Business Archives

Ballard Truck Center receives national awards from truck manufacturers

The Trucker News Staff - April 11, 2023

WORCESTER, Mass. — Commercial vehicle dealer Ballard Truck Center, headquartered in Worcester, Massachusetts, has received national recognition by OEM manufacturers Mack Trucks, Volvo Trucks and Isuzu Trucks. The awards are: 2022 Mack Trucks Northeast Region Dealer of the Year. 2022 Mack Trucks North American Dealer of the Year. 2022 Volvo Trucks Northeast Region Dealer of the Year. 2022 Volvo Trucks United States Dealer of the Year. 2022 Isuzu Trucks Circle of Excellence Award. These awards are determined by several metrics including sales, customer satisfaction scores and business development, a news release stated. “They recently became the first Mack Certified Electric Vehicle Dealer in New England and are an important partner in the region, selling and servicing the entire Mack portfolio.” Jonathan Randall, president of Mack Trucks North America, said. “Additionally, they grew their parts business in a challenging market and maintained their strong heavy-duty market share, earning the highest score of any dealer in the country in our scoring model.” In 2022, Ballard Truck Center sold the first electric Class 8 commercial vehicles in New England, the news release noted. Preparations are being made at the company’s seven locations to be able to handle the increased demand for Electric Vehicle sales and service. “As electric vehicle technology evolves, so is demand for EV’s in the commercial sector,” said Rob Picking, director of operations at Ballard. “Getting our dealerships ready requires a rigorous certification process put together by Mack and Volvo Trucks to make sure our facility is prepared and safe to handle these vehicles. Groups of specialized technicians have been selected to undergo extensive training to understand how to work on this new equipment.” Company officials said that the re-opening of Ballard’s Tewksbury location as the first-ever Road Choice Truck Parts store has contributed to the success of parts-related sales and market share. “Ballard is committed to servicing our customers to the best of our ability, and our goal is to have a readily available inventory of parts at a competitive price for all our customers’ needs. This is where Road Choice fits in,” said Steve Grahn, president and owner of Ballard Truck Center. “Road Choice’s product line is compatible with many makes and models of trucks, trailers and buses, allowing Ballard to offer a quality product at a fair price.” Ballard Truck Center is a fifth-generation family-owned business operated by co-owners John Picking and Steven Grahn along with sixth-generation leadership Robert Picking and Samantha Grahn – headquartered in Worcester, with locations strategically located to support and service customers in the Boston market and throughout the Northeast. “We are honored to receive these awards that recognize our efforts to adapt and expand our business to meet the evolving needs of our customers,” said John Picking. “Our team of dedicated employees has been keeping New England rolling for more than 100 years by always making customer service our primary focus.” This is the fifth time that Ballard has been named Northeast Dealer of the Year by Mack Trucks, and second year in a row earning Isuzu Trucks Circle of Excellence.

ABF Freight wins Excellence in Cargo Claims and Loss Prevention Award from ATA

The Trucker News Staff - April 11, 2023

FORT SMITH, Ark. — ArcBest’s less-than-truckload carrier ABF Freight has won the 2022 Excellence in Cargo Claims and Loss Prevention Award (LTL Division) from the American Trucking Associations. ABF is the first LTL carrier to receive this award 10 times and the only carrier to win three consecutive years that the award was offered, a news release noted. “Our customers rely on us for proper freight handling, and ABF has proven time and again that we’re a leader in safety and claims management,” said Judy R. McReynolds, ArcBest chairman, president and CEO. “Our expertise in this area is a true differentiator and further establishes our credibility as a carrier that strives to ensure every shipment arrives on time, intact and damage-free. Through improved processes, training and technology, ABF delivers our customers an unmatched experience.” In 2022, several ABF officials say that several teams “collaborated to manage a strategy for claims control to improve frequency and positively affect profitable growth,” according to the news release. As part of its claim prevention initiatives for 2023, the company is focused strategically on awareness, education and accountability — supporting employees through enhanced communication, role-specific training and improved claims systems. Additionally, ABF mentors, coaches and makes on-the-spot corrections, relying on its quality process to solve cargo claims concerns, the news release noted. “Receiving this award for a 10th time demonstrates our commitment to ‘Doing It Right the First Time’ and consistently working together to provide an exceptional claims experience,” said Seth Runser, ABF Freight president. “We remain focused on providing a best-in-class experience for our customers every day, including the processes and training we have in place to manage claims. I’m proud of the ABF team’s dedication to handling our customer’s freight well, and I appreciate their hard work in continuing to set industry standards for claims management and loss prevention.”

