Food Logistics Magazine names Leonard’s Express CEO Kyle Johnson a “Rock Star” of the Supply Chain

Food Logistics, the only publication exclusively dedicated to covering the movement of product through the global cold food supply chain, has named Kyle Johnson, CEO of Leonard’s Express, a Rock Star of the Supply Chain. The annual award celebrates influential leaders in the industry whose achievements, hard work, and vision have shaped the global cold food supply chain. This is the third consecutive year that Food Logistics has recognized a Leonard’s Express executive with this award, and the first time for Kyle Johnson.

"From cargo fraud and Mother Nature to ever-changing food safety regulations and a new Presidential Administration that could bring an increase in tariffs, cost of goods and more, many of today's supply chain leaders are faced with a number of challenges. But it's their resilience, hard work, innovation and attention to quality that separates these rock stars from everyone else. Every year, this award puts a spotlight on the best of the best in the cold chain industry," said Marina Mayer, editor-in-chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive.

Under Johnson’s leadership, Leonard’s Express has maintained a healthy business despite a challenging economy. Over the past 12 months, Leonard’s Express has won numerous awards, including:

• Best Fleets to Drive For – Carriers Edge
• Top Food Chain Provider – Food Shippers of America
• Top Refrigerated Carriers in North America (ranked #7) – Transport Topics
• Top Refrigerated Fleets (ranked #7) – FleetOwner
• Top Workplace for Women in Transportation – Women In Trucking Association
• Fleet Safety Award (50-100 Million Miles) – Truckload Carriers Association

In 2024, Leonard’s Express took measures to improve supply chain efficiency by adopting Optimal Dynamics, an AI-based load acceptance and dispatch optimization software, to make better routing decisions and enable drivers and dispatchers to deliver higher levels of service to food shippers. Leonard’s also upgraded its in-cab electronic logging device (ELD) system by partnering with ISAAC Instruments, which allows drivers to more efficiently manage their daily routines and better ensure the safe delivery of freight.

The company continues to operate its 114,500 square-foot refrigerated warehouse that serves as an excellent distribution point for Upstate New York and the entire Northeast Corridor, providing much-needed supply chain capacity for shippers in the region.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by Food Logistics,” said Johnson. “Leonard’s Express is dedicated to providing excellent service to our customers and maximizing freshness and shelf life from farm to table. I’m extremely proud of the work our team does to deliver on our promise to food shippers and consumers across America.”

Johnson and the other award winners will be highlighted in the Jan/Feb print issue of Food Logistics.