Chain Reaction is Sourcing Journal’s discussion series with industry executives to get their take on today’s logistics challenges and learn about ways their company is working to keep the flow of goods moving. Here, Brian Kirst, chief commercial officer at SnapFulfil, discusses how the software company helps its clients “fine-tune their processes” to meet customer and industry demands with advanced technology.
Name: Brian Kirst
Related Stories
Title: Chief commercial officer
Company: SnapFulfil
What industries do you primarily serve? Which industry has the most to teach fashion about improving their supply chain logistics?
SnapFulfil serves various sectors, including third-party logistics (3PL), retail, e-commerce and manufacturing.
The 3PL industry’s expertise in multi-client inventory management and flexible resource allocation provides valuable insights for fashion logistics. Successful 3PLs must excel at optimizing warehouse space, labor and technology to manage fluctuating demand—critical skills for fashion brands handling seasonal collections and fast-changing trends.
What is the main thing brands and retailers could do (or stop doing) right now that would immediately improve logistics?
Standardizing product data eliminates downstream inefficiencies across warehouse management systems (WMS), enterprise resource planning (ERP) and automation systems. Poor or inconsistent data compromises the effectiveness of every technology solution—from basic warehouse management to advanced robotics and automation.
What logistic challenges do you think the industry is currently facing?
The supply chain industry, specifically warehouse operations, continues to face challenges that include labor shortages, rising operational costs and increasing customer delivery expectations. The lingering uncertainty in the space caused by geopolitical and economic disruption is also creating additional headwinds.
When it comes to supply chain logistics challenges, there are things companies can fix, and things that are beyond their control. How can the former help the latter?
Companies can focus on optimizing their controllable processes—like warehouse operations and inventory management—to better absorb external disruptions. Deploying a robust continuous improvement initiative allows operations to maximize the value of their technology solutions and increase efficiencies through enhancing existing processes.
What area of logistics isn’t receiving the industry attention it deserves?
Cybersecurity in logistics deserves more attention. As supply chains become increasingly digitized, protecting data and systems from breaches is crucial, yet often overlooked.
When it comes to creating efficiencies, there are quick wins and longer plays. What are a few things your company is doing to help its partners succeed on both fronts?
SnapFulfil delivers a one-two punch, providing both immediate impact and long-term scalability. A new deployment can transform operations, boosting efficiencies across the board through its extensive functionality and quick implementation. As the operation grows, the SnapFulfil rules engine allows businesses to fine-tune their processes to meet customer and industry demands, all without changing software. With its seamless integration capabilities and the ability to orchestrate warehouse automation through SnapControl, SnapFulfil is uniquely positioned to support operations with a focus on growth and flexibility.
What is the one thing brands and retailers could be doing to make better use of technology to improve logistics?
Brands should push the limits of their existing technology, ensuring that all base functionality is optimized for their needs without costly modifications. Operations must focus on maximizing the efficiency and impact of deployed solutions, extending their benefits beyond the original intent.
What is your company doing to make the movement of goods more sustainable?
We’re reducing environmental impact with paperless operations, optimized picking routes that minimize travel distance and cloud hosting that eliminates the need for on-premise servers. Our system also helps partners reduce waste through improved inventory management.
Are you optimistic about the state of supply chains in the next few years?
I’m cautiously optimistic. While challenges persist, there are many organizations focused on advancing technology and driving positive change. Companies that are acting with purpose during uncertain times to deploy the right software and automation will be well-positioned for success as the markets stabilize.
