12/18/2024
A Message from Our CEO: An Important Lesson in Business Integrity
To our supporters, colleagues, and everyone who has stood by the Bridge Logistics Group,
I want to take a moment to personally thank each of you for your trust and support over the years. As the Chief Executive Officer of the Bridge Logistics Group, Iāve always believed that running a family-owned business comes with a responsibility to operate with integrity, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to our clients, partners, and community. Your support has been the backbone of our success, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
Unfortunately, we find ourselves in a challenging situation that I believe is important to shareānot just as a reflection of our experiences, but as a cautionary lesson for others in the logistics and transportation industry. Recently, weāve been forced to take legal action against a direct shipper who has refused to pay for services rendered. The amount owed is close to six figures, and we are currently holding their product in our warehouse as this dispute continues. Due to legal reasons, I cannot name the company at this time, but the lessons from this experience are ones I feel are critical to highlight.
One of the most important reminders from this situation is that even direct shippers can go bad. Without proper contracts, due diligence, and clear payment terms, a seemingly great opportunity can quickly turn into a significant financial and operational risk. At the same time, not all brokers are bad. A quality broker adds value by vetting shippers, securing payments, and providing a buffer of accountability. Whether working with a broker or a direct client, due diligence is non-negotiable. Always check reputations, payment histories, and credit standing before committing to a business relationship.
This situation has tested us, but it has also reinforced what matters most: the relationships weāve built with our partners across the supply chain. From our trusted truckers to our warehouse vendors and everyone in between, we recognize that none of what we do is possible without you. You have supported us through thick and thin, and I want to be clearāwe will not let you down. Bridge Logistics Group remains committed to honoring these partnerships and doing whatever is necessary to ensure that we continue delivering on our promises.
What has become painfully clear in this experience is how the decisions made by those who lack integrity ripple far beyond just the money owed. These decisions hurt the people behind the businessesāthe truckers, the warehouse workers, the vendors, and their families. As entrepreneurs and industry professionals, we have a duty to take accountability for the impact our actions have on others. When someone refuses to do whatās right, they force others to bear the brunt of the consequences, which can jeopardize livelihoods and long-standing relationships.
Despite the challenges we face, I remain committed to standing up for what is right. This isnāt just about usāitās about sending a message that small businesses cannot and will not be bullied.
As we approach the holiday season, I want to remind everyone of the importance of spending time with your loved ones. Itās easy to get caught up in the struggles and challenges of running a business, but at the end of the day, what we do as entrepreneurs directly impacts the well-being of our families. Every decision we make mattersānot just for our businesses, but for the people we care about most. While the obstacles may seem overwhelming at times, itās important to remember that every situation has a resolution. Sometimes, it requires taking a firm stance and being prepared for a prolonged fight, but in the end, the right path is always worth pursuing.
Thank you for continuing to stand with Bridge Logistics Group. Your encouragement and belief in what we do mean everything as we work through this. We remain as committed as ever to delivering exceptional service, operating with integrity, and strengthening the partnerships that allow this industry to thrive.
Wishing you and your families a safe and happy holiday season.
Thank you,
Michael Gessen
Chief Executive Officer
Bridge Logistics Group
