Altriarch Secures $70M in Committed Capital from the State of Wisconsin Investment Board

Oct 22nd, 2024

Partnership exemplifies Altriarch's commitment to innovation and strategic growth within the private credit sector, aligning with its mission to seek to deliver risk-adjusted returns to institutional investors.

CHARLESTON, S.C., Oct. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Altriarch Asset Management ("Altriarch"), a private credit firm, today announced a $70 million commitment from the State of Wisconsin Investment Board ("SWIB").  The investment allocates $20 million for Altriarch's Specialty Finance Strategy (the "Strategy"), launched in August 2023, that seeks to deploy capital through a network of secured finance operators across the United States.  The remaining $50 million is designated as seed capital for a forthcoming strategy structured to complement Altriarch's current capabilities.

Altriarch's Managing Partner and Co-CEO, Danielle Brown, commented, "This investment underscores the continued confidence that institutional investors, like SWIB, have in our team and strategies.  We are dedicated to delivering what we believe are attractive risk-adjusted returns in the illiquid credit market through disciplined underwriting and strong risk management practices." 

About Altriarch
Altriarch Asset Management is a private credit firm based in Charleston, South Carolina, specializing in asset-based credit solutions for fragmented markets underserved by traditional lenders.  The firm provides investors, including institutional investors and family offices, with access to various investment opportunities.  For more information, please visit www.altriarch.com.

About SWIB
The State of Wisconsin Investment Board (SWIB), created in 1951, is an independent state agency responsible for managing the assets of the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS), the State Investment Fund (SIF), and other state trust funds. As of June 30, 2024, SWIB managed more than $160 billion of total assets, approximately 85% representing WRS assets. SWIB's management of the WRS trust funds aims to provide a fully funded public pension for over 677,000 current and former employees of state agencies, the university system, school districts, and most local governments. The WRS consistently ranks among the 10 largest public pension funds in the U.S.  For more information about SWIB, visit www.swib.state.wi.us.

Positioned for Growth through Strategic Partnerships in a Rising Market

Sep 23rd, 2024

Recent U.S. economic data points to market growth driven by Federal Reserve policies and increasing consumer confidence. This creates significant opportunities in logistics and supply chain management, and SecurCapital is poised to capitalize. Our innovative supply chain solutions, combined with strategic partnerships in logistics, financial services, and marketing, position us to help businesses scale and thrive in today’s economy.

Adapting to Consumer Confidence

As consumer confidence rises, businesses must adapt to meet increasing demand. SecurCapital provides comprehensive supply chain services powered by automation, blockchain, and financial tools that allow companies to scale quickly. Through our marketing partnerships, we also enhance brand visibility, ensuring our clients can effectively engage consumers.

Leveraging Marketing and Strategic Support

SecurCapital has formed alliances with top logistics and technology providers, as well as marketing and strategic support agencies. These relationships enable us to identify new growth opportunities, engage customers, and strengthen brand visibility. Our marketing partners offer critical insights and strategies to keep our clients ahead of trends and evolving consumer expectations.

Innovating for Client Success

Our partnerships combine cutting-edge technologies such as AI-driven analytics and blockchain with expert financial services. This allows us to optimize warehousing efficiency and ensure seamless financial transactions. Additionally, strategic marketing support helps clients amplify their services and reach a broader audience. These partnerships are crucial in creating a fully integrated supply chain solution that maximizes transparency and efficiency.

SecurCapital’s unique combination of technology, financial services, and marketing partnerships positions us as a leader in logistics innovation. Our strategic alliances empower us to offer scalable, efficient solutions that meet the demands of a growing economy. As consumer confidence continues to rise, SecurCapital remains committed to delivering the tools, expertise, and support that help businesses succeed.

Keeping Secure Through the Turbulent Air Cargo Market

Sep 11th, 2024

The logistics sector may face another significant challenge as U.S. dockworkers brace for a potential strike at major American ports. According to recent reports from The Wall Street Journal, tensions are escalating over ongoing contract negotiations between dockworkers and port operators, raising concerns of possible disruptions that could impact supply chains across the nation.

The Situation at a Glance

The potential strike involves thousands of dockworkers at key U.S. ports, including the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, which handle a substantial portion of the country’s imports and exports. Negotiations have stalled over key issues such as wages, job security, and automation, with both sides digging in as the expiration date of the current contract looms.

A strike at these ports could lead to severe disruptions in the flow of goods, affecting industries reliant on timely imports and exports, from consumer goods to manufacturing. The uncertainty is prompting shippers, logistics providers, and businesses to make contingency plans to mitigate potential delays and increased costs.

Potential Impacts on the Logistics Sector

1. Delays and Bottlenecks: A strike could create significant delays and bottlenecks, as goods pile up at ports awaiting processing. This disruption could ripple throughout the supply chain, causing delays in deliveries and impacting inventory levels for businesses nationwide.

2. Rising Transportation Costs: If dockworkers strike, transportation costs could rise as companies look for alternative routes and modes of transport to move goods. This shift could also lead to increased demand for air freight and trucking services, pushing up prices.

3. Supply Chain Adjustments: Companies may need to adjust their supply chain strategies, including rerouting shipments to alternative ports, increasing inventory levels, or diversifying suppliers to minimize the impact of potential port closures or delays.

SecurCapital’s Recommendations for Navigating Potential Disruptions

At SecurCapital, we understand the critical nature of these developments and are closely monitoring the situation to support our partners and stakeholders. Here’s how we recommend preparing for potential disruptions:

• Enhance Supply Chain Visibility: Leverage real-time tracking and data analytics to gain better visibility into your supply chain, allowing you to quickly adapt to any changes or delays.

• Diversify Shipping Routes and Partners: Consider alternative ports, carriers, and transportation modes to ensure flexibility in the face of potential disruptions.

• Increase Inventory Levels: Evaluate your inventory strategy and consider building safety stock to buffer against potential supply chain interruptions.

• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest updates regarding the negotiations and potential strike. Understanding the evolving landscape will help you make timely and informed decisions.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

As the situation develops, SecurCapital remains committed to being your trusted partner, offering insights and solutions to help navigate this period of uncertainty. We are here to provide guidance, support, and innovative logistics strategies to keep your business moving forward, no matter the challenges ahead.

Contact SecurCapital today to learn how we can help you prepare for potential disruptions and optimize your logistics strategy in an unpredictable market environment. With our experience and expertise, we’re here to help you stay ahead of the curve.

Keeping Secure Through the Turbulent Air Cargo Market

Updated Sep 10th, 2024

The air cargo market is poised for significant changes as e-commerce demand continues to surge, showing a 30% increase year to date. This surge is expected to create a busy peak season and a seller's market for Q4. At SecurCapital, we’ve been closely observing these shifts, and with our years of hands-on experience, we're ready to guide our partners and stakeholders toward success in the ever-evolving global logistics landscape.

Understanding the Market Shifts

The air cargo sector is currently shaped by rapid e-commerce growth, shifting consumer behaviors, and a complex global supply chain. As demand rises, capacity is tightening, and pricing is becoming more volatile. This evolving environment calls for strategic planning and proactive measures to stay ahead.

Drawing from our deep industry expertise, we recognize the unique challenges this presents to shippers and forwarders. The months ahead will require not just preparation but a well-rounded approach to capitalize on opportunities amidst these changing dynamics.

SecurCapital’s Strategic Approach for Success

At SecurCapital, we believe every challenge presents an opportunity for growth. Our experience-driven strategies are crafted to help our partners thrive, no matter how turbulent the market conditions may be. Here's how we can support your business through this shift:

1. Enhancing Supply Chain Visibility

• In a fast-changing market, visibility is essential. Our solutions integrate advanced technologies to provide real-time data and insights, ensuring you have the transparency needed to make informed, timely decisions. From tracking cargo movements to anticipating potential delays, our tools help maintain control over your logistics operations.

2. Building Diverse Carrier Relationships

• Our experience shows that relying on a single carrier can expose shippers to elevated rates and potential service interruptions. We advocate for establishing a network of diverse carrier partnerships, providing flexibility and additional capacity. Leveraging our industry connections, we can broker these relationships effectively, ensuring you always have options.

3. Agile Contracting for Greater Flexibility

• Agility in contracting is crucial, especially in a seller’s market. We help our partners find the right balance between long-term agreements and spot market opportunities, enabling you to manage rate fluctuations while securing capacity during peak periods.

4. Embracing Sustainability for a Competitive Edge

• With sustainability becoming a key focus, we assist our partners in implementing green logistics solutions like carbon offsetting and optimizing fuel-efficient routes. These practices enhance your brand’s appeal to eco-conscious consumers, particularly in the expanding e-commerce sector.

5. Strengthening Stakeholder Collaboration

• Our extensive experience underscores the importance of strong relationships and open communication with all stakeholders, from carriers to ground handlers to customs authorities. We facilitate these connections to ensure smoother operations, quicker turnarounds, and efficient problem resolution.

6. Comprehensive Contingency Planning

• In logistics, preparation for the unexpected is vital. That's why we stress the importance of robust contingency planning, ensuring readiness for multiple scenarios to minimize disruptions. Our expertise ensures that you’re prepared with alternative routes, carriers, and transport modes whenever needed.

Leveraging Data for Strategic Advantage

Data is a powerful asset in the modern logistics landscape. At SecurCapital, we empower our partners with cutting-edge analytics tools to forecast demand, manage inventory, and optimize shipping routes. By harnessing data effectively, we help you anticipate capacity shortages, control costs, and ensure customer satisfaction through reliable, on-time deliveries.

Setting the Course for Success

While the air cargo market is set to face challenges in the coming months, the right strategies and a trusted partner like SecurCapital can turn these challenges into opportunities for growth. With our deep industry knowledge and hands-on experience, we are here to help you tackle the complexities of this evolving market.

At SecurCapital, we are dedicated to guiding our partners and stakeholders toward success in the global world of logistics. Let us help you not only weather the current turbulence but also build a foundation for a more resilient and prosperous future.

Partner with SecurCapital today to discover how our experience, insights, and innovative solutions can strengthen your logistics strategy during the peak season and beyond. We're here to help you excel in an ever-changing air cargo landscape.

Embracing Technology, Valuing Tradition: The Future of M&A at SecurCapital

June 15th, 2024

The logistics sector may face another significant challenge as U.S. dockworkers brace for a potential strike at major American ports. According to recent reports from The Wall Street Journal, tensions are escalating over ongoing contract negotiations between dockworkers and port operators, raising concerns of possible disruptions that could impact supply chains across the nation.

The Situation at a Glance

The potential strike involves thousands of dockworkers at key U.S. ports, including the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, which handle a substantial portion of the country’s imports and exports. Negotiations have stalled over key issues such as wages, job security, and automation, with both sides digging in as the expiration date of the current contract looms.

A strike at these ports could lead to severe disruptions in the flow of goods, affecting industries reliant on timely imports and exports, from consumer goods to manufacturing. The uncertainty is prompting shippers, logistics providers, and businesses to make contingency plans to mitigate potential delays and increased costs.

Potential Impacts on the Logistics Sector

1. Delays and Bottlenecks: A strike could create significant delays and bottlenecks, as goods pile up at ports awaiting processing. This disruption could ripple throughout the supply chain, causing delays in deliveries and impacting inventory levels for businesses nationwide.

2. Rising Transportation Costs: If dockworkers strike, transportation costs could rise as companies look for alternative routes and modes of transport to move goods. This shift could also lead to increased demand for air freight and trucking services, pushing up prices.

3. Supply Chain Adjustments: Companies may need to adjust their supply chain strategies, including rerouting shipments to alternative ports, increasing inventory levels, or diversifying suppliers to minimize the impact of potential port closures or delays.

SecurCapital’s Recommendations for Navigating Potential Disruptions

At SecurCapital, we understand the critical nature of these developments and are closely monitoring the situation to support our partners and stakeholders. Here’s how we recommend preparing for potential disruptions:

• Enhance Supply Chain Visibility: Leverage real-time tracking and data analytics to gain better visibility into your supply chain, allowing you to quickly adapt to any changes or delays.

• Diversify Shipping Routes and Partners: Consider alternative ports, carriers, and transportation modes to ensure flexibility in the face of potential disruptions.

• Increase Inventory Levels: Evaluate your inventory strategy and consider building safety stock to buffer against potential supply chain interruptions.

• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest updates regarding the negotiations and potential strike. Understanding the evolving landscape will help you make timely and informed decisions.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

As the situation develops, SecurCapital remains committed to being your trusted partner, offering insights and solutions to help navigate this period of uncertainty. We are here to provide guidance, support, and innovative logistics strategies to keep your business moving forward, no matter the challenges ahead.

Contact SecurCapital today to learn how we can help you prepare for potential disruptions and optimize your logistics strategy in an unpredictable market environment. With our experience and expertise, we’re here to help you stay ahead of the curve.

Embracing Technology, Valuing Tradition: The Future of M&A at SecurCapital

May 29th, 2024

Generative AI (Gen AI) is transforming mergers and acquisitions (M&A), offering faster and more accurate ways to source potential partners and streamline due diligence and integration processes. At SecurCapital, we’re excited about these advancements, but the core of successful business relationships remains face-to-face interactions, firm handshakes, and diligent groundwork.

Leveraging Gen AI in M&A

Gen AI helps us process large volumes of data efficiently, identify potential targets with greater precision, summarize key documents, surface risks, and draft initial memoranda. This efficiency allows us to focus more on the strategic and cultural fit of potential targets, making better-informed decisions that align with our long-term goals.

The Importance of Personal Connections

Despite the benefits of Gen AI, the heart of successful M&A lies in personal connections. Face-to-face meetings, firm handshakes, and understanding a partner’s vision and values build trust and lay the foundation for successful integrations and long-term partnerships.

