Kbrw

True omnichannel means managing all orders using all supply chain fulfillment capabilities. This requires end-to-end visibility over the extended supply chain’s inventory and fulfillment capabilities to arbitrate and execute the best way to fulfill any order, in real time. Criteria for “best option” depends on each retailer’s priorities and model, can be very specific, and change both short-term and long-term (ex: if it’s a VIP client, priority is to deliver as fast as possible, no matter the cost / prioritize a new central warehouse for e-commerce orders to keep local ones as providers for stores)

Once your supply chain has true omnichannel capabilites, it maximizes OTIF while driving down costs even in the face of disruption (ex: alternative sourcing and/or transportation options in case of unplanned stockout or supply chain disruption)

It can also better face situations of stress:

• Maintained service quality during peak season (dynamic stock reallocation)
• Easier recalls (end-to-end traceability, easy creation of return flows)
• Faster regulatory compliance (quick updates of logistics flows, easier reporting…)

And it can allow for easier implementation of new, better integrated business models like circular economy or Product as a Service / additional services.

Key takeways:

• Going truly omnichannel is more than a way to offer better customer experience, it’s a way to build a more agile, resilient, evolutive and sustainable supply chain that’s more aligned with the company’s priorities.
• This requires end-to-end visibility over the extended supply chain’s inventory and fulfillment capabilities, to arbitrate and execute the best way to fulfill any order, in real time
• Benefits include maximised OTIF, better management of situations where the supply chain is under stress (peak season, recalls, regulatory changes…), easier implementation of new business models (circular economy, product as a service…)