In the rapidly transforming landscape of logistics, supply chain automation has emerged as a pivotal focus area for organizations seeking to enhance efficiency and responsiveness. Dematic, a global leader in supply chain and automation solutions, is welcoming industry professionals to its Virtual Showcase event, where the integration of automation within the supply chain will be thoroughly examined. This event promises to provide invaluable insights into the latest advancements and applications within the sector, featuring contributions from distinguished industry leaders.
The Virtual Showcase will spotlight how supply chain operations have gained significant advantages through automation, enabling improved productivity, customer satisfaction, and organizational adaptability. By bringing together influential figures from prominent companies such as Bluebird Foods – PepsiCo, Drakes Supermarkets, and Unilab Pharmacy, the event seeks to illuminate the paths these organizations have taken on their automation journeys, highlighting unique strategies crafted to address specific challenges in their supply chains.
At the forefront of the discussions, Bluebird Foods – PepsiCo will share its transformative experience with an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS). According to Scott Blakey, National Logistics Manager for Bluebird Foods, the deployment of this system has not only bolstered operational efficiency but also aligns with the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability. “The AS/RS has supported PepsiCo’s commitment to minimising waste and promoting positive change for the planet and its people,” he stated. This system has led to significant increases in capacity, a reallocation of resources to maximize efficiency, and impressive gains in pallet packing accuracy, resulting in less damage during transport. The end result is a safer, more productive warehouse environment for employees, which is essential in today’s fast-paced logistics arena.
Glenn Sutcliffe, General Manager of Warehousing & Distribution at Drakes Supermarkets, will also provide compelling insights into how automation has enhanced their operations. He highlights that understanding the products and business needs is crucial in forming a successful partnership with automation suppliers. The company’s experience with the Dematic Goods-to-Person system has drastically reduced handling costs by as much as 40%. With automated systems now facilitating an impressive picking rate of 700 units per hour per picker, the benefits of these innovations become tangible and measurable.
Broader themes surrounding the challenges and advantages of automation will be addressed by Albert D Cruz, Assistant Vice President for Logistics Management Division at Unilab. He emphasizes that fear of automation often stems from a reluctance to face growth opportunities. “If you’re scared of automation, then you’re scared of growth… Yet the advantage frequently outweighs the challenges,” he remarked. His advice underscores the importance of initiating automation with a well-defined plan, specifically targeting areas that promise the most substantial impact on operations.
The event also extends beyond these individual case studies, featuring discussions around risk management and planning strategies. Part of the success in transitioning to automation is the effective handling of change management processes. Experts will share their first-hand experiences and best practices, guiding attendees on how to implement automation seamlessly into their existing systems.
In the realm of e-commerce, where consumer expectations are continuously rising, the implications of integrating efficient supply chain practices are profound. Increased automation leads to reduced order fulfillment times, improved inventory accuracy, and ultimately, higher customer satisfaction. As demand for speed and reliability escalates, businesses must stay ahead of the curve, leveraging technology to adapt to dynamically shifting market conditions.
The themes and discussions at Dematic’s Virtual Showcase event will resonate with decision-makers across various sectors. The sharing of knowledge will not only empower companies to rethink their strategies but also create a community dedicated to driving innovation in logistics automation. By learning from the successes and experiences of others, organizations can better position themselves to harness the benefits of automation, ultimately paving the way for sustained growth and operational excellence.
Skilled implementation of automation strategies is no longer a luxury but a necessity in the highly competitive supply chain landscape. As businesses navigate this profound transformation, events such as Dematic’s Virtual Showcase are invaluable for fostering dialogue, knowledge sharing, and strategic thinking.
