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Tag: eCommerce

eCommerce Retailer Parcel Insurance

Posted on by David Priestman

Anansi, the insurtech company, is pleased to announce its strategic partnership with Despatch Cloud, a provider of eCommerce shipping and warehouse management solutions. This exciting collaboration will bring an integrated solution for goods-in-transit insurance to Despatch Cloud’s vast network of eCommerce customers.

The eCommerce landscape has evolved rapidly, with online sales now constituting over one-third of the UK retail market. With peak season about to commence worldwide, the rising cases of damaged and missing goods are set to impact retailers and their customers, compelling them to explore innovative solutions to bridge these gaps and elevate their offerings.

Retailers using Anansi are able to automatically protect their goods up to the full retail value, avoid cumbersome manual claims experiences, and protect their customer experience. With this partnership, Anansi and Despatch Cloud aim to address the pervasive protection gap that plagues the industry, with an alarming 90% of goods in transit remaining either underinsured or uninsured.

Commenting on this pivotal partnership, Megan Bingham-Walker, Co-founder & CEO of Anansi, stated, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Despatch Cloud. Embedding Anansi’s insurance directly into Despatch Cloud’s market-leading Shipping Management Software is a game-changer for the countless eCommerce businesses seeking comprehensive parcel insurance.”

Chris Jones, CCO at Despatch Cloud, shared their perspective, “Despatch Cloud is continually exploring innovative technologies to enhance the operations of our extensive network of eCommerce retailers. Anansi’s automated parcel insurance is poised to help retailers bolster their goods’ safety, financial well-being, and overall customer experience.”

Anansi is an embedded goods-in-transit insurance platform for retailers, distribution partners and eCommerce merchants. Access to the platform is via an embedded API or web application, enabling 3PLs, e-commerce and shipping platforms and marketplaces to offer digital insurance directly to their customers from within their own front-end environments. It is the only solution, in a $71 billion market, that is automated to offer one-click signup, zero admin and automatically triggered claims and payouts.

Founded by Megan Bingham-Walker and Ana Martins de Carvalho, Anansi was born from their personal struggles with outdated, traditional insurance processes. Over the past year, Anansi launched its flagship insurance product with multiple logistics providers and worked with Wowcher to embed goods-in-transit insurance into its shipping journey. Its insurance products are underwritten by Arch Insurance International.

Founded in 2015 by Matthew Dunne, Despatch Cloud emerges from a deep understanding of courier software and fulfilment needs. Over the past 6 years, they’ve witnessed remarkable growth, reaching millions of parcel transactions monthly. While their roots lie in the heart of Yorkshire where their state-of-the-art 250,000 sq. ft. facility stands, it’s their commitment to innovation, efficiency, and real-world solutions that sets them apart.

 

E-Cargo Bikes Partner

Posted on by David Priestman

Zoomo, provider of last-mile electric fleet solutions, today announced its plans to double down on four-wheeled e-cargo bikes, catering to the needs of the burgeoning urban logistics sector. The announcement sees Zoomo welcome VOK, a provider of automotive- grade cargo bikes, and Fernhay, micro-mobility vehicle solutions provider, to its platform.

Zoomo will offer financing for both Vok and Fernhay vehicles, with full maintenance and its advanced fleet management software which helps businesses track and maintain their delivery fleet. Today’s announcement builds on Zoomo’s recent introduction of EAV to its product line-up, reinforcing the company’s dedication to putting more light electric vehicles (LEVs) on the road.

With the rapid growth of e-commerce and the introduction of anti-car legislation in major cities, the urban logistics sector is actively exploring alternative vehicle form factors to replace traditional delivery vans. Four-wheeled e-cargo bikes are coming out on top, and Zoomo is confident this form factor is meeting the last mile delivery sector’s evolving demands. This is because compared to conventional vans, e-cargo bikes offer faster urban delivery, with the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 90%, all while being more cost-effective.

Both Vok and Fernhay e-cargo bikes are tailored to the specific requirements of urban delivery, offering a spacious 2,000-litre cargo capacity and a robust 200 kg payload limit. With a 250W output and supported speeds of up to 25 km/h, these vehicles present an ideal replacement for traditional vans.

