In the latest instalment of our supply chain executive interview series, we sat down with Kevin Rogers, President of Global Sales at Elanders, to talk about the company’s offering, industry issues, market opportunities and Peaky Blinders…
Tell us about your company, products and services.
Elanders offers global integrated E2E solutions in supply chain management. We can take an overall responsibility for complex and global deliveries encompassing procurement, transportation, warehousing, configuration, production, pick/pack, e-fulfilment, distribution and reverse supply chain. Our offer also includes e-commerce services, order management, payment solutions and after sales services for our clients. Elanders’ business concept is to be a global, strategic and long-term partner to our customers, to help streamline and develop their business critical processes.
What have been the biggest challenges the Supply Chain industry has faced over the past 12 months?
Aside from the uncertainty of Brexit and the US/China trade war, I would say the rapid growth in e-commerce which requires more sophisticated supply chain solutions being driven by consumer behaviour.
And what have been the biggest opportunities?
e-commerce and the demand from the consumer side. More and more brands are working hard to keep up with the growth and demands in e-commerce. Each brand wants to create their own experience and the flexibility of Elanders is creating some fantastic opportunities for our clients and our business. This is also driving more innovation which is required to support brands develop an effective solution to satisfy their consumers.
What is the biggest priority for the Supply Chain industry in 2019?
From a UK perspective it has been preparing for Brexit, whatever that will look like. Globally it is solutions to optimize speed to market without increasing inventory.
What are the main trends you are expecting to see in the market in 2019?
Definitely more uncertainty about Brexit, increased pressure from the consumer side regarding lead-time and more cross border e-commerce.
What technology is going to have the biggest impact on the market this year?
Automation, automation & automation!
In 2022 we’ll all be talking about…?
Blockchain solutions.
Which person in, or associated with, the Supply Chain industry would you most like to meet?
Jeff Bezos.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learnt about the Supply Chain sector?
The many different demands from so many different clients.
You go to the bar at the Total Supply Chain Summit – what’s your tipple of choice?
Single Malt, an 18 year old Dalmore will do nicely 😊
What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
Discussing customer requirements, they’re all so different and technology is driving some exciting changes in the supply chain sector.
And what’s the most challenging?
For the UK it’s Brexit again and for some for our global business it’s the trade war.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Never stand still, keep innovating and embrace change.
Peaky Blinders or Stranger Things?
Without hesitation it’s Peaky Blinders.
