eCom Logistics Podcast Fulfillment IQ, Ninaad Acharya, Dan Coll

Padhu is the co-founder and CEO of Osa Commerce, a trailblazer cloud-based platform that powers the supply chains of logistics providers, retailers, and brands. With over 25 years of experience in digital supply chains, operations, and product development, he is an expert in creating and implementing end-to-end commerce solutions that optimize online sales and enhance fulfillment and delivery automation using artificial intelligence and data visibility.

SHOW SUMMARY

In this episode of eCom Logistics Podcast, we feature a live discussion from MODEX 2024 in Atlanta, where we, alongside special guest Padhu Raman from Osa Commerce, delve into the intricacies of supply chain management and the revolutionary solutions Osa Commerce offers. Padhu, with a background in supply chain and e-commerce spanning 25 years, shares his journey from working at Bosch India to co-founding Osa Commerce. Osa Commerce, described as the 'Tesla of Supply Chain,' introduces an innovative SaaS platform that encapsulates the complexity of supply chain management, offering seamless integration across various systems. The platform aims to optimize inventory management, distribution, and order fulfillment processes, providing pre-integrated solutions that significantly reduce implementation time. Padhu emphasizes the importance of a modular ecosystem model in addressing the challenges of integration and change management within the supply chain.

HIGHLIGHTS

[00:01:16] Deep Dive with Padhu from Osa Commerce
[00:02:40] Padhu's Journey in Supply Chain and E-commerce
[00:04:15] Building a 3PL Business from Scratch
[00:07:53] The Evolution of Osa Commerce into a SaaS Provider
[00:08:16] Exploring the Ecosystem Model of Osa Commerce
[00:12:31] Addressing Integration and Change Management in Supply Chain
[00:16:52] The Future of 3PL and Brand Operations
[00:19:47] Disruption and Innovation in the Supply Chain Space
[00:20:53] Unpacking the Unique Challenges of Osa Commerce
[00:21:45] The Tesla of Supply Chain: Innovation at the Core
[00:24:24] Redefining Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
[00:27:01] The Evolution of E-Commerce and Its Impact on Logistics
[00:32:46] The Osa Solution: Bridging Gaps in the Supply Chain
[00:33:14] The Power of Data in Optimizing Supply Chains

QUOTES

[00:07:26] "When you commit to a customer in the morning saying that we will ship 45,000 units by the end of day, and you come back and find out you only have almost one third of the people, and of one third of the people almost half leave after the lunch break. COVID was so rapid and things changed."

[00:27:48] "We created the solution based on what the need was because we were operators. So the system is built by operators for the operators who are very simple."

Find out more about Padhu Raman and his company in the link below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/padhuraman/
https://osacommerce.com/

This episode is sponsored by G&P Construction. If you're in need of top notch, all-inclusive Material handling solutions for logistics and commercial real estate, look no further than G&P Construction. Be sure to visit www.gandpconstruction.com to discover your one-stop shop for turnkey MHE integrations.

Global Head of Essentials Operations Marv Cunningham, as Prologis' Global Head of Operating Essentials and Global Head of Workforce Solutions, oversees all aspects of Prologis’ Workforce Programs and Community Relations division, as well as Essentials platform delivering the next generation of solutions to address some of the most critical challenges fulfillment centers face today building into your business the resilience you need to innovate, grow, and thrive, encompasses the company’s Community Workforce Initiative (CWI). CWI is building a talent pipeline for customers, with an emphasis on revitalizing career pathways and creating economic opportunities in the communities where the company operates. Within Operating Essentials, Marv is centered at the core of successful fulfillment – from move-in services to forklifts and racking systems and encompassing fully automated warehouse solutions. Learn more about CWI here and more about Operations Essentials here Mr. Cunningham joined Prologis in 2023 and has 15-plus years of experience in Supply Chain and Logistics throughout the United States and Europe. Prior to joining Prologis. Mr. Cunningham was the COO/CIO for GXO, Logistics, the Chief Supply Chain Officer for Saks, Saks Off 5th & Hudson Bay, the Chief Supply Chain Officer for Rent the Runway, Vice President of Target Supply Chain, and multiple roles at Amazon. Mr. Cunningham has an MBA from Carnegie Mellon and a Bachelor of Science in nuclear engineering from Oregon State University which he completed in 3 years. He loves to ride his Harley-Davidson motorcycles on the weekend and plays basketball any chance he can.