Michael Johnson, Co-Founder and CRO, Zoomo, said: “We’re all in on e-cargo bikes as true ‘van-replacers’. We know our customers in urban logistics want this solution to achieve their sustainability goals and drive more efficient deliveries. We have traction from customers around the world, including the likes of Evri, who are reaping the benefits of integrating cargo bikes into their fleets, and we’re determined to build on this momentum.”

Zoomo is resolute in its belief in the future of e-cargo bikes within cities, and that regulation will ultimately favour these form factors, not hinder. The productivity and efficiency gains, such as the ability to circumvent traffic, park without fines, and reduce costs, remain compelling reasons for their adoption. Vok and Fernhay offer unique and compelling solutions for companies seeking to optimise their urban logistics operations.

“The financial and operational infrastructure to support a widespread micro-mobility revolution in the world of city logistics is in its early days and it’s evident that Zoomo is at the forefront here”, says Indrek Petjärv, Vok Bikes Co-founder and CEO. “We could not be happier to join forces and give Zoomo’s customers the possibility to make the switch using our vehicles and in turn bring the administrational flexibility to our own customers.”

Peter Schenkman, Fernhay COO, added: “Our partnership with Zoomo is a significant step towards offering efficient, green, and cost-saving urban logistics. We share a commitment to sustainability and believe that e-cargo bikes can revolutionise last-mile delivery.”

Vok and Fernhay will leverage Zoomo’s global reach in the United Kingdom, Europe, the United States and North America. Furthermore, both existing and future customers of VOK and Fernhay gain access to Zoomo’s extensive service network, telematics-integrated software platform, and financing options.

ecommerce Shipping with Linerless Labelling Printers

Posted on by David Priestman

BIXOLON Europe GmbH, a subsidiary of BIXOLON, the global manufacturer of advanced receipt, label and mobile printers, has partnered with the mail order and ecommerce retailer, Erwin Müller Versandhaus, to provide linerless labelling printers that improve operational efficiency and sustainability efforts during order fulfilment. The mail order, e-commerce home and houseware textile retailer has worked in conjunction with GreenForest IT GmbH and BIXOLON to acquire and install BIXOLON’s XL5-40CT Direct Thermal Linerless Printer with LCD Display and Serial and Ethernet Interfaces.

Efficient, eco-friendling label printing that improves shipping operations

Erwin Müller was founded in Germany in 1951. The family-run textile wholesaler has expanded over the years to become one of the leading mail order companies for home and household textiles. It has been trading online in the DACH region since 1997, and it scaled its operations internationally in 2009. The business is always considering how it can innovate and improve its proposition for customers. It identified an opportunity to enhance the internal operations of its e-commerce business – so an area it focused on improving centred on how its order fulfilment and shipping team could deploy more eco-friendly label printing.

With that in mind, Erwin Müller sought a better labelling printing solution that would enable it to reduce waste during printing (e.g. remove the need for liners); enable it to deal with historic challenges associated with media storage on printers; and to reduce the expensive purchasing costs related to the previous traditional liner label printing solution that it used, which printed goods receipts, transfers, production orders and item refinement. After considering printer options, Erwin Müller settled on a linerless labelling printing solution that could be seamlessly integrated with its existing shipping and order fulfilment system.

Speaking about the integration and upgrade, Andreas Straub, Head of IT, Erwin Müller Versandhaus GmbH says, “During the selection process, we had to consider factors such as compatibility of new technology and their existing systems, the availability of the required hardware and software and the overall feasibility of implementing the solution within our shipping department.”

Results: installing the BIXOLON XL5-40CT Direct Thermal Linerless printer system

Erwin Müller worked with system integrators Greenforest IT GmbH and BIXOLON to put together a tailored linerless printing solution for the retailer. Erwin Müller purchased the BIXOLON XL5-40CT Direct Thermal Linerless printer with LCD display, with Serial interface and Ethernet connection, capable printing at 203dpi print resolution. The printer is connected via an IP and configured to print from PCs running on a Windows system based in the warehouse.

