Rakesh PANDIT

Many SMEs in India, who form the bulk of the local sourcing, are part of the supply chain network; some serve big businesses in their upstream chain and some remain entrenched in the distribution and logistics part of the chain. But either way they seem to be subject of transactional relationships with big businesses, the suffering in the process stems from very high receivables; the big businesses enjoy a part of their cash flow improvement from the large payables they maintain. Some of SMEs have complained that their normal cycle of getting payments has gone up to anything between four to six months. When you pay your local suppliers after four- to six months of getting the product or service, you are creating the foundation of your cash flows by postponing those of your partners. We must go beyond the known success stories in sourcing when it comes to local sourcing. After all local sourcing cannot stop at the B2B where both the B’s are Big Bs. What about Big Business to SME or SME to Big Business? Indian businesses seem to fall short; whenever we try to look at success stories, they seem to be about big businesses and their value chains. It is time Procurement leaders focus on local sourcing with a different eye. Developing the small businesses must start by acknowledging that the cash flows of the small businesses, including SMEs, matter as much as that of the bigger players with whom they transact. This is very important because in the current state of things, the results show that small businesses simply fail to deliver a better price, quality or delivery reliability because they fall short of their cash needs as far as their working capital goes; investing for improving or increasing scale can only come thereafter. On the other hand, without a local supplier, all the 8 Rs fail very dramatically (at least recycling, recovering, re-using and replacing fail surely). Take the example of Bridgestone Tires and their program on developing a sustainable supply chain. It is built on the ability to recycle used tire materials as raw materials and convert them into tires and also look at options of using a used tire through refurbishment into a tire as a solution. All the talk on sustainability and reduction of waste involves partnerships if India has to embrace Circularity. The foundation of circularity is built on small players who could be local waste collectors, disposers, local farmer, transporter, converter, intermediary, recycler, community partners, including the consumers themselves who form the bulk of the membership. If waste has to be recycled, the chain could be this ensemble of people. The global supply chains of the world of fast fashion have taught us that unless we have a mechanism of putting the waste of fast fashion to be recycled, we are in perennial cycle of waste generation; we can learn from the Bridgestone Tire case study. #supplychain #strategicsourcing #localsourcing #partnership #recycling #waste #logistics

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The Institute of Supply Chain Management is proud to announce the "India Supply Chain Thought Leadership Summit" on 19th September 2024 at The Lalit, Mumbai. We welcome you to the India Supply Chain Thought Leadership Summit (ISCTLS), the premier event for senior leaders in supply chain management. Featuring star speakers whose companies have demonstrated excellence in supply chain transformation, this summit is a unique platform for thought leadership. Selected based on #ISCMsupplchainranking by #InstituteofSupplyChainManagement, our speakers are the champions of supply chain innovation. In an era marked by global macroeconomic shifts, geopolitical tensions, climate challenges, and commercial disruptions, the necessity to reimagine, rethink, and redesign supply chains has never been more critical. Amidst these changes, India stands out with its remarkable rise, prompting a transformative approach to supply chain management. Join us at ISCTLS to explore how Indian firms are innovating and reshaping their supply chains to adapt to these dynamic conditions. Discover emerging best practices as over 250 supply chain leaders come together for this exclusive event, offering unparalleled peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities. Embrace the future of #supplychainmanagement and transform your strategies to thrive in this new era. To know more write to [email protected]

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India’s booming e-commerce and growing manufacturing sectors are really pushing traditional warehousing and supply chain systems to their limits. This often leads to delays and inefficiencies, which can be costly for businesses. Thankfully, Generative AI (Gen AI) and automation are stepping up as game-changers. A 2023 report from Automation Anywhere reveals that 63% of Indian companies are set to invest in these technologies in 2024. This shift is all about boosting efficiency, saving costs, and enhancing customer service. 1. Streamlining Operations: With rising labor costs and shortages, automation is a lifesaver. Think Robotic Process Automation (RPA) for tasks like picking and packing, and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) for moving materials around. These tools cut down on manual work, reduce errors, and speed up processes. 2. Better Decision-Making: Traditional forecasting methods can be hit or miss. Gen AI and machine learning, on the other hand, analyze tons of data—like sales trends and weather patterns—to provide super accurate forecasts. This means businesses can manage inventory and plan logistics more effectively, avoiding stockouts or excess stock. 3. Boosting Customer Experience: AI isn’t just about behind-the-scenes efficiency. AI chatbots handle customer queries in real time, freeing up human reps for more complex issues. Plus, personalized recommendations and real-time tracking enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Of course, while AI and automation offer huge benefits, human expertise is still crucial for strategic planning and complex problem-solving. The best results come from blending human skills with these new technologies, paving the way for a more efficient and customer-friendly future in India’s warehousing and supply chain sectors. Read the full article in https://lnkd.in/d5ecCrZm #FutureOfWarehousing #SupplyChainInnovation #GenAI #AutomationTech #CustomerSatisfaction #IndianBusiness #GlobalCompetitiveness #TechInSupplyChain #AIandAutomation #WarehouseTech #InnovationInLogistics #supplychaintitans #letsbuildtogether #projectsmirror

