In this episode, host Karl Siebrecht speaks with Ben Gordon, Founder & Managing Partner, Cambridge Capital, about the current state of logistics and supply chain consolidation. Ben shares his perspective on the post-freight recession rebound, the increasing appetite for M&A, and the capital market factors influencing deal activity. He also highlights emerging trends in AI-driven logistics, the importance of post-merger integration, and predictions for the industry's future, including supply chain software consolidation and domestic manufacturing growth.

Key topics discussed:

• How the logistics industry is rebounding from the worst freight recession in history, and the signals pointing to a surge in M&A activity.
• With capital markets increasingly focused on supply chain investments, what’s driving shifts in valuations, and how strategic consolidations are shaping the future of logistics.
• Which areas of logistics and supply chain technology—such as global trade management software and AI-driven solutions—are becoming prime targets for M&A, and why investors are paying close attention.
• The critical factors that make or break a successful M&A deal, and what lessons can be learned from industry leaders about integrating teams, maintaining culture, and driving long-term value.

In this episode, host Karl Siebrecht speaks with Ben Gordon, Founder & Managing Partner, Cambridge Capital, about the current state of logistics and supply chain consolidation. Ben shares his perspective on the post-freight recession rebound, the increasing appetite for M&A, and the capital market factors influencing deal activity. He also highlights emerging trends in AI-driven logistics, the importance of post-merger integration, and predictions for the industry's future, including supply chain software consolidation and domestic manufacturing growth.

Key topics discussed:

• How the logistics industry is rebounding from the worst freight recession in history, and the signals pointing to a surge in M&A activity.
• With capital markets increasingly focused on supply chain investments, what’s driving shifts in valuations, and how strategic consolidations are shaping the future of logistics.
• Which areas of logistics and supply chain technology—such as global trade management software and AI-driven solutions—are becoming prime targets for M&A, and why investors are paying close attention.
• The critical factors that make or break a successful M&A deal, and what lessons can be learned from industry leaders about integrating teams, maintaining culture, and driving long-term value.

Karl Siebrecht and Ben Dean speak with two seasoned supply chain experts, Bob Spieth and Jeff Sexstone, about the essential factors for success in 3PL warehousing. Bob Spieth, Executive Advisor, Advent International, shares his experiences in growing logistics businesses, emphasizing the importance of people, technology, process management, and disciplined new business practices. Jeff Sexstone, a Partner at Kearney, discusses how shippers can structure and manage 3PL partnerships effectively, highlighting the evolving role of technology, automation, and governance in logistics. Together, they provide a comprehensive look at how 3PL providers and their clients can foster strong, resilient partnerships in a rapidly changing industry.

Key topics discussed:

• The four key pillars of 3PL success: people, technology, process management, and disciplined new business execution.
• The evolving role of technology in 3PL operations, including automation, visibility tools, and customer-facing digital interfaces.
• The importance of structuring strong 3PL contracts and governance models to align incentives and ensure long-term success.
• How external factors like inflation, geopolitical disruptions, and changing customer expectations are reshaping 3PL relationships and strategies.