Beyond the Box

Global commodity prices - from energy and metals to agriculture - shape everything from shipping demand to supply chain costs. For logistics and trade professionals, understanding these trends is critical to building resilience and staying competitive. In this season's final episode of Beyond The Box, we dive into the World Bank Group’s Commodity Markets Outlook and explore what falling pricesmean for global trade and supply chains in 2026. Our guests: 🎙️John Baffes, Senior Agriculture Economist, World Bank🎙️Farzin Mirmotahari, Senior Operations Officer, International Finance Corporation  You’ll learn: 📦 Why energy, metals, and agriculture drive global trade and logistics 📦 How price swings impact exporters, manufacturers, and shipping costs 📦 Key differences between mature and emerging commodity markets 📦 Financing strategies to manage margin pressure and interest rate risks 📦 How trade finance supports sustainability goals like decarbonisation  External links: 🔗 Commodity Markets Outlook Report (October 2025), World Bank Group: https://www.worldbank.org/en/research/commodity-markets If you’re a supply chain leader, logistics strategist, or global trade professional, this episode offers actionable insights to help you navigate uncertainty and prepare for the year ahead.

ESG is becoming a strategic imperative for global supply chains. In this episode of Beyond The Box, we explore how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives are reshaping logistics and supply chain strategies in the face of geopolitical uncertainty, rising costs, and regulatory complexity.We're joined by two leading experts:🎙️ Christopher S. Tang, Distinguished Research Professor, UCLA🎙️ Nada R. Sanders, PhD, Distinguished Professor of Supply Chain Management, Northeastern UniversityTogether, we unpack:📦 Why ESG is now embedded in boardroom decisions and linked to financial performance📦 How companies can integrate decarbonization with resilience strategies like friend-shoring and multi-sourcing📦 The role of AI, blockchain, and digital twins in reducing Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions📦 Global regulations like CBAM and CSDDD — and what they mean for compliance and competitiveness📦 Practical steps for future-proofing supply chains while creating win-win scenarios for business and the planet

Global supply chains are being tested like never before. In this episode of Beyond The Box, we explore how logistics leaders are adapting to disruptions - from the closure of the Suez Canal to shifting geopolitical tensions - and what it really takes to build resilience into global networks.Podcast Guests:🎙️ Sebastian Von Hayn – Head of Trans Suez Network, Maersk🎙️ Henjo Grisnigt – Global Head, Network Planning & Capacity Management, MaerskTogether, we unpack:📦 The ripple effects of rerouting global trade📦 How air freight and multimodal solutions offer agility📦 Why fewer port calls and smarter hubs matter📦 The role of AI, infrastructure, and investment in future-proofing supply chains📦 What resilience really looks like in today’s volatile landscapeWhether you're a supply chain strategist, logistics professional, or business leader, this episode offers actionable insights to help you stay ahead in a world of constant change.

n this episode of Beyond The Box, we explore how global supply chains are being reshaped in real time. With traditional trade routes under pressure from geopolitical tensions, sanctions, and shifting market dynamics, businesses are rethinking how and where they move goods.We are joined by:🎙️ Margaret A. Kidd, Lecturer at the University of Houston and President of the Houston Maritime Center & Museum🎙️ Erika Trujillo, Co-Founder and Managing Director of SEIA Compliance TechnologiesTogether, they unpack:📦 The long-term rewiring of global trade lanes📦 The rise of nearshoring and regionalization📦 How compliance, export controls, and sanctions are reshaping logistics📦 Opportunities and risks in emerging markets like India, the Middle East, and Latin America📦 Why data transparency and digital tools are essential for supply chain resilienceWhether you're a logistics leader, supply chain strategist, or compliance professional, this episode offers critical insights to help you navigate today’s complex trade environment.

