The CPG logistics industry, long dominated by major businesses producing high-demand goods, remained stagnant for years in the context of technology investment. Considering these key players controlled most of the market, they saw no reason to innovate, leaving little room for improvement. However, the gradual increase of SMEs within the CPG market has led to a tech-driven logistics evolution that has shifted this landscape.
For smaller businesses, the tech-driven evolution was not just a way to compete but a means of survival in a market saturated with major players. The path to flourishing in the market was through efficiency and innovation, and technological solutions were the answer. Their resilience and determination allowed them to survive and caught the attention of larger businesses, leading to the tech-driven logistics evolution we see today in the CPG industry.
This technology ingress benefited CPG logistics at large, syncing well with the simultaneous evolution of customer demands. Consumers wanted better service hand-offs, most notably faster deliveries.
With technology, CPG businesses could meet and exceed expectations, enhancing the efficiency of their operations. This meant fewer errors, delays, and more throughput across the board.
The tech-driven logistics evolution within the CPG industry was a game changer because it enhanced logistics operations and allowed for better capacity utilization. There are a few reasons behind these:
The introduction of computer-driven data analytics allowed CPG supply chains to read and understand large volumes of data quickly. Naturally, these translated to the logistics processes. This way, these retailers could easily identify bottlenecks in the supply chain and take the necessary steps to fix them.
Data analytics also allowed for a more comprehensive review of the entire CPG logistics operations on a more regular basis. This way, the supply chains were constantly tweaking the whole process, leading to better outcomes and throughputs.
With the rise of e-commerce platforms, businesses in the CPG industry realized they had an alternative to the complicated distribution channels they were traditionally accustomed to. More of these businesses began building platforms that could reach consumers directly. Of course, this meant taking more control of the logistics processes.
With third-party logistics providers dominant in the CPG logistics space, businesses could leverage relevant tech-driven logistics solutions such as route optimization and GPS. These gave them more control over the entire process, enhancing their ability to meet customer expectations.
Leveraging automation and robotics in the manufacturing and warehousing aspects of supply chain management helped CPG companies improve operations. That meant they could produce more at a cheaper rate to meet rising demands.
With automation aiding the process, CPG retailers could drastically reduce worker efficiencies in navigating the warehouse floor. Solutions like the Warehouse Management System (WMS) made managing the inventory flow much more streamlined, leading to enhanced pick-up and delivery.
The tech-driven logistics operation led to positive ripple effects across the CPG supply chain. It allowed the supply chain direct access to consumers, and the solutions that enabled this also facilitated the following advancements:
Tech solutions like route optimization allowed the CPG logistics operations to reduce fuel and wear and tear costs. The vehicles can take the best possible routes, which means safety and less fuel consumption. Considering that fuel is a major cost for supply chains, they were able to save significantly.
With an enhanced logistics solution came the ability to personalize customer delivery experience, leading to better experiences, satisfaction, and customer loyalty. CPG supply chains could meet needs by providing faster and more flexible deliveries.
Technology solutions like GPS and telematics allowed for more transparency and visibility across all CPG logistics operations. Naturally, these led to enhanced communication between all stakeholders involved, ultimately leading to more throughput. CPG businesses were also able to identify potential areas of improvement in terms of sustainability.
Operating on the world’s first collaborative logistics platform, Zengistics is a technology company that executes CPG freight. We use industry-leading technology platforms to enhance the ability of our logistics experts to provide efficiency, connectivity to our expansive network, visibility, and high-level service. At Zengistics, we understand that we are the connection to your customer’s satisfaction and know you need a partner you can trust every day. Contact us today.
Operating on the world’s first collaborative logistics platform, Zengistics is a technology company that executes freight.
