Latest news with #Outpost
Business Wire
a day ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Outpost Launches Gate Automation Platform for Shippers, Fleets, and Terminal Operators
AUSTIN, Texas & SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Outpost ( a national truck terminal operator and automation company, today announced the launch of its gate automation platform, making the technology available to shippers, enterprise fleets, and terminal operators across the U.S. The platform uses computer vision and AI to cut gate operating costs by 70%, improve yard security, eliminate entry and exit delays, and automatically capture 99.9% of gate events with accurate, auditable data. As an owner and operator of more than 20 truck terminals and drop yards, Outpost trained and tested the platform across more than 1 million gate events at its own properties before bringing the technology to market. The platform combines computer vision, AI, and voice agents to significantly reduce costs while improving security. For decades, gate operations have been treated as a necessary cost center in the supply chain. Staffing a single gate 24/7 typically costs $25,000 per month 1, yet most facilities still struggle with accurate visibility into equipment inventory and condition. Manual check-ins often miss critical issues like trailer mismatches and unauthorized access, while guard turnover rates of 100% to 300% continuously disrupt operations. 2 Nationwide, these inefficiencies contribute to more than $6.7 billion in avoidable costs each year. 3 In addition, manual gate operations represent a growing security threat, with one-third of cargo thefts occurring at warehouses and distribution centers in 2024, 4 and a growing percentage of incidents involving insider participation. 5 These threats often exploit the same manual gate procedures that drive waste. Outpost's technology is a direct response to these challenges, informed by the company's unique experience as a terminal owner and operator. The platform combines computer vision, AI, and voice agents to significantly reduce costs while improving security. Outpost provides the industry's only vertically integrated gate automation solution consisting of software, hardware, civil planning, installation, and ongoing remote operations services. Deployments at most terminals are completed in as little as 1 week. The platform includes the most comprehensive and accurate computer vision in the freight industry, covering 20 points of detection, recognition, and inspection. It's built to understand every vehicle, driver, document, and anomaly, and continuously learn and improve with each gate event. Key capabilities include: Multi-part Vehicle Identification – Detecting vehicle type, make, model, color, trailer class, and fuel type. ID and Compliance Recognition – Reading USDOT and MC numbers, license plates, trailer and container IDs, chassis markings, hazmat placards, red tags, and company logos. Damage and Safety Inspection – Detecting dents, rust, scratches, broken lights, missing mud flaps, tire tread and sidewall issues, improper driver safety gear, and dashboard obstructions. Security Verification – Identifying seal presence, confirming driver identity through face-to-ID matching, validating license authenticity, and flagging tractor-trailer misdispatches. Situational Awareness – Tracking equipment movement, speed, full stops, tailgates, and gate malfunctions. Document and Cargo Intelligence – Extracting data from bills of lading and similar paperwork; detecting trailer and container cargo. Custom Detection – Outpost can train custom models for terminal-specific risks and SOP enforcement. These capabilities enable drivers to enter and exit the yard without stopping while terminal operators still capture all data required for operations and security compliance. The platform also pioneers the use of AI voice agents at the gate. These agents are capable of greeting each driver, administering standard operating procedures (SOPs), answering questions, and issuing site-specific instructions. Drivers can interact naturally in their native language without the need for apps or manually entering keycodes. To watch a demo of Outpost's AI voice agents: 'Outpost is taking the pain out of gate operations,' said Ryan Gass, Vice President of Safety, Terminal Management, Security and Facilities Maintenance at Werner Enterprises. 'Our drivers get through faster, our teams have better visibility, and our equipment is more secure. Using the platform at Outpost and our own terminals gives us cleaner data, faster terminal throughput, and a unified view of our fleet across Werner and Outpost sites. They're setting a new standard for how all modern facilities should run.' 'Outpost's mission is to build the backbone of freight. Extending our technology footprint from our own properties to our customers' terminals is the next logical step in achieving that mission,' said Greg Akselrod, Outpost Chief Technology Officer. 'By linking carrier terminals and drop yards into a single operational network, we're enabling a new level of visibility and coordination across the freight ecosystem, turning the gate from a cost center into a strategic control point.' Starting today, Outpost's gate automation is available to fleets, shippers, and terminal operators across the U.S. To learn more or request a demo, visit or email info@ About Outpost Outpost is building the infrastructure that powers modern freight. The company operates a national network of 20+ truck terminals and drop yards, helping fleets scale without capital investment by leveraging shared infrastructure. It also develops the gate automation technology that powers these facilities. The platform automates access control and reduces operating costs with AI-based inspections, real-time event tracking, and streamlined driver communication. For fleets looking to expand their freight networks and terminal operators ready to modernize their gate operations, learn more at 1 Outpost analysis of terminal operating data. 2 Service Employees International Union (SEIU). 3 Outpost analysis of facility labor cost benchmarks and national terminal counts derived from government and proprietary data. 4 Overhaul 2024 Cargo Theft Report. 5 BSI Group Q2 2025 cargo theft analysis.
