Logistics
Amazon is advancing plans to build a 1-million-square-foot retail distribution center in Norwich, Connecticut, which will serve a "first mile" function, receiving goods and distributing them to intermediate sortation centers before they enter the last-mile delivery network. The project is being developed with assistance from Bluewater Property Group and is planned to feature high-tech sorting equipment with 24/7 operations. Another fulfillment facility in the state is in early development, but neither has an opening date set.
In an interview, Kinta Gates, Vice President of Supply Chain and Operations at Glossier, shares her professional philosophy: achieving "self-improvement" through continuous learning and proactively creating opportunities for others. She emphasizes that, given the current decline in female leadership within the supply chain industry, practitioners should actively "kick open doors" to drive a more diverse and inclusive industry future.
With online orders rising and delivery windows tightening, supply chain employers are turning to contract workers to manage year-end surges. A recent survey shows optimism in hiring, but open roles remain hard to fill. Contract staffing provides flexibility for businesses and a foot in the door for job seekers, making it a strategic advantage for the season.
A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of International Trade ruled Thursday that the Trump administration lawfully rescinded the de minimis exemption, rejecting Detroit Axle's argument that the move exceeded presidential authority. The ruling confirms that sub-$800 imports remain subject to standard duties, and the exemption is set to permanently expire by July 2027 under separate legislation.
According to an Aug. 6 report from Xeneta, air cargo rates are softening and peak season activity shows little sign of picking up, signaling a weaker market outlook for the second half of 2026. Spot rates increased 28% year over year in July to $3.12 per kilogram, but declined 6% month over month. Chief Airfreight Officer Niall van de Wouw noted that only one shipper conversation mentioned peak season charters, reflecting lower expectations for the coming months.