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Blaming shipping-related issues for the decline in India's export numbers is a weak excuse to mask shortcomings across various sectors. Shipping challenges are not unique to India; they are a global issue affecting almost every country. A comparison with other nations reveals that China's export growth in August 2024 was 8.7%, while Vietnam saw record-breaking export figures. Japan and South Korea also reported robust growth in exports. On the other hand, Brazil experienced a decline, with exports falling by 6.5%. This suggests that India's export performance cannot be solely attributed to shipping disruptions. #Exports #Imports #Trade #Governance #Shipping #Supplychain #Growth

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Geopolitics is the prime driver of logistics macros in today’s world; even more than economic demand and supply! Amidst all disruptions, ECU Worldwide is proudly managing all customer needs with sharp focus on service!

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Technology can become a game changer only when it is adopted by a majority of the potential users to become the beneficiaries. The same is true for the digitization of logistics sector.

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The Institute of Supply Chain Management (ISCM) is proud to unveil the second edition of India’s first-ever supply chain ranking index on September 19, 2024, at The Lalit, Mumbai. The Ranking exercise will highlight the best practices shaping India’s supply chain transformation. As India continues to rise on the global stage, it is crucial to prepare our supply chains for this significant transition. During the event, we will honour the top 30 supply chains in India and recognize the leading two in each sector. we will also honour the functional and strategic innovation along with outstanding leaders who are driving this change. Join us for India’s premier supply chain Ranking celebration, attended by around 350 senior leaders. This is a unique platform for sharing insights and driving industry innovation. We invite all supply chain leaders to attend and celebrate the unveiling of India’s supply chain champions. To participate, please contact us at [email protected] We look forward to meeting the leaders driving the future of India’s supply chains! #ISCM #SupplyChainRanking #ThoughtLeadership #Innovation #India

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Transforming Indian Logistics: Addressing Challenges and Paving the Path to Efficiency India’s logistics sector has grown rapidly, yet it faces significant hurdles that prevent it from achieving optimal efficiency. As we aim to become a $5 trillion economy, improving logistics will be crucial to fuelling growth, reducing costs, and enhancing competitiveness across industries. Here’s a closer look at the major challenges and actionable strategies to overcome them: 1. Infrastructure Fragmentation India’s infrastructure has improved, but connectivity remains fragmented across regions. The absence of integrated multimodal logistics—road, rail, air, and waterways—limits efficient freight movement. Solution: Integrated Infrastructure Development Accelerate projects like the National Logistics Policy and PM Gati Shakti to unify the logistics landscape. Enhance public-private partnerships to fast-track development of warehousing and transport corridor. 2. Complex Regulatory Environment Indian logistics is heavily regulated, with differing requirements across states. Compliance with multiple documentation standards for goods movement increases administrative costs and delays. Solution: Regulatory Simplification and Policy Harmonization Create a single, unified digital platform for permits, licenses, and tracking to reduce bureaucratic delays. 3. High Operational Costs With fluctuating fuel prices, expensive warehousing, and the costs of maintaining an efficient supply chain, India’s logistics expenses are among the highest in the world, constituting nearly 14% of GDP (compared to 8-9% in advanced economies). Solution: Cost Efficiency through Digitization and Automation Leverage AI, IoT, and predictive analytics to improve route planning, inventory management, and demand forecasting. 4. Skilled Workforce Shortage A skilled workforce capable of handling the complexities of modern logistics is crucial. Solution: Skill Development and Workforce Training Establish training and certification programs in partnership with institutions for skills such as data analytics, inventory management, and digital logistics. 5. Sustainability and Environmental Concerns. With global emphasis on sustainability, Indian logistics must adapt to green practices to mitigate environmental impact. Solution: Green Logistics and Sustainability Initiatives Promote the use of electric vehicles and energy-efficient fleets for last-mile deliveries. Encourage green warehousing practices such as renewable energy adoption, waste reduction, and water conservation. A Vision for the Future Addressing these challenges will require a collaborative effort between industry stakeholders, the government, and technology partners. Let's work towards a logistics transformation that drives India forward and supports our economic aspirations! #LogisticsInIndia #SupplyChainChallenges #InnovationInLogistics #FutureOfLogistics #GreenLogistics #IndiaGrowth