Pilot Company welcomes 2 new executives

The Trucker News Staff - April 11, 2023

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Pilot Company, a national chain that operates travel centers, is welcoming two new people to its executive team. Adam Wright will be joining the company as chief executive officer, and Joe Lillo will become chief financial officer. The pair will begin their new positions on May 30, according to a news release. “After Berkshire Hathaway became majority owners of Pilot Company on Jan. 31, they identified Wright and Lillo, longtime Berkshire Hathaway executives, for these key leadership roles to deliver on the company’s long-term growth and vision plans,” the news release stated. Shameek Konar and Kevin Wills will be leaving their respective positions after supporting the transition. Wright has more than two decades of experience as a leader in the energy sector and “brings expertise in strategic planning and operational excellence,” the news release noted. He joined Berkshire Hathaway in 1996 and has served in various executive management roles in the energy sector, including most recently as executive vice president of operations and chief operating officer for one of the nation’s largest combined natural gas and electric providers. Lillo has been with Berkshire Hathaway Energy for more than 25 years and “has expertise in enhancing financial controls, managing risk and driving responsible value creation,” according to the news release. “Pilot Company has become one of the most future-forward companies in our industry. Adam’s energy expertise, leadership and focus on customer satisfaction will help ensure Pilot Company remains a pillar of North America’s transportation ecosystem for decades to come,” said Greg Abel, vice chair of non-insurance operations for Berkshire Hathaway. “From the beginning of our journey together, Berkshire Hathaway recognized Pilot Company as a strong business that was well-positioned for the long term and was backed by an innovative and hardworking team. I am confident Adam and Joe have a solid platform from which to propel the company forward.” The Haslam family still holds 20% ownership of Pilot, while James A. Haslam II, founder of Pilot Company, and James A. “Jimmy” Haslam III, serve as board members. “I want to thank Shameek and Kevin for all that they have done for Pilot Company. They have been instrumental in leading our over 30,000 Team Members through several years of growth and innovation,” Jimmy Haslam said. “While we express our utmost gratitude to them, I also want to welcome Adam, Joe and their families to Pilot Company and to the Knoxville community.”

Profits are possible when times are tough but good management is needed

Cliff Abbott - April 11, 2023

Truck prices are ridiculously high now. Fuel prices, too. Inflation is making everything cost more — while freight rates continue to fall. Carriers are going out of business. It’s a terrible time for trucking, right? Well … maybe it’s not so bad. It’s true that conditions today aren’t as favorable as they were two years ago, when the economy was opening up after COVID-19 shutdowns and restrictions. It’s important to understand, however, that new records were being set for spot freight rates. Records were also being set for new carrier registrations as drivers bought trucks and obtained their own authority, to take advantage of the high freight rates. For a while, it was difficult NOT to make money in trucking. Since then, fuel prices have risen and freight rates have dropped. In the last quarter of 2022 nearly 2,000 carriers per DAY were giving up their own authority, effectively closing their businesses. Some leased their trucks to larger carriers with steady rates, while some sold their trucks, becoming company drivers — if they stayed in the business at all. Undoubtedly, it’s a tough time for small trucking businesses. However, even though costs are up and freight rates are down, it wouldn’t be accurate to say it’s impossible to operate a profitable trucking business. The reality is that rates are down from a record-setting peak reached in 2022, but they’re still higher than they were pre-pandemic. The cost of trucks has risen, but so has the fuel economy they provide, and advanced driver assist systems, or ADAS, have made them safer than ever. One telltale sign of trucking profitability is that when carriers are making money, they buy trucks. One reason for doing this is that profits invested in new equipment can be subtracted from the carrier’s taxable earnings. Another is simply that they expect to continue making money. Well, carriers are still buying trucks. On the U.S. market, 254,574 Class 8 trucks were sold last year, according to Wards Intelligence. That’s an average of over 21,000 per month, or about 20,500 if December (typically the highest sales month of the year) is taken out of the equation. This year is starting strong: at the end of February (the most recent month for which data was available at the time of this writing), 40,068 trucks had been sold. Truck manufacturers have received so many orders that, even if no more orders were received, it would take them more than nine months to build enough to clear the backlog. Clearly, large carriers are positioning themselves to profit in 2023. However, large carriers make up a very small percentage of registered carriers. In fact, more than 90% of carriers have five trucks or less. The majority are one-truck operations. Small carriers have some market disadvantages, such as smaller or no volume discounts of fuel, tires and repairs. Another factor that can harm small trucking businesses is a reliance on brokered freight, commonly known as “spot market.” Most large carriers sign contracts with customers, keeping freight rates at a particular level over the length of the contract. Not only does this help provide steady freight, but it also keeps rates from fluctuating wildly. Not so with spot rates, which can rise or fall much more quickly based on competition and other factors. To be profitable in today’s market requires some judicious business management. Unfortunately, that’s an area in which some owner-operators fall short. Those are the ones that typically get weeded out quickly when conditions worsen. To manage a business, the owner must know some key factors, beginning with cost per mile. That cost includes the driver/owner’s salary, fuel mileage and more. It’s nearly impossible to decide if an offered load is worth taking without knowing the cost per mile. Fuel mileage in miles per gallon is also important. Fuel prices can change daily, so knowing how many gallons will be needed for the load and any deadhead makes a difference. Spot freight often doesn’t include a fuel surcharge to compensate with prices rise, whereas many carriers provide one. The source of the freight is important, too. Spot rates are great when the market is rising, and not so good when its falling. Some truck owners lease to carriers because they compensate at a set rate, avoiding market fluctuations. Those that pay contractors by percentage may still be more stable if they have contracts in place with their customers that keep rates from drastic ups and downs. Truck owners sometimes run under their own authority when rates are high and then lease to carriers and running under the carrier’s authority when brokered freight rates are down. But even small carriers can enter into contracts for freight so they don’t rely entirely on the spot market for all their loads. It doesn’t hurt to have a discussion with a potential customer, but remember that being obligated for certain loads must fit in your operational schedule. For example, if your contract is to pick up a load in Atlanta on Wednesday, you’ll need to find freight with a delivery that puts you nearby when empty. A 16 deadhead to get to the pickup quickly negates the advantages of a contract. Knowing your market is also important. Rates differ in different areas of the country. The state of Florida could be the best example of this. You might be offered a great rate for a load going to Florida, but rates coming out of the state are notoriously low. That’s because Florida, with large numbers of tourists and retirees, consumes much more freight than it produces. Other areas of the U.S. have similar rate disparities, so before accepting a load, it pays to check the outbound rates for the delivery area. Finally, managing your business also includes managing your pay. Truck owners who treat any cash left over after paying expenses as “personal money” soon run into financial trouble. Put yourself on a salary, and leave any surplus from each settlement in the bank for future expenses. You can always pay yourself a bonus at year-end. Treating your trucking operation as the business that it is can help you remain profitable in the toughest of times.

