FMCG companies, particularly those in the UK, have faced multiple challenges in recent years. From supply chain issues to unstable trade tariffs, it’s difficult to stay up to date with all that’s going on.
On the more positive side of things, recent developments in the world of logistics have made it increasingly easy to meet those difficulties head-on. We decided to take a look at some of the core ways that logistics is changing for FMCG companies, to help provide a clear analysis of the market at the moment.
Integration and centralisation
While the internet has been around for decades now, we’re currently seeing rapid development in terms of integrated systems and centralised analytics software. Thanks to advanced sensors and dynamic software solutions, operators in the FMCG industry are able to access data in real-time, allowing for the seamless fulfilment of orders and informed decision-making.
Automated loading solutions
FMCG companies need to move fast – it’s in the name. Automated loading solutions from providers such as Joloda Hydraroll have provided the biggest boost in loading efficiency in decades, the benefits of which are most pronounced in high-speed, high-volume industries such as FMCG companies.
These solutions mean that warehouses can load and unload goods far quicker than they could using ‘traditional’ approaches to loading, while simultaneously decreasing the risk of accidents and cutting costs. Truly a win-win situation.
Sustainability
It’s the word on everyone’s mind – sustainability. While logistics has a long way to go when it comes to sustainability-related issues, it’s also come a long way. We’ve seen multiple planning solutions introduced in recent years that have had a hugely positive influence on sustainability, along with promising developments in EVs and LNG-powered lorries.
The great thing is that these solutions aren’t just positive in terms of environmental and social sustainability – they tend to lead to decreased operating costs as well, particularly in traditionally high-waste FMCG companies.
Collaboration
We’ve also seen increasing outsourcing and collaboration between specialists in the logistics industry. As new niches emerge within logistics, and certain companies become more and more specialised at offering that service, companies have started to realise the importance of working together towards a common goal. This necessitates increased communication and a desire to work well together, but when it works, it works well.
AI powered data analytics
In companies as fast-moving as those in the FMCG niche, it can be difficult to spot patterns and potential opportunities soon enough to act in time, using old-school approaches to data analytics.
Thankfully, logistics providers now have access to immensely capable AI-powered data analytics software. We’ve yet to see the extent to which these solutions will revolutionise the industry, but things look bright so far.
From AI to loading solutions, there’s definitely a lot to take in when it comes to ongoing logistics industry changes. For FMCG companies in particular, it is essential to make the most of these innovations; the margin for error (and the room for growth) is simply too narrow in most cases to neglect the benefits of constant innovation.
