Low-cost competition now the norm
Transportation and logistics CEOs are less concerned about inflation and low-cost competition, because most already operate in a cutthroat pricing environment.
In-depth CEO story
 Robert Milton
Chairman, President and CEO, ACE Aviation Holdings Inc, Canada
Customer relationships under pressure
Ninety-seven percent of transportation and logistics CEOs believe high-quality customer service is an important or critical competitive advantage. As companies find it harder to extract payment for their services from cash-tight customers, not only is their cash flow impacted but their long-term relationships are strained. CEOs must manage these relationships very carefully.
Merging interests
Approximately one quarter of transportation and logistics CEOs expect to complete an M&A within the next 12 months. The economic crisis may spur some transportation operators into initiating merger discussions, either because they are struggling to survive or because they see it as a perfect time to cement their lead.
Energy efficiency
Energy prices and the world's dependency on carbon-based energy sources are serious concerns for transportation and logistics CEOs. Many have made important first steps, but achieving major gains in energy efficiency in the industry will require broad-based collaboration across business and government.
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Downsize or retain talent?
The current tough economic situation means that many companies are looking to downsize. But those planning to do so need to take care that they continue to retain their top talent and provide them with appropriate career opportunities.
Tomorrow's world will demand a new kind of responsibility
Over the longer haul, CEOs need to ensure that they are addressing not only short-term risks, but also global, long-term systemic risks such as climate change. Like other CEOs in other industries, they will need to work hard to communicate openly with stakeholders.
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