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Advancing Indian Logistics & Supply chain ---Momentum for Change by PHD chamber of commerce and industry! It was an honor to be part of the panel discussion on safety and security on the Gati Shakti program. The discussion was led by chief guest Surendra Ahirwar DPIIT Ministry of Commerce & industry experts Dr Ranjeet Mehta, Ajay Bansal, Sushil Gupta, and Ramesh Agarwal. The insights shared during the discussion were invaluable and will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of the logistics and supply chain industry in India. #AdvancingLogistics #MomentumForChange #PHDChamberOfCommerce #GatiShaktiProgram #SupplyChainSecurity #IndustryExperts Recommendations on the National Logistics Policy for the Govt of India. Deliberating on collaborative efforts between government bodies and 3PL companies to enhance infrastructure. Advocating for the development of safe parking facilities and rest areas along transportation routes. Discussions on standardised safety protocols and training programs for drivers. Exploring the opportunities for public-private partnerships to invest in infrastructure upgrades.

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AWL India: Leading the Way in Supply Chain Transparency In today's dynamic business landscape, a robust and transparent supply chain is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity. At AWL India, we understand the importance of supply chain visibility and are committed to providing our clients with unparalleled insights into their operations. What is Supply Chain Visibility? Supply chain visibility refers to the real-time ability to track the movement of goods throughout your entire supply chain – from raw materials to finished products delivered to the end customer. This transparency empowers businesses to: Optimize Inventory Levels: By knowing exactly where your inventory is located, you can avoid stockouts and overstocking, leading to better cash flow management. Enhance Efficiency: Proactive identification of potential disruptions allows for swift course correction, minimizing delays and ensuring on-time deliveries. Mitigate Risk: Real-time data allows you to anticipate and address potential issues before they escalate, safeguarding your operations from unforeseen circumstances. Strengthen Customer Satisfaction: Transparency fosters trust. By keeping your customers informed about the status of their orders, you build stronger relationships and improve satisfaction. AWL India's Commitment to Visibility At AWL India, we leverage cutting-edge technology to provide our clients with comprehensive supply chain visibility solutions. This includes: End-to-End Tracking: We utilize advanced tracking systems to monitor the movement of goods at every stage of the supply chain, providing you with real-time location updates. Data-Driven Insights: Our robust data analytics platforms provide valuable insights into your supply chain performance, enabling you to make informed decisions for optimization. Collaborative Communication: We foster open communication with all stakeholders involved in your supply chain, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Investing in a Transparent Future By prioritizing supply chain visibility, AWL India empowers our clients to make smarter decisions, reduce costs, and ultimately, achieve greater success. We are confident that by embracing transparency, together we can build a more resilient and efficient supply chain ecosystem. Partner with AWL India and gain complete control over your supply chain. Contact us today to learn more about our innovative solutions! . . . #rmehra #AWLindia #SupplyChainVisibility #Logistics #Efficiency #CustomerSatisfaction

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Read about the impact of escalating war on India’s export from MSMEs in Mint article.. Any impact on export from MSMEs which contributes 45-50% of indian exports will impact the economy. Watch the episode of #logisticallyspeaking in YouTube to understand the importance of #msme in indian exports target of $1 trillion. https://lnkd.in/dkQ_heGE

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The curtains have dropped on the 2024 dance of India’s Lok Sabha elections. There will be bigger challenges for the government to perform. This democratic process will have significant impact on the logistics industry, influenced by changes in market dynamics and economic policies. 1.     Positive Market Reactions: The logistics industry is sensitive to market reactions post-elections. Positive election outcomes tend to stabilize markets, reduce volatility, and boost investor confidence, leading to increased investments in logistics and transportation sectors. 2.     Promoting Economic Activity and Market Stability: The outcomes of the elections will have direct implications on market stability and economic activity, which in turn will affect the logistics industry. For example, a decisive victory for a stable government (such as the BJP-led NDA) is likely to foster a positive economic environment, which will support infrastructure projects and industrial growth, thereby benefiting the logistics sector. This scenario encourages sustained investment in logistics infrastructure and technology, promoting long-term growth​. 3.     Policy Continuity and Reforms: The continuity of policies, particularly those related to infrastructure development, transportation, and trade, is crucial for the logistics industry. A stable government is expected to continue focusing on infrastructure projects, including road and rail networks, which are vital for logistics Overall, the 2024 Lok Sabha elections will create opportunities for the logistics industry in India. The immediate boost in employment and economic activities, and the long-term effects will be largely dependent on the political stability and continuity of infrastructure and economic policies. #supplychain #logistics #warehousing