Geek Wire
a day ago
- Automotive
- Geek Wire
How AI is being used to boost efficiency and security at truck terminal gates
A new automated gate platform from Outpost is designed to capture more reliable data as trucks enter and exit terminals and shipping sites. (Outpost Photo) Outpost, the Austin-based operator of truck terminals across the U.S., announced Thursday that it's rolling out a gate automation platform developed by the company's engineering team located in Seattle. The platform uses computer vision and artificial intelligence in a bid to cut costs, improve security, eliminate entry and exit delays, and automatically capture more reliable data. Outpost trained and tested the platform across more than 1 million gate events at the more than 20 properties that it owns, and is making the technology available to shippers, enterprise fleets, and other terminal operators. Human gate operators have long been considered a necessary cost of doing business across the trucking industry. According to Outpost, staffing a single gate 24/7 typically costs $25,000 per month. But manual checks can miss critical issues like trailer mismatches, equipment condition, and unauthorized access. The gate automation platform is built to understand every vehicle, driver, document, and anomaly, and continuously learn and improve with each gate event. Key capabilities — which enable drivers to enter and exit a yard without stopping — include: Multi-part vehicle identification : Detecting vehicle type, make, model, color, trailer class, and fuel type. : Detecting vehicle type, make, model, color, trailer class, and fuel type. ID and compliance recognition : Reading USDOT and MC numbers, license plates, trailer and container IDs, chassis markings, hazmat placards, red tags, and company logos. : Reading USDOT and MC numbers, license plates, trailer and container IDs, chassis markings, hazmat placards, red tags, and company logos. Damage and safety inspection : Detecting dents, rust, scratches, broken lights, missing mud flaps, tire tread and sidewall issues, improper driver safety gear, and dashboard obstructions. : Detecting dents, rust, scratches, broken lights, missing mud flaps, tire tread and sidewall issues, improper driver safety gear, and dashboard obstructions. Security verification : Identifying seal presence, confirming driver identity through face-to-ID matching, validating license authenticity, and flagging tractor-trailer mis-dispatches. : Identifying seal presence, confirming driver identity through face-to-ID matching, validating license authenticity, and flagging tractor-trailer mis-dispatches. Situational awareness : Tracking equipment movement, speed, full stops, tailgates, and gate malfunctions. : Tracking equipment movement, speed, full stops, tailgates, and gate malfunctions. Document and cargo intelligence: Extracting data from bills of lading and similar paperwork; detecting trailer and container cargo. The platform also features the use of AI voice agents at the gate (see video above), which are capable of greeting each driver, administering standard operating procedures, answering questions, and issuing site-specific instructions. Outpost CTO Greg Akselrod said the company's mission is to 'build the backbone of freight' and extend its technology footprint beyond its own properties. 'By linking carrier terminals and drop yards into a single operational network, we're enabling a new level of visibility and coordination across the freight ecosystem, turning the gate from a cost center into a strategic control point,' Akselrod said in a statement. Omaha, Neb.-based transportation and logistics company Werner Enterprises is an early user of the new platform. 'Outpost is taking the pain out of gate operations,' said Ryan Gass, VP of Safety, Terminal Management, Security and Facilities Maintenance at Werner. 'Our drivers get through faster, our teams have better visibility, and our equipment is more secure.' Founded in 2022, Outpost raised a $12.5 million Series A investment round in April 2024. The company's engineering and marketing center is located in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood, with about a dozen employees based in the city and another 10 who report in remotely. Related: Full list of engineering centers in the Seattle region
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Newsweek
Electric Vehicle Maker Rivian Is Running on All Cylinders
Rivian is running on all cylinders. Despite the newness of the electric vehicle company, it has quickly garnered a strong fan following and is scheduled to grow beyond its two-model lineup this year. In addition to product, the company is moving forward with plans to establish an East Coast operations hub in Atlanta, Georgia, and a second factory an hour outside the city. Despite its newness, Rivian is one of America's Greatest Companies 2025 as determined by Newsweek based on a competitive analysis of comprehensive reviews that were supported by third-party data. Rivian's CEO, RJ Scaringe, was named Newsweek's World's Greatest Auto Disruptor Executive of the Year in 2024. "We've always approached growth with a long-term view, focusing on vertical integration, strong financial discipline and strategic growth," Rivian's chief