Erwin Müller has successfully deployed the new labelling solution within its shipping department. The new printers drive efficiency gains and have reduced costs, contributing to the overall improvement of shipping. They also reduce waste and align with the company’s efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its labelling process during fulfilment.

Andreas Straub, Head of IT, Erwin Müller Versandhaus GmbH adds, “The implementation of the BIXOLON linerless printing solution has improved our shipping operations by increasing efficiency and speed, reducing waste and cutting down on operational costs. It contributes to a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective approach, positively impacting the company’s overall performance.”

Jay Kim, Managing Director, BIXOLON Europe GmbH says, “Erwin Müller is a leader in its field and it has been great for BIXOLON to help it improve the operational efficiency within its fulfilment centres during shipping through using our XL5-40CT Direct Thermal Linerless Printer. Labels and the printing thereof are so important as part of the shipping process for e-commerce retailers, and this applies to almost any warehouse and logistics environment.”

Kim goes onto say, “BIXOLON’s technological advancements and innovations are a key reason behind the selection of its printers by customers. Highlighted in products such as the XL5-40, BIXOLON holds the mechanical expertise to navigate the ongoing print and maintance complexities which are required when working with linerless adhesive media.”

Little Green Bag Enhances Sustainable Operations

Posted on by Keith McKinley

The Little Green Bag, a leading Dutch fashion retailer known for its carefully curated selection of niche clothing and accessories, announces a strategic partnership with CMC, a pioneer in innovative packaging solutions. This collaboration marks a significant step towards enhancing operational efficiency while upholding their commitment to environmental sustainability.

Founded in 2008 by Aramis and Maria Gandjapour a dedicated Dutch couple in Vlaardingen, The Little Green Bag has grown from a small bag retailer to a thriving online platform offering a diverse range of products to include jewellry and accessories, now serving a global clientele. From the beginning, the company has focused in providing a personalized experience and delivering quality products that are both stylish and sustainable. Acknowledging the necessity to adapt to the increasing demands of their growing customer base, the company sought innovative solutions to streamline their operations.

The turning point came when The Little Green Bag decided to venture into online retail, using the house as a warehouse. The growth was phenomenal and this surge in demand necessitated a larger warehouse; in 2012, they invested in a 100 m2 facility. Now, they operate in a vast space of 9,000 m2 with a workforce of 150 people, serving customers globally through a multilingual website.

Sustainable Operations

The rapid surge in orders, particularly during peak periods when order volumes reach up to 8,000 per day presented a packaging challenge for The Little Green Bag. The need to handle a substantial volume of single-line orders while minimizing packaging waste was imperative. Enter CMC and their revolutionary packaging solution, CMC Paper-Pro.

CMC Paper-Pro, a fully automated paper bagging system, was a game-changer and proved to be the perfect fit for The Little Green Bag’s evolving needs. By transitioning from traditional boxes to paper-wrapped bags, the company significantly reduced material consumption and shipping volumes, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing their environmental impact. The system’s flexibility allowed for customization, optimizing warehouse space in a high-cost area.

Lawrence van de Meeberg, Director of e-commerce at The Little Green Bag expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, ” CMC’s approach was impressive. They understood our specific needs and supported us in customizing the footprint to minimize waste and make our operations more sustainable. The integration of CMC Paper Pro has allowed us to not only enhance operational efficiency but also make significant strides in reducing our environmental footprint. It aligns perfectly with our vision of offering quality products sustainably and efficiently.”

Ed Savelsbergh, General Manager of CMC Packaging Automation NL, says “The Little Green Bag continues to thrive as a small department store, offering luxury within reach for all, while maintaining meticulous curation and personal involvement in the product selection process. We are proud to support their business with our technology to enhance efficiency and guarantee a great customer experience.”

Both companies are optimistic about the positive impact this partnership will have on the future of The Little Green Bag. By combining their expertise and innovative solutions, they aim to further elevate their offerings and ensure a seamless shopping experience for their global clientele.