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As the Indian government unveils its bold plan to establish 50 e-commerce export hubs across the nation, it signals a transformative shift for the country’s logistics landscape. This initiative has the potential to not only boost India’s standing in global trade but also create new pathways for businesses of all sizes to tap into international markets with greater ease and efficiency. However, what intrigues me the most is the broader impact this could have on the logistics sector and the infrastructure that will be needed to sustain this vision. These hubs are set to streamline the export process, empowering businesses of all sizes, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to access international markets more efficiently. With over two decades of experience in logistics, I see immense potential in this initiative, but I also wonder how prepared we are from an infrastructure perspective. Developing a strong logistical backbone that connects these hubs to transport arteries is crucial. This will ensure that goods can be transported quickly and efficiently, reducing lead times and cutting costs. The government must focus on improving connectivity if India is to realize its vision of becoming a global export leader. Another exciting aspect of this initiative is the potential for job creation. The establishment of these hubs will create demand for a skilled workforce capable of managing the complexities of e-commerce logistics. Roles in supply chain management, warehouse operations, and transportation planning will be critical. With the right talent in place, the logistics industry can rise to meet the challenges of this new era. But it’s not just about infrastructure and jobs. Innovation will also play a key role in making these hubs a success. We need to invest in technology to automate and optimize processes, ensuring that we can handle the increased volumes of goods passing through the hubs. This is where collaboration between the public and private sectors becomes vital. By working together, we can drive innovation and create a more efficient logistics ecosystem. While the government’s plan is commendable, it’s clear that the development of world-class infrastructure must be a top priority. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. What do you think are the most important factors to consider for the success of these e-commerce export hubs? How do you think the logistics industry should prepare for this transformation? Let’s discuss! To read more details about this initiative, check out the article here: https://lnkd.in/d-DVBpS7 #Ecommerce #Logistics #SupplyChain #InfrastructureDevelopment #JobCreation #ExportHubs #Innovation #IndiaExports #SMEs #PublicPrivatePartnership #TechnologyInLogistics #GlobalTrade #FutureOfLogistics #supplychaintitans

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As per McKinsey, venture investment in Logistics companies has fallen by whopping 90% in 2023 and continues to remain muted in 2024. However, India has INCREASED its share of investment and surpassed Europe as well as China. Also, Systems and Software as a category continues to see maximum investment, next only to Last Mile logistics. The report cautions that PROFITABLE GROWTH is key to attract funding, through organic growth or M&A route. WebXpress Supply Chain Technology with its focus on India market is best placed to benefit from above trends. Vinay Hinge Siju Narayan Suresh Bansal Jash Gor Ivor Misquith https://lnkd.in/dcd64mS3

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I invite you to "the India Supply Chain Thought Leadership. " The summit is the most significant supply chain leadership conclave in India. The summit is brought to you by the Institute of Supply Chain Management (ISCM) The summit is curated based on the ISCM ranking of the India supply chain where we analyse close to 100 firms to understand the change taking place and the best practices. How are Indian firms defining their supply chains? 250 plus top supply chain leaders will be in attendance. 45 Speakers will discuss the following themes.   Theme Address - Navigating Complexity: Building India's Supply Chain Ecosystem to Tap into Global Opportunities.   From Plan to Reality: Transforming Supply Chains for the Future - A Strategic Perspective. Adaptive Strategies: Integrating Identification, Innovation, and Integration for Enhanced Resilient Planning Capabilities.   Navigating the Shift: Strategies for Developing Logistics Fulfillment Capabilities in Organizations   A Blueprint for Change: Implementing Emerging Best Practices for Building Responsible and Sustainable Supply Chains.   From Chaos to Clarity: Integrating Agility and Visibility in Future Supply Chain Organizations - The role of emerging technology. The summit is in its tenth edition, and it is a summit with a difference. This is a must-attend thought leadership summit. The summit will be followed by Supply Chain Night where we will unveil ISCM Supply Chain Rankings and Also Leaders who are driving these transformations. In case you want to be a part of this write to [email protected]

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These developments are game-changers for the logistics industry in India. The emphasis on digital transformation and infrastructure development is especially crucial for staying competitive in a global market. The collaboration between public and private sectors, coupled with a focus on skill development, will not only boost efficiency but also create new opportunities for businesses and professionals alike. Exciting times ahead for India's logistics sector!

