A conversation with Roy Gallagher, director of business systems for Petmate Inc., a leading producer and marketer of pet products, based in Arlington, Texas.

Founded in 1971, Averitt Express has built a reputation as a quality, multi-regional motor carrier, serving 13 states in the Southeast and Southwest U.S. While staying focused on this region and on its core less-than-truckload business, Averitt has expanded its services and scope in a continuing drive to meet the total transportation and supply chain needs of its customers. Headquartered in Cookeville, Tenn., the privately-held company now offers truckload, time-critical, import/export and supply chain management services in addition to LTL, with a reach that covers North America and extends to Asia and other global locations. Phil Pierce, executive vice president of sales and marketing, talked with GL&SCS about Averitt's strategic plans and its future outlook.