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Bettaway Marks 40 Years Providing Trucking, Pallet and Supply Chain Services in New Jersey
Family-owned firm started as small soda-bottling business, expanded into trucking, warehousing, pallet delivery; today operates one of the nation’s largest pallet supply and management networks.
SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ – June 26, 2024 — John Vaccaro remembers walking through his father’s soda factory watching bottles of soda of all flavors being filled and capped on a rolling assembly line and placed into crates. Then his father would load the finished product into a truck, and drive to local bodegas throughout Brooklyn, chatting up owners, asking about their families and their business, and building a market for his locally made soda pop.
As the industry evolved, eventually local soda bottlers and their neighborhood-branded soda products were displaced by large beverage companies. So, the senior Vaccaro, sensing the need to pivot, changed along with it. Major beverage companies needed local distribution. And in an early nod to outsourcing, those beverage makers didn’t want the trucks themselves. They wanted a trusted partner to hire the drivers and operate trucks on their behalf, a partner for whom trucking and distribution was their core competency, who knew the area and knew the customers.
And with that, Bettaway Beverage Distributors was born, with an initial fleet of one tractor trailer and two side-loader straight trucks doing beverage delivery. The focus was on beverage distribution, initially with Snapple as its first customer, serving the New York City boroughs. That was 1983. Several years later, adding other start-up beverage businesses like Arizona Iced Tea, the trucking operation was expanded into a third-party logistics provider, and a new division was created – Bettaway Traffic Systems.
Still later in the early 1990s, to address the emerging need for supply, maintenance and management of pallets – the wooden platform which is the foundation on which millions of shipments ride in trucks every day – Bettaway Pallet Systems was formed.
Now at mid-year 2024, Bettaway is celebrating four decades of service as a local, family-owned New Jersey business. No longer is it just a distributor of beverages. Today, after some half-dozen reinventions and expansions, adding related businesses such as dedicated warehousing and pallet supply, and jumping early into emerging market opportunities like beverage packing and fulfillment, Bettaway Supply Chain Services has become one of New Jersey’s leading integrated logistics, trucking, supply chain and pallet management companies.
The firm supports a wide range of beverage and other businesses with logistics, warehousing, order fulfillment and custom packaging, and transportation services across the Northeast. As it continued to build the Bettaway brand, it won the business – and the trust – of many other leading brands. Among those are Monster Beverages, SOBE, Vitamin Water, Fuze, ZICO, Voss, Lumber Liquidators, Apple, Eve, White Rock, Manhattan Special, Boylan Bottling, Poland Spring and Nestle Waters. Bettaway also has enjoyed a 30-year business relationship with both Coca Cola and Pepsi.
Responding to increasing demand for services, and the drive for more efficiency, strategic investments were made in technology, particularly on the warehousing and beverage fulfillment side. These included investments over the last several years in packaging automation systems, including automated variety pack lines, carton assembly systems and palletizers, which today enable Bettaway to assemble and produce shrink-wrapped cases of beverages for clients, with capacity for millions of cases annually and the ability to expand.
Today, Bettaway supplies pallets - and manages pallet inventories in the millions -- for beverage manufacturers, distributors and consumer products companies at some 500 depots across the U.S.
John Vaccaro, the company’s second-generation leader, along with his sister, Laura, learned first-hand from his father about anticipating customer needs and evolving with them – and how that would lead to growth and success. “Pallets is a good example,” he notes. “In the early ‘90s there were no rental pallets and a poorly designed pallet exchange program. The market was ripe for innovation. So, we created a pallet retrieval and supply management program for Snapple customers. That expanded into providing pallets to all the bottlers who produced Snapple products,” he recalled.
Third-party pallet supply and management was a new concept for the industry. For Vaccaro, it was the same story about identifying an unmet customer need, investing in the service, being first to market with it, and then investing to build it. “As the market became aware [of the Snapple program] that happened about six times over with other beverage brands. And then consumer products companies jumped on board,” Vaccaro recalled.
“We just kept looking for ways to anticipate and stay one step ahead of what customers needed,” Vaccaro added, noting that the strategy has since extended into logistics technology, high-tech trucks, warehouse automation and advanced logistics analytics and supply chain engineering.