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In today's logistics landscape, data is king. At AWL India, we're harnessing the power of #BigData & #Analytics to revolutionize our operations and drive continuous improvement. The sheer volume and variety of data generated across our supply chain – from sensor readings to customer interactions – holds a treasure trove of insights. By leveraging advanced analytics, we can: Optimize Delivery Routes: We can analyze historical data and real-time traffic conditions to create the most efficient delivery routes, saving time and fuel. Predict Demand Fluctuations: By analyzing past sales trends and market data, we can anticipate changes in demand and ensure we have the right inventory in the right place at the right time. Preventative Maintenance: Sensor data from vehicles and warehouse equipment allows us to predict potential maintenance issues and take action before they lead to downtime. Enhanced Customer Experience: Data helps us personalize the customer experience by providing real-time order tracking and proactive communication about potential delays. Investing in big data analytics isn't just about efficiency; it's about building a smarter, more responsive supply chain. At AWL India, we're committed to using data-driven insights to deliver exceptional service to our customers. . . . #riturajpankaj #logistics #supplychain #AWLIndia #dataisking

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The Hidden Cost of Inventory: A ₹4 Lakh Crore Challenge for Indian Businesses! 😦 In India's rapidly growing logistics sector, we often focus on last-mile delivery and transportation infrastructure. However, a critical issue is silently eroding profits across industries: excess inventory. 📦 The Problem: According to a report by the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, Indian companies lose approximately 3.5% of their revenue annually due to excess inventory. With India's logistics market valued at ₹15 lakh crore, this translates to a staggering ₹52,500 crore lost each year. 📉 Moreover, a study by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) reveals that inventory holding costs in India are 14% of GDP, compared to just 8% in developed economies. This inefficiency not only ties up capital but also hampers India's global competitiveness. The Solution: Implementing advanced Inventory Optimisation Systems (IOS) can significantly reduce these losses. Here's how Indian companies are tackling this challenge: ▶ Data-Driven Forecasting: Companies like Flipkart are using AI to analyze historical data, festive seasons, and even cricket match schedules to predict demand accurately. ▶ Real-Time Visibility: Tata Steel has implemented IoT sensors across its supply chain, enabling real-time tracking of raw materials and finished goods. ▶ Dynamic Safety Stock Calculations: Asian Paints uses advanced analytics to adjust safety stock levels based on seasonal demand fluctuations and raw material availability. ▶ Collaborative Planning: The Future Group has implemented a collaborative platform connecting suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers, reducing the bullwhip effect in its FMCG supply chain. ▶ Scenario Planning: Mahindra & Mahindra employs digital twin technology to optimize inventory levels across its diverse product range and geographically dispersed dealer network. The future of inventory management in India isn't just about reducing stock—it's about having the right stock at the right time, especially given our country's diverse geography and rapidly changing consumer preferences. 🇮🇳 As we push towards a $5 trillion economy, optimising inventory will be crucial for Indian businesses to compete globally. 🌍 Are you leveraging technology to its full potential in your supply chain? #inventory #cost #logistics

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India's logistics sector is on the brink of a significant transformation, driven by innovative startups using technology to overcome longstanding challenges. With the e-commerce logistics market poised to grow from $4 billion to $7.2 billion by 2029, startups are making strides in addressing issues like poor integration and fragmented networks. Solutions such as flexible warehousing, electric vehicles, and drone technology, alongside machine learning for optimized routes and real-time tracking, are greatly enhancing efficiency and transparency. While infrastructure and regulatory challenges remain, the momentum is positive. With strong collaboration between businesses and the government, especially through initiatives like the Open Network For Digital Commerce (ONDC), India is well on its way to creating a robust logistics ecosystem that will support sustained economic growth and inclusive progress. To know more read full article: https://lnkd.in/dPqPwQbB ET Edge Insights #Logistics #SupplyChain #Innovation #Ecommerce #India #ondc #supplychaintitans #letsbuildtogether

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