We’re running a regular series of previews ahead of Internet Retailing Expo (IRX 2015), focusing on different aspects of the event and interviewing speakers. Today our focus is on the Retail Logistics Conference.
Retailers are changing the way they deliver goods in response to customer demand. As shoppers move online and make use of multichannel services, from click and collect to ordering in store for home delivery, traders must devise new ways to get the goods to new locations. While shopping becomes ever easier and more convenient for purchasers, logistics systems behind the scenes must become more more flexible and sophisticated.
Conference director Lisa Ploude said: “Retail Logistics will examine how the rapid growth of online retail is impacting traditional infrastructure revealing new approaches for achieving efficiency, responsiveness and agility. Hear how leading retailers are getting to grips with new technologies and operational strategies designed to meet new customer demands and – in doing so – creating fit for future retail supply chains.”
Key topics at the conference will include omnichannel, international growth and delivery, big data, sourcing, returns management and supplier collaboration.
Niklas Hedin, chief executive of Centiro, which is sponsoring the conference, is the first speaker, with a case study. His presentation, Time to level up – the tale about the full-circle brand experience, is at 10.35am.
John Munnelly, head of operations at John Lewis Partnership’s Magna Park Campus, then takes to the stage with a consideration of how automating processes can improve logistical efficiency. His keynote address, Automation in a D2C, omnichannel world, is at 11.10am.
Guy Meisl, head of European distribution at Deckers, speaks next with a retailer case study on planning for peak season. Flexing your fulfillment and delivery systems to prepare for seasonal peaks and troughs is at 11.45am.
Paul Miller, director of inbound logistics at Shop Direct, then takes a look at approaches to supply chain management. Top tips for establishing greater transparency for an end-to-end supply chain is at 12.30pm.
Oliver Cofler, customer service and logistics director at Mondelez, discusses the board implications of supply chain management in a retailer case study. Bringing supply chain into the boardroom is at 1.05pm.
Jonathan Gorst, senior lecturer at Sheffield Business School, Sheffiel Hallam University, considers returns in a retailer case study, Multichannel returns management – turning a logistical challenge into a commercial opportunity, at 1.50pm.
Karl Harwood, distribution manager at Trueshopping closes the day with a retailer case study looking at getting the most out of logistical systems. Maximising fulfilment and system capabilities – top tips is at 2.25pm.
The Retail Logistics Conference takes place on March 26 in the EDX Theatre at IRX 2015. To find out more and to register for the free-to-attend event, click here.