“It’s a long and winding road of adapting to change, taking risks, investing without a guarantee, and betting on your gut and your intuition,” Vaccaro said. “We wanted to make our relationship more valuable to the customer than just being a trucker,” he added.
Now having surpassed 40 years in business, Vaccaro sees an industry continuing to change and evolve – and presenting new opportunities. One that Bettaway has recently embraced has been bringing digital e-commerce technology to what has been a mostly manual and fractured process of buying and selling pallets.
The company in 2022 launched PalletTrader, the industry’s first neutral, independent online site where pallet buyers and sellers can post their needs and their inventories, negotiate a price, complete a transaction and arrange transport – all at one e-commerce site. Since its launch in 2022, PalletTrader has assembled the largest single point network of pallet providers in the U.S. Several million pallets have been transacted over the platform and it continues to grow daily.
November 19, 2024 - Seegrid Corporation, a leading manufacturer of autonomous mobile robot (AMR) solutions for palletized material handling in the US, today announced its membership in the Open Source Robotics Alliance (OSRA), an initiative of the Open Source Robotics Foundation (OSRF). Through this partnership, Seegrid will contribute its industry-leading expertise through its active involvement in the open-source robotics community. The company joins a vibrant network of innovators, collectively driving open-source development for the betterment of the global robotics landscape.
As part of the OSRA, Seegrid will actively support initiatives that foster collaboration and shared knowledge across the robotics field. The company aims to participate in key OSRF activities, including the renowned ROSCon event, as well as on-line communities such as GitHub and ROS Discourse.
“Joining OSRA is an opportunity for us to more fully participate in the open-source robotics community, to share our insights and learn from a community that thrives on collaboration and innovation,” said Tom Panzarella, Chief Technology Officer of Seegrid. “By contributing to the open-source robotics ecosystem, we hope to help push the community forward, enhancing the capabilities of autonomous systems across industries. Together with other OSRA members, we believe we can further harden and improve the accessibility of advanced technology for all.”
This partnership reflects Seegrid’s commitment to promoting open development that benefits the entire community, not just individual organizations. With the company's extensive experience in AMRs, Seegrid hopes to play an active role in advancing the collaborative development efforts that make open-source platforms like ROS 2 vital contributors to technological progress.
Vanessa Yamzon Orsi, CEO of the Open Source Robotics Foundation, commented, “We are excited to welcome Seegrid to the OSRA. Their expertise in AMRs brings significant value to our shared mission of advancing open-source robotics technology. Seegrid’s contributions will help enhance the collective development efforts that our members bring to the table, further advancing open innovation across the industry.”
By joining OSRA, Seegrid also aims to inspire a new generation of autonomous engineers, enabling knowledge-sharing across sectors and fueling the continued growth of open-source projects. This partnership will empower organizations of all sizes to benefit from collaborative progress in the field, contributing to a future where autonomous robotics technology is more accessible, sustainable, and adaptable.
About the Open Source Robotics Alliance
The Open Source Robotics Alliance (OSRA) is an initiative of the Open Source Robotics Foundation (OSRF). It is a global community committed to advancing open-source robotics technologies. By fostering collaboration between innovators, OSRF is helping to accelerate the development of cutting-edge solutions that benefit industry and society alike. Its flagship open-source robotics software, ROS, is the world's most widely adopted robotics framework suite.
About Seegrid
Seegrid, a leading-edge technology company of autonomous mobile robot (AMR) solutions for material handling solutions, combines AMR technology, enterprise software, and best-in-class services for complete, connected automated workflows. With over 15 million autonomous production miles driven to date, Seegrid AMRs are reliable, flexible, and proven. The world’s largest manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics companies rely on Seegrid. We are partnered with over 50 global brands where 2,000+ AMRs are deployed within 200+ customer sites. From our dependable Tow Tractor to our industry-leading Lift Truck solutions, let us work with you to embrace the future of autonomous material handling.
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – Averitt has appointed Rich Egan as the company’s new vice president of international solutions. Egan, who brings over 40 years of experience in the transportation industry and has specialized in international logistics since 1990, will assume the position held by the retiring Charlie McGee.
