Abstract:

Traditional logistics processes have seen revolutionary advancements due to technological advancements and digital transformation, leading to a transition from manual operations to automated systems, real-time tracking, and data-driven decision-making. This shift has been fueled by the imperative need for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and agility in today's globalized marketplace. The advent of advanced technologies like Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain has further transformed logistics, which is characterized today by real-time tracking, dynamic information exchange, predictive analytics, and application of autonomous vehicles.

Digitization maturity in the Indian logistics sector has been steadily progressing, spurred by the government's initiatives such as Digital India, PM Gati Shakti and ULIP. The National Logistics Policy 2022 has identified digitization of logistics activities as a key factor in reducing logistics cost and improving operational efficiency. The sector has also witnessed the emergence of numerous logistics startups leveraging digital technologies for achieving a competitive edge. However, challenges such as infrastructure constraints, fragmentation in the sector and varying technological adoption rates across regions persist.

Despite its undeniable advantages, many questions persist: How can organizations of different scales carry out digital transformation? Is digitization required for all aspects of logistics, or are there nuances to consider? What are the prerequisites of digitizing? What policy support is needed to advance digitization of logistics services?

Introducing our esteemed Panelists:

Mr. Tim T Edmunds, leading PwC’s Strategy & Transformation team in Hong Kong, has an outstanding 20 years of expertise in consulting and industry operations, with a focus on consumer goods and transportation. His recent projects include reducing carbon footprint and COGS for a sports brand through circularity reverse logistics, and redesigning the logistics operating model for a major EU retailer. In addition to his excellent academic qualifications, he is also a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, APICS Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), and a member of AMCHAM’s Supply Chain committee. With his wealth of experience in transforming supply chains across Asia (India, China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Thailand), he will share his valuable insights for driving innovation and sustainability in the logistics sector.

Mr. Manuj Bansal, Senior Director at Flipkart, the second panelists, leads the supply chain network design, speed to serve and line haul digitization charters, for the business group. He possesses extensive experience in optimizing supply chain operations and driving digitization initiatives. With a strong track record of optimizing costs and leveraging strategic partnerships, particularly in line haul cost and digitization, he has played a pivotal role in designing innovative service models like same-day delivery & omni, to drive speed to serve. His tenure at Unilever, coupled with his background as an IIM Mumbai alumni, highlights his expertise in creating value and driving sustainable solutions in the logistics sector, making him a valuable panelist for the discussion.