Thought leadership matters, especially when supply chains face a 6.9% average general rate increase. Food Logistics recognized Zero Down CEO Brad McBride as a 2025 Rock Star of the Supply Chain for turning data analytics into actionable strategies that mitigate rising costs and drive 40% company growth.
What is the Rock Stars of the Supply Chain Award?
Food Logistics’ Rock Stars of the Supply Chain award honors influential individuals whose achievements, hard work, and vision have shaped the global cold-food supply chain.
Winners are recognized for driving innovation, mentoring teams, and advancing industry best practices.
Why Zero Down’s CEO is a Rock Star
As CEO of Zero Down, Brad McBride directs strategic vision, oversees innovation, and works directly with clients to unlock savings. Under his leadership, the company not only weathered industry-high GRIs but also expanded its technology platform and global reach.
- Expanded FreightOptics connectivity: McBride drove the platform’s integration with more than 200 freight carriers and 35+ parcel carriers, giving clients one-login access to holistic supply chain data and enabling diversification of carrier networks.
- Addressed general rate increases with data: By leveraging tailored analytics and negotiation strategies, Zero Down helped clients mitigate the impact of a 6.9% average GRI, maintaining service levels while controlling costs.
- Enhanced platform capabilities for multimodal spend: Over the past year, the company bolstered FreightOptics to manage transportation spend across all modes, unlocking new savings and improving visibility.
- Achieved 40% company growth: McBride’s client-focused approach and data-driven insights fueled 40% growth for Zero Down in 2024-25.
- Committed to future innovation: Looking ahead, McBride plans to enhance ocean-freight tracking and claims management, expand into new markets and continue developing the team’s expertise.
Brad McBride’s relentless focus on data-driven negotiation and customer advocacy has not only delivered millions in savings but also earned him recognition as a leader whose vision is shaping the next generation of cold-chain logistics.