Since joining Averitt in 2019 as director of international solutions, Egan has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s global logistics strategy. His expertise and commitment to service excellence have contributed significantly to Averitt’s growth in this sector. In his new role, Egan will lead the international solutions team and drive strategic initiatives to enhance Averitt's global logistics offerings.
“We’re excited to welcome Rich into this role,” said Kent Williams, executive vice president of sales and marketing at Averitt. “His extensive background in international logistics and proven leadership are invaluable as we continue expanding our global services to meet the evolving needs of our customers.” For more information about Averitt’s international services, visit Averitt.com/International.
About Averitt
Serving shippers for over 50 years, Averitt is a leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management solutions with an international reach of over 100 countries. Averitt's “Power of One” service structure provides shippers access to LTL, Truckload, Dedicated, Distribution & Fulfillment, and Integrated services that cover every link in the supply chain. Averitt’s team has been awarded the highest honors in the industry in the past year, including three Quest for Quality Awards, numerous customer awards, and a top ranking in MASTIO & Company’s shipper survey. Averitt's 8,500+ associates are dedicated to delivering the most reliable services within the industry and promoting a company culture centered around people, communities, sustainability, and giving back. For more information, call 1-800-AVERITT (283-7488) or visit Averitt.com.
Elgin, Il. - October 21, 2024 – Systems in Motion today announced that its new name and brand will be effective immediately. This name change is part of a rebranding initiative, but is also the culmination of the companies’ close working relationship for the past five years and represents their unified strength. Systems in Motion will continue to provide material handling services as a tier-one, turnkey material handling integrator.
The Systems in Motion name creates a single and powerful platform – one that embodies client and industry goals of moving forward – while understanding the complexities and unique objectives of every system. The new brand also signifies the culmination of investment in internal processes that streamline procedures, and deliver a seamless customer experience.
Under the Systems in Motion name, the company will continue their track record of delivering on their long-standing core values of integrity, continuous customer care and a passionate, “Make it Happen” approach for every project.
“We recognized that going to market under a cadre of names was not helping our customers understand our complete turn-key services and approach,” Scott Lee, CEO of Systems in Motion explains. “Operating as one voice, and one company, Systems in Motion will move forward to continue offering superior industrial automation.”
Scott Lee continues as the company CEO, along with long-time leaders in data analysis, systems design/build, electrical/controls, installation, aftermarket services and parts.
Mr. Lee said of the announcement, “This is an exciting time for Systems in Motion. These companies have worked together for years, but today we move together under one name, to deliver even greater value to our customers and suppliers in the future. “
Systems in Motion will complete a rebranded web site in January of 2025. Meanwhile, a landing page with related material can be found at www.systemsinmotion.com, which highlights the benefits of the new company structure and its mission to provide flexible, efficient and scalable operational improvements through automation.
About Systems in Motion
Systems in Motion provides turnkey material handling systems for warehousing, fulfillment, distribution and manufacturing companies. Our clients experience results that are led by experts who provide superior results and continuous customer care. The company’s corporate headquarters are in Elgin, Il. For more information visit www.systemsinmotion.comor call 1-800-678-9091.
September 24th, Charlotte, NC - HTL Freight, a rising leader in the third-party logistics (3PL), is pleased to announce the acquisition of CTS Logistics, a full-service managed transportation company (4PL) headquartered in Windham, NH. This acquisition, HTL Freight’s fourth major transaction since 2021, reinforces its commitment to delivering exceptional freight solutions across North America.
CTS Logistics, known for its managed transportation and brokerage services, has built a strong reputation since its founding in 1989 by Donald Leclair. The company’s family-oriented ethos has been carried forward by Leclair’s children—Alan, Keith, Brian, and Kim Garneau—who continue to play key roles in the business.
"Our decision to partner with HTL Freight was driven by their dedication to upholding the values that have defined CTS Logistics for the past 35 years. HTL Freight’s leadership shares our commitment to integrity and service, making them the ideal partner to carry forward our family’s legacy," said Alan Leclair, President of CTS Logistics.
