In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Andrew Kennedy, Logistics Manager at Kitagawa Europe, to explore the pressing challenges in global logistics today. With over three decades in supply chain management, Andrew shares strategies for maintaining agility and efficiency amid disruptions like trade wars, conflicts, and extreme weather events.

Andrew highlights the importance of diversifying suppliers and using multimodal transport to stay flexible. He discusses the shift from traditional supplier-customer relationships to collaborative partnerships with freight forwarders, allowing companies to react quickly to global shifts. He also shares practical insights on building efficiency through lean management, optimized warehouse layouts, and shipment consolidation, all of which support both cost-effectiveness and sustainability.

Kim and Andrew round out the conversation by diving into emerging technologies, from EDI and QR codes to robotics, that are transforming logistics operations by reducing errors and expediting processes. Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to enhance resilience and streamline operations in a rapidly changing global marketplace!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Agility and Efficiency: Diversify suppliers and use multimodal transport to stay flexible amid disruptions.
• Collaborative Partnerships: Build strong relationships with freight forwarders for timely logistics insights.
• Technology for Efficiency: Use tools like EDI, QR codes, and robotics to streamline operations and reduce errors.

 

Episode Sponsors: 

If you liked this episode - Buy Me a Coffee  - it’s a great way to help us cover the out of pocket costs.  LINK:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kimkirkendall

Acclime China:

https://china.acclime.com/

Corporate Services and full Accounting/CPA/Tax for China.

Website: www.intltraderesources.com

Email: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.