Warehousing is no longer just about storage - it's about speed, sustainability, and smart technology. In this episode, we explore how AI, automation, and agility are reshaping modern warehousing and what businesses need to know to stay ahead in 2025 and beyond.Join Simon Oxley, Global Head of Business Development at Maersk Contract Logistics, and Amita Maheshwari, Global Head of Supply Chain Development at Maersk, as they share insights on the latest trends, challenges, and innovations transforming the warehousing landscape.Topics covered:🔹How AI and automation are revolutionising warehouse operations🔹The rise of flexible, on-demand warehousing models🔹Strategies for building resilience in a volatile global supply chain🔹Why sustainability and scale are central to future-ready facilities🔹Real-world examples of innovation from Maersk’s global networkWhether you're a supply chain professional, logistics enthusiast, or just curious about the future of global trade, this episode offers valuable insights into the next generation of warehousing.

🌍 How is urbanisation reshaping the future of logistics? In this episode we explore the powerful two-way relationship between growing cities and the supply chains that support them. As urban populations surge and mid-sized cities emerge as new economic hubs, the logistics landscape is being redefined.We invited two leading academic voices to share their insights:🎙️ Anna Fredriksson, Professor of Construction Logistics, Communication and Transport System Division, Linköping University 🎙️ Mark Lorenzen, Associate Professor of Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Industrial Dynamics and Director of DRUID, Copenhagen Business School Together, they unpack:🔹The rise of micro-hubs and the shift of megacity dominance🔹Why internal city logistics are just as critical as global connectivity🔹How circularity, shared warehousing, and energy access are shaping urban supply chains🔹The shift from global-for-global to regional-for-local logistics models🔹The growing role of logistics companies in urban planning and policyWhether you're in logistics, urban development, or just curious about how cities and supply chains evolve together—this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Global supply chains are being redefined - not just by disruption, but by how businesses choose to respond. In this special bonus episode of Beyond The Box, produced in collaboration with FT Longitude, we explore how companies are transforming supply chain challenges into strategic opportunities through technology, digitalisation, and smarter design.Joining the conversation are three expert voices at the forefront of supply chain transformation: 🎙️Maria Villablanca – CEO and Co-founder, Future Insights Network 🎙️Mourad Tamoud – Chief Supply Chain Officer, Schneider Electric 🎙️Kirsty O’Donohue – Global Head of Digital Customer Engagement, Maersk Together, we unpack: 🔵 How leading companies are using technology to build resilient, adaptive supply chains 🔵 The role of data, systems thinking, and end-to-end visibility in managing risk 🔵 Why a crisis is the ultimate catalyst for innovation and reinvention 🔵 How to shift from reactive logistics to long-term, value-driven strategy Whether you're navigating global logistics, modernising your supply chain, or rethinking your tech stack - this episode offers valuable, real-world insight from leaders shaping the future of supply chain strategy. Listen now to learn how to turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s competitive edge.

Global supply chains are facing increasing complexity as new tariff measures, evolving customs regulations, and stricter enforcement reshape how companies move goods across borders. In today’s environment, trade compliance is no longer just about meeting minimum requirements — it’s a strategic priority for businesses looking to stay competitive and resilient.In this episode of Beyond The Box, we speak with two Maersk experts about how companies can navigate this shifting landscape and turn compliance into a driver of long-term supply chain strategy:🔹 Lars Karlsson, Global Head of Consulting Services🔹 Janet Labuda, Head of Customs & Trade, Maersk Customs Services North AmericaTogether, they explore:🔸 How new compliance expectations and digital requirements are reshaping global supply chains🔸 The increasing role of data in customs strategy and risk management🔸 What businesses need to know about forced labor regulations and ethical sourcing🔸 How companies can future-proof supply chains amid evolving policies in the US, EU, and AsiaAs global trade continues to evolve, aligning compliance with broader business strategy is key to building resilient, agile supply chains.Whether you're in logistics, customs, trade operations, or supply chain risk management, this episode offers practical insight into navigating today’s fast-changing global trade environment.

