**London**: Amir Wagenstein of Rubix emphasises the importance of the first mile in supply chain logistics, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring efficient operations and customer satisfaction. With strategic improvements and investments, Rubix aims to optimise logistics from start to finish, enhancing overall supply chain performance.
In the evolving landscape of logistics and supply chain management, the focus has typically centred on last mile delivery, an area deemed crucial for ensuring a positive customer experience. However, Amir Wagenstein, Group Supply Chain & Logistics VP at Rubix, posits that the first mile should be equally prioritised, as it lays the groundwork for the entire supply chain. Speaking to Industrial News, Wagenstein emphasised that “without a well-executed first mile, the final mile – no matter how optimised it might be – cannot deliver on its promise.”
The first mile refers to the initial movement of goods from suppliers to the Rubix premises, marking the beginning of every supply chain journey. This stage is vital, as disruptions here can result in cascading inefficiencies throughout the entire supply chain and ultimately affect last mile deliveries and customer satisfaction.
Historically, businesses have tended to invest heavily in technologies and systems aimed at enhancing last mile operations, such as route optimisation and contactless delivery. However, this trend has often led to the first mile being overlooked. In a market where transparency is increasingly demanded, and logistics costs need optimisation, Wagenstein argues that it is essential for companies to afford equal attention to first mile operations.
Logistics is complex, with multiple challenges stemming from both expected and unexpected disruptions. Issues such as stock unavailability often arise from inaccurate inventory reporting, outdated information, or system malfunctions. To counter this, Wagenstein stresses the necessity of quality data and dependable inventory management to ensure that suppliers have the correct products readily available when needed.
Visibility throughout the supply chain stands out as another significant challenge. The ability to track goods as they traverse various stages enables decision-makers to anticipate potential disruptions and intervene proactively, helping maintain the smooth operation of logistics.
To combat these challenges and enhance first mile performance, Rubix has made substantial investments in strategic improvements aimed at creating a seamless initial stage for a product’s journey. As Europe’s largest supplier of industrial maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) products and services, Rubix seeks to maintain the efficacy of logistics operations for its diverse clientele.
Wagenstein noted that Rubix is dedicated to continuous improvement in logistics performance, particularly in light of recent global disruptions such as the pandemic and geopolitical conflicts. The company collaborates closely with selected suppliers to ensure quality data is available, providing visibility into expected lead times and commitments to set accurate customer expectations. This initiative will soon expand to include additional suppliers.
Rubix also works alongside customers to refine order management. By analysing purchasing patterns, the company plays a critical role in ensuring that suppliers maintain adequate stock levels when and where they are needed. Internally, Rubix focuses on stock availability to make products accessible within a 48-hour window or even immediately, ensuring that customers’ needs are met promptly.
Recently, Rubix launched a considerable initiative to centralise inventory across three key European distribution centres, which has enhanced collaboration with both suppliers and customers. They have also opened a pan-European distribution centre dedicated to brands exclusive to Rubix, allowing national warehouses to maintain necessary stock levels to meet demand more effectively.
In conclusion, Rubix’s commitment to improving first mile logistics reflects a growing recognition of its importance in the broader supply chain context. As the company continues to invest in these operations, it highlights the interconnectivity between the first and last miles, aligning its efforts to ultimately support the broader logistics framework across Europe. For more information about Rubix and its offerings, interested parties can visit their website.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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