Logistics Executives Explored Alternative Shipping Providers
Industry leaders met in New York City to discuss how new delivery models and robotics are transforming fulfillment.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Transportation
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At the Sourcing Journal summit in New York City, logistics executives gathered to discuss the rise of alternative shipping providers. Brands are increasingly moving toward these services to secure greater control over shipping speeds and delivery flexibility.
Why it matters
Switching to alternative logistics providers allows brands to gain granular control over the shipping process. This shift provides greater flexibility for retailers looking to manage consumer expectations more effectively than legacy options.
The Fleetwood Pack robot, developed by Ultra Robotics, currently handles 30 percent of order fulfillment for the Brooklyn-based 3PL firm Highline Commerce.
The players
Veho
Veho is a last-mile delivery company based in New York City that provides logistics solutions to various retail brands.
Highline Commerce
Highline Commerce is a 3PL company founded more than five years ago that utilizes bimanual robotic manipulators for order fulfillment.
Ultra Robotics
Ultra Robotics is an engineering firm that developed the Fleetwood Pack robot used for automated logistics tasks.
The details
Logistics companies are integrating advanced technology to react to nuanced consumer demands while utilizing robotics to offset costs associated with rent and labor. Notable companies in the space include the New York-based last-mile delivery provider Veho, which serves major clients such as Macy's, Sephora, and Lululemon.
Timeline
The Sourcing Journal summit occurred on September 29, 2026.
The legacy logistics firm UPS was founded in 1907.
Market Landscape
The rise of specialized third-party logistics firms challenges the long-standing dominance of legacy carriers by prioritizing technological agility over massive network scale. This diversification forces established players to compete with lean startups that use bimanual robotics to undercut traditional operational overhead.
The shift toward alternative logistics providers may lead to faster and more reliable shipping options for local shoppers purchasing from major retailers. Consumers might notice more flexible delivery windows as brands adopt these specialized, tech-driven fulfillment strategies.
The takeaway
The move toward automated fulfillment signifies a broader transition toward tech-enabled efficiency in the supply chain. Brands that prioritize flexible delivery solutions are better positioned to meet the demands of modern shoppers who expect both speed and transparency.
Further reading
For more on the changing landscape of local distribution, visit the Transportation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WWD.
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