Report: Supply chain key to omnichannel costs, revenue growth

An annual report provides an in-depth analysis of the front-burner issues facing America’s retail supply chains, and highlights tools and leading practices to compete in an evolving marketplace.



The seventh annual “State of the Retail Supply Chain” report was done by Auburn University's Center for Supply Chain Innovation and the Retail Industry Leaders Association in partnership with DC Velocity. "As retailers focus on innovation and moving their supply chains into the future, this report provides the insight and tools to help prioritize investment and increase marketplace competition,” said Lisa LaBruno, senior VP of retail operations for RILA.



The report details the top three supply chain capabilities that revolve around the digital transformation of the retail industry: enhancing order fulfillment capabilities, incorporating extensive use of stores for fulfilment and end-to-end supply chain planning.



"As retailers seek to find balance between omnichannel costs and revenue growth, they realize that the supply chain is the key to profitably serving customers," the report states. "To achieve success, the supply chain team must continue to excel at its primary fulfillment role, figure out how to best utilize stores that were never designed for large scale fulfillment, and develop strong capabilities in areas previously managed by other groups. Supply chain success will enhance retailers’ financial vitality and outlook.



This year's study is the culmination of research derived from industry hot topics, executive input, and emergent issues. The report sought participation from organizations with annual revenues above $1 billion, omnichannel capabilities and broad geographic activity. The Auburn University research team gathered insight through interviews and online surveys with America’s top retail supply chain executives, as well as industry analysis.



“Adapting to the hyper-competitive landscape requires supply chain capabilities that attract customers and grow the business,” noted Brian Gibson, executive director of Auburn University's Center for Supply Chain Innovation. “Supply chain executives must integrate operations across multiple channels, use analytics to drive supply chain decisions, and monetize supply chain capabilities. Our report provides extensive discussions of these initiatives.”



To read a full copy of the report, click here.