Love’s to invest $1 billion upgrading locations

The Trucker News Staff - April 10, 2023

OKLAHOMA CITY — Love’s Travel Stops has announced a $1 billion investment to upgrade 200 locations around the nation over the next five years. According to a news release, the project is dubbed the Strategic Remodel Initiative and will invest between $2 million and $7 million per location. “Investing in existing locations is another way Love’s prioritizes creating a first-class experience for customers,” said Randy Swain, director of construction and remodels for Love’s. “Being strategic with how we update existing locations – and keeping them open during the process – strengthens Love’s commitment to getting customers back on the road quickly.” The stores will remain open during the remodel process, and when completed each location will have a more modern look and open concept, the news release noted. Locations will be equipped with open-kitchen concepts, multiple restaurant options and updated Love’s Truck Care and Speedco locations. Dog parks will be added to locations without existing ones, where space allows. “While the company has always invested in its locations, the Strategic Remodel Initiative identifies which locations will be updated based on foot traffic, sales and store age,” according to the news release. “Locations being completed soon as a part of the initiative include El Paso, Texas and Columbia, Tennessee.” As part of the Strategic Remodel Initiative, Love’s will also update three locations this year via teardown and reconstruction. The locations will be closed during the process and be reopened with an expanded footprint and new look and feel. Love’s locations in Oklahoma City and Gary, Indiana, reopened in February after being complete rebuilds. In addition to Love’s Strategic Remodel Initiative, the company plans to open 25 new locations in 2023. In all, Love’s will invest approximately $1 billion in new and remodeled locations in 2023, adding amenities and services.

Tenney Group welcomes new executive

The Trucker News Staff - April 10, 2023

ST. LOUIS — Meghan Meurer has joined transportation logistics company Tenney Group as its new chief commercial officer. According to a news release, Meurer will be based in St. Louis and will be responsible for leading all sales and marketing activities for the company. Her career encompasses 12 years of expertise in supply chain experience, including her most recent position as the executive vice president of sales at the $1.5 billion privately-held transportation cooperative UniGroup, the news release noted. Meurer holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in business administration from Stephens College. She currently resides in St. Louis with her husband and two children. “We are ecstatic to have Meghan join the Tenney Group,” said Spencer Tenney, president and CEO of Tenney Group. “Her experience in the transportation industry will not only enhance our team development but will also play a big role in driving our mission at Tenney Group to help transportation owners exit on their terms.”

160 Driving Academy opens new South Carolina location

The Trucker News Staff - April 10, 2023

EVANSTON, Ill. — 160 Driving Academy’s newest location in Spartanburg, South Carolina, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, April 4. Attendees included Spartanburg community members, along with 160 Driving Academy leadership team and partners, according to a news release. Commemorating the special event, Eric Cook, branch manager of the Spartanburg location, said that “the trucking industry doesn’t get the proper exposure it should to attract talent. With wages seeing upward increases of 18%, there hasn’t been a better time to earn your CDL.” The Spartanburg branch is located at 404 McCravy Drive Suite G.

