Your guide to success in the US retail industry in 2024: Part 2

From out-of-stock to light-speed delivery: Discover how cutting-edge tech is turbocharging US retail supply chains. 

In Part 1 of our series on the US retail industry, we delved into the nature of the retail business and its impact metrics, highlighting factors such as high volume/low margin, omnichannel presence, and customer experience. If you haven't checked it out yet, it's worth a read to grasp the foundational aspects driving today's retail landscape. 

Now, in Part 2, imagine peering into the future where cutting-edge technologies and innovative strategies transform every link in the supply chain. You're about to explore how these emerging trends are redefining operational efficiencies and setting new benchmarks for customer satisfaction and business resilience. From AI-driven demand forecasting to sustainable supply chains, let's look into the world of US retail supply chain and logistics trends poised to revolutionize the industry. 

Current logistics and supply chain buzz in the US retail game

Technology is evolving at breakneck speed, consumers are more demanding and informed than ever, and global events continue to disrupt traditional supply chains. To survive and thrive, retailers embrace cutting-edge strategies and innovative solutions. These efforts aim to digitalize operations, elevate the customer experience, and tackle new challenges head-on.  

Here are the 10 most compelling trends in logistics and supply chain that are redefining the retail landscape in the US: 

1. AI and ML in demand forecasting 

You've probably experienced the frustration of items being out of stock or seeing excessive unsold inventory. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are helping retailers tackle these issues by improving demand forecasting. 

These technologies analyze vast amounts of data - including past sales, weather patterns, social media trends, and economic indicators - to predict future demand more accurately. Walmart uses AI to forecast demand for over 500 million item-store combinations each week. This has helped them reduce out-of-stock and excess inventory, saving billions of dollars annually. 

2. Omnichannel fulfillment 

Customers today expect a frictionless journey across all shopping channels. Whether browsing online, visiting a physical store, or opting for click-and-collect, they crave a unified experience. That's where omnichannel distribution comes in. This strategy allows retailers to fulfill orders from various locations – stores, warehouses, or even dedicated fulfillment centers – ensuring faster deliveries and convenient pickup options.  

This strategy enhances customer satisfaction by providing flexibility and speed, while also improving inventory management and reducing shipping costs. The ability to check availability and pick up an item within the hour exemplifies the convenience and efficiency of omnichannel distribution. Additionally, with the rise of quick commerce, retailers are pushing the envelope to provide even faster and more convenient shopping experiences. 

3. Last-mile delivery innovation 

The "last mile" of delivery—the final step of getting products to customers' doorsteps—has always been a challenge for retailers. Innovations in this area are crucial for enhancing delivery speed and convenience. Companies are exploring various solutions, including drone deliveries, autonomous vehicles, and local micro-fulfillment centers. Micro-fulfillment centers, strategically placed within urban areas, are emerging as a game-changer. These smaller, automated facilities enable retailers to stock high-demand items and fulfill orders quickly, often within the same day. 

Another such example is Amazon's experimentation with drone delivery through its Prime Air service, aiming to deliver packages to customers within 30 minutes. Although still in the early stages, this technology could revolutionize how online purchases are received.  

4. Robotics and automation 

Robots are no longer just science fiction - they're becoming a reality in warehouses and stores. From automated storage and retrieval systems to shelf-scanning robots, automation is transforming retail operations. Humanoid robots, in particular, are making significant strides in tasks such as inventory management, order picking, and customer service. 

Ocado, a British online supermarket, uses thousands of robots in its automated warehouses. These robots can pick and pack a 50-item order in just a few minutes, far faster than human workers could manage. 

5. AI-enabled vision systems 

AI-enabled vision systems are transforming quality control and inventory management in retail supply chains. These systems use computer vision and machine learning algorithms to inspect products, detect defects, and ensure accuracy in inventory counts. They can also enhance the efficiency of warehouse operations by guiding robots in picking and sorting tasks. 

Amazon Go stores use a network of cameras and sensors to track what you pick up and put back on shelves. When you're done shopping, you can simply walk out, and your Amazon account automatically charges for your purchases. 

