In this edition of local business news: Reading-based Penske Logistics is using a new artificial intelligence platform to better track freight movements. Also, Aldi, with five TriCounty grocery stores, plans to build 180 more across 31 states.
Penske Uses New AI Platform to Track, Trace Freight
READING PA – After a six-month test of new artificial intelligence (AI) software, Reading-based Penske Logistics says the technology now in use improves its ability to track and trace freight being moved primarily by trucks.
Penske, in a Wednesday (Jan. 14, 2026) media release, reports the AI platform increases “the ease, speed and visibility of freight” for customers and associates. The company also says it anticipates seeing as much as a 30- to 40-percent productivity gain as the system eliminates routine manual processes, and enhances follow-ups with carrier dispatchers.
The AI platform was developed by Augment of San Francisco CA, but it’s not the only one in use at Penske. “Our partnership with Augment is one of many AI-related and tech-enabled supply chain initiatives we are implementing to enhance the experience for our customers,” according to Penske Logistics President Jeff Jackson.
Top photo provided by Penske Logistics
Grocer Aldi, in 50th Anniversary, Foresees Major Expansion
BATAVIA IL – Aldi – a grocer with local stores in Pottstown (2), Limerick, Norristown, and Reading – is marking its 50th anniversary in the U.S. with plans to open 180 more locations in 31 states over 5 years, it said Monday (Jan. 12, 2026). It also intends to add three new distribution centers, and improve its online shopping experience.
With an increased footprint, Aldi by the end of 2026 will operate nearly 2,800 stores, with a goal of 3,200 stores by the end of 2028. The company reports it attracted “17 million new customers visiting stores” during 2025, and claims one in three U.S. households shopped at Aldi last year.
None of the announced growth is located in Pennsylvania.
Stores will be built in Maine, Colorado, Arizona, and Nevada. It also will continue its conversions of locations for Southeastern Grocers, a company it acquired in 2024. Distribution centers will rise in Florida, Arizona, and Colorado. Its online shopping presence, however, will be ungraded in an attempt to match “the ease of in-store shopping.”
Photo from Google Images, via Google Maps
Our local news reporting includes news about businesses and commercial ventures within, or that affect residents of, Montgomery, Berks, and Chester PA counties. Find more business articles here.
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