SHOW SUMMARY

In this episode of eCom Logistics Podcast, Marv Cunningham discusses the Prologis Essentials program and its mission to provide comprehensive solutions for e-commerce logistics challenges. He shares his extensive experience in the industry, including his time at Amazon and Target, and highlights the importance of standardization, scalability, and culture in warehouse operations. Marv also emphasizes the growing role of automation and robotics in improving efficiency and reducing labor costs. Overall, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of e-commerce logistics and how to address industry challenges.

HIGHLIGHTS

[00:00:43] The advantages of 3PLs in operating systems and driving economies of scale.
[00:13:11] Integration of AI and machine learning in providing real-time feedback for operational improvements.
[00:19:14] Factors indicating the right time for adopting automation in warehouses.
[00:23:58] Marv’s four P's approach: People, Process, Performance, and Price.

QUOTES

[00:00:27] "They can help you with either financing or RaaS. They can set up the system, they can operate it for you. You get the economy to scale and the savings base in automation."

[00:04:03] "What we're trying to do at Prologis Essentials is we're trying to also do anything inside and outside of the building. So anything from racking to fork trucks to full solution automation, to networking capacity planning."

[00:13:30] "Instead of just giving you a solution, they're giving you a solution that then starts thinking about ‘how did we do today’ and ‘what can I make a recommendation?’"

[00:19:14] "If you have a labor problem, if you're growing, and then if you really believe that you're trying to either write process units faster or in a shorter period of time with less shifts, both of those are the right time for automation."

Find out more about Marv Cunningham and his company in the link below:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marvcunningham/
https://www.prologis.com/essentials-solutions/

This episode is sponsored by G&P Construction. If you're in need of top notch, all-inclusive Material handling solutions for logistics and commercial real estate, look no further than G&P Construction. Be sure to visit https://www.gandpconstruction.com to discover your one-stop shop for turn

Rahul (RD) Deshmukh is a pivotal figure in logistics and distribution, specializing in operational excellence strategies for distribution centers, focusing on optimization, automation, safety standards, and cost savings. With extensive experience partnering with Fortune 500 companies and expertise in automation, digitalization, and logistics network optimization, RD has a proven track record in driving supply chain operations. Prior to Amazon, RD led supply chain operations at DHL across North America, demonstrating his prowess in managing people, processes, and costs. With over 15 years of experience, RD has led numerous successful digitalization transformations and received accolades for pioneering next-generation distribution center models. His deep understanding of both supply chain dynamics and technology enables him to implement impactful changes that benefit stakeholders.

SHOW SUMMARY

In this episode of eCom Logistics Podcast, Dan Coll and Ninaad Acharya are joined by Rahul Deshmukh (RD), Principal eCommerce Fulfillment and Warehouse at Amazon, live from MODEX 2024. They discuss insights, trends, and challenges in eCommerce logistics, focusing on embracing digitalization, AI, and robotics in the supply chain. RD shares his journey in the logistics space, emphasizing the importance of quick decision-making, learning from failures, and improving processes. They delve into strategies for optimizing customer satisfaction, evolving consumer expectations, and navigating the evolving landscape of logistics technology showcased at MODEX.

HIGHLIGHTS

[00:00:27] Embrace digitalization and AI to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.
[00:04:53] Focus on leading-edge engineering in logistics design to meet evolving customer demands.
[00:10:02] Implement actionable data analysis for better forecasting and planning.
[00:14:08] Attend conferences like MODEX with a clear agenda to focus on innovation and problem-solving.
[00:22:19] Make quick decisions, learn from failures, and continuously improve processes.
[00:30:37] Apply AI to automation, forecasting, and warehouse optimization for enhanced productivity.