By automating data-intensive tasks, we can dedicate more time to these crucial aspects of M&A, ensuring every deal is built on genuine connections and shared objectives.

Balancing Innovation with Tradition

At SecurCapital, we embrace the efficiencies provided by Gen AI while remaining committed to the personal relationships that drive our success. By balancing innovation with tradition, we handle the complexities of modern M&A while staying true to our core values.

As we explore the potential of Gen AI, we remain steadfast in our belief that M&A is fundamentally about people. The personal connections we build, the trust we establish, and the mutual respect we cultivate are the true drivers of success in any deal. At SecurCapital, we look forward to many more successful partnerships, grounded in both technological innovation and timeless human values.

Strategic Partnerships in Logistics: How BIG Logistics Powers Through Market Upswings

April 10th, 2024

The recent uplift in the logistics landscape presents both opportunities and challenges, as U.S. retailers adjust their import forecasts upwards for the first half of 2024. Amidst this backdrop of optimism, with a projected 11% increase in imports over the previous year, the strategic selection of logistics partners becomes a defining factor for businesses aiming to thrive. The increase, as highlighted by the National Retail Federation (NRF) alongside Hackett Associates, not only marks a significant uptick from earlier estimates but also sets the stage for a critical evaluation of supply chain strategies.

In this environment of accelerated growth and occasional disruptions, such as the Port of Baltimore incident, the value of a resilient and adaptable logistics partner cannot be overstated. BIG Logistics stands out as a pivotal partner for businesses seeking to capitalize on these market trends. With a comprehensive array of services that encompass freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and beyond, BIG Logistics is uniquely positioned to support clients in leveraging the upswing to their advantage.

Our expertise extends into navigating complex logistics landscapes with precision and efficiency. The introduction of new services by ocean carriers, signaling their confidence in sustained consumer demand, echoes our belief in the resilience of the market. BIG Logistics is aligned with these industry movements, ensuring our clients' supply chains are optimized for both current conditions and future growth.

The notable increase in U.S. imports from Asia — a 40% rise in February alone — further underlines the robustness of consumer demand and the essential role of adept logistics strategies. BIG Logistics’ proactive approach to these developments enables our clients to not just react to market changes but to anticipate and harness them for strategic advantage.

What sets BIG Logistics apart in this dynamic market is not just our ability to manage the complexities of global trade but our commitment to forging strong partnerships with our clients. We believe in collaborative strategies that align with our clients’ objectives, crafting tailored solutions that enhance operational efficiency and drive growth. Our agility in adapting to market shifts, combined with our industry-leading expertise, positions us as the partner of choice for businesses navigating the opportunities and challenges of global logistics.

As the logistics sector continues to evolve, the importance of selecting a logistics partner with the foresight and capability to support sustained growth becomes increasingly apparent. BIG Logistics is dedicated to empowering our clients through this phase of market optimism. Our approach is centered on understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client, ensuring their supply chains are not just resilient but also primed for success in a competitive global market.

Strategic Expansion and Market Position Enhancement in the US Logistics Sector

MArch 5th, 2024

In a logistics landscape marked by fluctuating conditions and the ongoing need for adaptability, SecurCapital is actively pursuing strategies aimed at expanding our presence and reinforcing our position in the marketplace. The current soft freight market presents unique opportunities for strategic acquisitions that can provide valuable assets and capabilities, enabling us to serve our clients more effectively and expand our geographical footprint.

Strategic Acquisitions: A Pathway to Expansion

The case of RK Logistics' acquisition of On Time Trucking illuminates a path we find compelling. By embracing a similar strategy, SecurCapital is not just looking to expand territorially but also to enhance our service offerings. This approach aligns with our mission to provide comprehensive logistics solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients.

By understanding the importance of both capital and strategic resources for growth, we see these acquisitions as a way to introduce our advanced logistics solutions to a wider audience and to access new markets, such as the essential New York City area. Integrating our logistics practices and technologies can then further drive efficiency and sustainability in our operations.

SecurCapital's Vision for the Future of Logistics

In this context, our focus is on identifying potential partners that align with our core values and operational philosophy. In much the same way that RK Logistics found a valuable partner in On Time Trucking, SecurCapital is on the lookout for companies that not only bring geographical advantage but also share our commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer service.

This strategic direction is underpinned by a thorough analysis of market dynamics and potential acquisition targets. Our goal is to ensure that any new addition to the SecurCapital family is well-positioned to contribute to our long-term vision of becoming a leading logistics provider in the US.

Partnerships and Growth: The Road Ahead

As we move forward, continuity in customer service remains a priority. We aim to modernize and scale operations while preserving the unique strengths and local expertise of our new partners. This balanced approach will enable us to address the complex logistics challenges of today and tomorrow, reinforcing our commitment to delivering unparalleled value to our clients.

SecurCapital is navigating through these exciting times with a clear strategy: to achieve significant growth while enhancing the value we deliver to our clients. By carefully selecting acquisitions and venturing into new territories, we are not only expanding our capabilities but also setting new benchmarks in the logistics sector. To learn more about our growth journey or to explore investment opportunities with SecurCapital, we invite you to connect with us. Together, we can redefine the future of logistics, creating sustainable value for our clients and stakeholders alike.

Adapting to Intermodal Service Changes: BIG’s Strategy for New Logistics Landscapes

February 26th, 2024

In light of Norfolk Southern's recent cancellation of intermodal services to the Midwest, our team at BIG Logistics is at the forefront, offering reliable Domestic Transportation solutions through strategic partnerships. This adjustment highlights the importance of adaptable logistics services in ensuring cargo continuity. Discover how BIG Logistics is helping shippers navigate these changes, emphasizing our commitment to not leaving any shipper behind and keeping the supply chain moving smoothly.

Steering Through Trucking Challenges & Positioning for 2024 Market Rebound

February 2nd, 2024

SecurCapital navigated a challenging logistics landscape last year with a forward-thinking, conservative approach. Despite the closure of thousands of trucking companies due to the post-Covid market collapse, we persevered and charted a path for sustainable growth. Since BIG Logistics' core business is non-trucking asset-based, we avoided the turbulent retail trucking market, which positioned us for growth opportunities in 2024.

As we advance into the first quarter, the industry braces for a cautious phase, emphasizing efficiencies, cost control for profit goals, and disciplined cash management.

Vinod Baliga, CEO of BIG Logistics, captures the essence of our strategy, stating, "Domestic & Cross Border, customs, surface, air, and intermodal transportation become the key component of ‘First and Last Mile’ Services in BIG Logistics integrated, end-to-end, Supply Chain solution." This sentiment underscores the comprehensive nature of our efforts to respond to market changes.

Integrating Strategic Vision with Mike Lemmer's Leadership

In our commitment to domestic growth, we have welcomed Mike Lemmer as EVP of Domestic Services at B.I.G. Logistics. Mike, with his impressive background in logistics, including pivotal leadership roles at GEODIS, ArcBest, and Panther Premium Logistics, has immediately expanded our team and domestic services. His expertise in building profitable, customer-centric supply chain solutions aligns with our goals for 2024.

Under Mike's leadership, we are enhancing our focus on customer relationships by building a veteran national sales team. His approach, grounded in integrity and a deep understanding of the logistics industry, is instrumental in driving organic growth.

Positioning for Market Recovery and Growth

There are early signs of recovery in 2024.The trucking industry, driven by improved consumer purchasing power and positive retail sales trends, is gradually rebalancing capacity. This shift is anticipated to increase truckload spot rates and a more balanced market environment. We believe our timing is perfect with the launch of our expanded domestic services platform.

Moreover, the rise in container imports and intermodal volumes, coupled with the expected increase in manufacturing, aligns perfectly with our growth plan. While we may see volatility in the first and second quarters of 2024, we are positioned for the long haul.

As the trucking industry embarks on a path of recovery and growth, we look forward to the opportunities ahead. If you'd like to learn more about our efforts and those of our subsidiaries or want to invest in our growth, connect with us today.

BIG Take: "Navigating Cross-Border Challenges"

January 29th, 2024

As the Mexico/Texas border grapples with logistical challenges and Texas sees an e-commerce surge, BIG Logistics stands as a pivotal ally. Their all-encompassing services and a profound grasp of the changing landscape provide businesses with a trusted navigator during these complex times. From addressing cross-border disruptions to integrating e-commerce, BIG Logistics is at the vanguard of delivering innovative, efficient logistics solutions.

Positioned for Growth: Transborder Freight Surge

January 26th, 2024

In November 2023, the total value of transborder freight between the U.S. and its North American partners, Canada and Mexico, was reported to be $131.0 billion, marking a 4.1% increase compared to November 2022. Specifically, freight between the U.S. and Canada was valued at $65.2 billion, showing a 2.8% increase from the previous year. These figures illustrate the overall upward trend in transborder freight activities during this period.

In alignment with this growth, we have effectively positioned ourselves over the past three years, anticipating the increasing demand in transborder freight. We offer comprehensive Door-to-door, turn-key solutions, ensuring a streamlined and efficient freight transition across borders. With a strong operational presence in crucial logistical points such as Laredo and Nuevo Laredo, our team is adept at navigating the complexities of transborder logistics, providing expert customs brokerage services on both sides of the border, facilitating a smooth and expedited movement of goods.

This strategic approach and commitment to providing integrated solutions underscore our pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency and reliability of North American transborder freight operations.

Building Over Buying: SecurCapital's Holistic Investment Approach

January 16th, 2024

The logistics industry, a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector, has captured the attention of venture capital (VC) and private equity (PE) firms worldwide. In this article, we will delve into the distinct approaches of VC and PE investments in logistics and highlight SecurCapital's unique strategy that emphasizes not just on financial metrics, but also on culture, people, veteran ownership for how long, historical customer base, mission, and vision in our investment choices.

VC vs. PE Investment Styles

VCs have been pivotal in infusing capital into logistics, with a keen focus on emerging technologies and supply chain solutions. VC or Angel Investors typically invest in high-growth companies with advanced technologies in the supply chain. They are often “early and speculative, taking a shot at emerging technology and niche market sectors,” says Steve Russell, CEO, SecurCapital. The early engagement garners large blocks of preferred shares and, normally, Board representation.

Contrastingly, PE firms seek opportunities in inefficiencies and underutilization within the logistics industry. Their investments often aim to boost operational efficiency and profitability, especially in mid-market companies with the potential for higher EBITDA multiples and lower risk profiles. They swiftly implement synergies and downsizing to drive margin improvements. The engagement involves extensive due diligence, Board representation, equity, debt facilities and leans on accounts.

SecurCapital's Visionary 'Build Over Buy' Strategy

At SecurCapital, our approach builds upon the foundational focus on assets and EBITDA. As we identify M&A targets, we also prioritize companies that align with our core values of culture, veteran employees, private owners, and a solid legacy customer base. This strategy is key to providing a win-win environment for both organizations with minimal disruption to the organizational culture.

We believe that the true value of a company lies in its people and culture. Our investment decisions are guided by how well a company's culture aligns with our values and its potential to contribute positively to our roll-up model. We seek to partner with businesses that have proven profitability and clear mission and those that are committed to their teams and communities, which align with our foundation activities.

Building companies from scratch poses unique challenges, including the need for significant capital and a longer timeframe for returns. At SecurCapital, we tackle these challenges with a strategic multimodal approach, focused on organic expansion and niche high-yielding markets like cross-border, pharma, aviation, cold chain, light manufacturing, and e-fulfillment leveraging our industry expertise and a vast network to create a manageable balance of risk and reward.

SecurCapital's 'build over buy' philosophy reflects our dedication to not just financial success, but also to nurturing a positive and innovative culture in the logistics sector. We are committed to shaping the future of logistics through sustainable and people-centric investments.

If you are interested in learning more about our investment strategies or exploring opportunities to invest with us, we invite you to reach out.

September 28th, 2023

Merger Sets the Stage for Streamlined Access to Customized Lending Solutions for Small Business Clients Nationwide.

CHARLESTON, SC / PR NEWSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Breakout Capital, a leading fintech company simplifying access to term loans for small businesses, is delighted to announce the successful merger of 12Five Capital, a Chicago-based commercial finance company with a focus on factoring, purchase order financing and asset-based lending.  The merger, facilitated by Altriarch Commercial Finance, Inc., the new parent company of both Breakout and 12Five, establishes a strategic alliance with a day-one portfolio exceeding $80 million.  The synergistic move unites two enterprises dedicated to addressing the ever-changing needs of small businesses across the United States and sets the stage for further expansion within commercial finance.

This strategic alliance aims to establish a comprehensive suite of specialized financial products designed to address the unique challenges that small business owners face.  By offering a wider range of products, the combined organization will enhance the client experience with convenient access to term loans, factoring, purchase order financing and asset-based lending, all under one roof.

Both companies were founded on the principle of being a trusted lender for businesses struggling to obtain conventional financing.  Breakout Capital, founded in 2015, has maintained an unwavering commitment to transparency by encouraging a culture that embraces open lines of communication between borrowers and lenders.  Since 2010, 12Five Capital has been serving the needs of emerging businesses that may find traditional bank financing unsuitable or inaccessible by offering innovative financing programs with a focus on product education and long-term partnership as the business grows.

“At the core of our mission lies a pledge to always put our clients first,” said McLean Wilson, CEO and President of Breakout Capital.  “With the needs of our clients front and center, we aim to provide personalized support and customized financial solutions that empower business owners to succeed.  This strategic merger will not only provide our clients with access to a wider variety of in-house financing options, but it will also reinforce our shared commitment to growth and innovation.  Together, we’re excited to take the next step toward a brighter financial future for our clients and our business.”

