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The New Age of Retail By Fang-How, Lim, Regional Director – Southeast Asia, Zebra Technologies Asia Pacific
he resiliency of retailers and supply chains are being tested more than ever before. As businesses reopen and rebuild, retailers are facing new challenges because consumers have completely changed their shopping habits. Covid-19-driven lockdowns and social distancing requirements have greatly accelerated the pace of e-commerce. Companies around the world are trying to determine how to add value to their e-commerce operations to maintain consumers’ appetite for online shopping. The following four options can help businesses find their own solution as they migrate into a new retail age.
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MICRO-FULFILMENT: EFFICIENCY ON INVENTORY MANAGEMENT As shoppers become increasingly demanding, an out-of-stock situation will likely impact customer service, sales and income. Therefore, micro-fulfilment is gaining popularity worldwide. Many retailers are managing e-commerce demand with decentralized distribution
Malaysia Retailer Vol 8 No 3
models that stage products closer to consumers to enable faster preparation and deliveries. Mini distribution centers are strategically located near target clients, and the use of technology like mobile computers and wearables ensure full traceability of inventory and drive increased operational productivity in small spaces. With the right system, retailers can achieve control of their data, ensure seamless integration with
other inventory management systems and meet consumers’ expectations of fast and flawless delivery.
A NEW “DARK” SIDE OF RETAIL Shoppers today expect to find and purchase the item they want, when they want it, and for the best price. Retailers need to prioritize expanded fulfillment capabilities with flexible options like convenient pick-up via click-and-collect