Ascent named to Newsweek’s Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2023 list

The Trucker News Staff - April 10, 2023

BELLEVILLE, Mich. — Global logistics company Ascent has been recognized on Newsweek’s list of Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2023. This award is presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., a statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The awards list was announced on Wednesday, March 29. Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2023 were identified in an independent survey based on a sample of approximately 25,000 U.S. residents who rated companies they know in terms of all three touchpoints of trust, according to a news release. A total of 95,000 evaluations were submitted. All companies headquartered in the U.S. with a revenue over $500 million were considered in the study. “We are thrilled that Ascent has been included on Newsweek’s 2023 list of Most Trustworthy Companies in America,” said Chris Jamroz, executive chairman of the board at Ascent. “Being named alongside several of our customers speaks to the trust, values and partnership we have fostered throughout the years. We are immensely proud of the passion and innovation our team continues to exemplify each day as we fulfill our unyielding commitment to customer-centric service.”

Ashley Distribution Services honored with American Trucking Association’s President’s Trophy

The Trucker News Staff - April 10, 2023

ARCADIA, Wis. — Ashley Distribution Services (ADS) has received the President’s Trophy through the American Trucking Association (ATA) in the Between 25-100 Million Miles category and the first place Fleet Safety Award in the Over 10 Million Miles category. The awards were given on Wednesday, April 5, at the ATA’s Safety Management Council’s Safety, Security & Human Resources National Conference & Exhibition awards banquet, according to a news release. The ATA President’s Trophy is the highest safety award available to motor carriers in the United States and is presented annually to only three motor carriers, one in each of the three categories: Over 100 Million Miles, 25 to 100 Million Miles and Under 25 Million Miles. Each company is judged on safety record, programs and community outreach activities by top motor carrier safety professionals, as well as commercial vehicle enforcement personnel. The Fleet Safety Award is determined by a company’s highway safety record. ADS has been recognized with the Fleet Safety Award multiple years through ATA and was also named in the Top 100 Private Carriers by Transport Topics in 2021. “We are extremely proud that year over year we are recognized for our Ambassadors’ safe driving and contributions to the trucking industry,” said John Leighty, executive vice president of distribution and transportation at ADS. “We refer to our drivers as Ambassadors because they are the face of our brand and have the final touch with every customer. These awards would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of the entire Ashley Distribution team.” Steve Ralston, ADS’ director of transportation safety and compliance, said that the vision for any safety director is for their organization to strive to receive an award at this level from a national trade organization such as the ATA. “Receiving the President’s Trophy displays Ashley Distribution Services’ dedication to operating safely on our roadways, he said. “This can only be achieved by how our ambassadors operate, drive safely and do their part by representing the trucking industry.”

Congress to reconsider tax credits to address truck driver shortage

Kris Rutherford - April 7, 2023

WASHINGTON — According to industry analysts, the U.S. faces a shortage of truck drivers, and steps have already been taken to address the issue. The industry has engaged in an effort to make the career field appealing to an undertapped segment the nation’s workforce in recent years through recruiting more female drivers. In addition, the National Transportation Safety Board has been considering lowering the qualifying age for interstate drivers — particularly those with military driving experience — for some time. The COVID-19 pandemic only amplified the shortages and the pressing need to recruit more truck drivers. “During the pandemic, truckers didn’t have any remote options — yet they went to work every single day to keep our economy moving and our communities strong,” said Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-Virginia). With the support of co-sponsor Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wisconsin), a new round of legislation is making its way through the halls of Congress, which will hopefully make careers in trucking more appealing to the workforce. And this time, Congress is putting its money where its mouth is. This week (April 2-8, 2023)The bipartisan Strengthening Supply Chains through Truck Driver Incentives Act was reintroduced to Congress after failing to gain traction in 2022. The co-sponsors developed the legislation to provide financial incentives to qualified drivers through refundable tax credits. The credits are intended to make truck driving a more lucrative career — one that is more appealing to new drivers, and one that can retain those who have already chosen trucking as a career. The bill’s provisions for tax credits address three areas. First, it will create a new refundable credit of up to $7,500 for Class A CDL drivers who log at least 1,900 hours during the year (an average of about 37 hours per week). The credit is planned for two years (2023 and 2024). Second, a new refundable credit of up to $10,000 would apply to new drivers or prospective drivers enrolled in a registered trucking apprenticeship (also for 2023 and 2024). Finally, the bill will allow new drivers to be eligible for the credit if they did not drive a commercial truck in the previous year or drive at least 1,420 hours in the current year. New CDL holders who drive less than 1,420 hours for the year — but at least an average of 40 hours a week once they begin to drive professionally — would be eligible to receive a partial credit. According to Gallagher, passage of the bill would do more than simply increase the number of young men and women who consider trucking as a career path. “This bipartisan bill is a commonsense way to recruit and retain more drivers to keep our shelves stocked and our economy moving,” he said. The bill has already received the support of a host of stakeholders including the American Logger’s Association, the National Grocers Association, the International Foodservice Distributors Association, the American Building Materials Alliance, the Forest Resources Association, the Hardwood Federation, the Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America, Third Way and the National Pork Producers Council. The bill has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee for consideration.

