Articles related to: Retail - Inbound Logistics

Articles: Retail

3PL, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Essentials of a Healthy Supply Chain Partnership

To ensure brands are managing the most efficient, optimized supply chain, they need to assess their supply chain partner’s commitment across the following key areas.

Global Economy, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Get Your Supply Chain Up to E-Commerce Speed

Supply chains face a conundrum when it comes to speed: no matter how automated your processes are internally, you’re only as fast as the next guy in the chain. Here’s what it takes to be e-commerce fast.

Last Mile Delivery, Retail Logistics, Retail

How E-Tailers Can Reduce Return Rates for Large Items

By following these steps, e-tailers can lower return rates, increasing profits and creating happier customers.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Addressing Expedited Delivery Expectations

Amazon and other large retailers set customer expectations by offering expedited delivery at low or no cost. Retailers of all sizes must compete on the same turf, yet lack the negotiating power that could net meaningful discounts with commercial carriers.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Leveraging Supply Chain Automation to Meet This Year’s Holiday Shopping Demands

The holiday sales rush presents both an opportunity and a challenge for shippers as they navigate high-volume orders and expectations for next-day shipping. By leveraging supply chain automation, shippers can meet this year’s higher-than-ever consumer demands while staying competitive.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Reaching a Point of No Returns

Retailers around the world are slacking in the returns department.

E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail

E-commerce Retailers Target Germany

Approximately one-third of leading U.S. e-commerce retailers are planning to enter the German market in the next four years, according to a recent study.

Global Logistics, Sourcing/Negotiations, Retail

Fashion Supply Chain: What to Where

Executives from leading fashion and apparel brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers reveal the supply chain challenges topping their list.

Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Engaging Customers Through AI

Retailers turn to artificial intelligence to boost customer service.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Best Practices for the Gift of Successful Holiday Sales

For some retailers, holiday sales can represent up to 27.4 percent of annual sales. Having a clear understanding of your historical trends for seasonal goods is critical for forecasting seasonal categories this upcoming season.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain

E-Commerce Commentary: Three Ways Shippers Can Improve Customer Satisfaction

Shippers should turn their attention to three frequently overlooked components of inventory record management to improve inventory accuracy and, ultimately, consumer satisfaction.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Third-Party Refurbishers Help Get
First-Quality Goods to Market

What if your shipment of apparel from overseas gets soaked with saltwater on its way to the distribution center? This supply chain solution can return merchandise to first-quality condition.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

Supply Chain Commentary: Prepare for Mobile Commerce

Mobile commerce is expected to become a $250-billion market by 2020, with an increasing number of sales being done via smartphone apps, says the 2017 UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper. Here are key takeaways for retailers.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

What Retail Apocalypse?
Retailers Open 4,000+ Stores in 2017

Store closings have grabbed headlines, but they're not telling the whole story. Find out what a new report says about the state of retail.

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Recent Industry Disruptions Challenge, Improve Retail Logistics and Supply Chain

The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.

3PL, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail

Solved: Satellite DC Quickly Fulfills Orders

Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.

E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation

E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer

This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.

Food Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Discovering Eight Truths of the New Era of Retail

Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Commentary: How Amazon's Acquisition of Whole Foods Will Disrupt Industrial Real Estate

Whole Foods’ 460+ centrally located stores will augment Amazon’s physical infrastructure and allow it to use the stores as distribution centers. In return, Amazon’s targeted transaction data, technological expertise, and logistical prowess catapult Whole Foods into the online realm and suggest a new level of convenience.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Customized Solution Helps Retailer Find Savings and Visibility

A home goods retailer partnered with Unyson to increase efficiency and enhance visibility.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Sofa So Good: Software Upgrade Bolsters Furniture Company’s Growth

Furniture retailer upgrades its warehouse management system to furnish growth.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Report: Retailers are Hemorrhaging Costs from Premium Delivery Services

E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Study Finds U.S. Retailers Lead the Way in International Expansion 

The retail industry's international expansion slowed a bit in 2016 from its strong pace of a year earlier as retailers adjusted to e-commerce and shifting exchange rates, according to CBRE Group Inc.’s international retail expansion study.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Study Finds Growing Demand for Retail Click and Collect

Click and collect has become a key component of retailers' overall e-commerce strategy. Nearly one third of shoppers purchased products online and subsequently picked them up at a store during the 2016 holiday season.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

Retailer Reduces Transportation Spend

A retailer teamed up with Unyson to create an out-of-the-box solution for its growing supply chain.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Finding Untapped Value in Product Returns

In today’s returns economy, retailers need to be able to separate the “good” return from the preventable one. To get better data on returns, here are three steps they can take.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

How Small Retailers Can Compete with Retail Giants

To compete in today’s environment, small to medium players need to offer competitive supply chain and delivery services.

Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Enabling a Faster-to-Market Solution

Cath Kidston partnered with SEKO to expand the company’s inbound business from Asia to the UK and its distribution centers in Hong Kong and Shanghai supplying its international franchises.

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

How 3PL Warehouses Can Capitalize on the Escalating Demands of Prospects and Customers

3PL warehouses are not only in demand, but in a position of strength. This provides 3PL operators a unique opportunity to build lasting relationships with key customers, suppliers, and retailers of their choice.

Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Predictive Analytics Takes Forecasting to a New Level

Predictive analytics utilizes various statistical techniques and models that analyze current and historical facts to make predictions about future.

Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Retail Logistics Bets on E-Commerce

E-commerce impacts not only consumer supply chains, but business to business supply chains as well.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Walmart’s ShippingPass Has Ended. What Retailers Should Do Next.

The e-commerce race is only heating up. Here's what small to mid-size retailers should do to stay in the game.

E-commerce, 3PL, Education, Retail, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation

Download the Inbound Logistics Planner App Today

Find the right solutions, carriers and partners to drive efficiency in your supply chain operations and enable your enterprise to navigate the twists and turns, ups and downs of the coming year.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Omni-Channel Retail: Roadmap To Profit

Omni-channel retail supply chains are forging new paths to profitability. Here's what they look like.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Risk Management, Supply Chain

GOOD QUESTION | What’s your supply chain resolution for 2017?

Readers reveal the issues that could disrupt the supply chain…as well as their sleep.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Shaking Up the Brown Box: Big Winners in Supply Chain Evolution

Business to consumer demand is set to outpace supply in the marketplace. Those who can solve that problem will be the big winners in the next phase of supply chain management.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Solving the E-Commerce Puzzle

To overcome the challenges that e-commerce presents to the supply chain, shippers need to succeed at omni-channel fulfillment. From leveraging brick-and-mortar stores to deploying an order management system, here’s how they can compete in an e-commerce world.

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Rethinking Reverse Logistics for Online Apparel Returns

As physical shopping bags are being replaced by virtual ones, it’s important for retailers to update their policies and logistics strategies to align with consumer behavior and expectations.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Tackling Retail Logistics: Build Your Team First

The flexible supply chain of the future is full of opportunities and challenges. With the right team and talent on your side, you’ll be well positioned for success. Here’s how to get the right people.

Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

How Precise Forecasting Tames Item Proliferation

More accurate forecasts enable better planning, lower inventory and manufacturing costs, and improved service levels.

Customer Service, Last Mile Delivery, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

3PLs & Carriers: At Your Service

A look at the metrics that shippers and their service providers use to evaluate the quality of customer service.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics I.T.

How to Beat Amazon at the Retail and Supply Chain Game in 2017

With heavy competition from Amazon in both retail and supply chain logistics, retailers that don’t begin making changes and investments in omni-channel in 2017 will see serious repercussions by 2020. For starters, they must invest in distributed order management and enterprise wide inventory visibility.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing, Visibility

Getting the Goods on Logistics this Holiday Season

In time for the holiday season and other peak periods, retailers are stepping up their game in delivery, fulfillment, and warehousing technology to improve the effectiveness of existing resources.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Trends—November 2016

Damaged holiday packages negatively impact brands; Robot cargo pilots successfully tested; Not having procurement department negatively affects bottom line

Air Cargo, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Latin America

What’s Driving the Air Freight Industry Today?

These developments are helping the transportation industry to continually evolve.

E-commerce, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

How Supply Chain Strategies Impact
E-commerce Success

The emergence of e-commerce as part of a company’s omni-channel marketing program requires not only an agile, lean supply chain but also a strategy to get there.

Economic Development, Asia, Global Logistics, Retail

Why Retailers Need the TPP

Retailers need to come together in support of the trade agreement that will ultimately improve the industry for all. Here are three reasons why they should stand behind the passage of the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain

Accurate Product Data Drives Supply Chain Systems

Supply chain applications stumble when the product data they’re using is inaccurate. Here's how to make sure data is consistent and comes from well-crafted and executed processes.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Real Estate, Trucking, Transportation

Trends—October 2016

Rise of e-commerce changing logistics real estate landscape; Companies who don’t sell globally may be sacrificing profits; Many smaller fleets non-compliant with upcoming ELD mandate

Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail

Three Returns Strategies for Improving Omni-channel Retail

To cost-effectively leverage an omni-channel strategy, it is vital to proactively plan for returns and align your operations accordingly.

