Welcome to the American Chain of Warehouses Spotlight
This edition highlights the latest trends shaping logistics, technology, and business leadership across the supply chain. From automation and cybersecurity to market resilience and family governance, we explore the topics driving meaningful change in today’s interconnected economy. As our members continue to represent ACW at major industry events and share insights from across the country, we remain focused on strengthening partnerships and advancing smarter, more secure operations nationwide.
ACWI TEAM UPDATE
Zach is working on email campaigns for lists from the American Food and Beverage Show and CSCMP Conference.
Mariah is working on a membership campaign focusing on compatible Warehouse 3PL to fill out our map and grow our membership base.
Sofia is currently updating our website with staff changes and publishing all media content on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.
Bailey is working on our SEO strategy.
Chris is working with the team on new business and membership marketing, interviewing all existing members to tailor the organization’s efforts to members’ business needs.
Chris will also be representing ACWI at the Private Label Trade Show in Chicago November 16-18. If any members customers or potential customers are attending, please let Chris know and he can connect with them at the show.
Cyberattackers Exploit Supply Chain Networks
Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the same connected systems that businesses rely on for efficiency. Instead of targeting major corporations directly, they often hack smaller vendors to access larger networks through one weak link. A recent study found that 68% of supply chain leaders see cybersecurity as important, but it should be a concern for everyone. The main message is that no company is immune, and the best time to reinforce security is before an attack happens.
Amazon Eyes Major Automation Shift in U.S. Workforce
Amazon is reportedly preparing to eliminate or avoid hiring more than half a million U.S. jobs as it expands its use of robotics and artificial intelligence in warehouses and fulfillment centers. Internal documents suggest the company’s automation strategy could significantly reduce human labor in routine roles. Although Amazon says these reports reflect only one team’s perspective, it still intends to hire around 250,000 seasonal workers. The shift highlights how major companies are rapidly adopting automation to cut costs and increase efficiency.
| In this spotlight you can expect: |
Cyberattackers Exploit Supply Chain Networks |
Amazon Plans to Replace Thousands of Jobs with Automation |
U.S. Industrial Market Remains Strong in Q3 2025 |
Strategic Optimism Manifesto |
Wealthy Families Draft Mission Statements to Safeguard Legacy |
American Chain of Warehouses Members Attend NITL and NACS Conferences |
| Webinar |
| X-Change Board |
U.S. Industrial Market Remains Strong in Q3 2025
During the third quarter of 2025, the U.S. industrial real estate market recorded 45.1 million square feet of net absorption, marking a 30% increase from the previous quarter. Average asking rents rose to $10.10 per square foot, up 1.7% from last year, with nearly 60% of markets seeing growth. The national vacancy rate stayed steady at 7.1%, while new construction deliveries dropped to their lowest level in eight years at 63.6 million square feet. Overall, the market remains stable with steady demand and moderate rent growth.
Strategic Optimism Manifesto
The manifesto from KO Insights calls for a shift away from cynicism and toward “strategic optimism,” which combines hopeful vision with actionable strategy. It argues that rather than simply reacting to change, organizations should actively shape better futures by aligning their core purpose with meaningful human outcomes. The piece emphasizes human-centered innovation, thoughtful integration of technology, and sustainable systems built not around fear but possibility. It’s a blueprint for leaders who want to do more than adapt—they want to lead with intention and impact.
The Santo Tequila Heist – A Wake-Up Call for Supply Chain Security
Two semitrucks carrying over $1 million of Santo Tequila, founded by Guy Fieri and Sammy Hagar, vanished en route from Texas to Pennsylvania in a shocking high-tech cargo theft. Criminals used fake trucking companies, spoofed GPS signals, and digital deception to hijack the load without violence or trace—part of a global trend called double brokering, which has surged 1,200% in four years. The theft exposed how international cybercriminals infiltrate logistics systems, redirecting legitimate shipments into their control.
Investigators later found 11,000 bottles in a Los Angeles warehouse, but half the shipment was lost. Experts warn that these digital hijackings now cost U.S. businesses over $230 million annually, with California a top target due to its port density. The case underscores the urgent need for stronger authentication, visibility tech, and human oversight in the increasingly digital global supply chain.
Wealthy Families Draft Mission Statements to Safeguard Legacy
Affluent families are increasingly creating mission statements to align on shared values, prevent internal conflict, and ensure the longevity of their wealth. Many advisers guide this process using values workshops—asking family members to reflect on words like “curiosity,” “reliability,” or “stewardship.” While the documents themselves are non-binding, the exercise of developing one can spur family dialogue and clarity around purpose. These efforts stem from a recognition that many prominent fortunes dissipate within a few generations unless guided by intentional governance.
Members of the American Chain of Warehouses recently attended the National Industrial Transportation League (NITL) Conference, NACS, and CSCMP-EDGE. These events brought together industry leaders to discuss the latest trends in logistics, transportation, and supply chain management. Attending both gatherings highlights the organization’s commitment to staying ahead of emerging technologies and market shifts. It also reflects their ongoing effort to strengthen relationships and share insights within the national logistics community.
Webinars
ACWI – Truck Parking Club Webinar
Join us on November 12, 2025, at 1 pm Eastern time
Learn how warehouse and logistics companies are earning income from unused yard space with zero upfront cost. Perfect for ACWI members with vacant acreage or underutilized yards
The X-Change Board
If any of these listings interest you or you’d like more information, please reach out to Chris Kane at [email protected]
