KEY FACT
AI
In doing so, RPA reduces errors, accelerates processes and enhances the buying experience.
In implementing this dual approach, retail leaders refine their supply chains, giving them an advantage in a fast-moving market.
The future of RPA in supply chains Looking ahead, RPA is set to shift from handling simple repetitive tasks to powering intelligent, connected and autonomous supply chains.
RPA will continue to integrate with artificial intelligence, machine learning and advanced analytics to create“ hyperautomation.” This involves automating end-to-end workflows across procurement, logistics, inventory and fulfilment with minimal human involvement.
KEY FACT
90 % of employees feel more satisfied as automation removes mundane activities from their workflow
General Electric( GE) built a RPA Centre of Excellence to coordinate projects worldwide and train hundreds of finance and supply chain staff in automation.
At GE, RPA now handles tasks such as invoice matching, monitoring payment deadlines, managing receivables and warranties, preparing tax returns and checking international payment exchange rates in shared service centres in Europe and Russia.
The productivity benefits of automation at this scale are undeniable.
“ We’ ve got now about 300 automations in production,” explains Eric Lex, former Vice President of Global Intelligent Process Automation at GE,“ and your reputation as an organisation is really on how well you maintain those bots.”
GE has since refined its approach, removing low-value bots and focusing on complex processes, with Eric envisioning a future where“ everyone when they come into GE, they’ ll get their laptop and a kind of package of software – one will be UiPath.”
160 October 2025