As 2021 comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the most significant logistics and supply chain news events of the past year. Without a doubt, it has been a rollercoaster ride with many events topping the list.
- Congress Passes President Biden’s $1.2 Trillion Infrastructure, Bill.
The industry is applauding the passes of the historic infrastructure bill after three long months of back and forth by the warring political sides. The package features $550 billion for highways, bridges, and other transport forms, which is going to prove beneficial for the nation’s logistics.
- CP and KCS Merge to Form the North American Single Line Network
The Kansas City Southern (KCS) and the Calgary-based Canadian Pacific Railway Company (CP), along with its Canadian counterpart Montreal-based Canadian National, announced on September 15 that they reached an agreement that allows CP to acquire KCS for $31 billion in a stock and cash translation which includes a $3.8 billion KCS debt.
- Executive Order Issued By the White House to Secure U.S. Supply Chains
The White House has issued an executive order for a 100-day review with the supply chain suffering bumps. It is set to identify the steps for Congress to address the vulnerabilities.
- Trucking Industry Objects to Biden’s Vaccine Policy — One-Third of Drivers Might Quit
As President Biden issues vaccine mandates, the trucking industry has objected to the policy, requiring private-sector employers with 100 or more employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or face job loss.
- Port-Focused Inititivies Drive White House Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
Port importance has been showcased by the IIJA, which is allotting $17 billion to help improve the infrastructure of inland ports, coastal ports, and waterways (including land ports along the border).
- Suez Canal and the Supply Chain
The 20,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent) vessel Ever Given ran aground and trapped in the Suez Canal.
- USPS 10-Year Plan
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is launching infrastructure investments for a 10-year plan that helps achieve financial sustainability and improve service to better meet the needs of customers and businesses, especially during the 2021 holiday season.
- FedEx Launches a $2 Billion Plan to gain Carbon Neutral Operations by 2040
The Memphis-based global freight transportation and logistics company FedEx has announced that they are making a $2 billion investment to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040. They will focus on vehicle electrification, carbon sequestration, and sustainable energy.
- 2021 Logistics
Supply chains are currently redesigning their solutions to ensure future success.
- Amazon’s new Northern Kentucky Air Cargo Hub
Amazon made a $1.5 billion investment that will span four years in a hub that will serve as the central hub for the Amazon Air U.S. cargo network. It is forecast to create 2,000 jobs.
