Webinar – Logistics, Warehousing & Free Trade Zones – August 4, 2025

12:00 pm Pacific Time

Speaker: Dr. E. F. Knab

In this Adapting Supply Chains 2025 Webinar, Dr. Edward Knab, a supply chain and logistics expert, will discuss the value of foreign trade zones, how they work and whether they could mitigate the impact of tariffs. In addition, Ed will provide his perspective on the latest situation in the global logistics arena. Given the volatility occurring in global trade, its impacts on the ports and related logistics systems, and the increasing relevance of end-to-end supply chains in executive suite discussions, this timely topic will provide ideas, insights, and strategies for supply chain success. Join Ed to stay ahead of the competition in creating supply chain resiliency.

About the Speaker

With over 35 years of comprehensive global experience in supply chain management, operations, and logistics, Dr. Knab has established a notable career dedicated to driving productivity and efficiency in global manufacturing environments. Currently serving as the President of Productivity Constructs, Inc., specializing in distribution center design and productivity consulting, Dr. Knab has a proven track record of implementing innovative strategies that enhance customer service and reduce operational costs.

Dr. Knab became acquainted with Global Trade early in his career as an owner of Warehouse Logic, which purchased a 1.7m/sq. ft. warehouse in Michigan. His warehouse space was designated as a Foreign Trade Zone and it quickly filled up with high tariff products in the Footwear, Automotive, Hardware and Industrial Automation industries. His customers benefited from customs duty deferral & reduction, inventory management efficiency, and competitive pricing and expansion capabilities.

He has a strong global perspective, having established international manufacturing capacities in over 400 factories across ten countries in the Pacific Rim. His expertise in automating processes has been showcased through the successful installation of advanced automation systems in high-tech environments, such as ‘Siemens' semiconductor plant in Leipzig, Germany. In addition to his technical skills, Dr. Knab has demonstrated remarkable leadership capabilities by managing multiple manufacturing facilities in both the United States and Asia, and he has initiated supplier programs and quality programs fostering collaborative relationships with top suppliers.

Dr. Knab is passionate about leveraging technology and innovation to optimize supply chain performance, and his insights and extensive experience in Foreign Trade continue to shape the future of operations design in the global marketplace.