Ryan Jaskiewicz, CEO of 12Five Capital, added, “I am thrilled about this merger, which is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our core values.  At 12Five, we’ve always believed in running our business not just for profit, but for a purpose.  Our culture, built on strong values and driven by technology, has been the backbone of our success.  When I founded 12Five, my vision was to provide essential capital to underserved businesses and be their first choice, not the last.  Our focus has always been on accelerating our clients’ progress in both their businesses and lives, all while upholding the highest standards of ethics and integrity.  By joining forces with Breakout Capital, we amplify our commitment to this mission.  We share a common culture, values, and a dedication to harnessing technology for innovative solutions that will drive our clients forward.”

Wilson will serve the combined firm as Co-Chief Executive Officer alongside Danielle Brown who joins the firm also as Co-CEO.  Jaskiewicz, who will serve as the firm’s Chief Strategy Officer, has been entrusted with the responsibility of corporate strategic planning, technology innovation and leading the highly critical asset-based lending and factoring divisions for the company.  His vast experience and expertise in these areas will enable him to execute his crucial role in steering the company towards further growth and product expansion.

About Breakout Capital

Breakout Capital, headquartered in Charleston, SC, with offices in McLean, VA, is one of the fastest growing fintech companies in the nation, offering transparent and innovative small business lending solutions.  As a strong advocate for small business growth, Breakout is dedicated to increased transparency and the adoption of best practices within the alternative capital industry.

Since 2015, Breakout has provided nearly $500 million in funding to small businesses in every corner of the U.S.  To learn more, visit breakoutfinance.com, or its social media pages on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About 12Five Capital

12Five Capital provides a variety of business financing services, including factoring, purchase order finance, asset-based lines of credit, inventory, and equipment lending.  The company was founded in 2010 to fill a gap in the market and serve an underserved portion of the community by making the business financing process simple for all companies, regardless of size.

Since its inception, 12Five has operated based on a strong set of core values and a culture that places a premium on innovation and technology.  The company has consistently sought to be the first choice of business financing for its clients by hiring top-quality employees who share its philosophy and mindset.  12Five Capital has become a trusted name in the industry, known for its commitment to providing quality services and unparalleled customer support.

The company’s emphasis on culture, values, and the integration of cutting-edge technology has been instrumental in its success.  This focus is expected to be further enhanced through its merger with Breakout Capital, as the company continues to innovate and create new and transformative solutions for its clients.  To learn more, visit 12five.com or its social media pages on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

B.I.G. Logistics launches centralized logistics operating system on a single global database

February 16th, 2023

Dallas, Texas – February 14th, 2023 —B.I.G. Logistics LLC, a SecurCapital Corp company, today announced a new partnership with CargoWise, the leading industry provider of global logistics and supply chain management IT solutions. industry leader provider global logistics and supply chain management IT solutions. This partnership will allow B.I.G. Logistics to significantly expand its international reach and enhance its ability to provide comprehensive logistics services to its customers around the world optimizing operations across borders, regulatory boundaries, compliance and all freight modes.

B.I.G. Logistics, LLC is a leading third-party logistics provider (3PL) and technology-enabled warehouse management IT platform with warehouses throughout Texas and along the Mexican border.

B.I.G. Logistics CEO Vinod Baliga shared, “B.I.G. Logistics is excited to be Live on the CargoWise platform, which was selected as the ERP system of choice for our Supply Chain Logistics Services, because of its robust international solution and alignment with our strategic growth initiatives and objectives. Being that both of our current M&A additions were existing CargoWise users, the migration has been seamless and will allow our company to offer a fully integrated database solution to our market with visibility and E2E intel in the Supply Chain.”

CargoWise is industry recognized as the most comprehensive, end-to-end, global logistics platform. In addition to providing real time visibility and automation tools, the platform supports deep integration data flows to international airline carriers, ocean shipping lines, and air and seaports. Documentation is fully automated from the initial quotation through booking, in-transit, warehouse and invoicing for real-time operations and financial integration.

The timing of the CargoWise implementation is a perfect strategic fit for the B.I.G. Logistics multi-year expansion. The real value is upgrading the existing client functionality and efficiency with real time visibility and reporting through the entire shipment workflow and easily scaling the platform for both new client on-boarding and new M&A activity.

Equally important is all the customs documentation required for international clearance on each shipment through air and seaports. The platform is purposedly designed to provide both multi-currency and multi-lingual functionality covering the entire documentation compliance.

Always striving to improve the client experience through operational efficiencies, B.I.G. Logistics and their operational teams have the pre-eminent platform in supporting their expanded customer base – real time alerts and visibility on shipping status, operational automation from quotation through invoicing, and integrated customs clearance.

Steve Russell, CEO & Founder, SecurCapital Corp added: “Adding CargoWise a proven global operating system to our suite of technology solutions greatly complements our stack of services and adds visibility for our cross-border ecommerce which is time-sensitive and complex. As we add acquisitions integrating within weeks to one global platform will give the group a real competitive edge in the market.”

About B.I.G. Logistics

Texas-based B.I.G. Logistics is a group of financial, technology and logistics industry professionals, handling domestic and international transportation end-to-end supply chain solutions.  The firm currently has three state-of-the-art facilities in Texas: Alliance Fort Worth (AFW), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW), and El Paso (ELP). B.I.G. Logistics operates a field office located in Houston (IAH), and a new field office in Huntsville, Alabama and West Coast gateway office in Los Angeles, California.

For more information visit: www.biglogistics.com

About Xcell Logistics Services, Inc.

Xcell Logistics was established in 1992 in Mexico and the USA. The company offers fully integrated customs brokerage and international air and ocean services as well as LTL, FTL and flatbed trucking throughout Canada, the USA, and Mexico. Xcell has eight offices including the group’s headquarters in Mexico City and Guadalajara, Monterrey, Laredo, Nuevo Laredo, Manzanillo, Lazaro Cardenas, and Veracruz.

For more information visit: https://xcell-logistic.com.

About SecurCapital Corp

SecurCapital and its investment portfolio operating companies are proven supply chain, financial services, and 3PL warehouse operators and lenders empowering logistics and diverse businesses within domestic and international markets. The company was founded in 2017 headquartered in Los Angeles, CA and is operated by logistics, “cloud pioneers” and financial services veterans. SecurCapital offers a broad range of services to mid-tier logistics and other enterprises. The company provides mission-critical end-to-end supply chain services with proven Mexican cross-border turnkey operations. For more information visit http://www.securcapital.com.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Investor Relations: Stephen Russell, +1 (818) 461-2109

Media Contact: Scott Case, +1 (630) 410-2059

XCELL LOGISTICS featured in recent Freightwaves Article

February 5th, 2023

Cross-border trade presents a significant opportunity for businesses looking to grow and reach new markets. With the increasing demand for border-related services, companies like Xcell Logistics are well-positioned to help businesses navigate the complexities of cross-border trade and take advantage of the opportunities it presents.

Whether you are a business looking to expand your reach or a logistics company seeking to meet the needs of growing businesses, cross-border trade is definitely worth exploring.

Enjoy the full article here on Freightwaves: https://www.freightwaves.com/news/borderlands-xcell-logistics-sees-big-opportunities-with-crossborder-trade

B.I.G. Logistics Secures Growth and Acquisition Financing from Serengeti Asset Management

February 1St, 2023

Fort Worth, TX – January 31st, 2023 — B.I.G. Logistics, a SecurCapital Corp portfolio company and leading third-party logistics provider (3PL) deploying a technology-enabled warehouse management IT platform throughout Texas and Mexico, has secured an investment from a New York-based financial institution, Serengeti Asset Management.  The investment will accelerate acquisition roll-up opportunities, implementation of the technology-enabled logistics platform and expansion of its domestic, Americas cross-border and international transportation end-to-end supply chain solutions.

“We are pleased to have Serengeti as a key strategic capital partner,” said Steve Russell, Group CEO and Chairman of SecurCapital and its investment portfolio company B.I.G Logistics. “Their investment will allow us to accelerate our revenue growth, expand our Aerospace & Aviation division and pursue additional targeted acquisitions to build upon the global logistics businesses we have acquired.”

The latest financing provided by Serengeti builds upon previous rounds alongside New York-based SOJA Ventures, who also provided capital for BIG Logistics’ M&A strategy, including its recent acquisitions of Xcell Logistics Services, Inc. in Texas, and Xcell Logistics Corporation in Mexico. B.I.G.’s core strategy has been to expand its footprint for warehouses and customs brokerage operations on both sides of the Mexican-US border.

Ian Hulshof, Associate, SOJA; Simon Swig, Co-Founder, SOJA; Steve Russell, Founder/CEO, SecurCapital Corp; Aria Vossoughi, Head of Revenue Finance, Serengeti AM; Jake Truen, Co-Founder, SOJA, Oliver Swig, Co-Founder, SOJA and David Hulshof, Director, SecurCapital Corp.

“We are delighted to expand our investment in B.I.G. Logistics,” said Jody LaNasa, Founder, Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of Serengeti Asset Management.  “We strongly believe that B.I.G. Logistics’ technology-enabled global transportation logistics platform improves the supply-chain solutions for its clients, and its roll-up strategy of acquiring logistics companies will result in significant value accretion.” 

B.I.G Logistics’ mission is to transform logistics and domestic transportation services with technology and a customer-first related approach and to become the preferred logistics partner in the customer’s global supply chain.

To learn more about B.I.G. Logistics visit www.biglogistics.com and SecurCapital visit www.securcapital.com or follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. 

About Serengeti Asset Management

Founded in 2007 by Jody LaNasa, Serengeti is an opportunistic value-driven investment firm focused on providing flexible capital solutions for innovative private companies and its shareholders. Our capital solutions seek to address complex situations through structure and creativity. Serengeti manages capital for institutional investors including pensions, endowments, and large family offices.

For more information visit: www.serengeti-am.com

About SOJA Ventures

New York-based Family Office and alternative investment firm investing venture debt and equity in technology-focused growth companies. The firm is an extension of the Swig Family Office with a unique combination of experienced growth advisors specializing in lower middle market structured debt, alternative credit financings, and equity investments. 

For more information visit: www.sojaventures.com

About B.I.G. Logistics

Texas based B.I.G. Logistics is a group of financial, technology and logistics industry professionals, handling domestic and international transportation end-to-end supply chain solutions.  The firm currently has three state-of-the-art facilities in Texas: Alliance Fort Worth (AFW), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW), and El Paso (ELP). B.I.G. Logistics operates a field office located in Houston (IAH), and a new field office in Huntsville, Alabama and West Coast gateway office in Los Angeles, California.

For more information visit: www.biglogistics.com

About Xcell Logistics Services, Inc.

Xcell Logistics was established in 1992 in Mexico and the USA. The company offers fully integrated customs brokerage and international air and ocean services as well as LTL, FTL and flatbed trucking throughout Canada, the USA, and Mexico. Xcell has eight offices including the group’s headquarters in Mexico City and Guadalajara, Monterrey, Laredo, Nuevo Laredo, Manzanillo, Lazaro Cardenas, and Veracruz.

For more information visit: https://xcell-logistic.com.

About SecurCapital Corp

SecurCapital and its investment portfolio operating companies are proven supply chain, financial services, and 3PL warehouse operators and lenders empowering logistics and diverse businesses within domestic and international markets. The company was founded in 2017 headquartered in Los Angeles, CA and is operated by logistics, “cloud pioneers” and financial services veterans. SecurCapital offers a broad range of services to customers domestically and internationally, wholesalers, distributors, and mid-tier logistics enterprises. The company’s portfolio companies provide mission-critical end-to-end supply chain services with proven Mexican cross-border turnkey operations and custom brokerage.

For more information visit http://www.securcapital.com.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Investor Relations: Stephen Russell, +1 (818) 461-2109

Media Contact: Scott Case, +1 (630) 410-2059

Xcell Logistics Services, a B.I.G. Logistics company, expands warehousing presence in Laredo, TX with second 3PL facility

January 24th, 2023

Laredo, Texas – January 24th, 2023 — Xcell Logistics Services today announced the opening of an additional warehouse in Laredo, Texas. Recently acquired by Dallas-based B.I.G. Logistics, the new facility located at 502 Nafta Blvd will meet the growing demand for the company's logistics services in the region and further solidify B.I.G. Logistics' presence on both sides of the border offering critical north and southbound customs brokerage, transportation and warehousing services.

B.I.G. Logistics, LLC, a SecurCapital Corp portfolio company, is a leading third-party logistics provider (3PL) deploying a technology-enabled warehouse management IT platform in warehouses throughout Texas and Mexico with plans to open a Santa Teresa, New Mexico facility later this year.

 Cedric Sosa, Xcell Logistics Companies CEO, said, “ We are delighted to immediately expand our 3PL warehouse footprint in Laredo’s crucial cross-border, high-demand market after our merger with B.I.G. Logistics.

 He further offered, “We are in the right place at the right time,” sharing compelling figures about the cross-border traffic awaiting the combined companies. “Year to date, Laredo represents 37% of trade by value between the US and Mexico with a figure of $243.8 billion. For importers and exporters on both sides of the border, Xcell Logistic Corporation in Mexico offers wide coverage of existing offices in all major ports of entry enabling cross-border, single turnkey solutions for our USA and global customers.”

B.I.G. Logistics CEO Vinod Baliga added, “You can never have too many additional warehouses and cross dock facilities for our expanding customer base in Laredo. We have now completed our strategic Texas footprint, including a second facility in Laredo. B.I.G. now operates on the border with our legacy station in El Paso and added Laredo presence and our seven new Xcell stations in Mexico. This positions B.I.G. Logistics as a dominant supply chain solutions provider on both sides of the border.”

