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~ DSV ~

WIN AND RETAIN

CUSTOMERS

ONLINE

WITH YOUR

SUPPLY CHAIN

Text: Polly Davis // Photos: DSV

The growth of digital commerce has been exponential in recent years and shows no signs of
slowing down. Consumers are not just enjoying the convenience of online shopping; they

have grown to expect it. For merchants of all sizes, this represents a massive opportunity. But
like many opportunities, it comes with challenges.

s a global transport and logistics provider, Automation – a game-changer in warehousing
DSV understands the challenges faced by Some of the biggest concerns for retailers looking to expand
Aonline retailers – and also how to overcome in the ecommerce arena are costs. With inflation affecting the
them. Wouter Nederkoorn, Business Development price of raw materials, fuel and labour, you need to consider
Director, Ecom & Omnichannel explains, “In ways to rein in overheads while still maintaining the flexibility
this fast-growing online arena, competition for and high levels of service that consumers demand.
consumer attention is fierce. To stay competitive and
increase the chance of repeat business, retailers have Many retailers are finding that one way to cut costs is to use
to pay close attention to every step of their supply warehouse automation to manage fulfilment and inventory
chain, in particular warehousing, order fulfilment management processes. This also makes it easier to manage
and the returns process.” smaller order sizes and a shortage of skilled staff.

Merchants need to ensure that consumers get great service at So how does it work? Unlike a traditional warehouse staffed
every touchpoint. From the information they receive about by people and with the overheads of lighting, heating and
their purchase, to delivery dates and the returns process. This space requirements, automation uses drones and robots for
has made logistics and fulfilment key battlegrounds in the picking, scanning and registering inventory. This enables
competition to win consumer loyalty. This article looks at retailers to cut many of these costs while saving time and
how you can actively use your supply chain to deliver a great improving accuracy.
customer experience in a more efficient – and often more
sustainable – way.

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