Mack Trucks partners with 23XI Racing

The Trucker News Staff - April 7, 2023

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Mack Trucks has signed a multi-year partnership with 23XI (twenty-three eleven) Racing to be its official truck partner. The team is co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin. As part of the agreement, Mack will provide three Mack Anthem models and one Mack MD Class 6 model to 23XI Racing to support the team throughout the NASCAR Cup Series season,, according to a news release. The Mack Anthem models will haul Bubba Wallace’s No. 23 Toyota Camry TRD and Tyler Reddick’s No. 45 Toyota Camry TRD between races, in addition to hauling important team equipment. The Mack MD model will be equipped with a flatbed to transport the teams’ vehicles as they are being prepared for competition. “We make trucks that move racecars, but the partnership between Mack Trucks and 23XI racing is based on more than just capabilities,” said David Galbraith, vice president of global brand and marketing for Mack Trucks. “We have a similar focus on high performance, excellence in engineering and winning in everything we do. We are intentional when it comes to our partners, and 23XI’s ethos is something we recognize in ourselves.” All three Mack Anthem models are black, 70-inch stand-up sleepers with full aerodynamic fairings packages, including side, roof and chassis coverage for improved aerodynamics. The trucks are powered by the efficient Mack MP®8-505C+ engine with 505 horsepower and 1,900 lb.-ft. of torque. Transferring that power to the wheels is a Mack mDRIVE™ 12-speed automated manual transmission. The Anthems are also equipped with an electric Auxiliary Power Unit (eAPU). The Idle Free eAPU keeps the cab cool without having to run the engine, and as a result, reduces emissions. The 23XI Mack MD is outfitted with a custom rollback body that is designed for low-clearance racecars to be loaded without damage to the bodywork. The MD’s powertrain includes a 300 horsepower, 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel engine and a six-speed Allison automatic transmission. “We look forward to seeing the Mack Anthems and Mack MD with 23XI livery on the road and at NASCAR Cup Series events,” said Galbraith. “We are confident the trucks’ comfort and durability will give 23XI one less thing to worry about on race day.” The first Mack Anthem has been delivered to the team and can be seen at NASCAR events around the country. The remaining two Mack Anthems and Mack MD are planned to be delivered to 23XI in the second quarter of 2023. “Innovation, efficiency and performance are all vital aspects of 23XI Racing and Mack Trucks provides our team with an excellent product that will get us to the track efficiently and in style,” said Steve Lauletta, president of 23XI Racing. “In addition to sharing performance values with Mack, we also share important social values that include being actively engaged in helping to grow and diversify our industries.” 23XI Racing launched in the fall of 2020 with rising NASCAR star Bubba Wallace as the single car team’s driver. 23XI Racing made its NASCAR Cup Series official debut at the Daytona 500 on Feb.14, 2021, and won its first race on Oct. 4, 2021, at Talladega Superspeedway. For 2022, the team expanded to two cars, adding the No. 45 Toyota Camry TRD to the stable. The 2023 lineup includes Wallace and Tyler Reddick, who officially joined 23XI Racing at the start of the 2023 NASCAR season. Reddick earned the team their first win of the 2023 season on Mar. 26 at Circuit of the Americas.