Advanced Packing and Sorting System

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Conveyor Systems Ltd (CSL) helped a leading E-Commerce customer to upgrade its packing and sortation system to meet increasing levels of consumer demand. CSL designed and installed a start-of-the-art, multi-stage, high speed crossbelt system which assisted the company in sorting and packing over 180,000 orders a day.

The customer is a top E-Commerce retailer in the North West of England that processes online orders at a staggering rate of 7500 items per hour. The project involved handling a very diverse range of products such as cartons, cardboard envelopes, polybags and jiffy bags. All of these items were to be processed by 120 operators on a 24-hour shift basis so all upgrades had to be completed without fault and with minimal downtime.

Previously, the client faced challenges due to the extensive use of manual labour for packing and sorting items for shipment. This approach often resulted in delays to dispatching items or, even worse, occasional damage to products. After consulting with multiple solutions providers, the customer selected CSL as its preferred supplier.

CSL understood that a state-of-the-art packing and sorting system needed to effectively utilise floorspace whilst ensuring the speedy, secure delivery of products along this packing line. Additionally, the customer needed to be able to track and monitor the position of goods along the sortation line to make sure that all packages were delivered to the correct final destination.

To meet this challenge CSL worked with its customer to design a sortation system that featured eight product packing lanes, each outfitted with 15 packing benches. Packed products from each of these lanes were then transferred onto the main transit line using multi-speed metering belts and mitre belt merges.

The main transit line weaved its way through the building, taking a 90-degree turn before ascending to a height in excess of 2500mm. This arrangement allowed for operator movement beneath the system, maximising the efficiency of the flow of people and products.

Upon reaching the higher level, each product underwent scanning through a SICK scanner array. The relevant information was relayed to and from a cloud-based server, providing CSL with a precise destination lane for each item. The packages were subsequently indexed via a multi-stage belt system onto a high-speed vertical cross belt sorter. This sorter housed 44 destination chutes, including a run-out chute for barcode misreads and orders requiring special attention.

Using the sorter’s control system, the customer could assign a specific sort location to a dedicated chute. Each chute was fitted with an indicator beacon, which notified the operator about the chute’s status. If a chute reached 75% or even 100% capacity, the system could automatically redirect packages to a previously selected destination.

Other upgrades included adding two desktop PCs with Scada operator interfaces which allowed for remote, real-time system operation and the installation of two bespoke access platforms to maintain operator access to the main fire exits.

Mike Graham, Managing Director of CSL, explained: “We are overjoyed with the results we were able to achieve for our valued E-Commerce customer. The installation, testing, and commissioning of the entire system showed CSL’s commitment to operational efficiency and customer satisfaction as we were able to complete the project within a 19-week period and worked with our customer to ensure a seamless changeover to the new packaging and sorting system.”

e-commerce Box-making Solution

Posted on by David Priestman

Emmeci, a Coesia company in the design and manufacturing of machines and systems for the production of premium packaging, launches E-BM, a complete fit-to-size box making solution for the e-commerce sector.

The ideal packaging is fit-to-size, compact and robust

With e-commerce, the packaging must follow the object’s dimension, to ensure its integrity first and foremost. E-BM produces extremely robust packs: the base of the pack comprises a single piece with no bottom closure, and the corners are reinforced with a double layer of material. The result is an improved resistance to protect items during delivery and a better customer experience. The E-BM is engineered to integrate seamlessly with warehouse control and management systems, enabling the dimension of the packaging to be adapted automatically to end product, on-demand.

The ability to produce right-size packaging means up to 40% smaller packaging sizes (compared to the standard shipping boxes commonly used on the market) and less raw material, saving on paper. Fit-to-size boxes are also more manageable in the downstream phase of the supply chain, facilitating handling and space as well as transport optimization during shipping or delivery, resulting in reduced emissions and inventory footprint.