Global Economy, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Global Logistics—September 2016

India-based textile manufacturer accused of providing fraudulent products; Iran seeks to strengthen trade relationships in Latin America; British manufacturers get small boost in wake of Brexit referendum

E-commerce, Bar-coding Systems, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Using Tunnel Scanning to Meet
E-commerce Challenges

Consolidation warehouses typically contend with labeling inconsistency in e-commerce orders. Here's how to boost read rates for packages and avoid manual handling.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Retail Logistics: When Fast Isn't Fast Enough

This story looks at some recent trends affecting retail supply chains, including demand for speed and flexibility, ongoing emphasis on omnichannel marketing, and globalization.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Working at People Speed

Instantaneous, insatiable customer need runs the risk of forcing people out of the equation. But some logistics challenges can only be met by people working at ‘people speed.’

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

GOOD QUESTION | Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?

Readers weigh in on the August question: Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Prepping Your DC for Peak Season

Use this advice to get your distribution center prepared before holiday orders come rolling in.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Multiple Channels Are Making Supply Chains More Complex

It’s all about flexibility and speed in today’s changing retail and e-commerce markets.

Customer Service, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Global Retail Expansion: The Convergence of Marketing, Customer Service, and Supply Chain Strategies

Brands who never anticipated going global are finding that they all of a sudden are, thanks to the progression of e-commerce and increasing customer expectations.

Food Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Meal Delivery Services: You’ve Got to be Kitting Me!

The popularity of meal and meal kit delivery services makes for some very complicated supply chain management.

E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Balancing Inventory for a Better Customer Experience

With the growth of e-commerce, retailers have identified a potential opportunity to reduce working capital by thinning inventory at brick-and-mortar stores—opting instead to maintain major portions of inventory at distribution centers upstream.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Sustainability

How to Be Fashionably Green

Going green is in style for retailers. Here’s how adopting a multi-faceted sustainability strategy can lower costs as well as boost brand loyalty.

E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Optimizing Inbound for Improved E-Commerce Fulfillment

A more comprehensive approach to supply chain management can help provide a great omni-channel experience that encourages customer loyalty and optimizes profitability.

E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Become an Extension of Your Client’s Brand

As entities responsible for brokering appropriate carrier rates, ensuring accurate quantities of orders and guaranteeing high quality of products, third-party logistics providers are extensions of companies’ brands.

E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

Girl Scout Cookie Sales Go Digital and Milk E-Commerce Innovation

The Girl Scouts of the United States of America (GSUSA) created and implemented a new way of taking and filling orders for its annual cookie drive. Here’s how it made sure cookie sales didn’t crumble.

Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Retailers Get Help With New DOT “Reverse Logistics” Rules

The reverse logistics hazmat rule became effective immediately upon publication on March 31, 2016, making it critical that retail store owners and distribution managers get up to speed quickly. Here's how.

Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

The “Direct-to-Consumer” Trend: Retail Shift Affects Logistics Operations

Direct-to-consumer selling is where the omni-channel strategy becomes truly powerful.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Analyzing Freight & Logistics Operations

Disruption is coming to the freight and logistics industry. By seeing and understanding the full spectrum of operations, transport-oriented firms can survive and succeed in a dramatically changed environment.

3PL, Asia, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Crossborder E-commerce Into the U.S. Just Got A Lot Easier – U.S. Retailers Should Take Note and Plan Accordingly

The new de minimis rate allows e-commerce retailers to see faster customs procedures and border clearance, which will accelerate delivery speed.

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Third-Party Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain

Accelerating Enterprise Logistics With Top-Tier Multi-Modal Solutions

Logistics has evolved into a strategic business concern, driving enterprises to seek third-party logistics (3PL) providers with multi-modal capabilities for complete end-to-end integration.

Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Shedding Light on DIM Weight Returns

Customer returns are inevitable, and without a clear understanding and plan for managing returns, DIM weight expenses can easily challenge budgets and profitability.

E-commerce, Retail, Packaging

SWISH! Shippers Score with Small Box Deliveries

Companies are shipping ever-increasing volumes of small parcels as e-commerce grows. Read about the strategies that shippers and providers are using to offset the higher cost of small parcel delivery.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Naughty or Nice—Which Retailers and Delivery Services Will Make the Grade this Holiday Season?

The holiday season is well underway, increasing the pressure on companies to address transportation problems and change the outcome before they turn into costly errors.

Customer Service, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Whatever It Takes

The true measure of customer service is what team members, carriers, and supply chain partners do when something goes wrong.

Retail, Logistics, Ocean, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation

Global Logistics—October 2015

The Trans-Pacific Partnership is one step closer to ratification; harnessing the power of supply chain collaboration; FMC approves new regulations for OTIs; SAP releases inaugural Retail Index

Retail Logistics, Distribution, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

RFID: More Than Just a Better Barcode

Radio Frequency Identification Technology has a multitude of benefits that can have a significant impact on reducing and eliminating waste in the extended supply chain.

Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Azteca Foods Craves Inventory Management System

When Azteca Foods outgrew its manual pallet tracking system in its production facility, Barcoding Inc. delivered a solution.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Optimizing the Holiday Supply Chain With Reliable ETA

Timeliness is top of mind during the holiday season. Here's how analytics can help shippers meet delivery spikes and prepare their supply chains.

E-commerce, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Retail

How to Implement a Successful Retail Omni-Channel Logistics Operation in Asia Pacific

For any United States-based company interested in expanding its retail logistics operations outside of the country, Asia Pacific may be the most ideal location.

E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Why Parcel Sorting Automation Can't Wait

As e-commerce continues to surge, the case for automation is now too compelling to ignore. One good way to start can be to automate parcel sorting at local and regional distribution centers.

Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Don't Just Liquidate, Seek Scalable Solutions

Reassessing your reverse logistics plan for customer returns and excess inventory is a must in today’s retail environment. Look beyond traditional methods and approach this obsolete merchandise as an opportunity (versus a headache) to positively impact your business margin.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

The Sweet Smell of Success

A system developed by The Smart Cube pulls and aggregates information from all Elizabeth Arden’s contract manufacturers, providing a consolidated, accurate view of data across the company’s supply chain. The cosmetics giant now can see, in real time, the purchases its network of manufacturers makes on its behalf.

E-commerce, Import, Export, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership

The Beauty of Global Logistics

EM Cosmetics brings its products to the global market through the use of international shipping and package consolidator MyUS.com.

E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology

Trends—October 2015

Amazon’s Dash Replenishment Service gives industrial buyers a preview of how IoT may impact procurement; Private label sourcing faces new headwinds; Cloud Logistics debuts the latest twist in TMS deployments; CMA CGM launches first smart connected container ship; Automotive parts buyers are leveraging omni-channel options

Retail Logistics, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics

Reader Profile | Jeff Larson: A Gem of a Job

Jeff Larson, director of distribution engineering analysis at Tiffany & Co., works with the jewelry company’s international locations to help improve their operations.

E-commerce, China, Food Logistics, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Transportation

Trends—September 2015

New York State minimum wage directive may be a tipping point for automation in the fast food industry; Organic food recalls are on the rise; Alix Partners reports that nearshoring trend continues to grow; Pro truck interests take weight restriction fight in new direction; 2015 holiday shoppers are looking for options; The cash handling supply chain is poised to move from manual processing to scanning technology, thanks to the new GS1 US Cash Visibility Discussion Group.

E-commerce, Retail, Technology , Warehousing

Just Another Brick in the Mall

E-commerce is leaving a trail of brick-and-mortar debris in its wake.

E-commerce, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

CPG Market Demanding More Flexible Logistics Solutions

E-commerce and omni-channel retailing have a major impact on supply chain and logistics needs, and customers have to make sure their supply chain is equipped to offer maximum flexibility.

E-commerce, 3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Channeling the Brick and Click Dilemma

As e-commerce continues to transform consumer behavior, retailers explore hybrid omni-channel supply chain models that deliver the best that online and in-store have to offer.

Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management

Growing Efficiency and Weeding Out Waste

With $20 million in plant products left for dead each year, Bell Nursery had to nourish and grow some better inventory management practices. 

3PL, Distribution, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Retail Collaboration: It’s All in the Jeans

Work with a team of service providers to get a new retail distribution center up and running in only six months? We should all be so lucky.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

BaubleBar Makes International Shipping Sparkle

When BaubleBar saw the untapped potential of the international market, they tapped an parcel shipping partner to help them succeed.

E-commerce, Retail

What Customers Expect in the E-Commerce Age

Online shopping has vastly changed the competitive nature of the retail market.

Customer Service, Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management

Inventory Replenishment: Why Push When You Can Pull?

Retailers are implementing technology to more accurately forecast demand.

Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management

Awake at the Wheel: Delivering Customer Satisfaction

When Sleepy's customers got tired of short notice and missed deliveries, the specialty mattress retailer brought in a technology partner and dreamed up a solution that put those problems to bed.

Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics I.T.

Improving Customer Satisfaction with Consumer Engagement Apps

Offering apps with products helps manufacturers improve customer satisfaction and lower complaints and returns.

Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Trends—April 2015

Supply chain ‘modeling’ replicates real-world events; Retailers and manufacturers make the jump to RFID; U.S. trucking industry sees better utilization and financial results; Data analytics is a big growth market.

E-commerce, Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Trends—March 2015

U.S. beef supply chain participants form partnership to improve sustainability; Manufacturers and retailers fail to adopt best-in-class processes and technology to address global complexities; Online retailers need to rethink how they align their distribution networks; Spot market rates dip seasonally as West Coast volumes catch up; Staples and Syracuse University partner to drive new research and innovation.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

How Omni-Channel Commerce Is Changing Traditional Supply Chains

Online and mobile commerce has shifted consumer behavior, as well as how products flow through the supply chain to the end user.

Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Designing a New Strategy for a New Year

Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

Searching For the New Perfect Order

Retailers need new technologies and capabilities to operate in a new omni-channel world.

Retail, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Trends—January 2015

Texas places three locations among ATRI’s top-10 congested roadways; Truck size and weight debate is a divisive topic for the transportation and logistics industry; Truck driver shortage raises new concerns and costs for shippers and carriers; Electronics supply chain poses new challenges; Demand planning is still a pain point for shippers

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

VMI 2.0: A Whole New Game

Vendor Managed Inventory is shaking off its old-school image and regaining popularity thanks to improved technology, robust communication, tighter demand signal linkage, and a new openness to collaboration that has turbo-charged enterprise benefits.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain Management

The Luxury of Logistics Excellence

To expand its footprint in the luxury accessories market, Royce Leather indulged in a solution that connects it to new customers and streamlines fulfillment. That’s how Royce rolls.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail

Service With A Demand-driven Smile

As e-commerce and ominchannel raise expectations, and consumers become more impatient, supply chain practitioners turn to technology to help them perform.

Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Supply Chain Integration + Collaboration = Time Travel?

Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.

Reverse Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail

Four Reasons Retailers Should Pay Attention to Reverse Logistics

A good reverse logistics program saves retailers money, makes customers happy, and serves as a competitive advantage.

Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Rail, Trucking, Transportation

Trends—November 2014

Reciprocal switching debate casts a cloud over railroad industry collaboration; Procurement execution gap costs U.S. businesses $1.5 billion per year; Holiday consumers plan to shop sooner to avoid last-minute parcel problems; Trucking costs continue to soar as driver shortage worsens; Amazon Supreme Court case will set a precedent for how companies secure facilities and compensate workers.

3PL, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Why Retailers Put Their Sleighbells on in May

Retailers try to head off peak season surprises by beginning their Christmas lists in the spring.

Air Cargo, E-commerce, Economic Development, Customer Service, Retail, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Trends—October 2014

UPS makes major improvements to save Christmas; PANYNJ invests $5.5 billion to streamline port operations

E-commerce, Asia, China, Customer Service, Canada, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership

Global Logistics—October 2014

Pilot program uses drones to deliver time-sensitive goods; Canadian government lines up two new bilateral trade agreements; Labor rights causing supply chain disruption; Using social media to understand carrier usage.

Customer Service, Distribution, Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Supply Chain Management

From the Outside In: Supply Chain as Strategic Advantage

Executives at two leading companies weigh in on supply chain’s value to their organizations.

3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Retail, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Star Search: Discovering the Best Site for Your Business

Determining the best location for a new or expanding business in an increasingly competitive and global marketplace is challenging. These locations offer a number of advantages when it comes to meeting today’s logistics and supply chain needs.

Distribution, Manufacturing, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Automation That’s Worth the Weight

When a merger required Nature’s Way to consolidate distribution facilities, it called on the services of system supplier The Numina Group for a new design and technologies. Today, the facility successfully distributes products to customers in 50 states, and overseas through five supply chain channels.

Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Product Returns: 5 Myths Busted

Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.

The New Retail: Three Legs to Stand On

Retail operations need support from e-commerce, IT, and logistics execution.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management

New Retail Strategies: It’s a Store! It’s a Site! It’s a Warehouse!

Retailers are modifying their supply chain strategies in response to recent industry trends.

Workers in the KaiKini Bikinis production facility

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management

Diving Into Multi-Channel Fulfillment

Kaikini Bikini manages growth with integrated inventory control and shipping.

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management

3PL e-Volution Continues

Online retailers such as Amazon and eBay are expanding their offerings to provide their vendors with logistics support.

Bruce Kulp, SVP of supply chain and refurbishment, Game Stop

E-commerce, Customer Service, Education & Careers, Reverse Logistics, Retail

Bruce Kulp Scores Big

When it comes to keeping up with demand, Game Stop's Bruce Kulp doesn’t play around.

Green Logistics, Retail, Risk Management

Retailers, Watch Your Waste Lines

Partnering with an expert can help retailers ensure they comply with hazardous waste regulations.

Demand Planning, Retail, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

Forecasting Seasonal Surges Keeps Products on the Shelf

Transportation forecasting lets shippers collaborate with carriers to identify capacity gaps and reallocate assets.

Reverse Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail

Why Every Manufacturer Needs a Reverse Logistics Solution

Reverse logistics solutions can improve the bottom line, and reduce potential regulatory liabilities.

