eNewsletter

Food Shippers of America Launches Brand Marketing Initiative

October 19, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America (FSA) is introducing a modernized branding initiative to better reflect the current relevance of its mission and member value proposition.

Join Us! For a Discussion on Transportation Trends in the Food & Beverage Industry, Thursday, October 21 at 2 p.m. EDT

October 19, 2021 --

FTR Transportation intelligence and Food Shippers of America are co-hosting a webinar on “Current Transportation trends int eh Food and Beverage Industry” on October 21 and 2:00 PM EDT. To register, please click on the following link: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4320998649538894096

FSA Member Companies as of September 30, 2021

October 19, 2021 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

General Mills Leans into Predictive Experiences with Google Data Analytics Partnership

October 19, 2021 --

Consumer Goods Technology
General Mills has tapped Google to serve as its new data and analytics partner, using AI technology to create more personalized products and predictive consumer experiences.

Truckers Warn Federal Regulators of Drug-Testing Bottlenecks

October 19, 2021 --

FreightWaves
A shortage of drug and alcohol testing sites and equipment has led to some drivers being unable to complete their testing as ordered, according to the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association. The group has sent a letter to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, asking for consideration of the impacts of the shortages and drivers unable to comply with testing orders.

Bakers: Not a Good Time to Raise Biodiesel RVOs

October 19, 2021 --

Food Business News
Bakers are raising a warning flag that their access to a reliable supply of soybean and other edible oils is in jeopardy in the face of rising demand for food crops used in the production of biodiesel fuel.

Strengthening Cold Chain Partnerships Through the Control Tower

October 19, 2021 --

Food Logistics
The right technology can unify food manufacturers, shippers, distribution centers, and suppliers using modern control tower technology, including collaborative information sharing for real-time insights.

Food Shippers Adapt to Volatile Market

October 19, 2021 --

FreightWaves
While the roller-coaster ride of demand has subsided for the time being, food volumes remain high as restrictions continue to ease and more restaurants open. A recent report from FreightWaves and Redwood Logistics looks at future demand surges and the coming holiday season.

Read Food Shippers of America on the Go!

October 19, 2021 --

The Winter 2021 issue of Food Shippers of America will be available the first week of November!

Our current issue of Food Shippers of America magazine is also available in digital format,and includes an array of industry information, tips and perspectives. Read features about pandemic trends in food purchasing and other retail disrupters, the changing regulatory environment, and the pace of infrastructure improvements. Inside you will find perspectives on the 2021 economic outlook by ATA Chief Economist and Senior Vice President Bob Costello and a host of industry insiders who will also discuss many other facets of the food and beverage industry. Please click here for immediate access.

Previous issues may be found by clicking here.

Post Your Profile in Our Publications!

October 19, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to feaure in our upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine and monthly newsletter.

Tell us how you've weathered the pandemic and what your vision is moving forward. Perhaps how your organization is finding new solutions to capacity issues, or how new infrastructure legislation is affecting your company's responses to increasing freight demands, We offer a unique opportunity for FSA Members to share their company's goals and successes, visions and innovations.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

TIA's Monthly Magazine Now Available to FSA Members

October 19, 2021 --

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is making its monthly magazine, 3PL Perspectives, available to all FSA members and suppliers. Please click here for a view of TIA's October issue.

For more information about any articles appearing in 3PL Perspectives, contact Chris Burroughs at burroughs@tianet.org

Port of L.A. to Shift to 24/7 Operations

October 19, 2021 --

Transport Topics
The Biden Administration announced on October 13 an agreement for the Port of Los Angeles to move to round-the-clock/7-day-a-week operation in an effort to break the logjam of ships waiting to dock and unload ahead of the holiday season.

What Shoppers Want Now

October 19, 2021 --

Progressive Grocer
Shoppers have always gravitated toward grocery stores that were clean, convenient and a value for their family dollars, but today's grocers are finding a range of other challenges to connect with today's shoppers.

After 5 Years, FDA Codifies Salt Reduction Targets

October 19, 2021 --

Food Dive
The Food and Drug Administration's latest voluntary sodium reduction guidelines may be five years in the making - and still non-binding - but the recommendations do move the dial forward in targeting sodium consumption reduction in the United States.

Food Shippers of America Launches Brand Marketing Initiative

September 21, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America (FSA) is introducing a modernized branding initiative to better reflect the current relevance of its mission and member value proposition.

Join Us! For a Discussion on Transportation Trends in the Food & Beverage Industry, Thursday, October 21 at 2 p.m. EDT

September 21, 2021 --

FSA Member Companies as of August 31, 2021

September 21, 2021 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

Johnsonville Launches New Logistics Business

September 21, 2021 --

Sausage manufacturer ready to serve food and beverage industry with its fleet and expertise.

Celebrating EPA’s Climate Partnership Programs

September 21, 2021 --

This year, EPA is celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the founding of Green Lights, the agency’s first climate partnership program, as well as its legacy.

GlobalTranz Survey Highlights Peak Season Expectations

September 21, 2021 --

SupplyChain247
The upcoming holiday peak season will give little reprieve to supply chains already strained for capacity, yet a recent GlobalTranz Enterprises survey shows that more than 75% of companies are confident their e-commerce strategies can manage the higher-than-normal expected sales.

Riviana Expands at Minnesota Wild Rice Facility

September 21, 2021 --

Food Business News
Riviana Foods announced this week the completion of two new silos at its Clearbrook, Minn. facility. The move increases Riviana's available storage capacity by 50% for its wild rice storage, drying and production. Riviana is North America's largest processor of branded and private label rice products, including Minute, Mahatma and Success rice.

ATA Warns Vaccine Mandate Could Do ‘Harm’

September 21, 2021 --

FreightWaves
Citing a medical standard to "do no harm," American Trucking Associations President and CEO Chris Spears issued a statement that the Biden Administration's COVID-19 vaccine mandate creates a bifurcation, or division, that favors companies with less than 100 employees, a move that could severely impact the trucking industry.

Combating Labor Shortages with Automated Warehouse Solutions

September 21, 2021 --

MH&L
Ongoing labor issues, high turnover rates, and competition continue to plague American businesses, and the distribution center (DC) sector is no exception. The growing e-commerce channel has highlighted the differences between manual labor DCs and those with integrated automation systems for picking, packing and sorting operations.

Google Taps project44 to be Initial Real-Time Visibility Provider for Supply Chain Platform

September 21, 2021 --

Logistics Management
In a move to provide shippers with better real-time supply chain visibility, Chicago-based project44 announced it will partner with Google in its Cloud Supply Chain Twin solution, offering visibility into a network of more than 113,500 multimodal carriers and 2.6 million assets.

Brand Loyalty Is Eroding Under Supply Chain & Price Pressures, Survey Finds

September 21, 2021 --

Food Dive
Ingredient shortages, shipping delays and rising fuel costs continue to plague Consumer Product Goods (CPG) manufacturers, and consumers have made do with lower-priced and substitute labels while their favorite items were out of stock. But new research indicates that a growing number of consumers still opt for lower-priced items, even after their favorites returned.