 Jointly, the companies offer pharmaceutical-licensed, 3PL cross dock and temperature-controlled warehouses, fulfillment, transload, customs brokerage, and operate Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) facilities, light manufacturing, and e-commerce services. The new combined companies offer complete lifecycle management of international and domestic air, ocean, ground, custom brokerage, and project cargo.

 Steve Russell, CEO, SecurCapital, said: “We’re excited to rapidly expand our warehouse capabilities just weeks after the acquisition of Xcell Logistic Services in Laredo and Mexico. Our high-quality infrastructure logistics platform supports our Fortune 500 clients and active domestic and international agent networks as a clear logistics leader on both sides of the southern border.”

About Xcell Logistics Services, Inc.

Xcell Logistics was established in 1992 in Mexico and the USA. The company offers fully integrated customs brokerage and international air and ocean services as well as LTL, FTL and flatbed trucking throughout Canada, the USA, and Mexico. Xcell has eight offices including the group’s headquarters in Mexico City and Guadalajara, Monterrey, Laredo, Nuevo Laredo, Manzanillo, Lazaro Cardenas, and Veracruz. For more information visit: https://xcell-logistic.com

 About B.I.G. Logistics, LLC 

In 2016, a group of financial, technology and logistics industry professionals with aggressive growth plans and strong financial backing acquired a twenty-five-year-old company KFS, Inc. and rebranded it as B.I.G. Logistics, LLC acquired by SecurCapital Corp in April 2021. The firm currently has three state-of-the-art facilities in Texas:  Alliance Fort Worth (AFW), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW), and El Paso (ELP). B.I.G. Logistics operates a field office located in Houston (IAH), and a new field office in Huntsville, Alabama and West Coast gateway office in Los Angeles, California. For more information, visit https://www.B.I.G.Logistics.com.

About SecurCapital Corp

SecurCapital and its investment portfolio operating companies are proven supply chain, financial services, and 3PL warehouse operators and lenders empowering logistics and diverse businesses within domestic and international markets. The company was founded in 2017 headquartered in Los Angeles, CA and is operated by logistics, “cloud pioneers” and financial services veterans. SecurCapital offers a broad range of services to customers domestically and internationally, wholesalers, distributors, and mid-tier logistics enterprises. The company’s portfolio companies provide mission-critical end-to-end supply chain services with proven Mexican cross-border turnkey operations and custom brokerage. For more information visit http://www.securcapital.com.

B.I.G. Logistics Acquires Leading USA Border, Mexican Customs Broker, and Third-Party Logistics Provider Xcell Logistic Services Inc.

December 20th, 2022

Dallas, Texas - December 19, 2022 — B.I.G. Logistics today announced the acquisitions of privately-owned Xcell Logistic Services, Inc., and Xcell Logistics Corporation in Mexico.

B.I.G. Logistics, a SecurCapital Corp company, is a leading third-party logistics provider (3PL) and technology-enabled warehouse management IT platform with warehouses throughout Texas and along the Mexican border. Xcell Logistic Services is a 3PL and customs broker with warehouses in Laredo, Texas. Xcell Logistics Corporation, headquartered in Mexico City, has offices in key Mexican ports, industrial hub cities and border crossings with the United States.

 
Jointly, the companies offer pharmaceutical-licensed, 3PL cross-dock and temperature-controlled warehouses, fulfillment, transload, border brokerage, container examination station (CES), operate and manage Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) facilities and light manufacturing and e-commerce services. The new combined companies offer the management of international and domestic air, ocean, ground transport, custom brokerage, and project cargo.

Xcell Logistics Companies Founder and Chairman Roberto Sosa offers, “The acquisition of Xcell by B.I.G. Logistics signifies the importance of Xcell’ presence in cross border market and will only catapult the company to higher success.  This is proof of the dedication over the last 25 years and will help with the footprint B.I.G. and the group is looking to achieve globally.  I wish them all the best of luck and feel happy that our company ends up in the right hands.”

B.I.G. Logistics CEO Vinod Baliga added, “It is our pleasure and privilege to welcome Cedric Sosa and the Xcell Logistics team to the B.I.G. Logistics family. As a SecurCapital company, we have now completed our strategic Texas footprint. B.I.G. now operates on the border with our legacy station in El Paso and an added Laredo presence, as well as an additional seven stations in Mexico via this acquisition. This positions B.I.G. Logistics as a dominant supply chain logistics solutions provider on both sides of the border.”

Cedric Sosa, Xcell Logistics Companies CEO, echoes; “We are in the right place at the right time” offering compelling figures about the cross-border traffic awaiting the combined companies. “Year to date, Laredo represents 37% of trading between the US and Mexico with a figure of $243.8 billion. For importers and exports on both sides of the border, Xcell Logistic Corporation in Mexico offers wide coverage of existing offices in all major ports of entry enabling cross-border, single turnkey solutions for our USA and global customers.”

Steve Russell, CEO, SecurCapital, said: “We’re excited to add Xcell Logistic Services in Laredo and Mexico to our high-quality infrastructure logistics platform to support our Fortune 500 clients and active domestic and international agent networks as a clear logistics leader on both sides of the Mexico border, supporting an ever-booming supply chain market. The acquisition is a key part of our M&A rollup strategy that will accelerate in 2023 with the support of our investors and recent investment in B.I.G. Logistics by New York-based Serengeti Asset Management.”

“There is a tremendous team of experienced professionals in place under the leadership of highly respected industry veterans like Cedric Sosa, now Group CEO of Xcell Logistics Services, Vinod Baliga, CEO of B.I.G. Logistics and Scott Peavler, CSO of B.I.G. Logistics Aerospace & Aviation that will allow us to quickly implement new customer contracts to grow revenue, pursue targeted acquisitions and expand organically through the opening of new stations soon to include a new distribution center in Santa Teresa, New Mexico,” he added.
 

About B.I.G. Logistics, LLC 
In 2016, a group of financial, technology and logistics industry professionals with aggressive growth plans and strong financial backing acquired a twenty-five-year-old company KFS, Inc. and rebranded it as B.I.G. Logistics, LLC. The firm currently has three state of the art facilities in Texas:  Alliance Fort Worth (AFW), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW), and El Paso (ELP). B.I.G. Logistics operates a field office located in Houston (IAH), and is opening a new field office in Huntsville, Alabama and West Coast gateway office in Los Angeles, California. For more information, visit https://www.B.I.G.logistics.com.

About Xcell Logistics Services, Inc.  

Xcell Logistics was established in 1992 in Mexico and the USA. The company offers fully integrated customs brokerage and international air and ocean services as well as LTL, FTL and flatbed trucking throughout Canada, the USA, and Mexico. Xcell has eight offices that including the group’s headquarters in Mexico City and Guadalajara, Monterrey, Laredo, Nuevo Laredo, Manzanillo, Lazaro Cardenas, and Veracruz. For more information visit: https://xcell-logistic.com. 

About SecurCapital Corp
SecurCapital and its investment portfolio operating companies are proven supply chain, financial services, and 3PL warehouse operators and lenders empowering logistics and diverse businesses within domestic and international markets. The company was founded in 2017 headquartered in Los Angeles, CA and is operated by logistics, “cloud pioneers” and financial services veterans. SecurCapital offers a broad range of services to wholesalers, distributors, and mid-tier logistics enterprises. The company provides mission-critical end-to-end supply chain services with proven Mexican cross-border turnkey operations. For more information visit http://www.securcapital.com.

The Importance of Contingencies

October 31st, 2022

It’s important to have contingencies in place, no matter what you’re planning. Whether it be an investment, travel, or cargo logistics. No one knows that better, or does it better, than SecurCapital. We’re always steps ahead, and if you partner with us, you will be too. 

Nothing has made the need for contingencies clearer than the supply chain snarls of the last few years. The pandemic completely changed the logistics landscape with the boom in e-commerce and brought a searing spotlight to shine on the weakest points of the supply chain. 

China’s “zero-Covid” policy lockdowns resulted in a kneecap to the world economy that brought a complete stoppage of production of certain goods for weeks. Industries breathed a collective sigh of relief when those major economic and production hubs opened back up, but it brought the topics of near-shoring and re-shoring to the forefront of many future strategies. Ways to build more elastic and resilient supply chains were suddenly the star topics of conversations.

However, Covid cases are once again on the rise in China and lockdowns are being implemented in key hubs such as Zhengzhou, Tianjin, and Ningbo. Shanghai was presented as an alternative, but cases are on the rise there as well and have resulted in isolated lockdowns within the area. Full lockdowns could set us back where we were only a few months ago with a crippled supply chain, and a stranglehold on the world economy. 

At the Communist Party Congress held last week, President Xi said he had no plans to deviate from the current “zero-Covid” policy. 

Even with congestion starting to ease at ports, if the lockdown trend in China continues, we could see major disruptions to the supply chain once again. From raw materials, to electronics, the US still relies heavily on Chinese imports. 

Watching these trends develop, it’s important to revisit production models and logistics plans to build contingencies within those strategies and stay ahead of the disruption to keep your business growing and your goods moving. Reach out to your reliable, trusted partners at SecurCapital today to rise and meet these challenges together. 

The e-Commerce Boom

October 6th, 2022

During the pandemic, e-commerce experienced exponential growth and now that this is no longer a boom, but the new normal, everyone has had to rethink their strategies to keep up. We all want to provide reliable, stellar service, but in this new environment, what does that look like?

At SecurCapital, it looks like diversification of our portfolio of services. As a 3PL provider, we have the resources and expertise to craft a logistics solution that moves, stores, and delivers your cargo on your schedule and with unsurpassed service. 

Logistics Management reports that US e-commerce sales are projected to pass the $1 trillion mark in 2022, and worldwide, $5.5 trillion. To break it down, $0.22 of every dollar spent will be in the e-market. That’s a lot of opportunity for profit on the table for those willing to do the work. 

Nia Hudson, an analyst for Transport Intelligence Ltd. says,  “Customers continue to shop online more, and for a greater number of categories than ever before. As a result, an increasing number of businesses are choosing to move online to capture a wider audience, particularly small- to mid-sized enterprises.” She goes on to say, “The convenience and speed of online shopping is a big draw for customers, who increasingly expect faster, more accurate delivery times… As e-commerce takes off and the subsequent fulfillment operations become increasingly complex, 3PLs will be rethinking how they can alleviate these complexities for shippers.”

As volumes continue to increase, answers will be found in outside-the-box thinking, new technologies and innovation. Gaining access to these tools isn’t enough, shippers need a strategic partner who can not only access and use these tools, but who is elastic enough to leverage them in the best possible manner to exceed the status quo and grow to meet future demands. 

SecurCapital has an eye on the future and is ready to help you grow into your success. Reach out to us today to discuss your expanding horizons. 

Trade with Mexico Expected to Exceed 1.5 Trillion

September 30th, 2022

By the year 2050, Texas trade with Mexico is expected to exceed 1.5 trillion dollars. If you’re not part of that growth, you’ll be missing out on a massive opportunity to expand your business and shape the future of cross-border trade. SecurCapital is the right partner to help you meet those goals with resources that span from investment capital to 3PL warehousing solutions. 

In 2021, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDot) released their Texas-Mexico Border Transportation Master Plan which allows for new infrastructure and investment to support the trade growth, including a fifth bridge that will connect Lareado, TX to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. 

Border wait times are estimated to have cost both the US and Mexico $2.3 billion dollars from the GDP. So with that growth could come significant loss as well. Analysts say that without updated and expanded infrastructure in both countries, we could be looking at $116 billion in lost GDP.

Caroline Mays, TxDOT’s Director of Freight, Trade and Connectivity had this to say:  “Today, we are at 3.9 million tons of freight annually between Texas and Mexico, and we’re looking at pretty much doubling that by 2050 to 7.2 billion tons. That’s an 80% rate of growth. Trucks dominate the movement of freight around the state of Texas, but we also have rail, water and air that plays a big part of that movement.” She went on to add, “Transportation is where the rubber meets the road. We can’t compete as the North American trading bloc if we don’t address the infrastructure needs that are facing us today.”

In that competitive vein, Kansas City Southern Railroad is building a $75 million dollar rail bridge at the Laredo-Nuevo Laredo crossing. This addition will not only improve rail service, and expand capacity, but it will be an opportunity to grow trade between Canada, US, and Mexico. Freight will be moving cross-border in a constant stream. 

If you’re interested in planning to grow with these new opportunities, reach out to us at SecurCapital today to discuss the great things we can do together. 

Private Equity Invests in the Supply Chain

August 22nd, 2022

In the last year, Private Equity (PE) deals in the US supply chain totaled over $20 billion. A significant number, even before context. However, considering that number was around $7.9 billion in 2020, and $5.9 in 2019, that’s exponential growth. Further, considering that the supply chain has been fraught with challenges and disruption stemming from the Covid lockdowns, congestion from increased e-commerce, war in Ukraine, equipment and worker shortages to name a few, one might wonder, “Why all of the PE interest?” 

Simply put, some of those very issues that have caused the disruptions are driving investment growth. The explosion of e-commerce is a prime landscape because it’s also nurturing innovation. New technologies or adapting others, like drones, for delivery services are changing business models and making them more profitable. 

Partner Rick Giovannelli of law firm K&L Gates LLP says, “It’s a high-demand industry. Many businesses are outsourcing their logistics functions. And we’re still an economy that relies on real physical goods getting places.” He goes on to say, “Increasingly, better deals are at the lower end of the market. PE investors tend to prefer businesses that are light on capital expenditure.They don’t necessarily love to buy a business that owns hundreds of trucks, with environmental issues and a lot of labor.” 

