CARGOCONNECT JULY2024 - Flipbook - Page 68
E-COMCONNECT 2024
PANEL 2
T
he second panel discussion centred on the subject ‘REVOLUTIONISING LAST-MILE DELIVERY: INNOVATIONS
AND BEST PRACTICES’ spotlighted how innovations in
last-mile delivery are reshaping logistics and presenting
challenges and opportunities in urban and rural areas. The
discussion began by addressing the increasing consumer demand
for fast and convenient delivery, with businesses exploring
hyper-local delivery and partnering with last-mile startups.
Key strategies include leveraging local networks and advanced
tools to optimise delivery routes and ensure timely service. The
session stressed on the adoption of cutting-edge technologies
that not only enhances delivery speed but also contributes to a
substantial reduction in operational costs, marking a signi昀椀cant
stride in the ever-persistent quest for e昀케ciency and sustainability.
It also re昀氀ected on advancements in drones, autonomous vehicles,
and electric vehicles, which are further enhancing e昀케ciency
and promoting sustainability in last-mile logistics. The panel
underscored the importance of continuously refining these
innovations and adopting best practices to not only meet but exceed
customer expectations in the competitive e-commerce landscape.
Overall, the panellists extensively examined ground-breaking
innovations at the forefront, analysing how transformative shifts
are shaping the future of last-mile delivery operations, driving
growth and pro昀椀tability in the process. In a broader context,
the panel illuminated the path toward operational optimisation
and customer-centric excellence within the e-commerce logistics
landscape, heralding a future marked by e昀케ciency, transparency,
and heightened customer contentment.
“There has been exponential growth in today’s e-commerce market. We are no longer limited to tier I and II
cities; tier III and IV regions are actively participating, resulting in a signi昀椀cant rise in online orders. The
widespread adoption of mobile phones and apps has made ordering and expecting prompt delivery accessible
to everyone. Customers now expect a top-notch experience across the board. A substandard delivery experience is no longer acceptable in this competitive landscape. Initially perceived as catering mainly to younger
generations, e-commerce now attracts users of all ages who spend considerable time exploring and utilising
mobile platforms. The volume of transactions has grown immensely, particularly during peak seasons,
necessitating e昀昀ective strategies for manpower management. Retention of skilled personnel is crucial for
maintaining consistent customer satisfaction amidst intense competition. Innovation in delivery methods,
such as electric vehicles and optimised route planning through dynamic capacity management, has become
commonplace and contributes signi昀椀cantly to sustainability e昀昀orts. These topics are pivotal for discussion
in today’s e-commerce environment, addressing how companies can meet growing demand, retain skilled
workforce, and innovate for sustainable growth.”
ARUN KUMAR SHETTY, Head– Operations, StarQuik, a TATA Enterprise (MODERATOR)
68 | CARGOCONNECT JULY 2024
