Retailers Guide - Navigating the Challenges of Peak Season | Descartes Routing UK
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Retailers Guide - Navigating the Challenges of Peak Season

home delivery last mile

 

The 2023 peak season was a challenging period for UK retailers, characterised by multiple supply chain disruptions, economic uncertainty, and rising consumer expectations. These factors all combined to create a perfect storm that tested the resilience and efficiency of many retailers' home delivery operations. 

Looking ahead to the peak season for 2024, it's important for retailers to proactively address these challenges and optimise their last-mile delivery processes. By doing so, they can ensure a more successful peak season, improve customer satisfaction, and drive business growth. 

  • Descartes Home Delivery Consumer Sentiment 2024 highlighted: Rising consumer expectations: Customers are increasingly demanding more cost-effective and reliable deliveries, even during peak periods. 
  • The impact of delivery issues: Poor delivery experiences can lead to lost customers and damage brand reputation. 
  • The need for proactive measures: Retailers must take proactive steps to address supply chain challenges and optimise their delivery operations. 

 

Optimise your operations

 

How can retailers prepare for peak season 2024? 

  1. Invest in advanced technology: Utilising route optimisation software, delivery management tools, and other technological solutions to streamline operations will improve efficiency. 
  2. Enhance communication: Keep customers informed about their delivery status, provide real-time tracking, and address any issues promptly. 
  3. Optimise delivery routes: Minimise travel time, fuel consumption, and carbon emissions by planning more efficient routes. 
  4. Manage capacity effectively: Avoid overbooking and ensure sufficient resources are available to meet peak demand. 
  5. Prioritise customer satisfaction: Focus on providing a seamless and positive customer experience, from order placement right through to delivery. 

By implementing these strategies, retailers can better navigate the challenges of peak season, improve customer satisfaction, and drive business growth. 

Read the full report here 

 

Ready to overcome the challenges of peak season? 

Contact our fleet logistics experts today to schedule a free consultation and discover how our solutions can help you: 

  • Optimise your delivery operations to cope with peak orders and deliveries without adding drivers and vehicles. 
  • Improve customer satisfaction and engagement. 
  • Reduce costs and increase efficiency. 

 

Schedule your consultation now! 

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