SupplyChainBrain writer Robert J Bowman says,  “...a number of PE shops have set up ‘growth funds,’ which seek not to take control of nascent businesses as do many VCs, but instead provide equity in exchange for a minority stake. And the lines between early seed money and growth equity could continue to blur, as the supply chain and logistics market matures…” 

As focus intensifies on supply chain resiliency, from reshoring, near-shoring, and Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) new Green Trade Strategy, opportunities for both Private and Venture Capital investment will continue to flourish and grow.  

Are you looking to grow, too? SecurCapital and its investment portfolio operating companies are proven supply chain, financial services, and 3PL warehouse operators and lenders empowering logistics and diverse businesses within domestic and international markets. Reach out to SecurCapital today for working capital, term loans and mission-critical end-to-end supply chain service solutions. 

On-Demand Warehousing on the Rise

August 3rd, 2022

For years, retailers embraced what is called the Just-in-Time Model (JIT) when it came to stocking inventory. Investopedia defines JIT as: “The just-in-time (JIT) inventory system is a management strategy that aligns raw-material orders from suppliers directly with production schedules. Companies employ this inventory strategy to increase efficiency and decrease waste by receiving goods only as they need them for the production process, which reduces inventory costs. This method requires producers to forecast demand accurately.” For retailers, this means receiving inventory just before selling it, rather than having it on hand. 

With the boom in e-commerce, and supply chain complications, many companies have turned from a JIT model to a Just-in-Case (JIC) model. In the JIC model, this means keeping more inventory on hand to make sure stock is readily available to consumers. 

However, more stock means more space is needed to store these goods. Traditional warehouse solutions may no longer be viable as a singular option. Supplychainbrain.com reports: “Even with record levels of industrial space under construction, most buildings are pre-leased before construction has even started, and high net absorption rates means construction can’t come fast enough.”

Companies like Flexe are stepping up with short-term, on-demand warehousing solutions. Rather than offering the traditional long-term contracts, they allow companies to scale their warehousing needs based on volume and time needed. Both sides of the partnerships, warehouse owners and companies with logistics needs are utilizing Flexe technology to optimize these processes. It’s exciting because they’re using more than just traditional warehouse space. Property owners can leverage almost any space. For example, unused department store fronts can be utilized as warehouse space in this model. Gartner Research Vice President Dwight Klappich says, “Things are changing more rapidly than many companies could react in the way they previously built their supply chains, which were either heavy capital investment in fixed assets like warehouses or signing multi-year contracts with third-party logistics.”

On-Demand warehousing looks like the future of logistics storage solutions. 

If you’re facing inventory issues, reach out to your trusted partners at SecurCapital. We have the resources to craft personalized solutions to overcome these challenges.

Navigating the New Supply and Demand Landscape

July 31st, 2022

The last few years have brought massive changes to the supply and demand landscape and many of these changes have left fiascos in their wake. Challenges have arisen from Covid lockdowns in China, port congestion, container availability, worker shortages, equipment issues, war, and changes in consumer buying habits. 

Retailers have struggled to keep up, and now, the trend has swung in the other direction as many are facing overstock issues. 

For a time, it seemed as if to get a portion of what they needed, retailers had to order double the amount of inventory and make do with however much of their order was fulfilled. Now, as production is ramping back up and more orders are being filled, and retailers are still over-ordering just to make sure they have stock for big shopping events like back-to-school which is leading to overstocking. Consumers who were previously turning their discretionary income toward commerce, are now pulling back due to fears of an impending recession.

The GDP has shrunk for the second straight quarter, which is usually the signifier of a recession. However, the job market remains strong, which is another indicator of the health of our economy. 

Consumer spending numbers are showing growth, but that could be due to inflation and not actual spending activity as we’re seeing these overstocked big retailers unable to move inventory. 

The Wall Street Journal reported Associate Professor of Logistics at Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business Jason Miller as saying: “the surplus of inventory is largely hitting general merchandise stores, including retailers like Target Corp. , Walmart Inc., Kohl’s Corp. and Macy’s Inc., that turn over large amounts of goods based on seasonal patterns and consumer shopping trends.”

A 3PL solution could help with inventory slack and constraints. SecurCapital has resources to help overcome seasonal and economic cycle challenges.

12th US-Mexico CEO Dialogue Dive

July 29th, 2022

In July, the US Chamber of Commerce hosted the 12th US-Mexico CEO Dialogue. Its purpose was to allow participants to vocalize and collaborate on the benefits and challenges of implementing the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

The main points of the USMCA, from the office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) are as follows: 

•   Creating a more level playing field for American workers, including improved rules of origin for automobiles, trucks, other products, and disciplines on currency manipulation.

•  Benefiting American farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses by modernizing and strengthening food and agriculture trade in North America.

•   Supporting a 21st Century economy through new protections for U.S. intellectual property, and ensuring opportunities for trade in U.S. services.

•   New chapters covering Digital Trade, Anticorruption, and Good Regulatory Practices, as well as a chapter devoted to ensuring that Small and Medium Sized Enterprises benefit from the Agreement.

Neil Herrington, Senior Vice President, Americas, U.S. Chamber of Commerce had this to say,  “Two years following the signing of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), today’s meeting of the US-Mexico CEO Dialogue presented a crucial opportunity to advance US-Mexican objectives of deepening business integration and shared prosperity between the United States and Mexico.” 

The key discussions at this dialogue were easing compliance burdens in the automotive sector, cessation of proposals to extend what participants felt were discriminatory “buy American” rules, customs delays, and reporting processes for labor complaints. 

United States news outlets were quiet on these matters, but Mexican news outlets reported that Foreign Affairs Minister Marcelo Ebrard had been quoted as saying that over the next two years, that US companies would be investing nearly forty billion dollars in Mexico. This on the heels of President López Obrador’s announcement in June that seventeen US companies had pledged to invest in Mexican green energy projects like solar and wind. 

President Obrador summed up the Dialogue on his social media with this statement: “We spoke about economic cooperation, investment, sovereignty and progress with justice.”

However, given what some see as the Mexican government’s recent bid to push private US and Canadian firms out of their energy industry, these firms are saying Mexico is in violation of the USMCA and are seeking relief under the agreement. President Obrador told Reuters the challenge was more about opposition to his policies from those at home rather than interests from those US and Canadian firms. "The argument of using clean energy to do dirty business doesn't work anymore." 

If you have questions or concerns about how the USMCA impacts your cargo, reach out to your partners here at SecurCapital. 

Standardized Data is the Key to Digital Sustainability

July 18th, 2022

Standardized data is key to digital sustainability.

Or so says the newest available research on the matter.

The GreenVoyage2050Project, a partnership between the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and Norway with a mission to drive the low-carbon evolution of the shipping industry. They’ve released a study that utilized 2019 AIS data to calculate fuel usage and reductions for Just in Time Arrival Scenarios (JIT). 

From GreenVoyage2050Project: “Just in time [JIT] arrivals allow ships to optimize speed during their voyage to arrive in port when berth, fairway and nautical services are available. JIT is an important tool that can contribute to a ship attaining its required carbon intensity indicator and associated CII rating in accordance with IMO’s short-term GHG reduction measure, which will enter into force later this year.” The study found that adjusting speed for JIT saved on average 14% of fuel. 

Andreas van der Wurff, port optimisation manager at A.P. Moller-Maersk and chair of the Low Carbon GIA ship-port interface workstream said, “The study underlines that while we work to accelerate and scale the availability of the future green fuels, in the short-term significant emissions reductions can be achieved by bringing vessels, terminals and ports together to exchange standardized data and facilitate just in time arrivals.”

Standardizing supply chain data has been a key point in optimization conversations for years, but in the past, has faced resistance from carriers fearing to lose their control over operations and ability to innovate. Some industry leaders have said it’s just the opposite, that carriers will have more control over their operations and new ways to promote innovation. 

Moving forward with standardized data, the ability to share that data between vessels, ports, and terminals just makes sense not only for carbon emissions reduction, but for operations optimization, a better service model for customers, and ultimately, carrier bottom line. 

If you have any questions about how this, or any other current events will impact your cargo strategy, reach out to your trusted partners at SecurCapital. 

CBP launches initiative: The Green Trade Strategy

July 11th, 2022

From US Customs and Border Protection: “The CBP Green Trade Strategy aligns with broader Department of Homeland Security efforts and supports a whole-of-government approach to mitigating risk and seizing opportunities associated with climate change and environmental stewardship within the trade space.”

 A study from University College London in 2020 found that over one fifth of carbon emissions come from global supply chains. Professor Dabo Guan of UCL Bartlett School of Construction & Project Management said: “Multinational companies have enormous influence stretching far beyond national borders. If the world's leading companies exercised leadership on climate change -- for instance, by requiring energy efficiency in their supply chains—they could have a transformative effect on global efforts to reduce emissions.” He went on to add, “However, companies' climate change policies often have little effect when it comes to big investment decisions such as where to build supply chains.”

It should be noted that the study also followed the flow of investments and found that emissions increased in developing countries with foreign investment. For example, India’s emissions nearly doubled between 2011 and 2016 with US investment and offshoring. 

There are four key tactics within the Green Trade Strategy:

1. One is to incentivize green trade, which should lead to faster transitions to greener policies and feed into the 

2. second focal point of accelerating green innovation. 

3. The third is to strengthen environmental enforcement, which should lead to coordinated enforcement efforts and drive meaningful changes in trade agreements. 

4. The fourth focal point is to improve resource efficiency. 

Taken together, these actions will drive down greenhouse emissions. 

The CBP is counting on this measure making an impact not just in the US, but that the world community will follow their efforts and implement their own versions of the Green Trade Strategy in developing greener standards for their operations with an eye toward the future. 

We can help companies with their international trade strategies. Please reach out to your trusted partners at SecurCapital if we can assist with a Green Trade Strategy.

AMCA: Warehouse Air Quality and Airborne Pathogens

June 16th, 2022

The Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA) has announced the results of a twelve-month-long study on the effects of ceiling fans on the aerosol transmission of airborne pathogens, specifically, Covid-19.

With the start of the pandemic, and the goods scarcity, it became increasingly clear for our communities to continue to function, the safety of the workers who kept our goods moving was paramount. Even though the pandemic has progressed, and we’re seeing changes in the way many companies do business, we’re also seeing that more of our supply chain has become e-commerce focused. We’re relying even more on warehouse and dock-loading staff to keep our busy world moving. Protecting the human part of our supply chain is a necessary and key tool in a successful logistics strategy.

This study put together by the AMCA and scientists in air quality, infectious diseases, computer modeling, and epidemics concluded that high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) ceiling fans in warehouses affected risk of transmission of airborne pathogens.

Out of 223 computer-modeled simulations, the numbers overwhelmingly showed high-speed operations of two twenty-foot fans in a warehouse space of 325 ft x 150 ft x 25 ft decreased the number of infectious particles in the air, and therefore minimized risk of transmission.

Researchers also suggested that the optimal setting to mitigate risk of transmission of these pathogens was having the fans set to the highest speeds tolerable by workers, and with a downward air flow. The reason for this being it was this strong downward flow which forced the infectious particles out of the breathable air and onto available surfaces.

Mitigating risk is all part of a good logistics strategy. If you’re wondering what we’re doing at SecurCapital to mitigate your risks, or would like to discuss your cargo strategy, reach out to us. Let’s see what solutions we can tailor to support your long-term success.

Moving Manufacturing Back to North America

June 2nd, 2022

In recent years, supply chain issues have been a burgeoning plague on industry. These snarls have been the result of everything from intensifying weather patterns to the pandemic. For example, with the Covid lockdown of Shanghai, it brought many industries to a standstill because they had no back up plan in place to manage that kind of supply chain disruption. Many companies are now looking at solutions that could bring jobs and goods back to North America.

This process is called “reshoring” or “nearshoring.” The Reshoring Initiative, which is an organization actively advocating for a return of manufacturing to the United States, defines the practice simply as bringing manufacturing and services back from overseas. Nearshoring is defined as bringing manufacturing and services closer to the end product region, and for us in the United States, this includes Mexico and Canada.

 Analysts from Kearney’s Reshoring Index are saying that globalization is either going to be redefined, or that we may be entering an era of de-globalization as companies are looking to establish supply chain resiliency. “There are strong indications that attitudes and strategies are changing, thanks to the pandemic, trade wars and tariffs, and ongoing resulting supply chain disruptions.”

An example of a nearshoring solution is that the toy giant Mattel announced they’d be consolidating manufacturing in their Mexico facility, and Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz had this to say: “We believe that Mexico, given its geographical position, has a unique opportunity to position itself as a toy hub in the world.” This will be their largest manufacturing site.  

In a reshoring move, Intel Corp also announced that they would be building two new chip factories in Ohio that are set to bring 3,000 new jobs to the area.

These moves will allow for a more streamlined flow of goods and cut transportation costs as well as congestion and delay due to supply chain disruptions outside of North America.

We at SecurCapital are experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to trans-border modality and if you’re thinking of nearshoring or reshoring, reach out to your SecurCapital representative to see what we can do for you and your supply chain. 

Digital Sustainability, It's Just Good Business

May 11th, 2022

Immarsat, an industry leader in satellite communications, has launched a new platform called Fleet Edge Xpress Enhanced that offers an adaptable strategy for connectivity that has the potential to revolutionize the maritime digital ecosystem. This solution offers broad digitalization that connects IoT, administrative tasks, and abilities, with operations over a secured, reliable network.But what is digital sustainability? Digital sustainability is defined as the tools of digitization that support sustainable business operations. For example, certain AI technologies can optimize energy usage. 