Wreaths Across America appoints transportation professionals to board

The Trucker News Staff - April 7, 2023

COLUMBIA FALLS, Maine — Wreaths Across America (WAA) has appointed transportation industry veterans Jenny Lovering and Graig Morin as new members of the Board of Directors for the national nonprofit. Appointments were unanimously voted on during the recent annual board meeting. Responsibilities of WAA board members include providing foresight and insight for the organization; supporting and reviewing the executive director; serving as ambassadors for the organization; and ensuring legal compliance through oversight. The WAA Board of Directors is a diverse group of volunteers with expertise in the verticals of transportation, procurement, nonprofit leadership, military and veterans affairs, finance and law enforcement. Members include a Gold Star mother, a retired chaplain and nine veterans representing nearly all the military branches. A resident of Maine and a 15-plus year transportation professional, Lovering has been involved with WAA for more than 15 years. During the last three, she headed Walmart’s involvement in the program as general manager for Walmart Transportation. This year, Lovering organized the delivery of 16 loads of veterans’ wreaths through 40 Walmart Distribution Centers, involving over 100 professional drivers. With experience in logistics and working with Walmart’s corporate communications team, Jenny brings perspective on both internal and external operations in trucking to the WAA Mission. She resides in Lewiston, Maine, with her husband and three children; her youngest accompanied her on the 2022 trip to Arlington National Cemetery. Also, a resident of Maine, and a 20-plus year transportation professional, Morin is involved with WAA as a volunteer location coordinator and as owner/president of Brown Dog Carriers LLC. A member of the Truckload Carriers Association and American Trucking Associations, Morin has been working with the WAA Mobile Education Exhibit team lending expertise in safety and compliance over the last year. Additionally, Brown Dog Carriers hauled loads to 10 locations in 2022. Having driven over one million safe miles himself, Morin brings both driver and carrier perspectives to the WAA Mission. He resides in Biddeford, Maine, with his wife and three children. “I am pleased in the Board’s unanimous decision to add Jenny and Graig as members. Their expertise in transportation will serve the program well as we continue to grow and our need for logistics support increases,” said Wayne Hanson, Chairman of the Board of WAA. “Both have demonstrated their commitment to our yearlong mission to Remember the Fallen, honor those who serve and teach the next generation the value of freedom, time and again. We are grateful for their service and look forward to their involvement in this capacity.” To learn more about becoming involved in Wreaths Across America as a professional driver or carrier, visit trucking.wreathsacrossamerica.org. To find a location or group near you, please visit wreathsacrossamerica.org.

FedEx to consolidate operations

The Trucker News Staff - April 5, 2023

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — FedEx Corp. plans to consolidate its operating companies into one organization. The announcement came Wednesday, April 5, at a company investor event. According to a news release, the consolidation will create “efficiencies that will enhance the company’s ability to meet the evolving needs of customers and ultimately build a stronger, more profitable enterprise.” This phased transition, with full implementation expected in June 2024, will ultimately bring FedEx Express, FedEx Ground, FedEx Services and other FedEx operating companies into Federal Express Corporation, becoming a single company operating a unified, fully integrated air-ground network under the respected FedEx brand. FedEx Freight will continue to provide less-than-truckload freight transportation services as a stand-alone company under Federal Express Corporation. Raj Subramaniam will serve as president and CEO of the combined organization. “Over the last 50 years, we built networks that have created a differentiated and unmatched portfolio of services,” Subramaniam said. “This organizational evolution reflects how we represent ourselves in the marketplace — focused on flexibility, efficiency, and intelligence. As one FedEx team, we are well positioned to execute on our mission to help customers compete and win with the world’s smartest logistics network.” The news release stated that the new structure “will help facilitate the company’s DRIVE transformation, including Network 2.0, the multi-year effort to improve the efficiency with which FedEx picks up, transports, and delivers packages in the U.S. and Canada. In addition, the unified organization will bring distinct focus on the air network and international volume, as well as a more holistic approach to operations on the ground utilizing both FedEx employees and contracted service providers.” To aid in the transition, effective April 16, 2023, John A. Smith will become president and CEO of U.S. and Canada Ground Operations at FedEx Express and assume leadership of surface operations across the FedEx Express, FedEx Ground and FedEx Freight businesses. Richard W. Smith will serve as president and CEO of the airline and international operations at FedEx Express, overseeing all other regions and FedEx Logistics. During the transition period leading up to June 2024, there will be no change in financial reporting segments. “We are building a simplified experience for our customers, who are at the center of everything we do, so they can adapt to the market,” Subramaniam said. “This combination will allow us to provide customers with even greater value, offering the most advanced data-driven insights to help them make smarter decisions for their business.”

Peterbilt delivers 2 electric rigs to Truck King

The Trucker News Staff - April 4, 2023

DENTON, Texas — Peterbilt Motors Company and PACCAR Leasing Company (PacLease) have partnered to deliver two Model 579EV Day Cabs to Truck King, a Dallas-area trucking company, for use in its local line-haul operations. Truck King operates 65 trucks in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, hauling components used in manufacturing for local companies, a news release stated. “We are thrilled to partner with Peterbilt and PacLease to incorporate battery electric trucks into our fleet,” said Cole Smith, president and CEO of Truck King. “We look forward to putting these trucks into operation right away and realizing the productivity and benefits associated with EVs.” Truck King’s Model 579EV’s will be used for daily delivery routes between PACCAR’s Dynacraft facility in McKinney, Texas, and Peterbilt’s Denton manufacturing plant. Peterbilt has a wide assortment of electric vehicles, with three configurations available for regional haul, pickup and delivery and refuse applications. “We are committed to customer success and productivity and are pleased that Truck King chose to partner with Peterbilt as their provider of electric trucks. Our integrated approach and ability to offer a full suite of services for electric vehicles, industry-leading service and maintenance is unmatched,” said Jason Skoog, PACCAR vice president and Peterbilt general manager.

