Retailers will find a way

The technological problems that have caused the disruptions in container operations at the Port of New York and New Jersey, have been well documented in LM and the mainstream business press of late.

Newly-installed computer systems apparently don’t communicate with a legacy network, thereby leaving machines unable to communicate with one another.

The upside, is that labor and management are working to together to resolve the issue, and shippers are cooperating with their trade associations to find alternative solutions.

Jon Gold, Vice President-Supply Chain, National Retail Federation, put it in even greater perspective by telling us that a valuable lesson can be learned here.

“The important news is that everyone is on the same page in trying to expedite shipping. Other transport modes may be used, or other routes and gateways selected, but in the end…retailers will find a way.”

Gold is now on his way the U.S. West Coast where his mission will be a bit less stressful. He will be giving a presentation on “The Trade Policy View from DC” to business leaders in Seattle, Washington at the annual WCIT Summer Trade Luncheon.

“The Pacific Rim ports are not without their problems, either,” he said. “But we see more open dialogues among industry stakeholders that might not have taken place in the past.”

Communication – whether it be technological or interpersonal – is the key to advancing every port’s agenda.