A large percentage of shipping companies are already moving toward digitization for efficiency, sustainability, and crew safety. Tommy Phun, Director of Eng Hup Shipping had this to say: “We're at the stage of strategic transformation. Our goal over the next 5 to 10 years is to become a leading regional maritime solutions provider powered by innovation. Maritime has been transforming over the last couple of years. With the support of government agencies, many companies like ours are turning to technology to increase the efficiency of our operations and processes. Many of our systems used to be manually intensive, but digitization has helped us to reduce time and effort on simple tasks.” Eng Hup Shipping is currently experimenting with electric vessels in order to maximize the optimization of each sailing while minimizing their carbon footprint. 

Digital solutions present opportunities to simplify tasks, streamline operations, reduce carbon footprint, and ensure crew and cargo safety through inclement weather. By utilizing cloud technology, and IoT, digitizing can also assist in ensuring regulatory compliance. These solutions conserve and protect both fiscal and human resources while doing our part to contribute to the sustainability effort. 

While some in the industry are slow to embrace change, these measures are a net positive for an organization’s optics and image, while supporting a healthy bottom line. If you have questions about how we can work together on digital sustainability, reach out to your trusted partners at SecurCapital today.

Digital Evolution of Logistics

May 5th, 2022

The wheel of time moves more slowly in the logistics industry, but it does move forward even when it feels like it’s standing still. While it’s not a market of early adoption, digitization has had a foothold in the logistics industry for quite a while as clients more frequently look to find providers who offer real-time updates; accurate inventory and arrival / departure times; state-of-the-art security; and electronic logging devices that make their lives and recordkeeping options easier. 

It took a while for logistics to get on the path to digitization and there are still too few offices that work in paper-free operations, but those of us who live in the space remember that not long ago we were beholden to dot matrix printers, carbon copies, and printing every single email to cover ourselves and complete files with all of the information we had. In the beginning, the idea of going paperless was laughable; relying on digital records of inventory and check-ins was a concern; even moving earlier generations away from styrofoam cups was met with resistance. 

Change is terrifying; more so in logistics where we’re confronted with disaster scenarios of what can go wrong in the event of a mistake. Container documentation errors can lead to deadly fires. Airfreight mishaps can cost countless lives. Truck driving hours and efficiency are a constant battle between safety and common sense. In fact, here in logistics, almost every digital improvement has been met with a litany of reasons it won’t help and will actually hinder the people who work in the industry. 

If people think the topic of automated trucks gets the public rankled, they should imagine the blowback we got when we introduced scanners into warehouses to check-in cargo. The everyday items we use to improve our businesses each represent a fight we had with a team who gleefully pointed out myriad ways that moving away from paper and ink to iPads and RF scanners. In a way, it’s precisely those concerns and that feedback that has helped logistics companies slow down in adoption and prepare the necessary contingencies for errors so their move away from analog systems would be smoother and less prone to failure than many other industries. 

Thankfully, logistics isn’t the place where digitization runs rampant and companies improve just for the sake of living on the cutting edge. Our updates and integration are each adopted after months if not years of education, evaluation, and training so moves forward are accompanied by twice as many moves back. 

From upgraded Warehouse Management Solutions to 24/7 security solutions and more eco-friendly business practices, digitization in the logistics industry is typically slow to catch fire but burns through the industry rapidly. Blockchain was gossip and technobabble for many years until companies understood that it could be used to safely and securely track cargo and relay critical information back to the warehouse, carrier, shipper, and other invested parties. Digital identification protects secure locations from tampering and pilferage while electronic logging devices provide enhanced data and feedback to make trips faster, safer, and more convenient for truckers. (They still hate it but once all the kinks are ironed out and concerns validated and understood, it will be just as popular as RFID and clocking in with a fingerprint instead of a signature.)

The goal in logistics should be to make processes easier, faster, more efficient, and suitable for the people who do the job every day. Any person with a penchant for technology can wax poetic on ideas that will eventually move the industry forward but it’s the responsibility of we who work here, who manage staff and see the places where jobs can be improved, who understand where the most egregious pain points lay, to bring forward solution-based ideas that have been suggested and supported by the very employees who uniquely understand what they need to do better in the workplace. A bottom-up approach to advancement, with an understanding of the reluctance, keeps our industry focused on the paramount concerns. 

Carbon neutrality came about as a result of customers asking for ways to reduce their footprints with regard to shipping. Listening to the needs of our clients and customers ensures SecurCapital will remain in a position to improve where we can and avoid the bells and whistles that can detract from the focus on efficiency. It’s our calling to listen, interpret and support our logistics community by operating in a way that improves the everyday lives of the employees who do the job, on the job, with the tools we’re looking at. By listening more than we talk, by giving the voice to those who actually do the jobs, we are unquestionably improving the best practices that make logistics a critical component of the technology and digitization of the planet. 

If you want to hear more about how SecurCapital can work with your team to determine what the future needs in your organization, contact us today for a consultation.

Kids Matter In a BIG Way

March 17th, 2022

SecurCaptial is proud to share BIG Logistics’s continued collaboration with Kids Matter International, a boutique but mighty charity based in Southlake, Texas. With its mission to “help children in need by providing programs that empower them to enhance their lives”, they are dedicated to helping families living in poverty.

They believe that “growing up in poverty is one of the greatest threats to a child’s development and ability to learn. It can contribute to poor health, behavioral, social, and emotional problems. The risks posed by economic hardship are greatest among children who experience poverty when they are young. With the right support, we can provide all children with the basic necessities and the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

BIG Logistics agrees wholeheartedly and they’re working on an international collaboration to support this outstanding charity. The Kids Matter Charity Ball will be taking place at the Hilton in Southlake, TX, April 1st 2022. As the largest annual fundraiser that they have it will heavily support the many programs and partnerships they serve on their mission.

Since this is considered an elaborate philanthropic evening, please note that attendees will be in formal black tie attire and be greeted with a seated dinner, premium cocktail bars, luxury live and silent auctions, as well as live entertainment. While this is an evening to reflect and celebrate the positive impact that our programs have had on the thousands of children and their families, it is also a time for us to remember that our work to help them is ongoing. 

Start the year off in a BIG way by supporting the Kids Matter Charity Ball and all the children in need. Here at SecurCapital we are inspired by the commitment and joy Kids Matter International brings to the children all across the world, and want to continue to support them and bring attention to their cause by sharing with our clients the amazing things they bring to the table. We are proud to see BIG Logistics partner with them, and encourage those around us to do the same. Because no matter what: Kids Matter.

USMCA Updates

March 1st, 2022

Back in June 2020, when the USMCA was implemented between the North American nations of the United States, Mexico, and Canada, changes were being felt beyond the borders. The USMCA, a close cousin to its predecessor NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), made it so that a strong learning curve wouldn’t be necessary, keeping processes flowing and issues at a minimum by following the key points on rules of origin and the nine data elements necessary to create a Certificate of Origin. 

It was less of a scrapping and redo of NAFTA and more of a finessing of fairness between nations to protect the interests of workers, farmers, and cross-border commodities. Desperately needed updates to digital rights, technological advances, and the balance of a continent where interests are wildly varied among their citizenry. 

While going into the detailed differences between NAFTA and the USMCA, the new agreement could help with the near-shoring prospect coming up more often since trade with China turned precarious. Near-shoring would bring work that was outsourced to Asia back to countries that shared borders with the US. With Mexico being the largest trading partner of the US, it was ripe for near-shoring opportunities, especially by those looking to avoid the coastal US ports, and trans-Pacific transit-related delays as well. 

Considering the speed of technology, finance, and global changes that we’ve witnessed over the last two decades, there was no way NAFTA could keep up. The world was different in 1993 and trade is best served with an updated approach to protect the interests of either side. When NAFTA was implemented there were a great number of speculators who decried the agreement as crushing the American manufacturing industry (it went to China, not Mexico). It is interesting that part of the success of the USMCA is because of near-shoring opportunities to bring American manufacturing to Mexico to protect the interests of the supply chain and avoid delays and costly tariffs. Other benefits include the benefits of trade jobs, 15% increase in pay rates for logistics jobs related to NAFTA, and the creation of inland ports where millions of people work. 

Moving manufacturing to Mexico could be a valuable opportunity for factories that need to be closer to the US and want to capitalize on the flourishing USMCA market. The oversight that is included, worker’s rights that must be adhered to, and ease of border crossing for manufactured goods that are assembled in Mexico for return to the US have created a very inviting atmosphere and contributed to a flourishing North American Economy. 

SecurCapital takes a long look at trends to see how these regulations impact the people behind the goods. It’s important to consider the human, ecological, financial, and worldwide impacts of these issues before a determination is made. The USMCA will hopefully continue to provide new opportunities for growing trade in North America.

What’s behind “Just In Time”

February 10th, 2022

“Just-in-time” supply chains are being pulled into question as pandemic-related issues such as product shortages cause lean strategies to play a part in the strained availability of manufacturing components and consumer goods. With the Omicron variant making its way across the world, the calls for more “just-in-case” planning have grown. Companies are even considering keeping bigger buffer stock to aid this wildly swinging metronome of supply and demand in this unpredictable environment. 

Some companies are arguing that just-in-time discipline would enable them to cut inventory costs even if it means questioning their integrity. Meaning, they are willing to sacrifice customer service in pursuit of cost savings. But that kind of criticism stems from a misunderstanding of how business strategies work and the benefits it can have. 

The main focus of “just-in-time” is about product quality, not minimizing inventory. A system that is carefully put together and synchronized around a supply chain of components, can’t tolerate a high level of problems like defective parts or quality issues. It highlights deficiencies that need to be fixed. This creates manufacturing processes that reduce inefficiencies which causes sales to rise because the manufacturing quality standard is improved. This, in turn, reduces costs for production because fewer products are returned to correct defects. The more quality supplies you have and the quality content you produce, the more infrequently items are returned due to inefficiencies and defects. 

Here at SecurCapital, we believe in being prepared, but also in making sure that we can offer you service coupled with efficiency. With the pandemic throwing things into chaos and disorder, you can count on us to help make sense of it all, and keep you informed. Whether it’s just-in-time, or just-in-case we will navigate this with you every step of the way until we find a solution that works for you.

Securing Cyber Defense

February 3rd, 2022

The debut of the Port of Los Angeles’s new Cyber Resilience Center (CRC) has been turning heads. The state-of-the-art port community cyber defense solution is created to improve cybersecurity readiness and enhance its threat-sharing and recovery capabilities among supply chain stakeholders. 

Port Executive Gene Seroka said, “We must take every precaution against potential cyber incidents, particularly those that could threaten or disrupt the flow of cargo. This new Cyber Resilience Center provides a new level of awareness for our stakeholders by providing enhanced intelligence, better collective knowledge sharing and heightened protection against cyber threats within our supply chain community.”

Christopher McCurdy, General Manager of IBM Security Services added, “The past year has proven the vital role that ports hold to our nation’s critical infrastructure, supply chains and economy, underscoring that its paramount we secure this ecosystem. The Port of Los Angeles is setting a new industry standard with a first-of-its-kind initiative to increase cyber readiness across the maritime community. With IBM’s cutting-edge technologies in cloud and AI fueling the CRC, we’re able to provide the maritime ecosystem with the threat insights necessary to stay ahead of cyber threats and improve response time.”

As a system of systems, the CRC enables participating stakeholders to automatically share cyber threat indicators and potential defensive measures with each other. This amalgamates threat information for the port’s stakeholders and reduces risk with cyber-disruption events of the supply chain. The port will be receiving, analyzing, and sharing information amongst its stakeholders who provide essential support services, as well as external intelligence sources. 

Setting the maritime industry standard for cybersecurity when it established the Cyber Security Operations center in 2014, the Port of Los Angeles designed the platform to help protect its internal networks. Building on the infrastructure by improving the quality, quantity and speed of cyber information sharing among port stakeholders, the newly designed CRC is leveraging the security model to create a more inclusive maritime community. 

With so much focus on our ocean ports, challenges with maritime shipping, and the elevated political attention, SecurCapital recognizes this critical accomplishment by the Port of Los Angeles on prioritizing cyber defense readiness.

Rethinking The Workplace in 2022

January 28, 2022

The time to act and think outside the box is now. With COVID-19 disrupting how businesses attract and retain employees since 2020, companies need to find new and improved ways to keep themselves going through their employees. 

Here are some things in the ever-changing workplace environment that can assist with this issue. While some of these items can be considered to be excessive overhead by cutting into profit models, so is a reduction in the workforce. At SecurCapital we understand that sometimes the least expensive method is just as effective as more expensive ones.

Enhanced training and advancement options for employees.

With the hard-working employees you have, there may be some with under-utilized talents. It’s up to the managers and the owners of the companies to recognize and develop a system to measure and manage those talents. Cross-training can be one way to do that. Spending some man-hours pushing workers to be the best they can be will be extremely beneficial to staffing challenges. 

Listen to staff when creating a corporate culture program.

Lots of things can entice new workers to stay and become loyal to a company. Things like bonuses, recognition, vacation time, flowers and birthday cards, insurance coverage, and good, clear communication with your staff can have outstanding benefits. These ideas will have people not only applying but staying with the company and remaining loyal to the company throughout their careers.

Creative and competitive benefits and pay structures.

Everyone, especially new employees, are looking for the best possible pay rate and structure to help them pay the bills. Why not entice and enable your benefits manager to find the very best health insurance plans and retirement plans at manageable costs? You’ll find that more people are willing to stay with a company that offers these benefits than those that do not. 

Search outside the box.

Ever wonder why no one in your area is applying for jobs? Perhaps it’s not because people don’t want to work, but that you are looking in the wrong spot. Attract employees by looking into organizations that can assist in relocating employees from other regions. Reach out to Veterans organizations as well as retirement groups. Not everyone wants to stay at home and do nothing in their retirement. Some can’t afford to do nothing. So reach out to them and offer them benefits that will help them. Larger firms can even offer paid apprenticeships or internships programs, connecting to colleges and universities locally or even globally.