Up for the challenge

Logistics hubs primarily need systems capable of handling, sorting and packing an increasing number of products of different shapes and sizes. That is why using a partner combining long-term experience in developing rigid box packaging solutions like Emmeci with the strength of a leading industrial automation group like Coesia is crucial. Emmeci and Coesia have created E-BM; a packaging machine specifically designed for the e-commerce sector. E-BM packs into boxes a wide range of goods from sectors such as electronics or fashion, including tablets, PCs, clothing and many other everyday items.

Flexibility and customization

E-BM flexibility allows not just to automatically adapt the box to the dimensions of the product to be shipped, but also to customize the packaging in many different ways, including tape closure. It also offers numerous options for printing codes and labels to assist in package control and traceability processes.

The benefits of having a single partner

Choosing Coesia as a single partner in the e-commerce industry offers infinite advantages, first and foremost that of having an end-to-end solution provider. Coesia seamlessly guides its clients through every leg of their e-commerce automation journey, spanning from box making and filling, through inline printing, up to palletizing. Coesia’s e-commerce solutions revolve around three key domains, finely tuned technologies to elevate operations and ensure customer satisfaction.

Firstly, Coesia pack automation solutions redefine wrapping, box making, box filling and inline printing for the e-commerce industry. Tailored to perfection, these solutions cater to the need for right-sized, customized package, ensuring a superior customer experience.

Secondly, the E-Fulfilment solutions usher in a new era of process automation, meticulously crafted to address the ever-evolving challenges faced by e-commerce players. From conveying solutions to ground-breaking sorting equipment, the portfolio is designed to optimize every facet of their operations.

Lastly, Coesia advanced robotics capabilities ensure secure handling of a diverse array of products, boxes, and cases, for a seamless journey from picking systems to palletizing and depalletizing equipment.

In the dynamic world of e-commerce, Coesia shines as a pioneer in cutting-edge technology and customer-focused solutions. Innovation and user-friendliness are at the core of highly advanced technological solutions, all geared towards delivering agility, flexibility, and efficiency.

A sector experiencing double-digit growth

The e-commerce packaging sector is worth around 60 billion dollars globally and is more dynamic than ever. According to forecasts, it will grow by 13.8% over the next five years to over USD 115 billion in 2028. E-commerce is now the preferred sales channel for a wide range of goods, including consumer goods, food, hi-tech and fashion. The sector’s expansion involves more than logistics and transport; the related packaging world is also experiencing growth and change.

Ensure Warehouse Security at Christmas

Posted on by David Priestman

Christmas is two months away. This means that the peak season is now starting in e-commerce and preparations for the Christmas business are in full swing. As every year, valuable gifts are ordered that need to be protected against theft and transport damage. In order to increase the protection of high-value products in warehouses, Wanzl has developed the fully enclosed package roll cage, which meets stringent security requirements down to the smallest detail. Thanks to its modular system, it offers an individual equipment option for all requirements. This makes Christmas business in the warehouse not only secure, but also more convenient for the warehouse staff.

Focus on security and efficiency

“In times of increasing online orders as well as a growing demand for fast delivery, the security of goods and efficiency in storage and transport are paramount. With our enclosed package roll cages, we have created a solution that meets the needs of the industry,” explains Markus Spengler, Senior Vice President Business Development International at Wanzl Material Handling. The basic model is made of sheet metal or wire mesh and also has a hinged mesh cover and a two- or four-leaf mesh door. Thanks to its L-frame design, the container can be stored compactly. When empty, it can be folded up in no time at all and arranged in one row or crosswise in two rows. This makes it ideal for storing when not in use or for transporting safely and optimally in a truck.

A fully enclosed package roll cage prevents inventory differences during transport and defies all logistical challenges during the peak season.

Two overlapping metal tabs on the mesh doors, which the customer can firmly lock either with a padlock or a lead seal, provide additional security. The sealed package roll cage allows companies to store and transport their valuable goods, such as expensive jewellery, luxury perfumes or the latest technology, securely and efficiently. Especially during transport, the seal offers great advantages. The seals can be easily destroyed after delivery and there is no need for complicated key transfer. In addition, this system is much more secure and environmentally friendly than transporting goods on pallets wrapped in stretch film. With its robust design and reliable locking mechanism, the Wanzl trolley offers a high level of protection against theft and unauthorised access. Particularly during the busy run-up to Christmas, this is crucial when warehouses are full of high-value gifts and orders. With Wanzl’s security containers, end consumers can be sure that their Christmas gift orders will arrive under the Christmas tree in perfect condition.