Read Food Shippers of America on the Go!

September 21, 2021 --

Previous issues may be found in our association website archives, or by clicking here.

Post Your Profile in Our Publications!

September 21, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to feaure in our upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine and monthly newsletter.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

TIA's Monthly Magazine Now Available to FSA Members

September 21, 2021 --

For more information about any articles appearing in 3PL Perspectives, contact Chris Burroughs at burroughs@tianet.org

CP, KCS Reach Second Merger Agreement

September 21, 2021 --

Progressive Railroad
In a second merger agreement this year, Canadian Pacific (CP) will acquire Kansas City Southern (KCS) in a sale valued at approximately $31 billion. Referring to the new, single-line offerings along the U.S.-Mexico-Canada rail network, CP President and Chief Executive Officer Keith Creel said the partnership creates a "perfect end-to-end combination."

Smart Manufacturing Is Even Vital in Food

September 21, 2021 --

Food Logistics
"Smart manufacturing" is not just about builiding factories and manufacturing products. It's also about food processing and food creation, and the Internet of Things (IoT) is making inroads on the factory floor, including technologies focused on data analytics, visibiity and traceability, as well as robotics and autonomous equipment handling.

Shoring Up Supply Chain Security for the Holidays

September 21, 2021 --

Supply Chain Brain
In addition to capacity shortages, rising shipping rates, and out-of-stock inventory, supply chains will also face reduced staff during holiday mode – increasing the risk of cyberattack from ransomware and phishing along the entire supply chain.

Food Shippers of America Member Companies as of July 31, 2021

August 17, 2021 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

Read Food Shippers of America on the Go!

August 17, 2021 --

Previous issues may be found in our association website archives, or by clicking here.

Post Your Profile in Our Publications!

August 17, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to feaure in our upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine and monthly newsletter.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

EPA SmartWay: Reducing GHG Emissions

August 17, 2021 --

Wondering what you can do to reduce your GHG emissions? Consider investing in the future by investing in electric trucks. Moving away from diesel-dependent heavy-duty vehicles will help us reduce emissions from the transportation sector.

Above-Average Hurricane Season Nearing Peak Months

August 17, 2021 --

FreightWaves
Carriers and shippers should be on watch as Colorado State University, a leading authority on hurricane tracking, has updated its hurricane forecast slightly, now calling for 18 or more named storms (winds in excess of 74 mph) and four storms of category 3 or higher.

Progressive Railroading's Demo Week September 13-17

August 17, 2021 --

Progressive Railroading
Fifteen top industry companies will present live, 15-minute product/service demonstrations webcasts over the course of the week on a variety of topics, including Critical Safety via Configuration Management and Stopping Fuel Waste.

CTA’s last hope to protect California Trucking from AB5: US Supreme Court

August 17, 2021 --

Modern Shipper/FreightWaves
It has been an uphill battle for the California Trucking Association (CTA) and its efforts to block the state from imposing AB5 on the state's trucking industry. The current stay blocking implementation of AB5,issued at the close of 2019, may end immediately if the CTA's request to the U.S. Supreme Court for appeal is denied.

Removing the Forever Chemicals from Packaging

August 17, 2021 --

Food Engineering
Eliminating non-decomposing, potentially carcinogenic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from fast food and carry-out containers packaging has taken on new life with an open-source recipe and process for packaging manufacturers.

Optimizing Warehousing and Transport Helps Food and Beverage Companies Reduce Carbon Footprint

August 17, 2021 --

Food Logistics
Reducing the carbon footprint within the warehouse link of the supply chain is a high priority for food and beverage industry. LED and motion-detection lighting, solar-power, and paper consumption reduction practices, among other initiatives are realizing significant strides in decarbonization.

Distribution and Fulfilment to Handle Inventory Surges

August 17, 2021 --

Supply Chain 247
While seasonal surges can be predicted, disruptions such as COVID-19 have shown that unpredictable consumer surges can exacerbate supply chain weaknesses, including the ordering and fulfillment systems already in place.

TIA's Monthly Magazine Now Available to FSA Members

August 17, 2021 --

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is making its monthly magazine, 3PL Perspectives, available to all FSA members and suppliers. Please click here for a view of TIA's August issue.

For more information about any articles appearing in 3PL Perspectives, contact Chris Burroughs at burroughs@tianet.org

Lawmakers Propose Updates to Shipping Act, Drawing Shippers' Praise and Carrier Rebukes

August 17, 2021 --

Supply Chain Dive
In the wake of container shortages and supply chain delays and to promote U.S. exports, new legislation that would broaden the powers of the Federal Maritime Commission, including moving the burden of proof for detention and demurrage from the invoiced company to the carrier, has been introduced ealier this month to the House of Representatives by Congressmen John Garamendi, D-Calif., and Dustry Johnson, R-S.D.

Industry Praises Senate Passage of Infrastructure Bill

August 17, 2021 --

DC Velocity
With the passing of President Joe Biden's Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, more than $550 billion is now available for additional projects to address decaying roads and bridges, safety and improvement projects, and the DRIVE-Safe Act, A PROGRAM designed to expand the available pool of driver candidates in the U.S.

Food Shippers of America Member Companies as of June 30, 2021

July 20, 2021 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

Read Food Shippers of America on the Go!

July 20, 2021 --

Previous issues may be found in our association website archives, or by clicking here.

Post Your Profile in Our Publications!

July 20, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to feaure in our upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine and monthly newsletter.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

Hirschbach Motor Lines to Acquire Lessors, Inc.

July 20, 2021 --

DUBUQUE, Iowa (June 23, 2021) – Hirschbach Motor Lines announced its acquisition of Eagan, MN based Lessors, Inc. (represented by Transport Capital Partners).

Hirschbach, a refrigerated/temperature control specialist, has a current driver/operator base of 2,200 and is expected to exceed 2,400 after the integration with Lessors.

C&S Wholesale Grocers to Acquire Piggly Wiggly Midwest

July 20, 2021 --

Progressive Grocer
New Hampshire-based C&S Wholesale Grocers announced this week its acquisition of the Piggly Wiggly Midwest brand, including 11 corporate stores and 14 Butera Markets in the Chicagoland area as well as 84 Wisconsin franchisees operating under the Piggly Wiggly banner.

SpartanNash Readies First Micro-Fulfillment Center

July 20, 2021 --

Grocery Dive
Midwest grocer and wholesaler, SpartanNash will open its first micro-fulfillment center (MFC) in Caledonia, Michigan. The 55,000-square-foot MFC will accommodate 16,000 items and process and handle about 1,000 Fast Lane orders per day once up to full speed.

