The new year brings challenges for businesses who need to respond to the new trends shaping logistics.
From data optimisation, the rise of AI, to the increases of e-commerce and the need to reduce emissions, Dan Brasier, CEO at Southgate Global, explores future trends.
“Businesses are turning to digital processes and WMS; this is expected to grow. As the need for speed and accuracy ramps up, there will continue to be a focus on data optimisation and application of AI.”
Whilst new tech helps decision making and accelerates processes, innovative manual tools are vital “Having advanced technology is great, but only works effectively if the original data is input correctly. Enabling operatives to input the right data from the get-go to maximise digital processes is key.
“For example, our Mobile Powered Workstation (MPW) cuts out the need to make notes and then walk to a fixed workstation to enter data impacting productivity and risking data entry errors. The MPW enables data entry at the pick face, reducing both mistakes and walk time.”
The growth of e-commerce continues with UK sales expected to reach £160.6 billion in 2024, with forecast sales of £194 billion by 2027, so efficiency is needed throughout the supply chain.
“Consumer behaviour has changed, next-day delivery is an expectation not an option. Businesses are reviewing their last mile process to optimise efficiencies.”
This includes much wider use of vans, yet most docking facilities aren’t configured to service them.
“It’s these key pinch points that can have a serious impact on efficiencies. The Southgate Ramp means goods can move right into light trucks and vans directly, making a huge difference in speeding up dispatch.”
2024 will continue to see the reduction of carbon emissions as a priority. “Everyone is looking to lower environmental impacts. As businesses implement their own strategy for Scopes 3 and 4 they’ll need to learn about how their suppliers are addressing carbon emissions.
Southgate recently attained carbon neutrality for Scopes 1 and 2 for 2022 (the current certification year), as part of its commitment to environmental responsibility. It has also achieved Ecovadis silver-rated and is committed to introducing sustainable products under its Pacplus consumables and Optimax equipment brands.
“Having ambitious targets in place to reduce carbon emissions is incredibly important. Everyone will need to be play their part in contributing to a sustainable future, actions we are proud to be taking the lead on at Southgate.”
Comments are closed.