Encourage Efficient Trailers: Incentives for E-Trailers and hybrid refrigeration units reduce costs and emissions, driving sustainable logistics innovation.
Aswe face an unprecedented environmental crisis, the need for sustainable solutions has never been more urgent. This series seeks to spotlight the innovative minds and passionate advocates who are leading the charge in environmental conservation and sustainable practices. We aim to explore the most effective strategies, breakthrough technologies, and transformative policies that are shaping a more sustainable future for our planet. As a part of this series, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Jeffery M. Benore.
Jeffery M. Benore, President and CEO of Benore Logistic Systems, Inc., has built and led the company for over three decades, transforming it into an industry leader in supply chain and logistics solutions. Under his leadership, Benore has set the standard for innovation, operational excellence, and customer-focused service. His unwavering commitment to excellence has solidified the company’s legacy and positioned it as a driving force in the logistics industry.
Thank you so much for joining us! Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your ‘backstory’?
Thank you for having me — it’s a privilege to share my story! My background is deeply rooted in family values and traditions. As a fifth-generation farmer from Erie, Michigan, I grew up with a strong sense of responsibility, hard work, and commitment to the land. These principles shaped my personal values and professional outlook.
In 1994, we founded Benore Logistic Systems, Inc., starting as a single truck operation. Over time, we grew into a company that serves some of North America’s largest industries, all while remaining family-owned and family-operated. Today, with my children Jaimie, Julia, and Joseph actively contributing to the business, it’s fulfilling to see our legacy not just preserved but also transformed for the future. Our journey has always been about blending tradition with innovation.
Can you share with us the most interesting story from your career? Can you tell us what lessons or ‘takeaways’ you learned from that?
One of the most defining moments in my career was when we competed for our first major contract against well-established competitors. During the site visit, the customer noticed a farm tractor being repaired on our premises. It sparked a conversation about our farming background and our hands-on approach to equipment maintenance.
That moment set us apart, as the client recognized our resourcefulness and technical expertise. We won the contract, and it became a pivotal point in our growth. The key takeaway was that authenticity and creativity can distinguish you in competitive markets. This lesson has stayed with me and continues to influence how we approach challenges today.
You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
Resilience: By focusing on strategic decision-making and staying true to our values, we are able to adapt under pressure, such as the 2008 financial crisis and recently Hurricane Helene, to emerge stronger.
Collaboration: Collaboration is fundamental to achieving success, whether within our team or with our customers. By fostering open communication, aligning on shared goals, and leveraging diverse expertise, we ensure that every effort is coordinated and impactful. This commitment to working together strengthens relationships and drives progress in all aspects of our business.
Vision: Anticipating the future of logistics has been critical. Our commitment to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles exemplifies this. Launching a hydrogen-powered fleet requires not only vision but also bold steps to prepare for an industry still developing this technology.
Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that might help people?
We’re advancing sustainability in logistics with innovative projects. Expanding our fleet of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and integrating hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCVs) are just two examples of how we’re reducing emissions and improving operational efficiency.
We’ve grown our BEV fleet and upgraded infrastructure to support electrification. Additionally, we’re preparing to roll out a 14-truck hydrogen fleet in Savannah, Georgia, tackling supply challenges to make it viable. These efforts demonstrate how logistics can innovate while positively impacting communities by reducing environmental harm.
Ok, thank you for all that. Now let’s shift to the main focus of our interview. What pivotal moment led you to dedicate your career to sustainability, and how has that shaped your approach to environmental challenges?
Growing up on a farm instilled a deep respect for the environment and a commitment to preserving resources. When I saw how logistics impacted the planet, I realized we could adopt sustainable practices to address these challenges. That realization drove us to embrace new technologies. Sustainability isn’t just a goal — it’s a responsibility guiding our actions every day.
Could you describe a groundbreaking project or initiative you’ve been involved in that significantly contributed to sustainability?
