The merger will expand the end-to-end supply chain body of knowledge that fuels APICS's global supply chain research, education and certification programs.

Following the close of the transaction, APICS intends to integrate AST&L with its existing operations. Abe Eshkenazi will remain the chief executive officer of APICS and Laurie Hein Denham, AST&L president, will join APICS as a senior director.

"This is a strategic combination that paves the way for us to fortify supply chain education and certification in the areas of transportation and logistics," said APICS CEO Abe Eshkenazi. "AST&L has respected credentials, robust industry content, a network of subject matter experts, and our organizations have worked together for years. We are enhancing our capabilities to address two of the most important topics in the global economy today - developing supply chain talent and elevating supply chain performance."

Specifically, the merger:

Creates a larger supply chain body of knowledge. The combination unites APICS's Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) framework, and SCOR Professional (SCOR-P) brands with AST&L's three credentials, including the Certified in Transportation and Logistics (CTL) designation.

Ensures investment, improvement, and continued relevancy of transportation and logistics content. The combination offers greater resources and access to volunteer subject matter experts committed to providing individuals, supply chain organizations and the transportation and logistics industry with a respected and validated credential program.

Strengthens competitive position and platform for growth. Fortified transportation and logistics content creates a more sustainable organization better positioned to address the end-to-end supply chain education and certification needs of individuals and companies.

Source: APICS