Produce Season Outlook Keeps Industry on Its Feet

July 20, 2021 --

FreightWaves and Echo Global Logistics
A recent survey of trucking companies, brokers, shippers, and 3PLs indicate a strong 2021 produce season could very well impact dry van capacity, with a third of respondents saying it may well be a significant impact, according to FreightWaves. Produced in partnership by Echo Global Logistics and FreightWaves, this white paper gauges the industry's expectations and how tight market conditions coupled with a strong produce season could impact an already constrained market.

A Cruel Summer for Shipping Stocks as Tide Turns

July 20, 2021 --

American Shipper
Despite container shipping rates at all-time highs and spot rates for midsized bulkers continuing to top $30,000 per day, shipping stocks have fallen in "pretty much the entire shipping universe, regardless of sector," said Jefferies analyst Randy Giveans.

Time to Lift Emergency Hours-of-Service Waiver?

July 20, 2021 --

FreightWaves
Rolled out in March 2020 in response to food shortages resulting from increasing pandemic lockdowns, the 50-state emergency hours-of-service waiver is again being reviewed by FMCSA and may well be lifted sooner than the August 31 expiration date "if conditions warrant." While a boon for some, the waiver has been confusing for others, especially employee driver versus owner-operator haulers.

The Rebound Podcast: What’s Happening in Micro-Fulfillment

July 20, 2021 --

Supply Chain 247
With the ever-growing fulfillment demands for e-commerce, same day delivery or instore pickup, back-of-house micro-fulfillment solutions have become one of the fastest-growing segments in the order-fulfillment automation sector.

Class 8 Sales in June Second-Highest This Year

July 20, 2021 --

Transport Topics
Class 8 sales rose above 19,000 units in June, a nearly 50% increase in volume compared year-over-year, and second only to March 2021 with more than 22,000 units sold, according to WardsAuto.com.

Abrupt closure of K-Ratio’s Fuel Hedging Program Stuns Trucking Companies

July 20, 2021 --

FreightWaves
Abruptly shutting its fuel hedging program in June amid a host of unpaid settlements, a spokesman for Chicago-based K-Ratio said this week that an internal audit of the K-Ratio X, LLC fuel protection program found insufficient hedging "appears" to have been conducted. The company has asked carriers who are owed money to sign a universal settlement agreement, but many of the affected parties have yet to be notified as to when they would be paid.

Warehouse Labels for Food & Beverage Industries

July 20, 2021 --

Food Logistics
Balancing efficiency with transparency can be tricky, especially in the food and beverage industry where spoilage and the cold storage environment can present unique challenges to traditional barcode tracking systems.

Food and Beverage Will Lead Online Sales Growth Through 2024, Forrester Said

July 20, 2021 --

Grocery Dive
Food and beverage topped all categories of online sales growth in 2020, with gains more than doubling to 75% from 32% in 2019. Compounded annual growth rate in the channel is projected at 30% through 2024, according to Forrester, highlighting the long-term path for e-commerce grocery sales.

An Approach to Food Security: Digital Transformation

July 20, 2021 --

Forbes
An importer in Russia urgently needs tomatoes, while a grower in South Carolina has to dump crops due to oversupply. Trading between the two is rare as the lack of information concerning each other’s needs is not readily available. Creating a trusted environment to solve the asymmetry of production/supply may be key to strengthening the global food supply chain.

Post Your Profile in Our Publications!

June 15, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to feaure in our upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine and monthly newsletter.

Tell us how you've weathered the pandemic and what your vision is moving forward. Perhaps how your organization is finding new solutions to capacity issues, or how new infrastructure legislation is affecting your company's responses to increasing freight demands, We offer a unique opportunity for FSA Members to share their company's goals and successes, visions and innovations.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

Food Shippers of America Member Companies as of May 31, 2021

June 15, 2021 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

Read Food Shippers of America on the Go!

June 15, 2021 --

Our current issue of Food Shippers of America magazine is also available in digital format, and include a host of industry information. Read features about pandemic trends in food purchasing and other retail disrupters, the changing regulatory environment, and the pace of infrastructure need. Inside you will find a 2021 economic outlook by ATA Chief Economist and Senior Vice President Bob Costello and a host of industry insiders discussing all facets of the food and beverage iindustry. Please click here for immediate access.

Previous issues may be found in our association website archives, or by clicking here.

Albertsons Jumps on Early Payment Trend to Boost Supplier Diversity

June 15, 2021 --

Grocery Dive
Albertsons Companies announced June 1 that it will continue its efforts to improve supplier diversity by partnering with C2FO, an online platform that provides for early payment and working capital.

Container Rates Rocket Even Higher � No End in Sight

June 15, 2021 --

American Shipper/FreightWaves
As container shipping rates continue to rise weekly, index rates can no longer be counted on to reflect the true cost of ocean shipping. “We haven’t seen the worst of it — $20,000 [per FEU] all-in rates to the East Coast are coming,” predicted Steve Ferreira, CEO and founder of Ocean Audit.

Report: Rough Road Remains for Truckload Market

June 15, 2021 --

DC Velocity
A third-quarter, truckload/LTL market forecast released last week by logistics provider Coyote indicates a coming peak in the truckload market, but rates will remain high amid ongoing a host of contributing factors.

Union Pacific Again Raising Intermodal Surcharges in California

June 15, 2021 --

JOC.com
For the second time this year, Union Pacific has raised its per container rate to $3,000 out of California for those customers without contracts.

For a free trial offer, or to subscribe to the Journal of Commerce, please click here.

Knight-Swift Announces New Rail Contract

June 15, 2021 --

Newschant
Phoenix-based Knight-Swift Transportation will terminate its contract with BNSF Railway effective January 1, 2022 and move to partner with Union Pacific Railroad for its container business.

Retrofitting B2B for B2C Warehousing

June 15, 2021 --

Food Logistics
Increasing e-commerce demands require a dynamic approach to warehouse management. No longer just a means for storage, it has become a "live" environment of pick, pack, and dispatch operations that require visibility, accuracy and traceability.

UPS Peak Surcharges Set Increased June 13

June 15, 2021 --

SupplyChain247
Parcel carrier surcharges and limitations continue to impact shippers, with UPS announcing June 13 that it was increasing Peak Surcharges on shipments originating in Asia, including Japan.

GlobalTranz, Worldwide Express Announce Merger

June 15, 2021 --

Transport Topics
Non-asset-based providers GlobalTranz Enterprises and Worldwide Express announced a merger June 11. The newly formed company's combined offerings will include parcel, LTL, truckload and managed transportation.

Biden Administration to Help Secure Food Supply Chains

June 15, 2021 --

Forbes
As part of its Build Back Better Initiative, the Biden Administration announced a $4 billion allocation and creation of a task force headed by Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to strengthen the food supply chain and avoid the shortages, price spikes and losses experienced during the pandemic.

Food Manufacturer Eliminates Contamination Risk with Pneumatic Conveying System

June 15, 2021 --

Food Industry Executive
A newly designed, closed pneumatic conveying system eliminates the risk of rice product contamination and damage during production without any negative affects to throughput capacities.

