In the retail tech space, it’s very easy to discuss all of the progress being made in the way of customer-facing solutions; between trends like self-service and hybridizing the customer experience, these technologies tend to dominate the space. But what about the technologies that power those experiences? Home Delivery World explores just that.
Home Delivery World 2018 just took place this week in Atlanta and dug into the nitty gritty of retail logistics. According to their site, attendees “learn about cutting-edge technology and hear how some of the biggest players in the market have increased efficiencies, saved costs, and streamlined the delivery process.” Essentially, the show is meant to make logistical dreams for retailers a reality.
The event boasted over 1,500 attendees, more than 200 speakers, and more than 350 sessions to attend. And with attendees like Target, Nordstrom, QVC, and Dick’s Sporting Goods, it’s obvious that to stay in the game of retail, optimizing your logistics strategy is a must, especially in a retail landscape that is increasingly dependent on shipping strategy.
To shine a light on the often overlooked world of logistics, RTI is sharing some of the top takeaways from Home Delivery World 2018 that explore the latest technology powering our shopping experiences:
As businesses grow and their need to remain effective and organized grows with it, adopting technology that addresses those needs is crucial. Predictive analytics’ and blockchain’s role in retail logistics were a large part of the discussion at Home Delivery World.
Logistics is hard, look at this example. And that’s why we want to make it work more efficiently with blockchain technology #homedeliveryworld pic.twitter.com/m5uTY8WcPQ
— Aekraes Kodex (@aekraes) April 18, 2018
Boxchain alongside John-Paul Clarke from @GeorgiaTech and Tina Postel from @loavesfishesnc at the recent Home Delivery World conference in Atlanta. Discussing Boxchain, Blockchain, smart contracts and predictive analytics in the Supply chain. #blockchaintechnology #HDW pic.twitter.com/OAVxjsv2kK
— Boxchain (@box_chain) April 20, 2018
@axlehire CEO Daniel Sokolovsky is LIVE now!
We’re talking leveraging software and technology to improve shipping speed and efficiency #HDW
— Home Delivery World (@HomeDeliveryUSA) April 18, 2018
Learning about #Blockchain impacts on streamlining and creating a more transparent supply chain across partners from @IBM and @Goldenstatefood at @HomeDeliveryUSA in ATL. Great benefits to track farm to fork for global food supply or parts validation for hard goods. #HDW pic.twitter.com/ykRqCqX7Yk
— Ryan Companies (@ryancompanies) April 19, 2018
With a name like “Home Delivery World,” you know there is going to be discussion around subscription models and meal kit delivery services. In fact, there was a panel called “How are subscriptions navigating around logistical challenges while still maintaining their popularity?” with panelists from Peach Dish, Watch Gang, and Sock Fancy. Traversing the logistics of a business that is completely reliant on it’s ability to deliver presents some unique logistical challenges.
How to grow a startup subscription brand while navigating around logistical challenges? Transparent communication with your customers is crucial, say panelists from @TheWatchGang, @SockFancy and @PeachDishATL #HDW
— SupplyChainBrain (@SCBrain) April 19, 2018
Jason Lepes, VP, Head of Merchandising for @FreshDirect speaking about how they sell swordfish online that haven’t yet been caught. Legit impressed! @HomeDeliveryUSA #HDW pic.twitter.com/IOKwUcd1dc
— Brian Patrick Bourke (@bpbourke) April 18, 2018
Consumer demands are changing fast, and delivery kits are becoming popular. Come to #HDW to learn about innovations in the #grocery space and how to keep up.
Get a free pass here: https://t.co/2aNtr2W88k pic.twitter.com/IVTsJ0jESn
— Home Delivery World (@HomeDeliveryUSA) April 13, 2018
And of course, it’s crucial to learn from the retailing goliaths that got it right – after all, Amazon is arguably the main reason free two-day shipping is expected among retailers today, no matter the size or location. Amazon’s Vice President of Global Innovation Policy and Communications Paul Misener keynoted about purposeful innovation and spoke about how customer expectations should shape logistics strategy.
The key to sustained innovation: Be purposeful in both mission and process, says Paul Misener of @amazon #HDW
— SupplyChainBrain (@SCBrain) April 18, 2018
You VS. Amazon: How Retailers are Competing with Same-day Delivery Nationwide
Catch it now in Seminar Theater 1 #HDW pic.twitter.com/0AIZP1d2YY
— Home Delivery World (@HomeDeliveryUSA) April 18, 2018
To stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in retail technology, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our newsletter.
