The Bar Code is Taking a Leap ForwardLook closely at recent supermarket coupons, and you may see some new markings on them near the traditional bar code: sets of neat black bars stacked in two rows. New York Times
Worrisome Trend in Retail Label Requirements
About a year ago, we first noted in a small piece some changes to carton labeling requirements for goods going to retail that could cause some real problems for manufacturers, and we would argue, ultimately, retailers and consumers. Supply Chain Digest
TRANSPORTATION
RILA, Along with Other Freight Stakeholders, Push for Federal Action on Freight
RILA, in its efforts as a member of the Freight Stakeholders Coalition, recently issued a "Surface Transportation Reauthorization Platform" calling for increased federal involvement in freight issues, including the need for increased infrastructure investment and freight connectivity. RILA Update
Highway Bill Faces Tight Deadline
Odds mount against passage by September 30, forcing Congress to consider an extension. Journal of Commerce
Rail Anti-Trust Legislation Postponed but Coming, Though Pricing Impact Still Several Years Away
Two leading senators pushing for a bill that would have eliminated much of the rail carriers’ anti-trust exemptions decided to postpone a vote that was scheduled for this week, but only in a likely effort to pursue even more comprehensive legislation that would more directly impact rail policy. Supply Chain Digest
Rockefeller and Lautenberg Introduce a National Surface Transportation Policy BillSenate Commerce Committee Chairman Rockefeller (D-WV) and Subcommittee Chairman Lautenberg (D-NJ) recently dropped legislation to persuade the policy discussions aimed at creating a 21st century approach to our transportation system. The legislation has been introduced as The Federal Surface Transportation Policy and Planning Act of 2009. RILA Update
INTERNATIONAL TRADE & SOURCING
RILA Members 6 of Top 10 Domestic Importers
According to the annual Journal of Commerce/PIERS report of domestic importers, RILA members are six of the top ten importers in the United States. Wal-Mart, Target, The Home Depot and Sears Holding Corporation occupy the top four spots respectively on this year’s list. Costco and Lowe’s rank sixth and seventh. These six companies are unchanged from last year’s rankings. RILA Update
Senate Holds Hearing on Panama FTA; Administration May Postpone Consideration of the Agreement
The Senate Finance Committee held a hearing on the pending U.S.-Panama Free Trade Agreement, and Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT) and Ranking Member Charles Grassley (R-IA) both indicated their strong support for timely congressional action on the agreement. RILA Update
Mexican Truckers Sue U.S. Government over Ban
Mexican truckers are suing the United States for $6 billion over Washington's refusal to allow Mexican haulers onto its roads as required under the NAFTA trade pact, a trucking association said on June 1. Reuters
SUPPLY CHAIN SECURITY & RESILIENCY
Deal Clears Way for Food-Safety Bill in HouseThe House took the first step toward passing legislation aimed at plugging holes in the nation's food-safety system, after lawmakers reached a compromise over user fees and other requirements. The Wall Street Journal
Counterfeit Supply Chains in AsiaCounterfeit products cost brand name manufacturers billions of dollars every year. These products are fueled by sophisticated supply chains that rival those of "real" products. Global Supply Chain Council
GREEN SUPPLY CHAIN
Port of Long Beach Takes 'Giant Step' Toward Pollution Reduction
Port officials unveil what is billed as the world's first electrical shore-side power system for tankers, which are notorious fuel guzzlers and air polluters. Los Angeles Times
Oakland Port UpdateOn the heels of the 2008 plan adopted by the Port of Los Angeles involving a registry and progressive truck ban, the Port of Oakland failed to gain approval of the Maritime Comprehensive Truck Management Plan (CTMP) component of the Port’s Marine Air Quality Improvement Plan (MAQIP). RILA Update
Good Things Come from Green PackagesWhy are companies sticking with green packaging initiatives in the midst of an economic recession? Because reusing materials, reducing waste, and improving transportation efficiency is not only good for the planet, it's good for business. Inbound Logistics
“Cell-ing” the Transition
The stars may be aligning for a shift to hydrogen fuel cells to power the nation's lift trucks. Will industry buy off on it? DC Velocity