QUOTES

[00:11:52] "Standardize. Learn, be curious, and then you do bias for action... which will make our stakeholders happy, which will make my people happy, which will make the team happy, and they will go home satisfied."

[00:22:22] "The worst thing is to not implement anything for having paralysis of analysis, make a quick decision, move on, learn from it, fail fast and improve."

Find out more about Rahul (RD) Deshmukh in the link below:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/getrd1/

This episode is sponsored by G&P Construction. If you're in need of top notch, all-inclusive Material handling solutions for logistics and commercial real estate, look no further than G&P Construction. Be sure to visit www.gandpconstruction.com to discover your one-stop shop for turnkey MHE integrations.

Edson Greenwood is a seasoned professional with a distinguished background in leadership and strategic management. Edson graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2003, where he developed a strong foundation in discipline and integrity. Following his military service, in 2012, he earned his MBA from NYU Stern School of Business. Edson has held key positions at prestigious organizations, including impactful roles at The Blackstone Group and Palantir Technologies, where he played pivotal roles in business operations and strategy. Currently Edson is the Chief Operating Officer at Anvyl Inc., a leading software startup. In this role, he leverages his extensive experience to oversee operational functions and drive the company's growth trajectory. Edson continues to make significant contributions to the corporate landscape, embodying the principles of dedication, innovation, and strategic vision.

SHOW SUMMARY

In this episode of eCom Logistics Podcast, Dan Coll interviews Edson Greenwood, COO of Anvyl, at Manifest 2024 to discuss the current landscape of eCommerce logistics. They delve into emerging trends, challenges, and the evolving role of technology in supply chain management. From inventory management to supplier communications, they explore key areas of focus for businesses in 2024.

HIGHLIGHTS

[00:00:23] Trends in technology investment: 74% of respondents are likely to invest in technology in 2024, focusing on inventory management, supplier communications, and production management.

[00:01:54] Shift towards offshoring and nearshoring: Companies are exploring production partners in South America, Mexico, and North America amid concerns and disruptions in traditional manufacturing hubs like China.

[00:02:54] Importance of production management: As businesses grapple with supply chain complexities, there's a growing realization of the critical role of production management in ensuring overall operational success.

[00:05:32] Challenges in technology adoption: Suppliers face hurdles in adopting new tools, emphasizing the need for user-friendly solutions that integrate seamlessly into existing workflows.

[00:10:26] Market research insights: Survey results indicate a heightened focus on technology adoption, with inventory management emerging as a top priority for retail brands.

QUOTES

[00:00:23] "A lot of those responses were focused on three main areas, which were inventory management still, supplier communications, and production management."

[00:02:54] "Everyone was focused on inventory or was focused on logistics and, understandably But I think there's been a lot of effort put into those areas that are now bringing people back to the point where, Hey, if there's problems with my orders, all this other stuff is gonna be wrong, too."

Find out more about Edson Greenwood in the link below:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edson-greenwood-415ba9b/
Anvyl Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@anvyl

Andreas Andrea is a seasoned supply chain and logistics professional with extensive experience in the industry. He began his career at McMaster-Carr Supply Company, an industrial supply company known for its efficient operations and same-day delivery capabilities. Andreas then worked at Vans, where he gained valuable experience in warehouse management and global supply chain operations. He later joined FabFitFun, an e-commerce company, where he played a crucial role in navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and implementing strategies to ensure smooth logistics operations. Currently, Andreas works at Murad, a skincare company in the Unilever Prestige group, where he oversees the logistics, warehousing, inventory, and order management teams.