One standout initiative has been our implementation of 8 BEVs into our fleet, and that number continues to expand. We are also transitioning to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. This year, we’re preparing to launch a 14-truck hydrogen fleet in Savannah, Georgia, a project requiring extensive collaboration to overcome fuel supply challenges and test the technology.
By integrating hydrogen alongside renewable diesel and BEVs, we’re transforming fleet operations and setting an industry precedent for cleaner logistics. This initiative highlights how innovation, when paired with strategic investment, can drive meaningful environmental progress.
How do you navigate the balance between economic growth and environmental preservation in your sustainability strategies?
At Benore Logistic Systems, Inc., we see environmental preservation as a smart investment. While innovations like renewable diesel and aerodynamic trailers come with upfront costs, they save money over time through improved efficiency. Each new idea is carefully evaluated over time to ensure its future benefits to both the environment and our business. By doing so, we show that sustainability and growth go hand-in-hand.
What emerging technologies or innovations do you believe hold the most promise for advancing sustainability and why?
Technologies like BEVs, HFCVs, and renewable diesel hold immense promise. BEVs are perfect for short-haul operations, as seen in our growing fleet and successful trials of yard tractors. Hydrogen fuel, with its potential for zero-emission long-haul transport, is another game-changer — we’re addressing supply chain challenges to lead in its adoption.
Renewable diesel bridges the gap by seamlessly integrating with existing engines while cutting emissions. Innovations like aerodynamic enhancements and hybrid refrigeration units further optimize efficiency, demonstrating how multiple technologies can work together to transform logistics.
Based on your research or experience, can you please share your “5 Top Strategies for a Cleaner Planet”?
1 . Support Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): Businesses and governments can accelerate BEV adoption by investing in infrastructure, providing incentives, and fostering innovation. BEVs reduce emissions and advance energy independence.
2 . Promote Renewable Diesel: Subsidies and infrastructure investment can help businesses transition to renewable diesel, lowering emissions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
3 . Advance Hydrogen Technology: Collaboration on hydrogen research and fueling networks supports zero-emission logistics, cutting the carbon footprint of long-haul transport.
4 . Encourage Efficient Trailers: Incentives for E-Trailers and hybrid refrigeration units reduce costs and emissions, driving sustainable logistics innovation.
5 . Boost Aerodynamic Improvements: Grants for aerodynamic upgrades like side skirts improve fuel efficiency and cut emissions, proving that small changes create big sustainability gains.
In your view, what are the key steps individuals, communities, and governments need to take to achieve a more sustainable future?
Individuals should embrace mindful consumption and waste reduction. Communities can invest in green infrastructure and initiatives. Governments and the logistics industry must lead with policies and innovations, prioritizing alternative fuels and efficient technologies. Collaboration at all levels ensures meaningful progress toward a sustainable future.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)
I’d create a global network for sustainable transportation, uniting logistics providers, manufacturers, and governments to collaborate on scalable solutions like hydrogen, renewable diesel, and electrification. Sharing resources and expertise would ensure even smaller operators can transition to greener technologies, driving collective progress while protecting the planet.
What is the best way for our readers to continue to follow your work online?
Visit benorelogistics.com for updates on our work and initiatives. You can also follow Benore Logistic Systems, Inc. on LinkedIn for the latest news and insights into how we’re shaping the future of logistics.
This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for the time you spent on this. We wish you only continued success.
About the Interviewer: Wanda Malhotra is a wellness entrepreneur, lifestyle journalist, and the CEO of Crunchy Mama Box, a mission-driven platform promoting conscious living. CMB empowers individuals with educational resources and vetted products to help them make informed choices. Passionate about social causes like environmental preservation and animal welfare, Wanda writes about clean beauty, wellness, nutrition, social impact and sustainability, simplifying wellness with curated resources. Join Wanda and the Crunchy Mama Box community in embracing a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle at CrunchyMamaBox.com .
