Reducing supply chain barriers could increase global GDP and world trade much more than reducing all import tariffs, according to a new report released by the World Economic Forum in collaboration with Bain & Company and the World Bank.

Four years ago, Caribou coffee's supply chain was managed with spreadsheets. Their only method of gauging demand was the order-fill numbers of product leaving the warehouse - basic replenishment. The team knew they were missing a big opportunity - accurate visibility to drive a more efficient operation, right-size inventory, improved customer service, as well as the expansion of product sales. The supply chain team also knew they were faced with a lot of risk. Could they respond to demand variability?

The Notbox Company, a U.K.-based provider of multi-use transportation and storage boxes, has come to North America.

Walmart committed to increase domestic U.S. sourcing of the products it sells, including taking steps to help onshore manufacturing of appliances.

The sharp slowdown in U.S. manufacturing that began last spring appears to be over, setting the stage for moderate expansion in the factory sector in coming months - with a little boost from companies bringing overseas production back to America.