Pardon the Disruption: Amazon's Push into Self-Distribution

June 15, 2021 --

Grocery Dive
Nearing completion of a central Florida distribution center with more than 1.1 million square feet of ambient, chilled, and frozen capacity, Amazon seems poised for a major, full-time push into the grocery business.

Post Your Profile in Our Publications!

May 18, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to feaure in our upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine and monthly newsletter.

Tell us how you've weathered the pandemic and what your New Normal looks like. Perhaps how your company is wrangling the capacity crunch, or the best practices your team has crafted to ensure continued resilience and adaptability moving forward. We offer a unique opportunity for FSA Members to share with our readers their company's goals and successes, visions and innovations.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

Food Shippers of America Member Companies as of April 30, 2021

May 18, 2021 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

Read FSA on the Go!

May 18, 2021 --

Our current issue of Food Shippers of America magazine is also available in digital format, and include a host of industry information. Read features about pendemic trends in food purchasing and other retail disrupters, the changing regulatory environment and the pace of infrastructure need. Inside your find an economic outlook for 2021 ATA Chief Economist and Senior Vice President Bob Costello and a host of industry insiders discussing all facets of the food and beverage iindustry. Please click here for immediate access.

Previous issues may be found in our association website archives, or by clicking here.

Apeel Buys Tech Company to 'See' Inside Produce

May 18, 2021 --

Cision PR Newswire
California-based Apeel Sciences has added machine learning imaging technology to further enhance food waste reduction efforts. The data is collected from produce at the distribution centers and warehouses during the application of the company's protective, edible layer designed to slow water loss and extend shelf life.

Pipeline Hack Update: Colonial Reopens Across the Map, Ransomware Payment

May 18, 2021 --

CNET
Colonial Pipeline has re-opened after paying Eastern European hackers $5 million and said that it was "delivering millions of gallons per hour" to markets along the East Coast.

Chocolate Makers Map 600K Cocoa Farms in Ghana, Ivory Coast

May 18, 2021 --

Supply Chain Dive
In response to a growing call for traceability in the supply chain, the world's largest chocolate makers, including Cargill, Mars, and Nestle, have joined the World Cocoa Foundation and established farm-to-point-of-purchase tracking in Ghana and Ivory Coast for more than 80% of their direct cocoa purchases.

These Pandemic Food Shortages Caught Everyone by Surprise. Here’s How They Happened

May 18, 2021 --

Food and Wine
In the wake of a year's worth of altered food shopping habits, manufacturers had to pivot from supplying items in bulk to restaurants and schools to household-sizes, while some niche items were backburnered in favor of more high demand items.

Ingredients, Labor, Shipping Drive CPG Price Increases

May 18, 2021 --

Food Industry Executive
Food prices spiked during the height of the pandemic in 2020, but industry analysts find there are several factors that will continue to put pressure on food manufacturers and keep CPG product prices on the rise.

The Unsteady Future of Food Manufacturing in Canada

May 18, 2021 --

Financial Post
Some industry analysts believe over-regulation, labor shortages and heavy concentration in the Canadian grocery sector are negatively impacting the ability of the country to feed its citizens, despite a wealth of raw materials and untapped processing potential.

How New Technology Is Making Plant-Based Foods Taste and Look Better

May 18, 2021 --

Forbes
Taste, texture and appearance have always been important aspects of food manufacturing, and plant-based foods are no exception. Motif is making those aspects and more, including mouthfeel, marbling and moisture retention its core mission.

Automation in the Time of COVID-19: An A&E/C Perspective

May 18, 2021 --

Food Engineering
The pandemic has made clear the benefits of automation in food manufacturing, including areas that architectural, engineering and construction firms have not traditionally considered automation-necessary areas.

TIA's Monthly Magazine Now Available to FSA Members

May 18, 2021 --

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is making its monthly magazine, 3PL Perspectives, available to all FSA members and suppliers. Please click here for a view of TIA's April issue.

For more information about any articles appearing in 3PL Perspectives, contact Chris Burroughs at burroughs@tianet.org

Hello FSA Members: Post Your Profile in Our Publications!

April 20, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to feaure in our upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine and monthly newsletter.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

Food Shippers of America Member Companies as of Mar 31, 2021

April 20, 2021 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

Tyson Foods Opens New Tennessee Poultry Complex

April 20, 2021 --

FoodBev Media
Tyson Foods announced the official opening of its Humboldt, TN poultry complex, a 37,000-square-foot processing facility, and expects to hire more than 1,500 team members by 2023. The $425 million investment follows a $84 million expansion of its Union City, TN plant that added an additional 200 jobs to the Gibson County, TN region.

SmartWay Affiliates: Join Us for The Benefits of Freight Railroad Transportation

April 20, 2021 --

SmartWay is offering a webinar session on The Benefits of Freight Railroad Transportation Capacity, Safety and Clean Air on Thursday, April 22, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. EDT.

Presenters:

Peter Gilbertson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Anacostia Rail Holdings Company
Justin Broyles, Vice President Commercial Development, R. J. Corman Railroad Group
Jo Strang, Senior Vice President Safety and Regulatory Policy, ASLRRA
Kathleen Martz, Affiliate Program Manager, Moderator

Join this event to learn a fresh perspective on transporting freight. SmartWay is hosting a special webinar with the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, to share information about America’s short line railroads and spark discussion on an alternative way to transport your goods. Come join us for this special informative event.

Click below to register:

Could Container Shipping Rates Stay this Red-Hot Until 2022?

April 20, 2021 --

FreightWaves/American Shipper
Asia-U.S. ocean shipping rates are still at all-time highs – with no relief in sight – and additional lanes, including the Europe-U.S. trans-Atlantic route for westbound trade, surged by nearly 50% between March 31 and April 9.

New FMI Report Finds Grocers Invested $24 Billion to Meet Increased Consumer Demands and Operate Safely Amid COVID-19

April 20, 2021 --

FMI-The Food Industry Association
A new report by FMI found that the retail food industry spent more than $24 billion on significant safety, workforce and technology investments during the past year in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the abrupt changes in food shopping and consumption.

White House Issues Reports on States’ Infrastructure Needs

April 20, 2021 --

Transport Topics

In a series of fact sheets breaking down state-by-state the number of bridges and miles of roadway in urgent need of repair, plus other much-needed infrastructure upgrades, the Biden administration ratcheted up the push for its $2.25 trillion American Jobs Plan.

These Categories Could Slump for Grocers as Pandemic Restrictions Ease

April 20, 2021 --

Grocery Dive
As restrictions ease around the county, increases in dining outside the home may hail significant declines in grocery sales categories including meat, herbs and shelf-stable foods, according to the recent Grocery Vulnerability Index report by global market intelligence firm Numerator.