160 Driving Academy launches new Louisiana location

The Trucker News Staff - April 4, 2023

EVANSTON, Ill. — 160 Driving Academy’s newest location in Shreveport, Louisiana, hosted a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, March 29. Attendees included more than 45 people from the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, as well as local and state representatives and former students of the academy, according to a news release. Commemorating the event, Steve Gold, CEO of 160 Driving Academy, said,”We are excited to bring Shreveport our industry-leading programs and the highest quality truck driver instruction and training. It’s a delight to now be a part of this great community.” The Shreveport branch is located at 6138 Greenwood Rd. 160 Driving Academy bills itself as the nation’s largest commercial driving school, as well as the fastest growing vocational school in the country. The company will train more than 35,000 students on how to safely operate a semi-truck and is licensed and operates in 43 states, the news release stated. Each school is certified and licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Entry Level Driver Training Program. The 160 Driving Academy is integrated with more than 400 workforce offices nationwide to create jobs for unemployed and underemployed workers.

Angelika Mangino named WIT’s April Member of the Month

The Trucker News Staff - April 4, 2023

ARLINGTON, Va. — The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Angelika Mangino as its April 2023 Member of the Month. Mangino is the culture and engagement manager at Clean Harbors, a North American provider of environmental and industrial services. “Originally from a small farming community in Ohio, surrounded by acres of farmland and farming equipment, Mangino, a dedicated champion for women in her industry, gained a new meaning for the word trucks,” a news release stated. “Unbeknown to her at the time, Mangino’s professional career would someday grow into working for the largest North American hazardous waste and environmental services company.” As a lead employee engagement ambassador of diversity, equity and inclusion, Mangino celebrates truck drivers across the company and is an active participant in all seven employee resource groups at Clean Harbors. At the 2022 Women In Trucking Accelerate! Conference & Expo, Mangino presented the first female truck wrap to Cathy Spencer on behalf of Clean Harbor’s Employee Resource Group, Women Advancing our Values in Environmental Services. Additionally, she leads and manages the companies Commercial Driver’s License Sponsorship Program and supported more than 200 employees in receiving their CDL in 2022. “Employee engagement can only be achieved through the active participation of our employees,” Mangino said. “They are the change we want to see and without them, diversity and inclusion wouldn’t exist.” A mentor and advocate, Mangino is also an active WIT member and company liaison. “Continue to strive for change within our industry and aim to improve the perspectives of females behind the wheel of a truck,” Mangino said. “In this industry, we still believe it’s all about males and that is not the case. We are making strides and seeing change, as the percentage of females in the transportation and logistics industry increases each year.”

Women In Trucking Association announces Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award finalists

The Trucker News Staff - April 4, 2023

ARLINGTON, Va. — The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has named three finalists for the 2023 Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award (DWLA). Sponsored by the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) and Truckstop, the award promotes the achievements of women employed in the North American transportation industry. This year’s finalists are: Katerina Jones, chief marketing officer for Fleet Advantage; Nanette Malebranche, managing director of the Tri-State District for FedEx Express; and Erin Van Zeeland, senior vice president and general manager of logistics for Schneider. Members of the judging panel include: Brent Hutto, chief relationship officer for Truckstop; Anne Reinke, president and CEO of TIA; Dr. Stephanie S. Ivey, associate dean for research and professor at Herff College of Engineering; Ellen Voie, founder of WIT; and Jennifer Hedrick, president and CEO of WIT. The winner of the 2023 award will be announced during the TIA Capital Ideas Conference and Exhibition on Friday, April 21. Katerina Jones Jones is an executive with more than 20 years of integrated marketing experience. She plays a direct role in onboarding new clients, including Top Private and For-Hire 100 Fleets. Jones is credited for building Fleet Advantage’s brand through consistent educational messaging, giving the business a leading voice in the industry, according to a news release. As a Fleet Advantage senior leadership member, she provides counsel on business matters, including operations, business strategy, human resources, internal processes, diversity, company culture and community and industry relations. “Jones is seen as a leader and mentor for other women in the industry and has won several awards and speaking engagements, including the Top Women to Watch in Transportation by WIT and Top Female Professional by the Supply Chain & Demand Chain Executive,” the news release stated. “In addition to her wealth of industry expertise, Jones is also involved in several charitable organizations, industry-related council positions, and committees.” Nanette Malebranche Malebranche is described by WIT as “accomplished leader whose professional background in the transportation and logistics industry exceeds 35 years.” Before joining FedEx Express in 1987, she was the vice president of Island Couriers. “Malebranche is an ardent proponent of the Quality Driven Management process at FedEx,” the news release stated. “Her district is frequently used as a test market as she is a pioneer of progress. Many initiatives she championed garnered a multitude of awards and acclaim. Malebranche directed several projects to empower future leaders, including her role as a regional people lead, helping provide direction and coaching to the regional teams and inspiring growth opportunities and support to frontline employees through proper planning and scheduled activities.” She is also the creator and collaborator of the FedEx publication “It Starts with Me” and participates in many community service and volunteer efforts. Malebranche has been honored with several awards, including the March of Dimes Annual Women of Distinction Award. She is also a six-time recipient of the FedEx CEO Five Star Award. Additionally, she serves as the board president for the Hispanic Counseling Center and Junior Achievement of New York. Erin Van Zeeland Van Zeeland is the senior vice president and general manager of logistics at Schneider, where she is accountable for the strategy, execution and growth/profitability of Schneider’s brokerage, supply chain, distribution management and power-only service offerings. Additionally, Van Zeeland is the company’s chief commercial officer. In this capacity, she is responsible for the commercial strategy and the development of the organization, which includes activities relating to marketing, sales, sales force effectiveness, product development and service that drives business growth and expanded market share. Van Zeeland was the recipient of Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s first-ever Women in Supply Chain Award. She currently serves on the board of directors for the United Way-Green Bay. She also co-leads the Schneider Women’s Network and various other women in leadership and business programs.

