Articles

Technology

Energy Management: The Next Step in Supply Chain Optimization

When considering new ways to optimize their supply chain, many large enterprises—like UPS, Amazon, Walmart, and FedEx—first focus on technology enhancements. Hyperautomation, artificial intelligence (AI), edge computing, 5G, and virtual reality are the latest ways to fine-tune transportation, shipping, and logistics to meet customer demand and improve profitability.

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Keith Biondo

Think Big, Act Small

Business disruption is creating disproportionate opportunity for mid-size forwarders, logistics solutions providers, and 3PLs. The maxim “He who is closer to the customer wins” is in play here. Says who? A recent survey by Barclays/BOD on the state of logistics confidence levels finds that “larger companies have generally found things more difficult than smaller ones, […]

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Lori Harner

Control Tower Capabilities—Redefined

Q: What is a control tower? A: There are many definitions of a control tower in the market today. Some are analytics overlays without a network to get data or application intelligence. Some provide one functional area (e.g. planning) and encompass internal operations and maybe tier 1 providers. These can sound helpful but won’t get […]

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Shaping Future Supply Chains

Shaping Future Supply Chains

Supply chains face an evolution that will change how chief supply chain officers (CSCOs) operate, according to a Gartner report. The following trends will shape the supply chain’s future, the report says: 1. The rise of digital business. Many CSCOs struggle to create a holistic digital roadmap. At the same time, they face pressure from […]

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Macy’s Parades Digital Lead

Digitally mature retailers better reacted to COVID-19 disruptions, finds a study by tech company Incisiv. Based on performance along the customer journey, the study names the top North American apparel retailers in digital maturity: Overall 1. Macy’s 2. Kohl’s 3. Neiman Marcus 4. Target 5. Nordstrom 6. Ann Taylor 7. Chico’s 8. J.C. Penney Co. […]

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Easing E-Commerce Pain Points

Easing E-Commerce Pain Points

Although key logistics capabilities are needed to build and maintain successful e-commerce operations, few brands excel at them, according to a study from Geodis and Accenture Interactive. The study highlights: E-commerce acceleration: Brands estimate that e-commerce in 2020 will represent nearly half of their sales. Before COVID-19, companies were making 34% of their sales online. […]

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IN BRIEF: New Services & Solutions-December 2020

Products The new XG4 rugged mobile computer from Janam Technologies is designed for scan-intensive applications. The lightweight device is ideal for workers performing supply chain functions, including inventory management, stocking and replenishment, shipping, receiving, and cross docking. The OpteBulk from ORBIS consists of a pallet, sleeve, and top cap to keep product loads safe and secure. Allowing for maximum […]

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How to Protect Your Supply Chain from Cyberattacks

Supply chains have been stretched to their limits by COVID-19 lockdowns, border closures, and sudden shifts in consumer demands. Now, they’re facing a growing threat from hackers. According to the FBI, cyberattacks have surged by 400% during the pandemic. One of the top targets: supply chains. In 2019, there were around 300 major hacks on […]

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