The Friday Report Blog: August 11th, 2023

UPS Bounces Back with Strategy for Regaining Lost Volume

UPS is working diligently to regain the trust of shippers and recover package volumes that were diverted due to concerns of a potential strike in August. CEO Tomé stated that FedEx, the U.S. Postal Service, and regional carriers each received a third of the redirected volume.

To entice customers back, UPS is emphasizing its speedy service, introducing expanded Saturday deliveries and weekend pickups, and promoting its cost-effective SurePost product. A dedicated “control tower” ensures a smooth onboarding process for returning volumes, replicating their strategy during the holiday rush.

Tomé is confident about regaining the diverted volume by the end of the year, thanks to continuous communication with customers. UPS also expects a positive outcome from a contract agreement currently being voted on by its Teamsters-represented employees.

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Carriers Rally for Maui’s Recovery

Carriers rally to support Maui following the impact of Hurricane Dora and subsequent wildfires in Lāhainā. The Port of Kahului remains fully operational, with freight company Young Brothers prioritizing medical supplies and emergency vehicles. They’ve also confirmed the arrival of supplies including bottled water and ready-to-eat meals via a barge.

Collaboratively, shipping line Matson, White Gloves Moving Co., Hawaii Stevedores, and the Hawaii Pilots Association have initiated relief efforts. These include securing shipping containers and running internal supply drives. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union has launched collection initiatives on the West Coast, ensuring donated items reach Maui without cost.

Additionally, the American Logistics Aid Network and Hawaiian Airlines are offering significant assistance. Aloha Air Cargo is providing free shipping for certain packages, and Alaskan Airlines dispatched a relief flight from Seattle loaded with essential supplies.

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Kraft Heinz Serving Up Sustainability with New Packaging

Kraft Heinz is championing sustainability with innovative packaging solutions across its global product lines. The company is collaborating with partners and participating in initiatives like the U.S. Plastics Pact. In regions like Brazil, the U.K., and Europe, Heinz bottles now contain 30% recycled content.

Linda Roman, Kraft Heinz’s head of packaging growth and technology, emphasized the importance of using recycled materials to meet sustainability goals and stated the company’s commitment to increasing market demand for such materials. Kraft Heinz aims to lead in sustainability by ensuring its packaging is highly recyclable.

While specific plans for 100% recycled mayo packaging labels are yet to be revealed, the company promises transparency to guide consumers towards sustainable choices.

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