Retail: Supply Chain and Distribution Networks
Description
Explores all elements of the retail supply chain, distribution approaches, innovation in logistics, and the role of IT in achieving just-in-time inventory, omnichannel fulfillment, and supply chain visibility.
Learning Objectives
Learners will understand the end-to-end retail supply chain, from global sourcing and transportation to last-mile delivery. They will analyze technology solutions used for inventory optimization, demand forecasting, supplier collaboration, and logistics automation, including challenges in scaling distribution for omnichannel and modern e-commerce.
Topics (10)
Explores supplier portals, collaborative planning, and procurement automation.
Defines the supply chain components—suppliers, distribution centers, logistics providers, retailers, and delivery agents.
Covers advanced demand sensing, time series analysis, and AI-enhanced planning tools.
Describes inbound logistics processes, vendor-managed inventory, and real-time visibility solutions.
Covers warehouse design, automation, order processing, and inventory controls.
Covers models and IT systems that handle order routing and inventory allocation.
Explores quick commerce, hyperlocal delivery, and gig worker-enabled last-mile networks.
Looks at how technology is shaping urban/rural last-mile experience and cost efficiency.
Explains the use of RFID, sensors, real-time data hubs, and supply chain control towers.
Explores on-time delivery, fill rates, cycle time, cost to serve, and continuous improvement.