delivering a load of fresh meat in perfect condition. This was the start of more than 70 years of service to Alaska. As Lynden has grown into a multi- modal provider of transportation and logistics services, the willingness— even eagerness—to operate in dif cult markets continues today, MacAskill says. “There’s a pride within Lynden about our ability to do the tough stuff,” he says. Much of Lynden’s business is Alaska centric. Serving remote locations, often during harsh weather, requires creativity and the use of everything from cargo planes to barges to hovercraft. Lynden also operates in Hawaii, managing the logistics required to move cargo to islands in the middle of the Paci c. For instance, ever since Typhoon Halong hit Alaska’s southwest coast in
identify where the ball is going to go, the better chance you have of developing a game plan to get there,” MacAskill says. As important is recognizing that the ball won’t stay in one place for very long. “We always consider multi-modal approaches that allow us to be exible as customer needs or market conditions change,” he adds. Adaptability and People: ARCBEST THE START: In 1923, ArcBest began as a local freight hauler in Arkansas. Slightly more than one century later, ArcBest has grown into a global, multibillion-dollar integrated logistics
ArcBest Technologies, the company’s dedicated innovation team, delivers custom-built solutions, advanced analytics, and cutting-edge technology. Adaptability and people are key to longevity. “The industry is constantly evolving—whether it’s technology, customer expectations or global supply chain dynamics—and companies that thrive are those that embrace change and innovate quickly,” says Seth Runser, president and CEO-elect. To deliver smarter, more ef cient solutions, ArcBest continually invests in innovation and leverages technology and process improvements. That has been key, as consumers increasingly expect fast delivery and real-time visibility into their shipments, Runser says. ArcBest also helps customers adapt to changing market conditions and supply chain dynamics before issues arise. “We listen to their needs while paying close attention to what’s going on in the market so we can help them adjust quickly,” Runser says. Logistics is a people-driven business, so investing in training and developing employees is also critical. “When you equip your team with the skills, knowledge and technology they need to succeed, you build resilience and create a foundation for long-term growth,” he says. INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS THE START: Launched in 1925 as Memphis Compress and Storage Company to meet the storage and handling needs of cotton merchants and producers in the area, Mallory Alexander has grown into a full-service logistics provider with expertise in freight forwarding, customs brokerage, warehousing and distribution, and other services. CoPilot Global Logistics and Endeavour acquired the company in September 2025. Where Employees are the Frontline: MALLORY ALEXANDER
Left: Starting in 1923 as a local Arkansas freight hauler, ArcBest is a logistics powerhouse with 14,000 employees across 250 campuses and service centers. Right: Global logistics expert Mallory Alexander was originally established as Memphis Compress and Storage Company, meeting the storage and handling needs of area cotton merchants and producers.
early October 2025, unleashing record winds and ooding and displacing more than 1,000 people, Lynden has worked with relief organizations to provide transportation and logistics services. “It’s part and parcel of Lynden’s ability to be exible and adaptable, especially during emergencies,” MacAskill says. Remaining adaptable and exible requires great partners and strong collaborations, as well as a willingness to develop multiple plans that can address different scenarios. “The sooner you can
company, with 14,000 employees across 250 locations. Among other services, it offers ground, air, and ocean transportation through a broad network of capacity providers, including ArcBest’s premium LTL carrier ABF Freight, the truckload service MoLo, and its expedite eet, Panther Premium Logistics. Through its managed logistics solution, ArcBest collaborates with customers to develop strategies that enhance operational ef ciency and deliver deeper supply chain insights.
January 2026 • Inbound Logistics 97
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