Kevin X. Jones, vice president of inbound transportation at Walmart

Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Rolling Back the Walmart Way

Kevin X. Jones, vice president of inbound transportation at Walmart, focuses on building transportation synergies.

Two hands comprised of gears grasped in a handshake

E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management

The Mechanics of 3PL Partnerships

Partnerships between four shippers and their 3PLs demonstrate logistics outsourcing strategies.

Various types of extreme weather attack a home

Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Forecasting the Unexpected: Home Improvement Retailers and Emergency Response

When a natural disaster hits, consumers rely on home improvement stores for the products they need to repair or rebuild.

Retail, Trucking, Transportation

Innovation in Business Processes from Northwest Arkansas

Business process innovations have made great leaps thanks to two Northwest Arkansas companies: JB Hunt and Walmart.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

Optimizing the Fashion Supply Chain

Fashion businesses must react instantly to fashion shifts and focus on getting goods to consumers quickly.

Lean, Retail

Lean Retail: It’s About Time – and Money

Retailers can identify and eliminate waste from their retail strategy, merchandise management, and store operations.

Green Logistics, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management

Trends—May 2014

TOTO’s sustainability commitment covers its entire supply chain; Congestion on U.S. roadways costs the trucking industry $9.2 billion, 141 million hours of lost productivity; US tabbed “rising star,” ranks second to China for manufacturing competitiveness; Supply chain strategy and business strategy integration is key to cost reduction and customer service; Amazon explores last-mile delivery network

Retail trends including social commerce, multi-channel efficiency, marketing

Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Ocean, Supply Chain Management

Trends—April 2014

NRF’s Big Show unveils trends in the retail industry; Local couriers provide a solution to capacity constraints and empower same-day delivery; Ocean carrier industry beset by imbalances; Global RFID market primed for robust growth; Shippers plan for supply chain exceptions

3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

How to Profit from Outsourcing

Outsourcing reverse logistics to a third-party logistics provider offers shippers flexibility and cost savings.

E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Warehousing

E-Commerce DC Site Selection: Connecting the Dots

E-commerce retailers choose specialized distribution centers near parcel carrier hubs and transportation infrastructure.

Boomerang with symobls representing U.S. and Canada on each end

Economic Development, Asia, Cross-border Trade, China, Canada, Reverse Logistics, Global Logistics, Labor Management, Manufacturing, Retail, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Latin America

Global—February 2014

China and Taiwan depend on one another; Emirates targets multimodal transportation infrastructure investment; Chile port strike ends, concerns remain; Free online returns stoke Canadian consumption but place onus on U.S. retailers; Europe looks to United States for re-shoring inspiration; Mondelez debuts new GS1 standard

3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Managing Retail Returns: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Optimized reverse logistics processes provide a good customer experience and recover value from returned goods.

E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Packaging

Cosmetics Logistics: The Beauty of an Optimized Supply Chain

Cosmetics companies face challenges such as time- and temperature-sensitive shipments and retailer packaging requirements.

Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

The Direct Sales Supply Chain: Where There’s a Will There’s Amway

George Calvert of Amway explains how the company's supply chain strategy supports its business model.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Setting the E-Commerce Gold Standard

Chris Halkyard, chief supply chain officer for e-commerce site Gilt, discusses managing flash sale logistics.

Worker pulling packages off DSW's sortation system

E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing

DSW Tries On New SKUs and Stocks

Retailer DSW's new replenishment materials handling solution improves inventory control and reduces in-store markdowns.

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Minimizing the Financial Impact of Peak Season Returns

Processing defective returns and overstocks quickly helps retailers maximize the recovery rate on this inventory.

E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Customer Service: Delivering the Royal Treatment

As evolving retail models push shopper expectations, companies explore new models for delivering great customer service.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Visions of Customer Service

Companies such as Amazon show delivery speed and logistics agility provide the customer service levels retailers need to win.

China, Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.

Putting Stock in Retail Analytics Tools

Kimberly-Clark China uses retail analytics tools to manage inventory and avoid stockouts at stores like Walmart.

Automotive Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

The Nuts & Bolts of the Automotive Aftermarket Supply Chain

The automotive aftermarket’s logistics trends, challenges, and best practices give shippers a wild ride.

Retail, Logistics I.T.

Retailers Try I.T. On for Size

As the retail supply chain adapts to e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors, technology keeps pace.

Classic Alaska employee using an automated shipping system

Retail, Logistics I.T.

Bringing Supply Chain Visibility to the Last Frontier

A Web-based shipping tool helped an Alaskan outfitter develop multichannel fulfillment operations.

Retail

Discount Apparel Logistics: Outfitting the Outlets

As consumers embrace bargain hunting, off-price apparel retailers reinvent their supply chains to meet demand.