people officer Scott Griffin told Newsweek. The company's R2 and R3 SUVs are next up in the product development cycle. "With R2 and R3, we're expanding our brand story in a way that makes adventure more accessible, without compromising the design, performance, and technology that define Rivian. These vehicles are a major step forward in our engineering evolution: built on a new midsize platform that enables more efficiency, faster production, and lower cost, while still delivering the capability and versatility people expect from us," Griffin said. Rivian's Nashville location. Rivian's Nashville location. Rivian "From a brand perspective, R2 and R3 let us reach a broader audience: people who are ready for electric but haven't yet found a vehicle that fits their lifestyle or values. We're sharing our purpose-driven design, class-leading technology, and off-road capability into something that can live in more environments," he continued. The company has been criticized for its choosiness and selections, but it's paying off in profits. "By developing our own software, hardware and infrastructure, we've created an agile platform that allows us to adapt quickly, while scaling responsibly and effectively. We're also deliberate about the markets we enter, building strong communities of passionate owners and delivering a product experience that earns loyalty. Ultimately, our viability comes down to one thing: stay true to our mission. We are here to inspire people to explore the world and protect it for future generations. As long as we're doing that with integrity and innovation, we're confident we are building something that will last," Griffin said. Rivian often receives praise for its adherence to a cohesive company image, from its Outpost charging points to Spaces company stores to marketing initiatives. It's part of a deliberate act by the company to create a narrative and culture that fits from top to bottom. "We've always believed that our greatest strength comes from bringing ALL people together with a commitment to creating a future where every individual is valued, connected, and empowered to contribute their best work. We are intentionally cultivating an environment that fosters both high performance and deep connection. The culture we build at Rivian is our most important long-term advantage. Whether it's our teams, our spaces or how we work, everything is designed to spark innovation, strengthen collaboration, and make people proud to be a part of Rivian," Griffin said. The company hosts events at its Irvine, California, headquarters and Normal, Illinois, factory that fit into its cultural ethos. "We create meaningful connection and memories through engaging in-person events like our annual Family & Friends Days, our Holidazzzler celebration, and community 5K runs. Digitally, our intranet, The Current, plays a huge role in keeping everyone at the company informed and engaged with the latest news and information. We also have monthly Company Updates with our CEO and other leaders to share key priorities and provide employee recognition. Together, these efforts help foster a culture where employees feel connected, valued and inspired by our mission to keep the world adventurous forever," he said. Growing buy-in from an employee when they start with the company can be easier than maintaining their allegiance. Griffin said: "Maintaining a positive work environment as we grow is a deliberate and ongoing effort. It starts with clearly defined company values, so everyone understands what matters most, regardless of how fast we scale. "We invest in consistent, meaningful communication that both informs and inspires. Through robust internal channels, we meet employees where they are, keeping them connected to our mission and each other. We provide employees the opportunity to make meaningful contributions agnostic to their amount of experience. For example - our interns are both amazed and delighted when their work becomes new content in our vehicles. "Our leaders also play a critical role in shaping our culture. We support them through tools, training and regular touchpoints such as senior leadership meetings and monthly updates, so they can guide their teams effectively through change while reinforcing what makes Rivian a great place to work." Though its business is the here and now, Rivian is preparing for the future and taking a hard look at its impact as a company. "What excites our team most about the future is the opportunity to scale our impact. We are bringing category defining products to market that provide consumers with choices never before available. "Our employees came to Rivian to bring extraordinary products to life. With R2 on the near horizon, we're entering a new chapter, bringing our mission to broader audiences and making electric vehicles accessible to more people. But it's not just about the products. It's about what they represent: progress toward a more sustainable future, innovation that pushes the boundaries and a company culture that empowers people to do meaningful work. "No matter what team you are on at Rivian, there's a sense that we're building something that truly matters and that's incredibly energizing for our employees," Griffin said.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
