Australia’s Supply Chain leaders have detailed their key areas of focus for 2022 in an Australian-first report.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt and challenge global supply chains, new research shows that Australian businesses are directing their focus to sustainability, digitisation and preparing for a permanent world of eCommerce.
70 per cent of survey respondents reported they had invested in their eCommerce capabilities during the last two years, while 57 per cent said supply chain was playing a central role in determining and delivering their overall digital strategy.
Gary Starr, Australia Post Executive General Manager Business Government and International says a strong and resilient supply chain was critical in enabling business growth and success in a post-pandemic world.
“Supply chain disruptions are a growing challenge, and it is important businesses have processes in place to weather potential impacts, while also continuing to improve their speed and flexibility, reduce costs and manage their logistics and fulfilment to ensure they can meet the needs of their customers,” Gary says.
“With national eCommerce growth topping 76 per cent for the 12-months to September 2021, when compared to just two years ago, there are significant growth opportunities for Australian businesses and we trust this research will assist businesses to build resilience and agility in their supply chains.”
John O’Connor, National Lead Partner, Supply Chain at Deloitte Consulting says with unprecedented and ongoing disruptions across supply chains, business leaders are looking deep into their internal capabilities and external supply networks to identify not only potential risks, but also new sources of value and competitive advantage.
“For many industries, whether they are consumer or business focused, supply chain has become the new strategic battle ground,” he says.
“Digitisation of supply chains and the rapid shift to eCommerce has quickly shifted from being a defensive response to COVID-19 disruptions, to an offensive play where completely new business models are battling for market share against traditional players and routes to market.”
The full report from Australia Post produced in partnership with Deloitte is available online.