Green Logistics, Retail

Green Logistics The Walmart Way

Sustainability best practices are integral to Walmart's supply chain operations.

E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management

E-Fulfillment Strategies That Deliver the Goods

This story examines what customers want in an e-commerce operation and shares fulfillment strategies that merchants use to keep those customers happy.

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management

8 Ways to Strengthen Online Retailer Supply Chains

Monitoring contracts, delivery commitments, and contingency plans helps online retailers keep their supply chains running smoothly, writes John Haber of Spend Management Experts.

E-commerce, Retail

Trends—April 2013

E-commerce presents retailers with challenges and opportunities; Food regulation top of mind for 3PLs and shippers; Daktronics’ lean machine keeps production at home; Nike partners with Bluesign Technologies to facilitate sustainable sourcing program among supply chain partners.

Retail, Specialized Logistics

Sporting Goods Logistics: Keeping the Ball Rolling

Sporting goods manufacturers and retailers must manage seasonal peaks to avoid stockouts and meet online customers’ demand for prompt delivery. Supply chain technology helps provide visibility and track items during product recalls.

Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Latin America

Cloud-Based WMS Fires Up Supermercados Supply Chain

Peruvian supermarket chain drives DC network realignment with a new cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) warehouse management system (WMS).

Distribution, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Inventory Replenishment: A Push in the Right Direction

Close-out retailer Tuesday Morning implemented Interlink’s WHSe-LINK warehouse management system to receive, store, and allocate its daily inbound shipments of unique SKUs.

E-commerce, Retail

Retailers Rebalance Time vs. Cost?

Velocity is more important than price for some consumers, perhaps giving some retailers another component to consider as they compete, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.

E-commerce, Retail

Holiday Stocking: Preparing for the Seasonal Retail Rush

Strong forecasting, careful vendor management, solid partnerships with carriers and optimized use of labor and equipment all help retailers manage the year-end holiday rush.

Retail

“Sell By” Dates Cost Shippers Billions in Wasted Perishable Goods

Shippers and business logistics professionals can easily use bar codes rather than ink stamps to ensure fresh food items are delivered to customers, writes Mark Croxton of Aldata.

Retail, Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Therapy Strikes a Balance

As retailers look to grow their business, the challenge of keeping up with the market becomes exponentially greater—especially as new channels emerge, writes Editor Felecia Stratton. Supply chain management can help create balance between supply and demand.

E-commerce, 3PL, Inventory Management, Retail

You Are Everywhere: Mapping the New Retail Supply Chain

Multi-channel apparel retailers such as Nordstrom use strategic inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation management, and reverse logistics to meet customer demand.

Green Logistics, Retail

Green Leadership for Lean Times

Walmart's green initiatives keep the retailer's supply chain lean and efficient, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.

E-commerce, Retail

Dealing With Daily-Deal Sites

New e-commerce sites like Groupon and LivingSocial can bring huge sales volume in a very short period of time by reaching a targeted audience with appealing offers. Tod Yazdi of TAGGlogistics explains how shippers can work with fulfillment partners to make the most of this new opportunity.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Warehousing

Superstar Service: Supply Chain Strategies Win Satisfied Customers

Retailers such as Brookstone, BuySeasons, Pet Supplies Plus, and Wayfair streamline their supply chains to deliver better customer service.

Retail, Logistics I.T.

Inventory Intelligence: The Key to Unlocking Omni-channel Retailing

Retailers who succeed at integrating their inventory intelligence can cut costs, accelerate turns, and build revenue by driving high-fidelity information back into the supply chain, aligning it with shopper demand, write Tyco Retail Solutions’ Karen Bomber and Jim Caudill.

3PL, Retail

Enjoying the Perks of 3PL Order Management

Viewing order management as an opportunity to add value ensures that 3PLs act as a partner that adds real revenue-side value, and not just another vendor, writes Clyde Mount, 3PL Worldwide.

Distribution, Retail

Trends—March 2011

Amazon closes Texas distribution facility over sales tax dispute; Robert Guenther of United Fresh Produce Association comments on FDA Food Safety Modernization Act; U.S. General Services Administration rolls out green guidelines for government suppliers; Crossdocking use is on the rise

Retail, Transportation Management

PETCO’s Pet Project

For pet supply retailer PETCO, honoring its commitment to superior customer service meant finding a loyal logistics partner.

Distribution, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

How to Drive Collaborative Distribution

Collaborative distribution lets manufacturers, especially consumer product goods (CPG) companies, merge loads destined for the same end point to maximize trucking efficiency.

Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail

How to Develop a Direct-to-Store Delivery Model

A Direct-to-Store Delivery (DSD) delivery model helps consumer goods manufacturers gain speed and increase inventory turns.