As part of the acquisition, Keith Leclair has been appointed as Vice-President of LTL at HTL Freight. His extensive experience and leadership will be instrumental in expanding HTL’s Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) capabilities.
Finalized in February 2024, the acquisition has since led to a close collaboration between the two companies to ensure a seamless integration of operations, systems, and cultures. This collaborative process has preserved CTS Logistics’ strengths while enhancing the combined service offerings.
Founder Donald Leclair expressed confidence in CTS Logistics’ future under HTL Freight's ownership, stating, "The collaboration between our teams over the past few months has confirmed that HTL Freight is the right partner to continue serving our clients with the level of care and dedication they’ve come to expect."
This acquisition allows HTL Freight to further expand its geographic footprint and service offerings, positioning the company as a notable player in both the 3PL and 4PL sectors. Customers will benefit from enhanced transportation solutions, including increased brokerage capabilities and more robust managed transportation services, all supported by HTL Freight’s state-of-the-art technology platform.
"We are thrilled about the growth opportunities this acquisition brings to both our customers and our organization. The addition of CTS Logistics strengthens our ability to provide comprehensive, technology-driven solutions that enhance efficiency and deliver cost savings to our shipper partners," said Onu Okebie, CEO of HTL Freight.
About HTL Freight:
Founded in 1983, HTL Freight (htlfreight.com) is a supply chain management company providing an experience rooted in service, data-driven insights, and advanced technology for both shippers and carriers. Focused on customer service, operational excellence, and partnerships, HTL's mission is to consistently exceed expectations and "Go the Distance" for its clients by delivering reliable supply chain solutions.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is celebrating 20 years of operations in India, a milestone that reflects the airline's ongoing commitment to the Indian market since its first flight to Mumbai on 26 September 2004. Over the years, Etihad Cargo has expanded its presence in India, now offering belly hold capacity via nonstop services between Abu Dhabi and 12 major Indian cities, with plans for further growth.
Etihad Cargo handles over 46,000 tonnes of cargo annually ex India, connecting the country to over 100 global destinations via its Abu Dhabi hub via 588 widebody and narrowbody rotations each month. To meet the needs of specific sectors, Etihad Cargo has enhanced its product range, adding new features and launching new products. Key commodities handled include electronics, including mobile phones and semiconductors, garments, pharmaceuticals, perishables, e-commerce, automobile components and courier shipments, reflecting the diversity and strength of India's manufacturing and export sectors.
The carrier's IATA CEIV Pharma-certified PharmaLife product provides precise temperature control for the safe transport of high-value pharmaceuticals, a growing market in India. Etihad Cargo is exploring additional certified pharma trade lanes with key airline partners and has implemented stringent cargo screening for US-bound shipments from major Indian hubs, including Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, and Hyderabad. Etihad Cargo's pharma roadshows in India, launched in 2023, have helped double PharmaLife volumes by improving connectivity and frequencies. Additionally, the introduction of Etihad Cargo's IATA CEIV Li-batt-certified SecureTech product in 2024 has supported the growth of electronics shipments.
"As Etihad Cargo celebrates two decades of successful operations in India, the carrier's commitment to its customers remains strong," said Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo. "Etihad Cargo's continued investment in its network, product range, infrastructure, and digitalisation efforts ensures the carrier can provide efficient, reliable air cargo solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers in India and beyond."
The airline has invested in advanced technology to enhance its operations, including the use of customer relationships and cargo management systems like Salesforce and Sales Cockpit, as well as track and trace capabilities and automated warehouse management. The ongoing enhancement of Etihad Cargo's online booking portal, which now includes options for pets and dangerous goods as well as personalised dashboards, has improved the efficiency of the booking process. Currently, 93 per cent of the bookings made in India are made directly through Etihad Cargo’s booking portal.
As Etihad Cargo looks to the future, the airline will continue to innovate and expand its operations, remaining committed to evaluating its network and adding capacity where required to support its customers in this key market. With a focus on delivering efficient and reliable cargo solutions, Etihad Cargo is dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of the Indian market and cementing its position as the air cargo partner of choice for the Indian market.