. Nayakwadi brings extensive financial leadership experience, most recently serving as CFO of Amrize Building Envelope. His background includes nearly four years as CFO of Holcim Building Envelope, where he managed a ~$4B business, and a six-year tenure at Bridgestone Americas. Throughout his career, he has played a central role in managing multi-billion dollar business segments and leading major acquisitions and divestitures. Rob Greene joins as Executive Vice President of Transportation. With over 25 years of industry experience, Greene most recently served as President and EVP for North America at DSV. From freight forwarder to regional president, Greene’s career spans every level of the industry. He brings deep operational insight to GEODIS along with a proven track record of driving significant revenue growth and maintaining high levels of customer retention through organizational integrations. Hector Garcia joins as Vice President of Sustainability, bringing more than 20 years of experience in Environmental, Health, Safety and Sustainability (EHS&S). Most recently serving as North American Director of EHS and Sustainability at Del Monte Foods, Garcia has led complex ESG initiatives across the manufacturing and pharmaceutical sectors. Balancing strategy and technical execution, he holds an MBA, a Master of Science in Management and a degree in Chemical Engineering. New Client Experience Organization As GEODIS in Americas continues to streamline its approach to the client experience, the company is combining various client touch points into one organization reporting directly to the CEO. GEODIS has unified account management, data and analytics, digital twins and continuous improvement under a single leadership. This organization is designed to simplify customer journeys and drive proactive, innovative solutions to supply chain evolution and challenges. Nura Kruciak has been promoted to lead this organization as Head of Client Experience, reporting directly to Ritchey. Kruciak is a proven leader within GEODIS in Americas with deep operational and commercial expertise, having already delivered strong results in previous operational and strategic functions at the company.

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