The right solution for every requirement

The modularity of the package roll cage is another major advantage. Whether the trolley needs to carry large or small, light or heavy parcels, it can be easily adapted to the specific needs of the customer. The mesh doors can be installed in either a two-leaf or four-leaf model. The opening angle of 270° makes filling and unloading particularly easy. If you want to equip the trolley for even greater convenience, you can add a writing board for portrait-format documents in A4 or insert frames made of transparent plastic for A5 documents in landscape format attached to the side walls. The folding handle bars are ideal for ergonomic pushing and pulling of the trolley. These can be mounted at the desired grip height. The handle bars, on the side panels or on the rear panel, also help when manoeuvring. The locking device ensures that the trolley is stable when loading and unloading. This module is particularly advantageous for working on truck beds. Other equipment options that can be added to the package roll cage as required are foldable shelves made of sheet metal, wood or wire mesh. The package roll cage can be moved through the warehouse not only individually, but also as a train. The addition of a coupling and drawbar makes steering particularly easy for employees.

With expertise through the Christmas season

As an expert with decades of experience, Wanzl offers the ideal solution for warehouse logistics companies preparing for the upcoming Christmas period. The combination of protection, modularity and expertise makes this product an indispensable investment for anyone who wants to optimise their intralogistics. “With the modular system, we offer a suitably equipped product for every requirement in the warehouse and customers can be confident that their holiday orders will arrive safely,” concludes Spengler.

‘Pop-up’ Fulfilment Service Launch Delivers

Posted on by Keith McKinley

UK logistics specialist Kammac is taking the pain out of e-fulfilment with a new pop-up service, helping start-up businesses to outsource their operation within days. Backed by dedicated centres and experienced personnel, the solution gives companies the flexibility to scale up rapidly without committing to long-term overheads or compromising on customer experience.

The success of any new online venture depends on fulfilling customer orders in a way that is quick, responsive and reliable – but as business grows, so does the infrastructure challenges. For rapidly growing start-up ventures, the quality of service provided can be at risk when it comes to outsourcing logistics and fulfilment.

“We know that a brand’s reputation depends on its customer service, and this can be damaged if the right processes aren’t in place. By dedicating pop-up spaces to start-ups, online retailers and entrepreneurs can benefit from Kammac’s in-house experience and trained staff, to reduce risk, maintain quality and get a professional ecommerce operation up and running fast,” explained Alec Hunt, Kammac’s Head of Ecommerce and Value Added Operations.

Kammac has already established two e-fulfilment centres at its sites in Knowsley, near Liverpool, and Burton-upon-Trent. Each space is pre-set to suit the range of e-fulfilment requirements, meaning that the service can be up and running within days.

The company is aiming to expand to a further six sites, allowing Kammac to fulfil up to 100,000 orders per day for customers. These sites will be based around the UK, giving customers more flexibility in their fulfilment options and enabling strategic locations close to their centre of operations.

Crucially, Kammac has designed the centres using a modular approach offering scalability and rapid layout changes as required. With the capability in each centre to process more than 10,000 units per day, this means Kammac can scale operations in line with its customers’ growth.

With no minimum order quantity (MOQ) or contract term, start-ups have the flexibility they need, with the pop-up centres operating on a ‘pay as you go’ model, an attractive option for young businesses.

In addition to the scalability and flexibility of the space, Kammac’s experienced team will provide total support for the online brand owner – even helping with forecasts and stock planning – allowing them to focus on building their business.

“The agility and support of the pop-up ecommerce solution is key to our offering. A customer might need only a fraction of the space to start with and grow from there. Equally, there might come a time when order volumes decline and they need to scale down,” explained Hunt.