Food Companies Getting Back to Basics

April 20, 2021 --

Food Industry Executive
A 2021 Food Trends report from creative, media and technology agency McKinney revealed that some of the largest food manufacturers in the U.S., including Coca-Cola, General Mills and Kellogg Co., are cutting marginal products and focusing in on core, in-demand items in response to changing social, technological and cultural trends.

2021 Capital Spending Outlook: Capital Expenditure Plans Return

April 20, 2021 --

Food Processing
The pandemic forced many food and beverage companies to scale back capital expenditures in 2020. But as vaccinations continue to rollout nationwide, 27 of 31 publicly traded food manufacturers reported they plan to increase capital spend by about 13% in 2021.

Bundling Up WMS and WES

April 20, 2021 --

Supply Chain 247
Warehouse Execution Software (WES) has been much touted in recent years, often eclipsing the more mature Warehouse Management System (WMS) already in place. But many distribution center managers are finding today's fulfillment center and warehouse storage operations benefit from a combination of both.

A Sweet Storage Solution

April 20, 2021 --

Supply Chain 247
Needing to look outside its own walls for warehousing of materials, Wisconsin-based Denali Ingredients, supplier of chocolate coatings, sauce stabilizers and other ingredients for the dairy, ice cream, and bakery food service industry turned to a high-density storage solution. The pushback storage racks supported their FIFO inventory system while adding more pallet positions and fewer aisles.

TIA's Monthly Magazine Now Available to FSA Members

April 20, 2021 --

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is making its monthly magazine, 3PL Perspectives, available to all FSA members and suppliers. Please click here for a view of TIA's April issue.

For more information about any articles appearing in 3PL Perspectives, contact Chris Burroughs at burroughs@tianet.org

Attention FSA Members: We Want to Hear Your Story!

March 16, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to feaure in our upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine.

Tell us how you've weathered the pandemic and what your New Normal looks like. Perhaps how your company jump-started its own recovery or how your team developed new best practices to ensure continued resilience and adaptability moving forward. We offer a unique opportunity for FSA Members to share with our readers their company's goals and successes, visions and innovations.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

Food Shippers of America Member Companies as of Feb 28, 2021

March 16, 2021 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

Read FSA on the Go!

March 16, 2021 --

Our Winter 2020 issue of Food Shippers of America magazine is also available in digital format. This issue features articles from industry leaders on topics ranging from the impacts the ongoing global pandemic is having on the F&B supply chain, including warehouse capacity, e-commerce and order fulfillment, and how driver capacity and employment continues to be a concern. In addition, FreightWaves analyst Kevin Hill will give us insight into the Spot Rate Market. Please click here for immediate access.

Previous issues may be found in our association website archives, or by clicking here.

Look for our Summer issue of Food Shippers of America magazine in mailboxes the first week of May!

The Shippers Group Announces Graham Swank as CEO

March 16, 2021 --

The Shippers Group, a leading national provider of 3PL warehousing, contract packaging, e-commerce, and transportation services, announced today that Graham Swank has been named Chief Executive Officer by The Shippers Group’s Board of Directors. The CEO position has been vacant since the untimely death of Ken Johnson last October.

Cargill Investing $475M in Soy Processing Operations

March 16, 2021 --

Food Manufacturing
Cargill announced this week it expects to spend an estimated $475 million to improve operational efficiencies and increase capacity in its U.S. soy processign operations with the largest projects scheduled for Sidney, Ohio, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Wichita, Kansas, among others.

Global Supply Chain Managers Should Brace for GDP Surge, Says IHS Markit

March 16, 2021 --

Supply Chain Management Review
The economic outlook for 2021-2022 looks brighter indeed, according to the latest forecast from financial information provider IHS Markit, with GDP growth for 2021 pegged at 5.7% and 4.1% for 2022. In addition, employment is expected to peak to pre-COVID-19 levels by 2022.

Kroger Partner Infarm Develops New Modular Growing Facilities

March 16, 2021 --

Grocery Dive
Indoor farming company Infarm joins the growing ranks of companies answering the demand for "locally grown" produce year-round with urban distribution centers housing mini farms of leafy greens delivering direct to metropolitan markets such as Seattle, Vancouver and London. Infarm has 15 such centers already in operation supplying Kroger, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods Markets stores among others.

Intermodal Poised for Run, According to Wells Fargo

March 16, 2021 --

Freightwaves
Port clearage on the West Coast, increased Asia-Pacific manufacturing, and growing e-commerce use, plus rising diesel fuel and trucking costs have raised the needle on the cost-savings spread between intermodal and trucking. Additionally, precision scheduled railroading initiatives and inland and near-dock facilities will be key drivers positively impacting intermodal revenues, according to analysts with the National Retail Federation and Wells Fargo.

New IBM Study Addresses Trucking’s Future Through a Digital Transformation

March 16, 2021 --

Supply Chain Management Review
A recent study, including feedback from more than 1,300 executive from trucking and trucking-related companies, by technology giant IBM found that more than $645 billion in annual revenues will shift from sales to services by 2030, and 64% of truck executives believe that digital transformation and a re-invention of their business model is key to their continued success.

Walmart Embraces a Local Fulfillment Model for Grocery

March 16, 2021 --

Supply Chain Brain
Retail giant Walmart recently unveiled several new e-commerce strategies, including in-store, back-of-store, and greenfield models tailor-made for an automation approach to same-day deliveries.

Dark Stores and Delighting the Grocery Customer

March 16, 2021 --

Food Logistics
Online grocery shopping is expected to account for about 21% of retail shopping by 2025, according to a new benchmark report by Incisiv. With 40% of current online shoppers expected to continue shopping online, dark stores and a hub-spoke model of distribution and fulfillment is expected to address an increasingly digital shopping environment.

Tracking the Evolution of Packaging

March 16, 2021 --

Supply Chain 247
Skyrocketing e-commerce demands have caused companies to rethink their packaging as a necessary element in streamlining fulfillment. DHL Supply Chain Vice President of Packaging Solutions Alicemarie Georffrio discusses the evolution and innovations taking place on the packaging front in a 247 Podcast. Click below to view or stream the discussion online.

Control System Vulnerabilities Put Food & Beverage at Serious Risk

March 16, 2021 --

Food Engineering
The food supply chain may not seem as vulnerable to cyberattacks as power grids or transportation systems, but the food and beverage industry's critical control systems may have too many gaps to avoid a "zero day" threat to food safety.

Port Officials, Retailers See Congestion Lasting for Months

March 16, 2021 --

Transport Topics
Ongoing port congestion in Southern California is causing major retailers like Peloton, Foot Locker and Overstock.com to ship some cargo by air and reroute other shipments to more northern ports including Oakland and Seattle. Industry analysts say the backlog will take at least six months to ease amid a flood of in-coming products from Southeast Asia, warehouse capacity shortages, and dearth of longshoremen due to COVID-19.

Changed Shopper Habits Will Spur CPG Demand After COVID-19

March 16, 2021 --

Progressive Grocer
COVID-19 influenced the U.S. food supply chain as never before, and Consumer Packaged Goods continue to be influenced by shoppers’ expectations and demands. Trends to emerge from 2020 include supply chain innovations, transparency in the age of virtual living, and companies evolving to become agents for societal change.