Jacqueline Gelb joins ATA as VP of energy, environmental affairs

The Trucker News Staff - April 4, 2023

WASHINGTON — The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has hired Jacqueline Gelb as vice president of energy and environmental affairs. Gelb comes to ATA from Navistar Inc., where she had been vice president of government relations since 2017. “With the pace of innovation and regulation, accelerating, addressing environmental issues and energy is a top priority for trucking, and I can’t think of anyone more qualified to represent our industry’s vision for this future than Jacqueline,” ATA President and CEO Chris Spear said. “Her expertise and experience make her a leading authority on the critical issues facing our industry and we are pleased that she is part of our team.” Originally hired by Navistar in 2011, Gelb previously worked for Republican South Carolina Sen. Jim DeMint as chief policy advisor on a number of issues, including energy, the environment and transportation. “This is an exciting time to be in the trucking industry. I’m looking forward to working with ATA’s members, state and federal regulators and other stakeholders to ensure we realize the benefits of technology that is being deployed today and developed for the future to reach our industry’s goals,” Gelb said.

MHC truck dealership moves to new Colorado location

The Trucker News Staff - April 3, 2023

LEAWOOD, Kan. — Murphy-Hoffman Company’s (MHC) truck dealership in Parker, Colorado, has moved to a new facility in Englewood, Colorado. According to a news release, the move will allow the company to better serve its customers MHC Kenworth-South Denver is a 50,000 square foot facility that sits on 15 acres with more than 300 parking spaces. The dealership features 23 service bays, including CNG-compliant service capabilities and full LED lighting throughout the facility. Drivers can enjoy an expanded driver’s lounge with a flat screen TV, Wi-Fi, washers and dryers and dedicated restrooms and showers, the news release noted. “MHC’s goal is to enhance our services to better support our customers and employees,” MHC Regional Vice President and General Manager Josh Schwartz said. “By growing our facility more than six times the size of our previous facility, we can provide our customers with superior products and services while also supporting our employees with a safe and efficient working environment.” New technology throughout the building allows for increased comfort for employees and customers, including a high efficiency geothermal heating and air conditioning system, according to the news release. A significant expansion was also made for the warehouse as well. MHC Kenworth-South Denver is one of six MHC Kenworth locations in Colorado. The dealership, located off E-470 Freeway and Peoria Street, sells new Kenworth trucks and offers used truck sales, parts and service for all makes and models, as well as mobile maintenance. An open house is scheduled for June 9 to allow customers to explore the new dealership. Murphy-Hoffman Company (MHC) is a full-service dealership network of more than 120 locations across 18 states, including 76 heavy and medium duty truck dealers, 30 MHC Truck Leasing locations, 12 Carrier Transicold locations, four TRP locations and a RoadReady Center, as well as a wholly-owned finance company, MHC Financial Services. MHC features Kenworth, Volvo, Ford, Hino and Isuzu, and Carrier Transicold Refrigeration products.

PAM Transportation’s CFO resigns

The Trucker News Staff - March 29, 2023

TONTITOWN, Ark. — P.A.M. Transportation Services Inc.’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Allen West has resigned. According to a company proxy statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, West resigned after 26 years of service with the company, 10 of which were spent as CFO. Vice President of Operations Lance Stewart has been appointed to serve as the interim CFO until the position can be filled, according to the proxy statement. Stewart joined P.A.M. in 1989 and served as CFO from 2010-13 and was vice president of accounting from 2002-10 and from 2016-20.