Retailers live and die by the narrowest of margins, and both UPS and FedEx have just thrown another COVID-19 curveball by increasing parcel costs. They are adding a holiday surcharge after the already added “COVID Penalty”. The carriers are claiming that they won’t have the capacity to meet desired delivery times across the board, and that shippers will be capped on the number of packages that they can ship.
Retailers face a double whammy. Not only will their eCommerce businesses be driven up 40% to 80% due to COVID, they must now also solve for both a parcel cost issue and customer delivery challenge knowing customers might pass altogether if they can’t get the product in time.
The message is act now. You still have time to act quickly and reset your plans for the holiday. The answer is to change your vendor strategy, alter your “free” shipping offers, aggressively ramp-up and incentivize BOPIS (buy online pick up in store) and/or curbside pickup, and shift promotional timing. A&M is here to help, as we have the analytical tools and supply chain experience to complete a quick diagnostic review and develop a custom plan for retailers.
Read the full article here.
THE UK FOOD AND BEVERAGE M&A MARKET
November 5, 2024
In the post Covid-19 deal-doing environment, the UK food and beverage sector has consistently attracted significant investment, showcasing its resilience and strong market fundamentals.
Alvarez & Marsal India Strengthens Its Consumer & Retail Expertise by Appointing Aparna Chopra As Executive Director
May 9, 2024
Alvarez & Marsal India has appointed Aparna Chopra as Executive Director within the Retail and Consumer Products practice, bringing 25 years of experience in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), retail and online businesses.
Paws for Concern: Pet Specialty Retail at a Crossroads
April 12, 2024
Pet Specialty retailers and investors stand at a critical crossroads amidst market slowdown, shifting customer preferences, fierce competition and the dominance of e-commerce. A&M’s Consumer and Retail experts delve into the challenges faced by the industry and offer actionable insights to thrive in the current pet retail landscape.
A&M Supply Chain Viewpoint: Three Ways to Build a Supplier Development Risk Program
March 12, 2024
Discover how leading companies stay ahead in the global market with innovative supplier risk management. Explore advanced assessments, strategic partnerships, and diversification strategies reshaping supply chain resilience.