TIA's Monthly Magazine Now Available to FSA Members

March 16, 2021 --

For more information about any articles appearing in 3PL Perspectives, contact Chris Burroughs at burroughs@tianet.org

2021 Annual Conference Update

February 16, 2021 --

Due to the uncertainty of the coronavirus situation, and in consideration of the health and wellbeing of all conference attendees, Food Shippers of America made the decision in January to cancel the 2021 event. We spent many hours evaluating alternatives, including postponing the conference to a later date, conducting a virtual event, finding other potential locations, as well as a combination of these options. Unfortunately, venue availability and timing made postponing the event not practical, and we felt a virtual event would not offer the robust networking opportunity we all look forward to at the annual conference. We are certainly disappointed but have already started planning what we expect to be an outstanding program for the 2022 conference, which will be held at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando on February 20-22, 2022.

Bob Costello State of the Industry Webinar:

February 16, 2021 --

On March 2, 2021 at 11:00 ET, Bob Costello of the American Trucking Associations will present on the current economic environment along with the corresponding effects on the supply chain during a Food Shippers of America sponsored webinar. Many of you may recall Bob’s excellent presentations at past Food Shippers Annual Conferences, and he has been gracious to offer his time to present virtually in light of the 2021 conference cancellation.

Bob Costello is the Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of International Policy & Cross-Border Operations for the American Trucking Associations (ATA). Bob manages all of ATA’s collection, analysis and dissemination of trucking economic information.

To register for the event please click here.

Read FSA on the Go!

February 16, 2021 --

Previous issues of Food Shippers of America may be found in our association website archives, or by clicking here.

Attention FSA Members: We Want to Hear Your Story!

February 16, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to feaure in our upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

Food Shippers of America Member Companies as of Jan. 31, 2021

February 16, 2021 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

Unilever to Drop Suppliers That Fail to Pay Living Wage by 2030

February 16, 2021 --

Food Manufacturing
Global consumer goods conglomerate Unilever followed up on its commitment to fostering social justice by setting out a sweeping set of social equity initiatives designed to ensure that all those connected to the company, especially the most vulnerable workers in manufacturing and agriculture, earn at least a living wage by 2030.

JLL’s Q4 U.S. Industrial Outlook Paints Rosy Picture for Supply Chain Management

February 16, 2021 --

Supply Chain Management Review
Industrial leasing activity surged in 2020 more than 26.9% over 2019 and is on track to set new records in 2021 for small-bay (20,000- to 100,000-square foot) multi-tenant buildings in primary and secondary locations, according to the a recent report by JLL, a global commercial real estate services company.

Danone's 'Big Runway' for Growth Is Built on Brand Relevance, N. America CEO Says

February 16, 2021 --

Food Dive
Citing huge potential for its plant-based, probiotic and protein offerings, Danone North America CEO Shane Grant sees a "big runway ahead" as customers continue to turn toward healthier alternatives.

Warehouse Mobility Makes a Move

February 16, 2021 --

Supply Chain 247
While terminals, tablets, and devices have been integral for warehouse and distribution center mobility, a new generation of connectivity and system platforms is making data management easier and faster to use.

Intermodal Options Are Key to Freight Efficiency

February 16, 2021 --

Flowers, chocolate…fuel savings?! This month give your organization the gift of freight efficiency with intermodal options. Using different modes can reduce emissions while also lowering transportation costs. Learn more at epa.gov/smartway #EPASmartWay #fuelsavings

The Global Food Trade Has Been Upended by a Container Crisis

February 16, 2021 --

Bloomberg
As shipping rates from China to the U.S. surge to almost 10 times the price of the return trip, and with China now offering huge premiums for empty containers, liners are opting to send more containers back empty rather than refilled. At Port of Los Angeles, three of every four boxes going to Asia are empty, said Executive Director Gene Seroka.

Shoppers Shifting Toward Value and Smaller Sizes in 2021, IRI Says

February 16, 2021 --

Food Dive
Consumers will throttle back on CPG trends created during the pandemic with more than 65% of categories expected to see sales declines in 2021, according to a new report by analytics research firm IRI, especially with regard to price sensitivity, "right-sizing" in packaging, and a drive toward value and private label brands.

Buttigieg Confirmed as DOT Leader, but Funding Fight Looms

February 16, 2021 --

DC Velocity
Pulling back from his Senate confirmation hearing suggestion of a possible gas tax hike, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is working to find funding to shore up the federal Highway Trust Fund and his new infrastructure plan. Possibilities include funds derived from a vehicle miles traveled (VMT) plan and private sector investments.

Online Ingredient Marketplace Expands into Food and Nutrition

February 16, 2021 --

Food Business News
While ingredient libraries and supplier databases have been around for decades, a new platform allows companies of all sizes to compare options, engage directly with suppliers, and request samples. Suppliers are also able to target their digital media and track analytics for their products.

Outlook Calls for Gradual Improvement in Business Spending

February 16, 2021 --

DC Velocity
After nose diving in the early days of COVID-19, business spend rose for a third straight quarter with Q4 rising 2.9%; spend still remains beneath trend. Still, industry analysts from Coupa Software estimate a gradual improvement with businesses spending more on shipping, technology and contingent workforce needs.

3 Supply Chain Trends to Watch for in 2021

February 16, 2021 --

Food Logistics
The tumultuous disruptions encountered during 2020 served as a clarion call for organizations to prioritize several issues, including broader environmental efforts, deeper levels of visibility amid collaborative partners, and diversity initiatives in response to societal uproars nationwide.

2021 Annual Conference Update

January 19, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America has always strived to deliver an extraordinary learning and networking experience at each of our annual conference events. We were hoping for the same at our 66th Annual Conference in Palm Desert scheduled for February 28 through March 2, 2021.

Due to the uncertainty of the coronavirus situation, and in consideration of the health and wellbeing of all conference attendees, we have made the decision to cancel the 2021 event. We spent many hours evaluating alternatives including postponing the conference to a later date, conducting a virtual event, finding other potential locations as well as a combination of these options. Unfortunately, venue availability and timing made postponing the event not practical, and we felt a virtual event would not offer the robust networking opportunity we all look forward to at the annual conference. We are certainly disappointed as we had an exciting agenda prepared and will miss not being able to spend time together learning, connecting and doing business.

Food Shippers of America John J. Murphy Scholarship UPDATE

January 19, 2021 --

John Murphy was one of the long-standing members of the Food Shippers of America organization both as a food manufacturer and as the Executive Director. John spent more than 40 years in the transportation industry of which the last half was at The Borden Food Company where he retired in 1995. After John retired, he spent 14 years as the Executive Director of Food Shippers of America

Read FSA on the Go!

