THE SMART SUPPLY CHAIN
“ The move to omni-channel has enabled Staples to maintain or improve service levels for all of our business units while reducing our overall investment in inventory ”
– Mike Bhaskaran , Executive Vice President of Supply Chain at Staples process as easy as possible for customers with one central stock pool , regardless of whether they prefer to shop in store or online . In being able to fulfil any order from the supply chain , Staples streamlines the process and is able to deliver within very small time frames .
Bhaskaran says : “ The move to omni-channel has enabled Staples to maintain or improve service levels for all of our business units while reducing our overall investment in inventory . The ability to pool inventory is complemented by an improved understanding of our customer ’ s buying behaviour across the different channels , translating into a superior experience for our customers . We have also implemented a number of new capabilities in select markets as a result of our focus on omnichannel , including the ability to Buy Online and Pickup in Store , Ship from Store , and Same Day Delivery ( which we call Staples Rush ).”
The use of technology in a supply chain is an important step for any business that wants to move forward on continually deliver on its customers ’ needs . More and more supply chains are going to be embracing the latest digital tools as Bhaskaran explains : “ A significant trend over the next year will be the increased use of data-driven decision making . This will impact all aspects of the supply chain , from inventory replenishment to network optimisation to pricing . More than ever , a successful supply chain will be one that works not just harder , but smarter .”
By listening to the needs of customers and equipping supply chains with new capabilities enabled by digital technologies , companies can unlock the full potential of the digital supply chain , just as Staples continues to do .
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