Global supply chains are under pressure as geopolitical tensions, tariffs, and potential trade challenges reshape international commerce. In this first episode of the new Beyond The Box season, we explore how businesses in retail and automotive are changing and adapting to the new challenges in global trade and logistics. Joining the discussion are Toni Fondevilla, Maersk’s Global Automotive Vertical Lead, and Neil Ashby, Maersk’s Global Vertical Head for Retail. Together, they dive into: 🔹 The impact of new geopolitics developments, including tariffs, on supply chains and global trade🔹 How businesses are rerouting shipping and sourcing strategies🔹 Key industries affected, from manufacturing to e-commerce🔹 Future trends in trade policy, logistics, and international shipping With supply chain disruptions, trade policy shifts, and evolving import/export regulations, companies must stay ahead to remain competitive. Whether you’re in logistics, supply chain management, manufacturing, or retail, this episode offers critical insights into the future of global commerce. Chapters: 00:00 Intro01:00 Automotive industry trends and predictions for 202502:03 Key regions that will be impacted in 202502:38 Retail industry trends and predictions for 202504:41 How are businesses changing and adapting to new pressures05:52 How geopolitics is shaping the Automotive industry in 202508:05 Will businesses need to redesign their way-of-working to adapt?09:56 How geopolitics is shaping the Retail industry in 202512:18 New manufacturing strategies in the Automotive industry12:27 How tariffs are impacting the Automotive industry16:28 Is near shoring the problem to Retail's biggest challenges?18:59 What businesses need to know if thinking about a near shoring strategy

From Diwali to Singles Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas, peak time has long been a key revenue raiser for businesses, as well as a strain on supply chains. While supply chain planning traditionally stretched from August to November, these days peak season looks a little different. Why is peak season changing so much? And, what can we expect for peak seasons to come?

It happens every day - thousands of container vessels sail across the oceans and enable global trade to make sure that consumer goods, food and medicine reach the consumers.  However, the world currently burns around 300 million tons of fossil fuels per year, which makes shipping one of the world’s most polluting industries.  Amid the turbulent seas of climate change, environmental regulations, and the dire quest for sustainability, global shipping stands at a crossroad to lower its emissions.  In this episode of Beyond the Box, we embark on a voyage to understand one of the most challenging yet promising beacons on the horizon of shipping: Green Fuels. 

We have a climate deal!  The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) – part of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) – has agreed on a united strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in shipping.  This episode unpacks the contents of that new strategy, how it fits into the bigger picture of sustainability in shipping, and what it means for the future.

Visibility is such a buzz word. Unless you’ve been living under rock, you will have heard it bandied around the logistics and supply chain industry. You may even have used the concept in a conversation yourself. Most of us will understand why a captain navigating a ship would need visibility, but what we are hearing about now is ‘end-to-end visibility’ - visibility of all stages of the supply chain, in as close to real time as possible. What does that mean, and how do you get it?  In this episode, we’re going to unpack the importance of visibility, and speak to some experts about how you can improve it.

80% of world trade is carried out through containerised logistics, generating trillions of data points every single day. But until recently, only a few actors capitalised or even knew how to create value of all this data. Digitalisation in shipping and logistics represents a fundamental redraw of global supply chains that will profoundly change global trade for both businesses and consumers. Technology will increase the scale, scope and speed of trade. It can provide access to markets for everyone regardless of geography or business. Right now we are looking into the biggest evolution of global trade since the containerisation in the late 60's. This episode examines how technology will change the world of logistics in the years to come and the challenges it's facing.

Can artificial intelligence make landside logistics safer, smarter, and more resilient? In this episode of Beyond The Box, we explore how AI, data integration, and digital platforms are reshaping the future of landside logistics - from smarter routing and real-time visibility to enhanced safety and workforce empowerment.  🎙️ Scott Horn, Platforms Portfolio Technology Leader, Fulfilled by Maersk 🎙️ Simone Bonanni, Head of Functional Platform, Landside and Depots Execution, Transported by Maersk  Together, we unpack: 📦 The role of AI in optimizing landside operations 📦 How data standardization and APIs are improving transparency 📦 The future of automation, control towers, and digital twins 📦 Why human-machine collaboration is key to resilient supply chains 📦 What the next generation of logistics technology could look like.  Whether you're a logistics leader, supply chain strategist, or tech innovator, this episode offers actionable insights on navigating disruption and building smarter, safer, and more efficient operations.

