What caused the failure of consolidated freightways?

1. Declining Market Share: Consolidated Freightways' market share in the trucking industry steadily declined in the 1990s and early 2000s. This was due to increased competition from other trucking companies, as well as the rise of intermodal transportation (combining different transportation modes, such as trucks and trains).

2. Financial Difficulties: Consolidated Freightways experienced financial difficulties as it struggled to keep up with the changing market. The company's debt increased, and its credit ratings were downgraded. This made it difficult for the company to borrow money and invest in new equipment and technology.

3. Labor Issues: Consolidated Freightways faced labor issues with its unionized workforce, including strikes and work slowdowns. These disruptions further impacted the company's efficiency and profitability.

4. Deregulation: Deregulation of the trucking industry in the late 1970s increased competition and made it harder for Consolidated Freightways to maintain its dominant position.

5. Poor Management Decisions: Some poor management decisions contributed to Consolidated Freightways' decline, such as investing heavily in less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping at a time when the market was moving toward full truckload (FTL) shipping.

6. Bankruptcy and Acquisition: In 2002, Consolidated Freightways filed for bankruptcy and was subsequently acquired by Menlo Worldwide Logistics, which continued to operate the company. However, the Consolidated Freightways brand was eventually phased out.