6. Near-shoring and on-shoring 

You're probably familiar with the concept of outsourcing production to countries with lower labor costs. However, recent global events have highlighted the risks of relying too heavily on distant suppliers. That's why you're seeing a shift towards near-shoring and on-shoring. 

Near-shoring involves moving production to nearby countries. For example, many US companies are relocating manufacturing from Asia to Mexico. On-shoring brings production back to the home country. 

After facing supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, Walmart committed to spending an additional $350 billion on items made, grown, or assembled in the US over the next ten years. This move aims to strengthen the US manufacturing sector and reduce dependence on overseas suppliers. 

7. Sustainable and circular supply chains 

Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental and social impact of their purchases. Retailers are responding to this expectation by prioritizing sustainable practices and ethical sourcing throughout their supply chains. This involves using eco-friendly packaging materials, collaborating with suppliers committed to fair labor practices, and exploring innovative solutions like IKEA's second-hand furniture market as highlighted by Forbes.  

Sustainable freight sourcing is another key element of this value-driven approach. Take, for example, Unilever, the multinational consumer goods company that has implemented several innovative strategies, including the use of SmartFill technology that allows for in-store product refills using concentrates, significantly reducing packaging waste and transportation emissions. They've also introduced electric refrigerated trucks for ice cream delivery in several markets, cutting both emissions and noise pollution in urban areas. These initiatives align perfectly with their brand image and resonate with their environmentally conscious customer base. For more insights on sustainable practices for freight sourcing, check out this blog.  

Additionally, the concept of a sustainable and circular economy is gaining traction in the retail industry. This approach emphasizes recycling, reusing materials, and minimizing waste throughout the supply chain. To explore the sustainable and circular economy in the supply chain, read this blog. 

8. Labor shortages and talent management 

The retail sector faces a significant labor shortage, with over 5.5 million job openings and a peak in November 2021 when nearly 700,000 employees resigned. This affects operations, from inventory management to logistics, straining workforce capacity and morale. Service quality and efficiency are particularly impacted by an acute shortage of delivery drivers, with over 80,000 positions unfilled. Retailers must innovate in recruitment and retention strategies amidst intense competition for talent. 

Walmart, for example, has introduced VR training programs for its employees. Using VR headsets, employees can practice dealing with difficult customer service scenarios or learn how to use new in-store technologies in a safe, virtual environment. 

9. Blockchain for transparency 

Blockchain technology is making waves in the retail logistics and supply chain sectors by providing unparalleled transparency and security. This decentralized ledger allows retailers to track products through every supply chain stage, ensuring authenticity and reducing fraud. Retailers like Walmart and Carrefour use blockchain to verify food product origins, enhancing safety and consumer trust. This transparency meets the growing demand for ethical and sustainable practices. 

Additionally, blockchain can streamline logistics by automating and securing transactions, reducing paperwork, and minimizing errors. Smart contracts, a feature of blockchain technology, can automatically trigger actions when predefined conditions are met, further enhancing efficiency and reducing costs in the supply chain. 

10. Cybersecurity 

As retail operations become increasingly digital, protecting against cyber threats is more important than ever. Retailers are investing in robust cybersecurity measures to protect their data, systems, and customer information from cyber threats. This includes implementing advanced encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security audits. 

In 2023, Walmart Canada experienced a data breach affecting its photo center website. The breach potentially exposed customer credit card data and personal information. The company accelerated its cybersecurity enhancement plans, which included upgrading its threat detection systems, implementing more stringent data protection protocols, and increasing staff training on cybersecurity best practices. 

Building a future-proof retail supply chain with agility and sustainability 

The US retail industry is experiencing a profound transformation. The trends we've discussed are not just changing how retailers operate; they're reshaping the entire ecosystem of retail, from supply chain management to customer experience. As a consumer, you'll likely see faster deliveries, more personalized experiences, and greater transparency in product sourcing. For those in the retail business, these trends offer both challenges and opportunities. The key to success will be in striking the right balance between technological advancement and the human touch, between efficiency and sustainability.  

As we move forward, the retailers who thrive will be those who can adapt quickly, leverage technology wisely, and keep the customer at the heart of every decision. Whether you're a shopper, a retail employee, or a business owner, staying informed and embracing these changes will be crucial in navigating the exciting future of retail.