Engage with industry organizations to learn new tactics for success. 

Ever wonder why other companies are getting all the good employees? Well, ask them! Understanding that all organizations are experiencing the same shift in the workforce may help you to understand the scope of what you’re dealing with. Collectively purchasing, sharing resources and or talent could be a path forward for savings and productivity. Communication is best when dealing with a lack of workforce. If you simply reach out to others and ask what they are doing differently, you may find yourself surprised by the answer you get!

Embrace remote workers with options and support.

Remote jobs are now becoming a big deal with COVID-19 barging its way through the workplace. Obviously, in logistics, this is a luxury that cannot be afforded. Before COVID-19, 1 in 67 jobs were remote. Now, 1 in 7 jobs are now remote. With things as they are nowadays, people prefer the flexibility of a work-from-home job or simply working remotely. And those that mentioned they were searching for a work from home job said they’d continue to do so because of said flexibility. If anything, COVID-19 has shown us that we need to make the dramatic shift to some jobs being remote or at-home positions if possible. 

In BIG Logistics’ recent blog, they talk about 5S and optimizing for success. Not only does this improve upon and enhance best practices, but it also ensures safety and better provides for employees. Here at SecurCapital, we want to make sure that our teams and their families are healthy, happy, and as well as accommodating to the best of our abilities. As we navigate the issues with COVID-19 and related variants, we will strive to be there for our employees, constantly making sure they are well provided for. We want you to feel secure with SecurCapital. 

SecurCapital Corp preparing for major Q1 portfolio expansion

January 18 , 2022

Large Mexican logistics provider acquisition expects to close this quarter along with construction of a purpose-built cross-docking & transloading location in Laredo.

SHERMAN OAKS, CALIFORNIA - January 18, 2022 - SecurCapital Corp, a holding company operating portfolio companies in logistics and financial services, is preparing for a significant portfolio enhancement benefiting shareholders and investors before the close of the first quarter of 2022.

 The company is conducting due diligence under an LOI and Stand Still agreement and expects to soon officially announce the acquisition of controlling interest of a Laredo-headquartered and Mexico City-based customs broker and freight forwarder with nine owned offices throughout Mexico, including key border crossings with the U.S., inland and seaports offering full-service operations in the Mexican market.

 SecurCapital Corp, CEO Stephen Russell emphasized the new company will be a critical strategic fit for the group. "With our portfolio company B.I.G. Logistics' footprint already in all major Texas markets and operations in El Paso, we have established ourselves as a key player in the U.S. Mexico cross-border trade. With this acquisition, we will add Laredo as an additional crossing point for our customers to leverage. In turn, their clients can take advantage of our 85,000 square foot building in El Paso and a new modern facility serving the southbound and northbound market in Laredo."

 Laredo is key to finalizing the Texas and border growth footprint, with planned groundbreaking and construction soon underway on a 230,000 square foot state-of-the-art cross-dock and transload facility. Situated on twenty-five acres, the new building will be capable of handling upwards of 300 transloads a day crossing the border between the U.S. and Mexico and providing e-fulfillment finished goods service for distribution throughout the USA and Canada.

 "Our acquisition target operates in both Laredo and Nuevo Laredo, controlling both sides of the border for transport and customs for its customers," Russell continues. "Adding the experience of B.I.G.'s customs brokerage and our licensed NVOCC and TSA-certified IAC operations, we will be able to help companies reach U.S. and global markets from factories along the border and deeper in Mexico."

 Both portfolio companies are IATA members, FMC-licensed NVOCC’s, FMCSA registered truck brokers, licensed customs brokers and members of Customs and Border Protection's CTPAT cargo security program. The Mexican acquisition is also ISO900:2015 certified.

 Well-positioned to take advantage of the tripling of cross-border traffic in 2021, when the Laredo location opens SecurCapital and its portfolio companies will operate more than 750,000 square feet of warehousing, distribution, temperature controlled, pharma-grade, light manufacturing and transloading capable facilities for clients throughout Texas and Mexico.

About SecurCapital Corp

 SecurCapital and its investment portfolio operating companies are proven supply chain, financial services, and 3PL warehouse operators and lenders empowering logistics and diverse businesses within domestic and international markets. The company was founded in 2017 headquartered in Los Angeles, CA and is operated by logistics, ‘cloud pioneers’ and financial services veterans. SecurCapital offers a broad range of services to wholesalers, distributors, and mid-tier logistics enterprises.  The company provides lower and middle market businesses and growth companies access to working capital, term loans and mission-critical end-to-end supply chain services. For more information visit http://www.securcapital.com

"Made In China" May Not Cut It Any More

January 11, , 2022

Product imports are a huge part of the US global supply chain. You’ve seen ‘Made in China’ stickers on your products before, but now with COVID-19 restrictions and more outbreaks occurring in the Asian countries, supply chains are considering alternatives to embrace diversification. 

Brewing for years, the single-sourcing from Chinese exports was exacerbated even more during the COVID-19 pandemic due to delays created by the virus. Early 2020 manufacturing and supplier operations in many parts of China ground to a halt. This spread across the trans-Pacific to the US, causing importers to be unable to obtain goods. 

There is a high risk that comes with single sourcing from one country. 

• Trade wars and tariffs as high as 25% added to the total landed costs for importers 

• IP theft has been a concern for several years, initiating a trade war

• China’s wages exceed those in Mexico: $6.50 compared to $4.82 in Mexico. 

• Forced Labor continues to be investigated by the US in places such as Xinjiang region of China. 

• A large component of China’s electricity production perpetuates the climate situation. The environmental impact is about 25-50% higher than manufacturing in the US. 

• Forecasting for manufacturing times, plus shipping times when importing from China, as compared to a location such as in the US or Latin America, etc. 

• Cross border capacity from Mexico is far larger than that from China.

• Covid 19 outbreaks are everywhere. While not unique to China, the pandemic has closed or limited operations at key transport hubs throughout Asia. One positive test can shut down a supply chain for up to two weeks. 

While the pandemic continues, there is no single sourcing destination that is immune from delays created by the pandemic. Lockdowns could lift in one region, only to be imposed on another. It’s quite the conundrum to come across in the supply chain industry with a pop-up-and-go or miss your opportunity situation that continues to this day. Single sourcing from China or any one region becomes a huge risk with this kind of pop-up scenario of what is available for shipping, and the space to put the cargo once it’s gotten.

Mexico retains the spot of number 1 trading partner with the US, but sourcing executives are looking at other nations in Central and South America as well. Places like Nicaragua have a strong labor market and good level of education. 

These same risk factors that are driving supply chains to diversify, are also driving them to think about reshaping to the US Proximity, allowing shorter transit times, lower emissions, and the ability to have a ‘Made in USA’ label, making import duties no longer a concern, reducing the total cost of ownership to something often lower. 

A Thomas study that polled respondents in March, found that 83% of manufacturers are more likely to reshore with North American suppliers, up from the 54% in March 2020. But reestablishing bases in the US could be challenging after decades of standing them up in Asia and Latin America. Nearshoring in Mexico is more common, due to high labor costs in the US and Canada. Sourcing from Central or South America also offers additional transport options such as cross-border rail which can carry goods through Mexico to the US. The Pan American Highway spans Alaska to the tip of South America, with only the Darien Gap breaking the route. 

While the infrastructure is still limited in parts of Central and South America, with enough investment to build the transportation infrastructure, the highway could potentially compete with China’s Belt and Road. Here at SecurCapital, it’s our duty to serve the logistics market with diligence and foresight when demand outpaces supply. Our unique vision allows us to consult with clients to improve their operations and procurement processes to meet the changes we see on the horizon. As we navigate these uncertain waters of the pandemic and the waves it throws at us, we will continue to keep you informed and up-to-date with everything that may affect you and your cargo. Trust in us to keep your cargo safe and secure with SecurCapital.

California Crunch: Warehousing Issues on the West Coast

December 15, 2021

With historical congestion in the Los Angeles and Long Beach ports, US importers are acutely feeling the pain. There just isn’t enough space to store incoming freight in warehouses. Stakeholders are trying to provide relief for this issue, from filling parking lots with drop trailers, or securing warehouse space outside port markets, to even diverting freight to the East Coast. California’s Inland Empire, a strategic warehouse and fulfillment region for the LA ports,  saw a 0.7% vacancy rate in Q3, according to CBRE. That’s the lowest commercial real estate company has ever tracked for a market. 

Those facilities that are e-commerce-focused will have space requirements beyond the traditional warehouse need. Return processing will be included in required capacity as well as a space for seasonal fluctuations. Additional warehouse capacity is underway in the construction pipeline, just not as much as previous years. There is more than 21.3 million square feet of industrial real estate space under construction in the Inland Empire as of Q3, which is a market that has 588 million square feet in total. A lack of capacity in warehouses can and will start bleeding into companies’ ability to fulfill orders.

Read more about it here at Supply Chain Dive.

BIG Logistics DFW Warehouse Expansion

August 31, 2021

Dallas Ft. Worth, TX - August 31, 2021 BIG Logistics, LLC, a portfolio company of SecurCapital Corp, has taken possession of the remainder of the building they occupy at 1000 N. 28th Street in Irving, Texas, on the grounds of DFW International Airport. This DFW expansion brings the entire 223,000 square foot building under their control. 

Learn more in this recent article: DFW Expansion nearly doubles size of flagship location.

SecurFoundation launches Masks4India donation effort

June 7, 2021

Sherman Oaks, CA and Dallas, TX: SecurFoundation, our philanthropic arm, has launched a COVID Relief Effort to raise money to send 68 million masks to the Indian subcontinent to help doctors and stop the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our goal is to support prevention with a desperately needed supply of PPE products as well as support equipment focused on treatment,” - Steve Russell, SecurCapital Corp CEO.

Learn more & donate today:https://masks4india.org/securfoundation-launches-masks4india-donation-effort/

Providing BIG Aid to India with O2 Concentrators

May 18, 2021

SecurCapital Acquires Leading Texas Market Third-Party Logistics Provider BIG Logistics

April 27, 2021

Los Angeles, California and Dallas, Texas - SecurCapital Corp., an expanding investment firm that specializes in partnering with mid-tier supply chain and financial services providers, today announced the acquisition of BIG Logistics, LLC, a privately-owned, leading Third-Party Logistics (“3PL”) provider with warehouse locations in four distribution and gateway strategic cities. 
 
In addition, to their pharmaceutical licensed temperature-controlled warehousing, fulfillment, transload, and e-commerce services, the 3PL offers both international and domestic air, ocean, ground transport, customs brokerage and project cargo. The acquired 3PL business assets will be operated as a SCC portfolio company and logistics platform and will continue to conduct business as BIG Logistics, LLC.
 
SecurCapital, through a series of strategic acquisitions partnering with our investors to increase the company’s investment portfolio, provides end-to-end supply chain and financial services to a diverse range of businesses within domestic and international markets. 
 
Steve Russell, CEO, SecurCapital, said: “We’re excited to have a high-quality infrastructure logistics platform company for key strategic initiatives and to support our Fortune 500 clients and active domestic and international agent networks. There is a tremendous team of experienced professionals in place under the leadership of highly respected industry veteran CEO Vinod Baliga that will allow us to quickly implement new customer contracts to grow revenue, pursue targeted acquisitions and expand organically through the opening of new stations. BIG’s CEIV pharmaceutical accreditation and in-development web and smartphone Smart Pharma Chain application addresses many of the supply chain issues we are all facing today with COVID-19 and continued supply chain challenges."
 
BIG Logistics co-founder and owner, Linda Galbraith added, “We, too, are extremely excited about this transaction which now immediately launches the next chapter of our global 3PL business model. I believe BIG Logistics, in partnership with SecurCapital, is now well positioned for substantial growth.  We found in SecurCapital a group of veteran finance and logistics professionals committed to evolving our CES, pharma, geographic and cold chain segments.” Ms. Galbraith remains a shareholder of the company.
 
BIG Logistics CEO Vinod Baliga added: “We have BIG plans to immediately execute our  expansion roadmap and continue to focus on our unified vision of bringing together a like-minded team with deep experience and building a holistic, world-class supply chain logistics enterprise.” 

About SecurCapital Corp

SecurCapital and its investment portfolio operating companies are proven supply chain, financial services, and 3PL warehouse operators and lenders empowering logistics and diverse businesses within domestic and international markets. The company was founded in 2017 headquartered in Los Angeles, CA and is operated by logistics, ‘cloud pioneers’ and financial services veterans. SecurCapital offers a broad range of services to wholesalers, distributors, and mid-tier logistics enterprises.  The company provides lower and middle market businesses and growth companies access to working capital, term loans and mission-critical end-to-end supply chain services. For more information visit http://www.securcapital.com

About BIG Logistics, LLC

In 2016, a group of financial, technology and logistics industry professionals with aggressive growth plans and strong financial backing acquired a 25-year-old company in KFS, Inc. and rebranded it as BIG Logistics, LLC. The firm currently has three state of the art facilities in Texas: Alliance Fort Worth (AFW), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW), and El Paso (ELP). BIG Logistics operates a field office located in Houston (IAH), and is opening a new field office in Huntsville, Alabama and West Coast gateway office in Los Angeles, California. For more information, visit https://www.biglogistics.com.

https://www.prlog.org/pub/links.html?id=12867357

National Mask Donation Program Kicks Off With Kids Matter International

April 6, 2021

Ft. Worth, TX —  SecurCapital, BIG Logistics, Maximedi, Health Professional Resources (HPR) and Kids Matter International today announced the launch of their national mask donation program. With millions of medical grade masks available for immediate shipment from Dallas, the program will rapidly deploy high-quality masks to schools, local organizations and communities in need that lack access to a consistent and secure personal protective equipment (PPE) supply chain. The program’s powerhouse team representing veterans of the finance, logistics and healthcare distribution industries is seeking corporate donors to purchase masks on behalf of schools, local communities and 501(c)(3) organizations in need.