Landside logistics is one of the most complex and fragmented parts of the supply chain — filled with manual handoffs, multiple players, and limited visibility. How can technology unlock efficiency, safety, and resilience in this space?In this episode of Beyond The Box, experts Sal Arora, Global Co-leader of the Travel, Logistics & Infrastructure Practice at McKinsey & Company and Ali Kamil, Associate Partner at McKinsey & Company, share insights on the innovations shaping the future of landside logistics.Together, they discuss:📦 The rise of telematics, route optimization, and warehouse automation📦 Why “blind handoffs” remain a barrier to end-to-end visibility📦 How AI, digital twins, and agentic AI are changing operations📦 The importance of physical and digital infrastructure📦 Why the human element is essential to scaling innovationThis episode offers practical insights into how people and technology together will transform the next decade of landside logistics.

🌪️ As climate change accelerates, severe weather is no longer a rare disruption - it's a constant challenge. In this episode of Beyond The Box, we explore how logistics providers are adapting to increasingly volatile conditions to keep global supply chains resilient and responsive.Featuring:🎙️ Andrew Forsyth, Head of Climate Resilience and Sustainability at Zurich Resilience Solutions🎙️ Peter Gede, Loss Prevention Manager at Maersk Insurance A/STogether, we unpack:📦 The rising impact of extreme weather events - from hurricanes and floods to heatwaves📦 How businesses can evolve from reactive responses to proactive strategies📦 How data, AI, and cross-sector collaboration are driving resilience deep into supply chain operations📦 Why agility, visibility, and integrated planning are essential to future-proofing logisticsWhether you're a supply chain leader, logistics professional, or simply curious about the future of global commerce, this episode delivers practical insights and a forward-looking perspective on navigating uncertainty with confidence.Interview recorded on 7 July 2025.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on the forces shaping global logistics — and how to stay ahead in an unpredictable world.

In today’s fast-changing world, disruption is no longer the exception - it’s the environment we operate in. But with the right strategies, tools, and mindset, supply chains can do more than survive - they can operate, grow, and thrive.In this episode of Beyond The Box, we’re joined by:🎙️James Hookham, Director, Global Shippers Forum🎙️ Zera Zheng, Global Head of Business Resilience Consulting, Maersk…to explore how businesses can build resilient, future-ready supply chains in the face of ongoing geopolitical shifts, regulatory changes, and climate-related risks. We unbox the following topics:📦 Why “compound disruption” is the new normal - and how to prepare for it📦 How trade policy, tariffs, and weather events are reshaping global logistics📦 The power of scenario planning and early risk visibility📦 How data and digitalisation are unlocking smarter, faster decision-making📦 Why resilience is becoming a key competitive advantage in global tradeWhether you're a supply chain leader, logistics professional, or just curious about the future of global commerce, this episode offers practical insights and a hopeful outlook on how to navigate uncertainty with confidence.Interview recorded on 30 May 2025.

Rising regulatory complexity, increasing protectionism, and rapidly shifting geopolitics are all reshaping the rules of international commerce. In this episode of Beyond The Box, we unpack how trade policy, market access, and regulatory reforms can potentially impact global growth and business strategies in 2025, and beyond.  As governments rethink globalisation and businesses confront rising costs, regulatory burdens, and shifting alliances, this episode provides valuable insights into the future of international trade, economic development, and global market access.  Whether you're in logistics, manufacturing, policy, compliance, or supply chain management, this conversation offers different perspectives on navigating today’s complex trade environment — and potential outcomes for tomorrow’s global economy.Host: Philip Lewin and Cecilia Larsen Guests: 🔹 Shanker Singham, CEO of Competere and International Trade Advisor🔹 Pieter Cleppe, Editor-in-Chief of BrusselsReport.eu and EU Policy Analyst

Over six months have passed since the Red Sea tensions began, and the ripple effects on maritime shipping and supply chain continue. How did the effects spread beyond the Red Sea region? Why are delays and shipping capacity shortages being felt around the world? Hear from the following experts: Jan Hoffman, Head of Trade Logistics, UNCTAD   Mark Szakonyi, Executive Editor, Journal of Commerce Rohit Gupte, Head of Transported By Maersk Solutions, Maersk   Get more supply chain insights.