70,000-square-foot Bass Pro Shops near Duluth opens Wednesday
Outdoor enthusiasts in northern Minnesota can now stock up on gear and clothing at a brand new Bass Pro Shops near Duluth. The Outpost store will celebrate its grand opening Wednesday in the former Camping World building on Haines Road in Hermantown, less than two miles from the Miller Hill Mall. The new 70,000-square-foot shopping hub offers a large selection of fishing, hunting, camping, hiking and marine gear, electronics, clothing, bikes, boats and more. A 10,000-gallon, in-store aquarium is home to lake sturgeon, white suckers, walleye, northern pike, muskellunge and other species native to Lake Superior - provided through a partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The store features several other local touches, such as murals depicting scenes from northern Minnesota. During Wednesday's "Evening for Conservation" grand opening event, 20% of every dollar spent on most items will be donated to local conservation organizations. The festivities will also include appearances by notable anglers and hunters, family activities, giveaways and live music by country singer-songwriter Blaine Holcomb.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Spot with ‘best sandwiches in T-Town' closes. New owner plans to revamp menu
Outpost Sandwiches at Court House Square, one of the city's best lunch restaurants, closed its most recent chapter last week, as a new owner — a chef with many years of experience in the local industry and beyond — plans to revamp the space and concept. Partners Adolfo 'Fito' Calles and Lauren Hernandez said goodbye to their sandwich shop after service on May 15, ending a journey that began in 2017. They did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but in an Instagram post the next day, it appeared that personal reasons drove the decision. 'Well we are speechless. 8 years. 120,000 sandwiches, a pandemic, a baby… and shortly another baby. Thank you everyone who has come by this week or reached out. It really means the world to us,' they wrote under a photo of toasted and untoasted bread — likely Macrina Bakery sourdough, the shop's loaf of choice. 'We get asked by friends and family, why we decided to move to Tacoma and this is clearly one of the reasons … we've really felt the love of the community.' Dave Cooper, most recently of the venerable Marzano in Parkland and Le Pichet at Pike Place Market, has bought the business. Like en Rama and Liftbridge Coffee upstairs, the developer of Court House Square, A Street Associates, built the restaurant spaces and contracted out the management of them to industry professionals. Last year, the building owner sold en Rama to new owners, and now Outpost has followed a similar path. The News Tribune also reached out to the building owner's representative for more information. Court House Square was originally built in 1919 for the U.S. Postal Service. It was renovated in the early 1980s, according to county property records, but its modern life really began in 2012 when A Street Associates purchased it 'with the intention of bringing its 72,000 square feet back to life,' according to the organization's website. In addition to the food and drink businesses (which, years ago, included Ice Cream Social's production facility and an Infinite Soups next to Outpost — then called The Countertop), the five-floor structure is also home to a few dozen small businesses, from tattoo shops to recording studios, florists to therapy. The fourth-floor holds a desirable ballroom event space and the third floor co-working office The Pioneer Collective. There is still a working post office on the main floor. Outpost was beloved not only as a top choice for a quick lunch downtown but also as a destination for sandwiches made with care. Calles comes from a family of restaurant-industry professionals and worked for many years in kitchens around the Bay Area and food trucks in Los Angeles before settling in Tacoma. In an interview with The News Tribune in 2022, he said the shop had offered relatively 'safe food' when he and Hernandez took over in 2017. They kicked things up several notches, focusing on homemade touches by roasting beef, pickling onions, whipping lemon-herb mayo and fresh basil pesto. 'Homemade is our biggest push as a sandwich shop,' said Calles in 2022. 'I want it to be comforting.' In the downtime of 2020, they developed a Friday pizza ritual, perfecting the recipe for their Grandma-style pie — available only by the slice, and only on Fridays — over the next few years. Outpost shared many Instagram stories last week from fans. 'Best sandwiches in T-Town. Period,' said one. 'Y'all were seriously so good at what you did,' said another. On Reddit, a Fircrest resident said, 'I eat lunch there every time I work from downtown Tacoma.' Cooper anticipates various updates, both aesthetic and menu-wise, he confirmed in an email to The News Tribune. Bringing years of experience in the kitchen, including at respected restaurants in Chicago, he hopes to share more details next month. ▪ 1102 A St. (basement level — main entrance on South 12th Street) ▪ Details: new owner for Court House Square sandwich shop; target opening early summer 2025