 “The prevalence of fraud in the PPE marketplace and inadequate supply of high-quality, medical grade masks in our local communities inspired us to create this program,” said Steve Russell, CEO of SecurCapital.  “Our masks meet U.S. quality and regulation standards and our adjustable adult mask can be converted to fit a child, which allows us to provide medical grade protection for individuals of all ages.”

 With ties to the Texas community through affiliate partners, Kids Matter International received the first round of medical grade masks to support its mission of enhancing and empowering the lives of children who are growing up in poverty. Managed by  SecurCapital’s SecurFoundation with distribution through HPR and fulfillment from BIG Logistics, the program made its first donations to Grapevine Colleyville Independent School District (GCISD) in Texas on February 12 and 15. Cross Timbers Middle School (CTMS), Colleyville Heritage Middle School (CHMS), and Grapevine High School (GHS) all received high-quality, medical grade masks for their students. 

 “As a mother of three, my top priority is my children’s safety,” said Samantha Strain, CEO of HPR. “Our team couldn’t be prouder to answer the call to help schools in need and it is our hope that this program will serve as a call to action for donors across the nation to join us in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19. By donating masks through our program to 501(c)(3) organizations, including schools and communities throughout the nation, donors have the opportunity to make a real difference on a local and national scale.”

 The team plans to expand its mask donation program with the support of corporate donors to help communities in need throughout the U.S. For corporate donors who are interested in being part of the program, donations can be placed through SecurCap where they will receive wholesale pricing through HPR and fulfillment through BIG Logistics’ Ft. Worth Center in Texas. For more information on the mask donation program, please email distribution@wearehpr.com.

 About SecurCapital

SecurCapital and its subsidiaries are proven PPE suppliers, 3PL warehouse operators and lenders empowering logistics and small businesses. The company was founded in 2017 headquartered in Los Angeles, CA and is operated by PPE, logistics, ‘cloud pioneers’ and financial services veterans. SecurCapital offers a broad range of PPE to wholesalers, distributors, and consumers. The company provides privately owned small and mid-sized businesses, start-up companies access to working capital, term loans and mission-critical end-to-end supply chain services. For more information, please visit http://www.securcapital.com.

 About B.I.G. Logistics

In 2016 a group of financial, technology and logistics industry professionals with aggressive growth plans and strong financial backing, acquired a 25-year-old company KFS, Inc. and rebranded it as BIG Logistics, LLC. The firm currently has three state of the art facilities in Texas:  Alliance Fort Worth (AFW), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW), and El Paso (ELP). We have a field office located in Houston (IAH), and in the process of forming a new field office in Huntsville, AL (HSV). We offer configurable racking and 375,000 square feet of warehouse.  We can handle all your warehouse and distribution needs. We also employ our purchasing power and the latest technology, to offer you the lowest rates and high-class service and expanding your visibility into your supply chain. Our plan is for aggressive value growth by offering services that our customers need today and envision them wanting in the future. These beliefs, along with our proven international and domestic supply chain management, uniquely positions us to be equal partners with our customers and vendors. We are aggressively on the journey of digital transformation to our End to End (E2E) service offerings. For more information, please visit www.biglogistics.com.

 About MaxiMedi

MaxiMedi Limited is a subsidiary of the UK incorporation Maxi MLM Holdings Limited.  MaxiMedi was one of the few companies which efficiently and reliably sourced high-quality PPE goods for the UK Government during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Having established themselves as a supplier of quality goods (over 1 billions units provided to date without a single return) MaxiMedi has become a trusted global partner for PPE distribution. MaxiMedi is currently the largest PPE supplier in the United Kingdom, supplying distinguished and well known brands throughout the world.  For more information, please visit www.maximedi.co.uk.

 About Health Professional Resources

Health Professional Resources (HPR) is a U.S. based supplier of high-quality, medical grade disposable medical goods, personal protective equipment (PPE), and infection control products and services. A female- and veteran-owned company that has been serving the healthcare industry since 1996, HPR leverages best-in-class global and domestic manufacturing partners to ensure consistent sourcing, procurement, and fulfillment of high-quality goods that are compliant with international and FDA regulations. Collectively, HPR’s leadership team represents decades of experience in the industry, and it has become the trusted healthcare supply partner of choice for some of the world’s most recognizable brands. For more information visit www.hprcares.com.

 About Kids Matter International

Kids Matter International is passionate about helping children who live in poverty by providing basic needs, such as new clothing and shoes, books and backpacks. We believe that each child is precious and should be treated with dignity and respect and given hope for a better future. For more information about Kids Matter International, visit www.kidsmatterinternational.org.  

SecurCapital Gold Standard PPE Combating Covad19

January 25, 2021

 N95 masks are considered the gold standard in personal protective equipment because they block 95% of large and small particles utilizing a unique electrostatic filter.

The filter works by trapping neutral particles like bacteria and viruses before they pass through the mask, protecting the wearer and those around them. It's similar to how socks might get stuck to a blanket in the dryer. The N95 mask, which costs roughly $5, also fits securely to the face, eliminating most of the leakage that may occur with a loose-fitting cloth or paper mask.

Studies have shown that masks significantly decrease the chances of transmitting or contracting the coronavirus. But not all masks provide equal protection. Depending on the fabric and number of layers, homemade and simple cloth masks have a range of effectiveness that can be as low as 26%, which leaves the wearer vulnerable.

The quality of protection a face mask can provide is crucial. A respiratory illness like the coronavirus is transmitted through aerosols, tiny particles that waft and hang in the air. Some virus-carrying particles are small enough to travel through or around lower-quality masks, making the wearer vulnerable to inhalation of viral particles.

The biggest problem is lack of supply. This week marked a full year of the coronavirus, and the Biden administration has committed to invoking the Defense Production Act more often to boost manufacture of N95 masks and other critical supplies. Experts hope manufacturing will hit a speed to be able to sufficiently supply the population.

"An N95 that's well-fitted clearly is the best that you can do," National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Dr. Anthony Fauci told CNN Friday. "You could get production of that at a much higher rate now."

Some European countries are already taking that step to prevent coronavirus spread within their borders. Earlier this week, Germany and France mandated that all citizens wear high filtration masks like the N95 in all public places.

SecurCapital Launches Critical PPE Sales

January 11, 2021

SecurCapital Corp, an end-to-end supply chain fulfillment, logistics and financial services company has purchased and transported millions of medical use, certified, and high-quality Covid19 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

On-the-ground (OTG), competitively priced are available in large or small lots for immediate purchase, inspection, and delivery from our warehouses in Texas and California

·       ZYB-11 N95 respirators – NIOSH approved (TC-84A-7877, FDA registered manufacturer

·       BYD Type IIR Surgical Masks Model FE2311– single use CE certified BFE >98%, PFE > 98% are intended to be worn to protect both the patient and healthcare personnel

·       BYD (green) N95 Particulate Respirator Foldable Masks Model DE2322 CE certified. 95% filtration efficiency against solid and liquid aerosols free from oil

Steve Russell, CEO announced while touring SecurCapital’s Texas pharmaceutical grade warehouses: “We’re excited to have high-quality and wholesale quantities of certified PPE in our warehouse ready for purchase and shipment. With many counterfeit suppliers in the market and OTG inventories being elusive at best our mission is to be a trusted guaranteed source for critical PPE landed in our forward stocking facilities ready for order fulfillment. SCC operating from Dallas have expansive geographical distribution coverage for overnight or ground delivery for PPE orders including large wholesale lots anywhere in the USA or Canada. Contact us for all your mask, glove, gowns, scrubs, visor or goggle needs”.

SecurCapital Acquiring Texas Pharma 3PL

October 12, 2020

SecurCapital Corp, an expanding supply chain and financial services provider headquartered in California, today announced the execution of a LOI for their second strategic acquisition, a 100% USA privately-owned, leading, independent 3PL with warehouse locations in 4 distribution and gateway strategic cities. In addition to their warehousing, fulfillment, trans-load, and e-commerce services, the 3PL offers both international and domestic air, ocean, ground transport, customs brokerage and project cargo.

Steve Russell, CEO, SecurCapital after recent site visits: “We’re excited to have a high-quality infrastructure logistics provider for key strategic initiatives and to support our Fortune 500 clients and active domestic and international agent networks. There is a tremendous team of experienced veteran professionals in-place that will allow us to quickly implement new long-term contracts to scale major expansion. Their pharmaceutical licensing for Smart Pharma transport addresses many of the supply chain challenges we’re all facing today with Covid-19 and continued supply chain demands to address vaccine and PPE expert distribution”

Pending due diligence and mutual agreement to terms, the acquisition is tentatively scheduled to close in November 2020.

Loadstar Interview with SecurCapital on M&A in Logistics

October 11, 2020

Expect more bread-and-butter logistics deals according to Andrew Creighton, SecurCapital’s Chief Customer Officer. A re-pricing of risk has been well under way in logistics since the pandemic began.

Creighton says: "The prevailing market conditions due to Covid-19 have had a marked impact on the logistics sector, with some companies benefiting from PPE shipments and space being sold at premium rates, whilst others have been battling severe headwinds," he explained. “It is our view that if companies are planning to sell they should proceed on the basis that, if 2020 is either good or bad, it ultimately must be considered as an extraordinary period of time if the fundamentals of the sellers business remained solid."

Creighton argues "what sets us apart" on the road to creating a logistics portfolio backed by eager financial sponsors, is we are logistics veteran experts who have built, owned, and sold successful businesses. We can quickly determine how buyers match with sellers. We have a large network across the industry in the air/ocean/ NVO/express/trucking/carrier/3PL field and currently working exciting deals for sellers."

What is next, then? "Companies are looking to expand service offerings, diversify or add branches and M&A is the best vehicle to achieve this.” SecurCapital will assure client success.

Supply Chain Recovery: Logistics Post COVID-19

August 7, 2020

Freight and Logistics organizations have been on the frontline since the very beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, keeping shelves stocked and critical production lines running. 

The speed and scale of the escalation of the COVID-19 crisis require continuous end-to-end assessment, optimization and monitoring.

Leaders in the Freight and Logistics industry have already excelled by creating Response Centers to monitor, plan, and react to every challenge. 

Smart leaders will seize this opportunity to take swift action to position their businesses for greater resiliency and productivity in a future where ‘business as usual’ no longer exists.

There are three major considerations that Freight and Logistics providers must keep in mind as they retool going forward:

1. eCommerce is surging

Last mile service providers and eCommerce are rapidly increasing their market share and their logistics capabilities. Customers have dramatically increased online orders and home delivery of food and supplies, and future service expectations will change.

2. Customer supply chains will change

The lockdown in China sent shockwaves through supply chain professionals, who are now rethinking their sourcing and logistics networks in order to reduce future risk.

3. Global economic growth will slow down

All indications point to a major reduction in economic activity, one of the worst since World War II. Since logistic services are a derived demand from the movement of physical goods, there will likely be a significant negative impact on the sector long beyond the current health crisis.

Accelerate your plans 

• Respond to the eCommerce surge. Strive to meet the raised customer expectations as eCommerce providers increase market share and logistics capabilities.

• Automate physical processes and facilities. Consider future workforce resiliency benefits when investing in physical automation or future technology. For example, co-bots and worker-plus-machine could be effective and safer in a future health crisis.

• Update technology capabilities to enhance flexibility. Incorporate workforce flexibility requirements in future technology investments and initiatives. Ensure your IT systems have the bandwidth, security, and remote systems protocols to enable working from home at scale.

• Rethink people-heavy processes. Standardize, centralize and automate non-customer facing and non-core tasks

Move to a digital future 

• Become a data-driven enterprise. Data-driven enterprises are those that maximize the value of data and treat it as a strategic asset to anticipate and respond to future events.

• Create the Ultimate Agile Enterprise. Model organization, processes, and technology to achieve speed, adaptiveness, and stability.

• Establish a Control Tower. Monitor the regulatory, market, customer, and competitive environment to execute with certainty as markets begin to re-emerge.

• Build virtual branches. Explore the possibility of converting smaller physical branches into permanent virtual branches.

Strengthen the network 

• Rebuild the last mile through collaboration. Demand for last-mile delivery has exploded and will likely remain higher than normal after the crisis. Build partnerships to orchestrate a smart last-mile network.

• Rapid adjustments to cost structure. Adopt an accelerated strategic cost assessment and reduction program. Flexible staffing could help with administrative or operational functions.

• Adapt the Network and Services. Evaluate and re-align network models, locations, and service capabilities for the New Normal. Keep monitoring customers’ operations and regulatory bodies to adapt network nodes and services to what evolves.

• Position for a growing Chinese market while the rest of the world remains in recession. The logistics system in China is already back up and running at around 80-90 percent functionality – and production and domestic consumption is expected to soon follow.

Freight and Logistics companies who act and adapt now will lead the way in the supply chain recovery and will be better positioned for a post-COVID-19 world of the new normal.

SecurCapital is here to assist you with a broad range of supply chain services, technology operational enhancements, and crucial working capital. In the current, unique climate, at worst you’ll create zero change but at best, you could revolutionize how the business operates.

About SecurCapital

SecurCapital is a supply chain finance company empowering logistics and small businesses. The company was founded in 2018 and is operated by logistics, cloud pioneers and lending veterans. SecurCapital offers privately owned small and mid-sized businesses and start-up companies access to working capital, term loans and mission-critical services.  

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

SecurCapital Corp   www.securcapital.com

Email: starasova@securcapital.com