SHOW SUMMARY

In this episode of eCom Logistics Podcast, Andreas Andrea shares his journey in the supply chain and logistics industry, highlighting his experiences at various companies and the lessons he learned along the way. He discusses the importance of understanding the end-to-end supply chain and the role of technology in optimizing operations. Andreas also emphasizes the need for resilience and contingency planning in the face of carrier failures and the challenges posed by seasonal e-commerce shipping. He provides insights into his role at FabFitFun during the COVID-19 pandemic and the strategies implemented to diversify carriers and ensure successful peak season operations. Andreas concludes by discussing the significance of effective communication and collaboration between brands and 3PL partners.

HIGHLIGHTS

[00:00:00] Introduction to the podcast and guest, Andreas Andrea
[00:08:33] Taking a risk on a small regional carrier that ultimately failed
[00:10:19] Starting the direct import program at FabFitFun
[00:13:25] Delays in delivery during winter 2020 due to carrier issues
[00:15:41] Developed reporting to track carrier performance and hub backups
[00:17:09] Successfully managed carrier failures during peak season
[00:20:18] Bala Bangles experienced a surge in demand during COVID
[00:32:04] Importance of assessing logistics partners in light of their failures

QUOTES

[00:00:26] "Logistics partners will always fail. That is a fact of life. Your carrier, your three tier. Any other partner that you're working with will always fail."

[00:30:09] "Your carrier, your 3PL, and any other partner they are working with will always fail. Your job is to judge them and assess them in light of that failure."

[00:34:47] "You have to really manage and let them know that failure happens and they have to be comfortable with the fact that there will be a failure."

Find out more about Andreas Andrea in the link below:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreasandrea/

Tom Schmitt is a seasoned executive renowned for his transformative leadership in the logistics and supply chain industry. As President, Chairman, and CEO of Forward Air Corporation, he propelled the company to new heights, steering a $2 billion premium expedited ground transportation firm listed on Nasdaq. With a focus on strategic growth and fostering a strong organizational culture, Tom left a lasting impact during his tenure from September 2018 to the present. Before Forward Air, he held influential positions at Schenker AG, where he achieved remarkable milestones in contract logistics. Beyond the logistics realm, Tom served as a Non-Executive Director at Ferguson plc and contributed to various board roles. Renowned for his global perspective and expertise in international expansion, Tom's leadership has been recognized with prestigious awards. His diverse career, including roles at Purolator and FedEx Corporation, reflects his commitment to excellence and innovation. A published author and respected speaker, Tom's strategic insights and civic engagement continue to shape industries and communities alike.

SHOW SUMMARY

In this episode of eCom Logistics Podcast, Dan Coll and co-host Ninaad Acharya interview Tom Schmitt, a true legend in the logistics space. Tom shares his fascinating journey from Germany to leading some of the most recognizable companies in North America. He discusses the importance of values, confidence, and commitment in his upbringing and how they shaped his leadership style. Tom also emphasizes the significance of adding value, being clear in communication, and leaving a place better than you found it. He shares insights on the evolving principles of leadership and the importance of being adaptable and continuously learning. The episode concludes with Tom discussing the challenges faced by Forward Air, including the impact of COVID-19, a cyber attack, and an activist shareholder, and how the company overcame these obstacles.

HIGHLIGHTS

[00:03:30] Tom Schmitt shares his immigration story from Germany to the US
[00:08:17] Tom's management experience at BP and lessons learned
[00:15:06] The importance of embodying a culture and purpose in leadership.
[00:16:11] Luck is when preparedness meets opportunity.
[00:20:38] The value of not getting lost in multiple priorities and keeping the main thing.
[00:23:39] The question "What would have to be true?" to challenge assumptions and explore possibilities.
[00:37:40] Leadership failure due to putting an unqualified person in charge.
[00:40:05] Challenges faced during the Omni logistics situation and cyber attack.

QUOTES

[00:08:41] "Position power is not what you should be leaning on. You should be leaning on adding value."

[00:18:17] "When you make commitments, you do everything possible to keep those commitments."

[00:23:39] "You need to be compelling, not complete."

[00:28:32] "Leave a place better than you found it."

Find out more about Tom Schmitt in the link below:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tschmitt1965/