U.S East and Gulf Coast Ports Strike Ends
The strike by the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), which began on October 1, 2024, and caused disruptions at major U.S. ports, has come to an end following the ratification of a new labor agreement between the ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX). While the two sides reached a deal on the key issue of wage increases, negotiations on other critical topics, such as automation, healthcare benefits, and retirement contributions, are set to continue until January 15, 2025. If a final agreement cannot be reached by this deadline, there is a risk of further disruptions to port operations.
Arandell Acquires Maple Grove, MN, Facility, Kodi Shuts Its Danville Plant
Arandell Corporation has acquired the business and assets of the Maple Grove, MN, facility from the CJK Group. Arandell, a leading catalog and brochure printing provider, expands its capacity and offerings with the acquisition, complementing its ongoing expansion at its Menomonee Falls, WI facility. With over 200 employees and advanced printing and binding capabilities, the Maple Grove facility will enhance Arandell's ability to serve customers efficiently and manage costs. Additionally, Kodi Collective will close its Danville plant permanently as of November 30th. The company is working with its employees, suppliers, and customers to ensure that all stakeholders have a smooth transition.
U.S. Postal Service Announces No Stamp Price Changes for January 2025
Postmaster General Louis DeJoy's recommendation to hold off on raising prices for Market Dominant products, including First-Class Mail, in January 2025 was accepted by the United States Postal Service (USPS) Governors. As a result, the cost of a First-Class stamp will remain unchanged. DeJoy cited the success of USPS's operational strategies and a decline in projected inflation as reasons for delaying any potential price increases until at least July 2025.
European Commission to Delay EUDR Implementation
The European Commission has announced a 12-month delay in implementing the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) to give stakeholders more time to prepare. This decision comes in response to concerns raised by international partners and European businesses about their readiness to comply with the new law. The EUDR, designed to prevent the import of goods associated with deforestation, was initially set to take effect on December 30, 2024. However, the Commission has proposed postponing the implementation date to December 30, 2025, for large companies and June 30, 2026, for small enterprises. The Commission has published additional guidance documents and a more robust international cooperation framework to support stakeholders during this extended period. These resources aim to clarify the requirements of the EUDR and facilitate its implementation.
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