FedEx has announced the launch of fdx – a first-of-its-kind data platform. The new initiative will allow customers to be part of the end-to-end journey.
President and CEO Raj Subramaniam says FedEx is transforming into a digitally-led business on the backdrop of insights provided by the company’s 15 million packages per day. “Through fdx, we will enhance our longstanding relationships with merchants of all sizes to help them optimize and grow their businesses through digital intelligence,” he says.
Data-driven platform and better logistics
This new platform will assist merchants in making informed logistics decisions, including delivery and returns. Here are some fdx features:
- Demand – Connectivity with high-value customers through ShopRunner.
- Conversion – Share delivery information regarding the shopping experience. The platform encourages delivery transparency.
- Visibility and control of shipments – View shipments in real-time.
- Insight to carbon emissions – Access emissions data to make sustainable supply chain decisions.
- Streamline returns – Manage returns, ‘data exchange’, and returns in one platform.
FedEx innovative about logistics
This month, the logistics giant introduced electric three-wheelers in Taiwan. This initiative is in partnership with Gaius Automotive for last-mile delivery and pickups.
In December, the company announced openinga new logistics facility in Germany. Situated in Leipzig, the facility measures 17,000 sqm.
Some highlights of the facility include:
- Six loading bays for lorries, and 63 for vans.
- Six loading bays for 7.5-ton trucks.
- Twelve charging stations for electric vehicles.
Innovative logistic solutions in the UK and Europe
The company is also expanding its facility in Karlsruhe, Germany. This location will be modernized and have greater handling capacity. The sorting process at the warehouse is automated cutting sorting time by a third – sorting capacity is also doubled.
Earlier in 2023, FedEx launched a new state-of-the-art import system at its Stansted Airport facility. The new system will allow the company to handle higher volumes in a shorter time window.
The new parcel sorting system will speed up the processing of imports, sorting double the number of parcels per hour than the previous system.
Another development in the UK for FedEx was its introduction of 23 electric vehicles in its fleet. This move comes in line with making parcel delivery more eco-friendly.
The race is on for tech
The year 2024 looks like the year of technology. Logistics companies around the world are implementing tech innovations to assist their businesses.
On the warehouse front, these facilities are experiencing some crucial benefits to automation – and staying ahead of the game and remaining competitive in the industry. Automation is assisting with aspects such as:
- Stock merging – allowing warehouse users to keep products. Often, warehouse users keep stock separately, but this practice is changing to keep stock together.
- Visibility – More order transparency is the name of the game for 2024. Providing vital information about an order, including from online platforms, will be a “must-have” this year.
- Sustainability – Warehouses are looking to operate sustainably, reducing their environmental impact. This is being done using sustainable materials and environmentally friendly energy sources.
- Restoring and customizing – There is a need for warehouses to be modern. Warehouses will also focus closely on industry-specific needs.
- Data optimization – Moving the warehouse towards operating digitally is crucial to providing speed. This year, warehouses will adapt to modern practices to carry out operations.
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About the author
Sharl is a qualified journalist. He has over 10 years’ experience in the media industry, including positions as an editor of a magazine and Business Editor of a daily newspaper. Sharl also has experience in logistics specifically operations, where he worked with global food aid organisations distributing food into Africa. Sharl enjoys writing business stories and human interest pieces.