January 19, 2021 --

Our Winter 2020 issue of Food Shippers of America magazine is also available in digital format. This issue features articles from industry leaders on topics ranging from the changes the ongoing global pandemic is having on the food and beverage supply chain, including warehouse capacity, e-commerce and order fulfillment, and how driver capacity and employment continues to be impacted. In addition, FreightWaves analyst Kevin Hill will give us insight into the Spot Rate Market. Please click here for immediate access.

Previous issues of Food Shippers of America may be found in our association website archives, or by clicking here.

Attention FSA Member Companies: We Want to Hear Your Story

January 19, 2021 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to profile in upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine.

Tell us what your New Normal looks like. Perhaps how your company jump-started its own recovery in the wake of the pandemic or the best practices your team has developed to ensure continued resilience and adaptability moving forward. We offer a unique opportunity for FSA Members to share with our readers their company's goals and successes, visions and innovations.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

Food Shippers of America Member Companies as of Nov. 30, 2020

January 19, 2021 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

SFL Companies Celebrates 10 Years of Business

January 19, 2021 --

SFL Companies, a full-service supply chain management and logistics firm focused on technology-driven freight management, is celebrating their 10^th anniversary of being in business.

EPA SmartWay: Goal Setting

January 19, 2021 --

SmartWay can help members and stakeholders establish goals around sustainable freight transportation with proven approaches and industry-driven strategies. Here are suggested ways for carriers and shippers to reduce transportation-related emissions, to help everyone meet their New Year goals for sustainable, efficient supply chains:

TIA's Monthly Magazine Now Available to FSA Members

January 19, 2021 --

For more information about any articles appearing in 3PL Perspectives, contact Chris Burroughs at burroughs@tianet.org

Virtual CLDA Shippers Exchange: March 3, 2021 | 10:00 am - 1:30 pm

January 19, 2021 --

CALLING ALL SHIPPERS! DON’T MISS OUT.
Virtual CLDA Shippers Exchange
March 3, 2021 | 10:00 am - 1:30 pm

Who’s Attending?
The carriers in attendance are the decision makers at their companies, including owners, C-suite managers, and high-level sales representatives.

3 Ways a Digital Food Safety System Can Drive Operational Efficiencies

January 19, 2021 --

Food Logistics
The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) New Era of Smart Food Safety initiative advises modernizing technology to advance food safety through more traceable safety processes while creating efficiencies across the entire food manufacturing operation.

CPI Report: Food Prices Back Up for December

January 19, 2021 --

Food Industry Executive
After a slight dip in November, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 0.4% overall, including a 3.9% jump in December "food at home" sector. Prices rose on all six grocery groups, with meat, poultry, fish, and eggs leading with a more than 4.6% increase in prices overall during 2020.

Smithfield Foods Prepares to Vaccinate Its Workers

January 19, 2021 --

Food Dive
Although timelines vary from state to state, Smithfield Foods announced this week it was prepping to vaccinate critical and distribution workers at its facilities within 60 days. The meat producer is one of the first companies to implement plans for the inoculation of its entire workforce.

Micro-Fulfillment Centers Bring the Supply Chain to the Consumer

January 19, 2021 --

Supply Chain 247
Accelerated by the on-going pandemic and consumer demand for next-day/same day delivery, micro-fulfillment centers are gaining a foothold as a simple and cost-effective solution, especially in areas where real estate is cost-prohibitive.

Albertsons Is Testing Automated Pickup Kiosks

January 19, 2021 --

Grocery Dive
Albertsons' digital strategy ramps up with automated food order kiosks—a sort of ATM for groceries. Designed by Estonia-based Cleveron, the click-and-collect food lockers are reported to deliver regular and deep freeze orders to customers in less than one minute and are already in use in Europe and Australia.

ASCE to Release New Infrastructure Study

January 19, 2021 --

Transport Topics
A new report by the American Society of Civil Engineers released January 12 explores the economic impacts from underfunded roads, bridges, ports and rails throughout the U.S. infrastructure.

5 Trends Fueling Food & Beverage Innovation in 2021

January 19, 2021 --

Food Dive
The pandemic's imprint on the food industry can be seen in the healthy eating trends and innovations likely to continue into 2021. Fueled by new, plant-based options, global flavors and tech-enhanced foods, food manufacturers and product developers are listening to changing consumer demands.

Tyson Foods Investing $26 Million to Expand Bacon Production

January 19, 2021 --

Food Business News
Tyson Foods announced a planned expansion of its Vernon, Texas bacon processing plant slated for completion in March 2021, and home to the company's iconic Wright Brand bacon. The move will facilitate current demand, up more than 29% since 2017, and allow for additional growth.

`All Gas. No Brakes’

January 19, 2021 --

FreightWaves
Freight rates jumped in December an impressive 13% year-over-year, according to the Cass Information System, based on approximately $28 billion in annual freight payments with surges in spot pricing during the second half of 2020.

CDL Fraud Could Rise Under Relaxed Requirements

January 19, 2021 --

FreightWaves
In response to the growing driver shortage problem, as well as COVID-19-related delays in CDL issuance, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued a final rule in December that may ease testing standards that some claim are too restrictive, but which may also open the door to an increase in CDL fraud.

2021 Annual Conference Update

December 22, 2020 --

Food Shippers of America John J. Murphy Scholarship UPDATE

December 22, 2020 --

Food Shippers of America is excited to announce that although we will not be meeting in person in 2021, our $22,500 in scholarships will still be awarded to deserving applicants. There will be a one-month extension to the original application deadline of December 15, 2020. The new deadline will be January 15, 2021. This extension will allow for even greater participation. The 2021 scholarships will be awarded in March 2021 and the winners will be listed in the Spring issue of Food Shippers bi-annual magazine.

Read FSA on the Go!

December 22, 2020 --

Our Winter 2020 issue of Food Shippers of America magazine is also available in digital format. This issue features articles from industry leaders on topics ranging from the changes the ongoing global pandemic is having on the food and beverage supply chain, including warehouse capacity, e-commerce and order fulfillment, and how driver capacity and employment continues to be impacted. In addition, FreightWaves analyst Kevin Hill will give us insight into the Spot Rate Market. Please click here for immediate access.

Previous issues of Food Shippers of America may be found in our association website archives, or by clicking here.

Attention FSA Member Companies: We Want to Hear Your Story

December 22, 2020 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to profile in upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

Food Shippers of America Member Companies as of Nov. 30, 2020

December 22, 2020 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

FSA Announces Change in Membership Dues Structure

December 22, 2020 --

Food Shippers of America has implemented the following change to its membership dues structure effective July 1, 2020.

Membership in the Food Shippers of America trade association is limited to individuals engaged in the business of shipping or receiving food and related productions in the Food and Beverage industry where an individual is someone who conducts business on behalf of a company who has, or maintains, physical ownership of these products within the supply chain.

