At the National Retail Federation conference in New York, supply chain solutions took center stage, with companies like Manhattan Associates, Blue Yonder, and AWS Supply Chain showcasing their latest offerings. The acquisition of Doddle by Blue Yonder signaled a focus on reverse logistics, while AWS Supply Chain emphasized inventory management tools. Manhattan Associates, known for its supply chain software, experienced significant stock growth in the past year.
Blue Yonder’s acquisition of Doddle aims to streamline the returns process, a crucial but often overlooked aspect of supply chains. Tim Robinson, VP of Blue Yonder, highlighted the inefficiencies of current return practices and stressed the importance of redirecting returns to lower-cost channels. By improving return processes, companies can reduce overall costs and optimize inventory levels.
Meanwhile, Manhattan Associates saw an uptick in demand for its Transportation Management System (TMS) post-COVID, as companies looked to upgrade outdated systems. Rob Schaefer, VP of Manhattan Associates, emphasized the need for integrated solutions that can handle complex transportation needs across various modes. The company unveiled several new initiatives at the NRF conference, including a Fulfillment Experience Insights dashboard and a partnership with Shopify.
AWS Supply Chain, a relatively new player in the field, focuses on inventory management and supply chain visibility. Diego Pantoja-Navajas, VP of AWS Supply Chain, highlighted the importance of data aggregation from multiple ERP systems to optimize inventory levels. By connecting with existing systems like SAP, AWS Supply Chain aims to provide businesses with real-time insights to make informed decisions and improve customer experiences.
