Barloworld Logistics launched its benchmark supplychainforesight 2017 with a positive message that conveyed both optimism and excitement in the face of a rapidly changing world.
The digitally stimulating event, held on Tuesday 29 March at The Venue in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg, was designed to garner the insights and opinions of executives and managers from a wide range of local industries and sectors. Hosted by the endlessly entertaining Mamello Mokoena also known as Mum-Z, guests were guided through a brief list of questions using a Barloworld Logistics smart app with collaborative functionalities. Guests responded to each question and the answers displayed in real time on a crystal clear HD screen. The questions focused on key emerging technologies such as 3D printing, Blockchain, Big Data Analytics and autonomous vehicles.
Barloworld Logistics Executive, Kate Stubbs and partner at consulting firm Frost & Sullivan UK, Phil Howarth, led an ongoing discussion around the responses and discussed what they meant to stakeholders and organisations involved in global and local supply chains.
In addition to taking part in the benchmark survey, guests were also entertained by thought provoking and compelling presentations by newly appointed CEO Kamogelo Mmutlana; Kate Stubbs; Phil Howarth and popular radio personality Bruce Whitfield.
By detailing the various ways in which technology is set to shape the future of supply chains, the way we live and business in general, Frost & Sullivan’s Howarth demonstrated why leaders must act now in order to stay abreast of the rapid pace of innovation and change. With technology such as autonomous vehicles and 3D printing already being actively tested and in some cases applied within the enterprise, decision-makers within supply chains and logistics realms should already be thinking of ways to incorporate new technologies and platforms – however far removed or futuristic they may appear at this stage.
Delivered with characteristic wit and lucidity, Whitfield’s presentation took the audience outside of the supply chain and back into history with his take on ‘The Upside of Down.’ One of SA’s most revered business journalists, Whitfield gave his interesting perspective on the economic and political events currently unfolding. His message of both optimism and humour amidst tough times provided a moment of welcome relief, and also underscored the central ethos behind supplychainforesight 2017: Connecting Today’s Reality to Tomorrow’s Possibility.
The annual Barloworld Logistics supplychainforesight has changed format and will now be published quarterly, as always focussing on relevant topics. We look forward to sharing these meaningful insights in the coming months!
Download the report from the live insights gathered at the event by clicking the button below
