Major shifts in cost competitiveness around the world over the past decade are starting to spur a number of companies to change their global sourcing and manufacturing investment strategies, according to The Boston Consulting Group's report, The Shifting Economics of Global Manufacturing: How Cost Competitiveness Is Changing Worldwide.

Global companies increasingly view emerging markets not only as a source of supply but also as a source of sales. Clive Geldard, group vice president for retail and supply chain at Solving Efeso, discusses supply chain challenges that these markets present and steps companies can take to improve performance.

The Stifel Logistics Confidence Index for July appears to mirror an uncertain economic environment. Since February of this year, the overall Index has increased one month and then declined the next reaching its high so far this year in May at 57.9. For the current month, the index is up 0.9 points over June to 56.1.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics, a provider of services to manufacturers of cars, trucks, heavy equipment and specialized cargo, has opened a new office in Yangon, Myanmar.

Damco, a third-party logistics provider, has begun operating a standard warehouse and container freight station in Myanmar.

Online retailers are waking up to the fact that getting logistics right is the key to succeeding in India. While they can do little about the potholed roads and local government restrictions, the ventures are investing and innovating in areas that they can make a difference in.