Fast-growing third-party logistics companies are tuning into and tapping broad trends driving logistics growth in the U.S. and globally, including increased cross-border trade and the expansion of intermodal rail. Here are seven trends picked by XPO Logistics CEO Bradley S. Jacobs.

At a recent supply chain conference, Bradley S. Jacobs heard a “financially compelling” case for investing and doing business in his country from former Mexican President Felipe Calderón. “Mexico is positioning to chip into China’s status as one of our major trading partners,” said the chairman and CEO of XPO Logistics.

XPO Logistics will buy intermodal giant Pacer International for approximately $335 million, expanding its reach into new freight markets.

Pacer International reported its profit in the third quarter of 2013 was $2.8 million, jumping 155 percent or $1.7 million from the third quarter of 2012.

Pacer International reported its net income in the second quarter of 2013 totaled $1.9 million, compared with $1.3 million in the same quarter in 2012.

Pacer International has appointed Julie A. Krehbiel as executive vice president of sales and marketing for intermodal, effective April 8.

Pacer International, Inc., has hired Paul C. Svindland to serve as chief operating officer, effective Nov. 12, 2012.

Pacer International and CSX Transportation have extended their partnership through a new multiyear agreement, giving the intermodal middleman more opportunity to tap the Eastern shift of cargo from th