March 2 Webinar: Bob Costello, American Trucking Association

December 22, 2020 --

Bob Costello, Chief Economist & Senior Vice President of the American Trucking Association, will present current economic data and its effects throughout the Supply Chain during a Food Shippers of America webinar at 11 a.m. EST on March 2, 2021.

Information on how to register for this event will be included in the January FSA eNewsletter.

FSA Partner Meals on Wheels America Rises to Fill Need

December 22, 2020 --

Dear Food Shippers of America:

As 2020 comes to a close, we wanted to extend our heartfelt appreciation for your extraordinarily generous gift to Meals on Wheels America this year. Your organization’s donation could not have come at a better time.

EPA SmartWay: Delivering Good with the Goods

December 22, 2020 --

#EPASmartWay partners are going above and beyond in these challenging times, delivering a record number of packages across the country. This holiday season, you can count on them to deliver both the joy and a more sustainable future. #sustainability #fuelsavings epa.gov/smartway

TIA's Monthly Magazine Now Available to FSA Members

December 22, 2020 --

For more information about any articles appearing in 3PL Perspectives, contact Chris Burroughs at burroughs@tianet.org

Logistics Trade Groups Say Infrastructure Should Be Top Goal for Buttigieg at Department of Transportation

December 22, 2020 --

DC Velocity
Following the nomination of former South Bend, Indiana, mayor and presidential contender Pete Buttigieg as the new Secretary of Transportation, a number of industry trade groups renewed their call for infrastructure rebuilding as a top priority for the incoming administration.

Consumer Eating & Drinking Habits During Pandemic Reflect Different Needs

December 22, 2020 --

Grocery Dive
The ongoing pandemic and the unrelenting stress due to virus fears, social anxiety and economic uncertainty have left a distinct mark on American consumers' eating habits. While one in three people report eating healthier during the day, one in five admitted to indulging in comfort foods at night to relieve the stress.

The U.S. Export Outlook Remains a Difficult Story to Tell

December 22, 2020 --

Supply Chain 247
While a years-long pandemic, civil unrest, and a contentious presidential election have left the American economy with a somewhat tenuous outlook, an ongoing trade deficit, and lack of any real movement relating to U.S. exports, continues to pull on the American economy.

Is Reusable the Future of Sustainable Packaging?

December 22, 2020 --

Food Industry Executive
New research by PreScouter, a research support provider, finds that about 35% of all plastic waste comes from the food and beverage industry. Consumers have made it clear that they want reusable and sustainable packaging. In response, big-name brands like PepsiCo, Unilever and Nestle are working on cutting the costs associated with reverse logistics and packaging that can last up to 20 uses.

Rail Roundup: US Rail Traffic Up

December 22, 2020 --

FreightWaves
U.S. weekly rail traffic rose nearly 5% for the week ending December 12 with a total of 546,209 carloads and intermodal units. Of that, carloads were down by 2.2% while intermodal units were up more than 11%. Higher intermodal volumes reflect retail sales up by 4.1% with November being the sixth consecutive month for YoY gains, according to the National Retail Federation.

Study: Market for Micro-Fulfillment Centers to Reach $10B by 2026

December 22, 2020 --

Food Logistics
Rising volumes, the changing nature of e-commerce geographics, and rising same-day demands have given rise to the growing micro fulfillment center (MFC) market, with projections for a billion-dollar valuation by 2022.

Autonomous Control Towers in Retail & Consumer Packaged Goods Supply Chains

December 22, 2020 --

Supply Chain 247
Despite great strides in supply chain control towers, including real-time execution, powerful problem-solving capabilities, and global demand-supply matching, there remains serious challenges in creating sharable data and executable platforms across multiple systems both internally and between providers.

Instacart Releases 2021 Grocery Trends Report

December 22, 2020 --

Food Logistics
The ongoing pandemic has brought cooking at-home back to the forefront of the American consumer. A recent report by Instacart has identified five key shifts in consumer shopping behavior, buying preferences and food attitudes.

New White Paper Release: No More Detention

December 22, 2020 --

FreightWaves
Detention has been the bane of the transportation industry for years. A recent FreightWaves survey of carrier companies dives into the details of why this one aspect of the industry continues to be a time and money drain. Download the free white paper now.

Preview the Food Shippers of America 66th Annual Conference Agenda

November 17, 2020 --

2021 Conference Co-Chairs Peter Andrews, Schreiber Foods and Ricky Stover, C.R. England, along with the Food Shippers of America Officers, Board Members and Advisors, are pleased to present the 66th Annual Food Shippers of America's Conference Agenda as of February 28 - March 2, 2021 at the JW Marriott Resort in Palm Desert, California. (subject to updates and changes).

FSA Announces Change in Membership Dues Structure

November 17, 2020 --

Food Shippers of America has implemented the following change to its membership dues structure effective July 1, 2020.

Food Shippers of America John J. Murphy Scholarship

November 17, 2020 --

The 2021 John J. Murphy Scholarship program is again available for a child or dependent of a Supply Chain Logistics department employee of a Food Shippers of America member company or individual member whose membership has been paid for in full.

Total of $22,500 will be awarded.

Scholarship applications and references must be received by December 15, 2021.

Read FSA on the Go!

November 17, 2020 --

Our Winter 2020 issue of Food Shippers of America magazine is also available in digital format. This issue features articles from industry leaders on topics ranging from the changes an ongoing global pandemic is having on the food and beverage supply chain, including warehouse capacity, e-commerce and order fulfillment, and how driver capacity and employment continues to be impacted. In additional FreightWaves analyst Kevin Hill will give us insight into the Spot Rate Market. Please click here for immediate access.

Previous issues of Food Shippers of America may be found in our association website archives, or by clicking here.

Attention FSA Member Companies: We Want to Hear Your Story

November 17, 2020 --

Food Shippers of America is looking for FSA Members to profile in upcoming issues of the bi-annual Food Shippers of America magazine.

If you would like your FSA Member profile to appear in our print and digital publications, please contact Food Shippers at media_advisor@foodshippersofamerica.org.

Who Is Eligible for FSA Membership?

Food Shippers of America Member Companies as of Oct. 31, 2020

November 17, 2020 --

Thank you to all our members for your continued support!

Food Shippers of America Congratulates SmartWay Transport Partners Who Are Recipients of a US EPA 2020 SmartWay Excellence Award

November 17, 2020 --

Award Recipients Are Top Environmental Performers and Leaders for Freight Supply Chain Efficiency

Several of our members and member service providers were honored with a SmartWay® Excellence Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as true industry leaders in freight supply chain environmental performance and energy efficiency. These companies represent the top performing, environmentally responsible SmartWay Partners that move more goods more miles with lower emissions and less energy.

Meijer Fleet Gets Highest Recognition from EPA

November 17, 2020 --

Progressive Grocer
Becoming the first-ever, four-time winner of EPA's SmartWay Excellence Award, Michigan-based Meijer's fleet of 250 semi-trucks and nearly 400 drivers is being recognized for its commitment to safety and their efforts to increase freight efficiency and better air quality within the supply chain.