Graybar, a distributor of electrical, communications and data-networking products, as well as provider of related supply-chain management and logistics services, has beefed up its sales network.

The credit squeeze resulting from the recession put the focus firmly on supply chain finance as major corporations got to grips with the fact that some of their suppliers were struggling to finance their activities.

Many shippers could save money by taking advantage of the substantial spot market for transportation, says Ralph Galantine, product manager at DAT. Capacity varies greatly by lane, however, so good market data is essential.

Pole Star, a provider of indoor location technology, has released NAO Cloud.

Benoit Reinards of Flanders Investment and Trade explains why global retailers like Nike have made Flanders their hub for distribution throughout Europe and beyond.

LCL Logistix, the Indian member of the FPS network of independent freight forwarders and non-vessel operating common carriers, has launched a new less-than-containerload service from India to the Baltics and Commonwealth of Independent States.

Aljex Software has integrated with Mobile Apps, a smartphone application from uFollowit Inc.

The success of online retailers has been linked to the demise of many high street shops in the UK, most recently HMV and Jessops. The remaining retailers have clear strategies which incorporate on-line shopping with home delivery and are often further supported by other initiatives, such as click and collect, where goods are ordered online but delivered to a third-party address, such as a local garage or convenience store, to avoid the disappointment of missed home deliveries.