3PL, Distribution, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Integrate Contract Packaging Into Distribution Operations to Cut Costs by 30%

By integrating contract packaging into distribution operations, companies can cut costs by 30 percent.

3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Gemma Fillmore: Supply Chain Advocate

To improve supply chain performance at Medco Health Solutions, Gemma Fillmore focuses on getting C-level executives to give logistics issues the attention they deserve.

Distribution, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

Inbound 3.0 at Walmart

Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo outlines how Walmart is taking inbound logistics to the next level.

3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Warehousing

Consumer Packaged Goods: Lightening the Load

Here's the story of one consumer product, starting with its origin as a variety of inbound ingredients and following its progress from plant to warehouse to retail store.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

Flower Power: John Kuehn

ProFlowers' time- and temperature-sensitive shipments create plenty of challenges for John Kuehn, senior vice president of supply chain operations. Here's how he nips problems in the bud.

Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

E-fulfillment: Finding the Perfect Fit

Online haberdasher Bonobos relies on its third-party fulfillment partner, Quiet Logistics, which operates warehousing facilities with Kiva's robotics materials handling solution.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

The Amazon Effect: No Longer a Phantom Menace

Retailers strike back at the Amazon empire by providing e-commerce customers with same-day and faster delivery.

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

5 Ways to Improve Fulfillment Center Efficiency

Here are five key considerations to remember when solving for improved efficiency in your fulfillment center.

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

Collaborative Supplier Management: The Key to Beating Holiday Fever

With holiday celebrations in at least eighth months each year and nearly no product category left untouched—from candy to clothing and home furnishings—retailers need to make sure their e-commerce strategy is letting them capitalize on consumers’ growing appetite for seasonal items.

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail

Solved: Creating an Omnichannel Approach for a Sporting Goods Maker

Crane Worldwide Logistics helps its client, a sporting goods manufacturer, develop the automated and physical logistics infrastructure required to seamlessly distribute its products to e-commerce, retail, and wholesale customers.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Be Nimble,
Supply Chain Be Quick

Use these tips to identify and respond quickly to changing variables in an omni-channel supply network.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Developing Innovative Delivery Services That Delight Customers

To compete in today’s evolving retail landscape, companies must differentiate themselves to meet consumer demands and drive brand loyalty.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Warehouse Upgrade: Of Boxes and Briefs

To prepare for the holiday rush, apparel retailer MeUndies is adopting a more automated, efficient system to provide better tracking, quality control, and more efficient labor usage.

Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology

Supply Chain Commentary: Grocery Retailers Need to Embrace Digitization Now

Grocers will have to transform aggressively and adapt swiftly if they want to avoid the fate of retailers in other segments. They will need to digitize their stores and consumer experiences. Here's how they should optimize their supply chain.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Green E-tailer Fertilizes the Bottom Line

Sustainable products company Grove Collaborative grows its bottom line by using a data analytics platform to cut shipping costs and optimize fulfillment.

Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Warehousing

Reconstructing Supply Chains

Supply chain infrastructure is rebuilding itself, below the surface where only logisticians can see it.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Commentary: How to Compete with Amazon’s Lower Free Shipping Threshold

Amazon recently announced another slash to its free shipping requirements and is now down to $25. Here's how retailers can compete.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Insights: Three Key Logistics Movers and Shakers

The growth of e-commerce, technology change, and other cyclical and structural factors are reshaping supply chains according to a new research from Colliers International. The report also found the three key movers and shakers.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Achieving Greater Visibility and Agility

Leaders are exploring supply chain efficiencies with tools that enable stability, cost reduction, supply chain agility, product innovation, speed and visibility.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Fashion Icon Designs Supply Chain Solution

With its distribution center approaching capacity, Michael Kors had several options to consider, including one that would expand the existing facility. The fashion company turned to supply chain software company LLamasoft for help evaluating possible solutions. The collaboration also led to Michael Kors developing a core supply chain decision-making capability as well as systems it could use for other purposes.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Collaboration: Myth or Reality?

Supply chain collaboration (SCC) is vital for companies to make critical decisions quickly and outpace the competition. But, are the key concepts of collaboration a current reality or a myth? This article breaks them down.

Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Tim O’Brien: Exuding Star Power

Profile of Tim O’Brien, senior director, supply chain, with Purchasing Power, a specialty e-commerce retailer that provides goods and services to customers who make payments through payroll deductions

Humanitarian Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

The Calm After the Storms

FedEx and UPS set aside rivalry to lobby White House on infrastructure, Retailers will rely heavily on technologies such as live chat, Facebook Messenger and Amazon Alexa for customer service, according to new research from Linc and Brand Garage, Research shows that U.S. industry executives are most concerned about the impact of trade protectionism, risk management, and border adjustment tax proposal

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology

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