“Similarly, most smaller businesses do not have detailed logistics knowledge or dedicated personnel. We provide this for them, and our experienced team will help guide them through the process, to ensure everything is both commercially efficient and effective in terms of giving their customers the best ecommerce experience. Whatever the circumstances, we will be there to solve and fulfil their ecommerce needs, ensuring their brand is safe in our hands. As well as continuing to expand this service, we’re also recruiting more experts to join our growing ecommerce team,” Hunt concludes.

Last Mile Deliveries Partnership

Posted on by David Priestman

ShipStation, a cloud-based ecommerce shipping solution, announces that it has partnered with leading independent parcel carrier, Yodel for last mile deliveries across the UK. This new partnership sees Yodel join ShipStation’s carrier services platform, enabling new and existing ShipStation merchants to choose Yodel as their carrier of choice for domestic deliveries.

By joining ShipStation’s platform, more SMEs will be able to access Yodel’s flexible delivery services, including Yodel’s Xpect service where customers receive a two-hour delivery window on the morning of their delivery, along with the carrier’s Xpress service. The quick and easy integration provides greater choice and convenience to SMEs as they look to streamline their delivery operations and enhance their delivery experience to meet the changing demands of consumers.

Matthew Trattles, VP of SMB Revenue at Auctane, ShipStation’s operating brand said: “At ShipStation we’re always looking to add innovative carriers to our platform that empower our SME merchants with the tools to grow their business and drive exceptional delivery services. Yodel suits our needs perfectly, as they’re one of the most prominent carriers in the UK, known for their excellent customer service, comprehensive nationwide coverage and for providing great value to merchants. We look forward to working with them to provide existing and new merchants with more choice and convenience when it comes to domestic deliveries.”

Mike Antwoon, Sales Director at Yodel said: “Our new partnership with ShipStation in the UK allows us to provide clients with easy and direct access to our delivery service via a simple integration. Our variety of services places us in a strong position to provide delivery options for businesses of all sizes. From standard deliveries to more specialised requirements, we provide greater flexibility and control when it comes to shipping. We’re excited to be working with ShipStation to serve the needs of their growing clients and create the best delivery experience for consumers.”

Supply Chain Gears-up for Challenging Peak Season

Posted on by David Priestman

More than four out of ten (41%) of European supply chain executives expect this year’s peak retail season to be more challenging than that of 2022, with only 18% believing it will be less difficult. That’s according to a recent survey led by Deposco of 200 supply chain leaders working for European retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers, or 3PL/4PL firms.

The relative impact of peak season is growing too, with Amazon Prime Day now considered a peak event by 62% of respondents. Among the key challenges faced during this period, more than half (52%) of respondents pinpoint the management of costs among their top priorities. Linked to this, 35% of the sample rank ‘escalating pricing’ among their top three concerns entering peak season this year, making it the top concern overall.

Will Lovatt, General Manager and Vice President Deposco Europe says: “The focus on value is no surprise in an unpredictable economy where costs for labour, materials, and services are higher. Amid these price hikes and inflation, it costs more to get work done, so supply chain executives have their eyes on expenses.”

Concerns about costs are exacerbated by the wider macro-economic picture. For 40% of respondents, inflation is the national/global issue of most concern, even when compared to factors like political instability, upcoming elections, and seaport delays.

As a result, leaders expect far-reaching inflation impacts. 52% anticipate higher costs for supplies and services, 40% expect reduced consumer demand due to the cost-of-living crisis and 26% are predicting longer lead times.

The drive towards sustainable logistics is another key challenge identified by respondents, with 33% stating that improving sustainability is among their top priorities for peak season 2023.

“All these factors are driving market complexity and uncertainty,” adds Lovatt. “In general, operators understand and accept this but they are also eager to attack it more proactively. Experiences in recent years have created a thirst for solutions that simplify these uncertainties and provide resilience in coping with current realities. We are seeing a growing demand for technology to address these challenges from demand forecasting through to the latest warehouse management system and order management system solutions.”

Key topics of the report – now available here – include:
Managing labour and costs; Inflation and the cost-of-living crisis; Sustainable logistics; Technology priorities.

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