Supply Chain Summit 2023 Focuses on Tech and Sustainability in Mumbai

The ETRetail Supply Chain Summit 2023, held at the Sahara Star Hotel in Mumbai on March 2, brought together over 30 seasoned leaders in supply chain management (SCM) to focus on the integration of technology and sustainability within the industry. This day-long event aimed to provide insights and foster discussions among professionals from retail, e-commerce, and direct-to-consumer (D2C) sectors.

Keynote and Panel Discussions

Arvind Mediratta, CEO of METRO Cash & Carry, delivered the keynote address, setting the tone for discussions about current trends in the supply chain sector. Among the panelists were K Radhakrishnan from Tata Starquik and Vinay Dhanani, COO of Zepto, who contributed to a lively discussion about the rise of ultra-fast delivery services and how these trends are reshaping the logistics landscape.

Dr. Surendra Ahirwar provided the valedictory address, emphasizing the importance of balancing cost efficiency with sustainable practices. His remarks underscored the summit's theme of integrating new technologies to enhance supply chain efficiency while maintaining environmental responsibility.

Industry Leaders and Insights

Prominent figures from various sectors participated, including Samrat Sehgal, Head of Supply Chain at Dabur India Ltd, and Shaik Asad Parwez, Head of Logistics at V-Guard Industries. They shared insights on leveraging AI and automation to improve supply chain operations. Vivek Gaurav, Director of Operations at Cipla Health, highlighted the critical role of technology in streamlining processes and reducing operational costs.

Neelesh Mundra from McKinsey & Company and Bhudeep Hathi from Accenture Technology, India, discussed the strategic importance of adopting sustainable practices in modern logistics. They provided case studies on how companies can transition to more resilient supply chains by integrating sustainable technologies and practices.

Sustainability and Technology Focus

The summit placed a significant emphasis on sustainability, with discussions centering around the implementation of environmentally friendly practices in supply chain operations. Neha Parekh, Director of Supply Chain at Nivea India, and Saiba Suri, Country Customer Fulfilment Manager at IKEA India, discussed innovative approaches to minimizing environmental impact while optimizing supply chain performance.

Another key topic was the role of artificial intelligence in enhancing supply chain efficiency. Speakers explored how AI can be used to predict demand, manage inventory, and optimize logistics networks. The discussions underscored the potential of AI to transform supply chain management by improving accuracy and reducing costs.

Workshops and Networking Opportunities

The summit featured workshops designed to equip SCM professionals with practical strategies for enhancing supply chain resilience. Participants engaged in sessions that explored automation's impact on job markets and the potential for AI-driven improvements in procurement and performance management.

Networking opportunities were abundant, allowing attendees to connect across industries and share experiences. The collaborative environment fostered an exchange of ideas aimed at addressing global supply chain challenges and exploring new trade relations and commercial routes.

“The ETRetail Supply Chain Summit 2023 provided a platform for industry leaders to explore cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices that are shaping the future of supply chains.”

As the summit concluded, participants left with actionable insights to apply within their organizations, aiming to balance technological advancements with sustainability. The event marked a significant step toward building resilient and efficient supply chains in a rapidly evolving global market.