Over 50% Of Retailers and Manufacturers Looking to Expand Omnichannel Capabilities in the Next 12 Months
eyefortransport’s latest industry report reveals that more than half of supply chain executives at retailers and manufacturers are looking to expand their omnichannel capabilities (or are investigating the possibility to do so) within the next 12 months.
The report, released this week, demonstrates how supply chain executives are preparing their businesses for the changing dynamics of the retail industry.
In the 2013 ‘Chief Supply Chain Officer Strategy Report’ over 50% of supply chain executives indicated that omnichannel retail would become a priority for their businesses in the coming year. With customers demanding more from their shopping experience, such as multiple delivery options and purchasing choices, retailers and manufacturers are being required to configure their distribution models and supply chains accordingly.
The report goes onto outline a number of other key issues facing supply chain executives such as risk mitigation, logistics outsourcing and sustainability. The top three business challenges emerged as cost reduction, demand variability and inventory management. Unsurprisingly, last year’s results revealed cost reductions as the main obstacle for supply chain executives as well.
The report also explores the key emerging markets for 2014. Respondents were asked to select the emerging markets they were looking to expand into or were currently working in. The BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China) featured high on the list but Eastern Europe came in at 4th place, no doubt due to the region’s economic growth potential and closeness to the Russian market.
To access the complimentary report please click here
This report has been produced in conjunction with the 11th Annual 3PL Summit and Chief Supply Chain Officer Forum, taking place on November 12-14th in Amsterdam. The main event brings together over 300+ senior executives from 3PL providers, retailers and manufacturers for two days of crucial industry debate, key insight from world class speakers and dedicated networking time. For more information on the 3PL Summit and CSCO Forum visit www.3plsummit.com/eu and www.cscoforum.com/eu or contact the event director Sophie Farrow at sfarrow@eft.com or +44207 375 7587.