After years of pandemic-driven port congestion, supply chain bottlenecks and limited freight capacity, the Russian invasion of Ukraine turned what was already a tight fuel market into an energy crisis.
The focus by companies on fulfilling basic orders during the COVID-19 pandemic has allowed a more insidious problem to come to a head: the influx of gray-market products into the supply chain.
Despite uncertainties, utility companies must continue to provide seamless and consistent services to their customers. In this environment, the role of procurement becomes even more critical.
Brands that have deployed automation and artificial intelligence in their contact centers have uncovered new ways to overcome labor challenges — while also creating more positive customer experiences.
In the wake of the e-commerce explosion, triggered by the pandemic and growing concerns around supply chain sustainability, pickup and drop-off (PUDO) networks are projected to grow significantly in the coming years.